Keyboards: Fingertip Input

Computers receive data by reading it from disk, accepting it electronically over a modem, or receiving input directly from you, the user. You provide your input by way of an input device; the most common input device is the keyboard.

caution

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You never want to eat or drink around your computer. Spilling food and beverages on the keyboard can short out its electronic circuits and wreak havoc on your entire system. Soft drink residue can also cause your keys to stick, and a stuck key can actually cause your computer not to start!


A computer keyboard looks and functions just like a typewriter keyboard, but with a few more keys. When you press a key on your keyboard, it sends an electronic signal to your system unit; if for any reason the system unit doesn't receive this signal, your keystrokes do absolutely nothing. The most common keyboard problems can usually be traced to some sort of obstacle that's preventing the signals from reaching your system unit. The culprit might be a loose connection, excess dirt or dust or maybe even a crumb from that Twinkie you ate while working with your files the other night.

To avoid loose connections that could interrupt signals from your keyboard, always make certain the keyboard is securely connected to your system unit. Try also to keep your keyboard free of dust, dirt, and other foreign matter that could block signals to the system unit. And always take care when handling or transporting your keyboard so as not to damage it.



Absolute Beginner's Guide to Upgrading and Fixing Your PC
Absolute Beginners Guide to Upgrading and Fixing Your PC
ISBN: 0789730456
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2005
Pages: 206

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