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The Invention of the Typewriter
Invention of the typewriter. The Sholes & Glidden typewriter features a Qwerty keyboard, which separates common letter combinations, like ‘‘qu’’ and ‘‘th,’’ to minimize hammer collisions when the keys are struck. -
The Keyboard becomes simplified
The Simplified Keyboard, now better known as the Dvorak layout, is patented. It puts the most frequently used letters in the most accessible positions. -
M.I.T experiments with keyboard inputs
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology begins experimenting with direct keyboard inputting on computers. -
First keyboard to work with microcomputers
The Teletype Corporation ships the Model 33 keyboard, which becomes the input mechanism on early microcomputers. Previously computer users communicated with the computer with punched cards. -
New Keys are added
I.B.M. develops the System/360, a popular mainframe computer system, which introduced specialized command keys like Esc, Alt, Ctrl, Pause, Break and SysRq (system request). -
More Keys are added.
The I.B.M. 3720 display terminal, which has the first widely used screen-oriented mainframe keyboard, introduces the keys Enter, Ins, Del, Home, Page Up, End (then called EOF for end of field) and the arrow keys. -
IBM's first PC
I.B.M. introduces its Personal Computer with an 83-key keyboard that has 10 function keys, a NumLock key, Esc, Alt, Ctrl, SysRq and other mainframe keys. -
The 101 key Keyboard
After two years of development, I.B.M. introduces an enhanced 101-key keyboard that can be used across all its platforms and systems. Other manufacturers adopt it as a de facto standard. -
Microsoft's Natural Keyboard
In anticipation of Windows 95, Microsoft introduces the Natural Keyboard, which has three extra keys that enable the use of the operating system without a mouse. -
Keyboards become touch-enabled.
Keyboard's have become touch enabled because of the iPhone and iPad. The iPad 1 makes use of its large size to display a large touch keyboard. -
Keyboard evolution won't stop.
Today, keyboards come in many shapes and sizes. They can be wired or wireless. They also have special purposes for different models of keyboards.
