A miniature keyboard is smaller in size than a standard keyboard and has keys arranged in a way to improve data entry efficiency. Often, the height of keys on the miniature keyboard are patterned to reduce the possibility of pressing multiple keys at one time, subsequently improving the accuracy of data entry. Variable heights of keys also contribute to tactile feedback.
Miniature keyboards are typically designed for individuals with limited elbow and shoulder movement but adequate fine motor control in their hands and fingers. Miniature keyboards have been shown to reduce the amount of energy required by computer users when typing due to its small size and the reduced finger strength required to press the keys.
A study undertaken by occupational therapists investigating the effects of miniature keyboard design on performance and comfort of computer-users with musculoskeletal disabilities showed significant improvements in physical health and wellbeing:
- reduced immediate and long term overall pain severity
- improvement in forearm stiffness and numbness in individuals with tendonitis and
- improvements in functional ability to operate the computer.
(Tittiranonda, Rempel, Armstrong & Burastero 1999; Wright & Andre 1998; Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007; Caukill, Hammond & Wunram 2002)
Modifications to the miniature keyboard:
The following modifications to the miniature or compact keyboard are possible to meet the individual needs of the computer user:
- sticky keys function to assist individuals with the simultaneous pressing of two or more keys. Sticky keys assists the user by pressing one key and instructing an application on Windows to simultaneously press the additional keys
- filter keys assists users who unintentionally press keys by instructing Windows to only regard keys held down for a minimum period of time
- mouse keys can enable users to control the keyboard using the mouse pointer
- specific typing tutoring assistance for one handed computer users (Barrett 2003).
Relevant Links:
References:
Caukill, K., Hammond, D. & Wunram, S. 2002, Does keyboard design improve performance and/or comfort of workplace-based computer users with musculoskeletal disorders?, OT Network Presentation, Sydney, viewed 18 October 2007, <http://www.otcats.com/topics/ot_network.pdf>.
Tittiranonda, P., Rempel, D., Armstrong, A., & Burastero, S. 1999, Effect of Four Computer Keyboards in Computer Users with Upper Extremity Musculoskeletal Disorders, American Journal of Industrial Medicine, vol. 35, pp 647-661.
Wright, K. & Andre, A. 1998, Alternative keyboards: a user survey, Ergonomics Australia On-Line, vol. 12, pp.1-11, viewed 19 October 2007 <http://www.uq.edu.au/eaol/jun98/jun98.html>.
Barrett, J. 2003, Computer mouse and keyboard alternatives fact sheet, Australian Disability Clearing House on Education and Training, Melbourne, viewed 18 October 2007, <http://www.adcet.edu.au/Uploads/Documents/AT_Mouse_Alternatives_03.doc>.
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007, Computer Access and Environmental Control, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. Sydney, viewed 18 October 2007, <http://www.ilcaustralia.org/home/search3.asp?State=QLD&MC=62&MinC=44>.