Keyboard and Input Devices Buyer's Guide

Keyboards and mice are the most common inputs for your computer, as well as integral parts of the system.

Here are the specs you need to consider prior to purchasing a keyboard and/or mouse:

• Connection
• Key layout
• Power requirement
• Mouse resolution

Connection

Going wireless can cut down the clutter on your desk by eliminating the need for annoying cables. Wireless keyboards and mice also offer more mobility, since you're not tethered to your computer.

There are a few factors to consider before going wireless. Wired inputs get their power by plugging in to your computer. Wireless inputs, however, operate on battery power, which means you need to replace or recharge your batteries regularly. Also, when operating wirelessly, there's the potential for input lag, the delay between seeing the actions you take on your mouse or keyboard relayed on your monitor.

Key Layout

The most common layout type for a computer keyboard is known as QWERTY. This refers to the first six letters, from left to right, in the top row. Above your rows of letters and number keys are your F1 through F12 keys, commonly referred to as function keys. The function of each of these keys depends on the operating systems and software of your computer. They can work separately or in conjunction with your Shift, Alt or Ctrl keys to perform a different action depending on the application currently running and active. Also, these days many keyboards have a second, separate number pad on the right hand side to make numbers easier to access depending on the task you are performing.

Power Requirement

Your wired mouse or keyboard will hook up to your computer via a USB cord. Except for wireless devices, your input will be powered through the computer. Power requirements for inputs are typically low, usually no more than 5 to 10 volts.

Mouse Resolution

Higher mouse resolutions, measured in dots per inch (dpi), result in smoother, more efficient tracking on screen. A common ball mouse has about 1600 - 1700 dpi. Some mice have higher resolution settings, up to 2000 dpi. This makes the speed at which your mouse reacts on screen incredibly fast, but more difficult to control. So it can take some time to get accustomed to mice with higher resolutions.