Why would I want one?
You probably use it everyday, but how much serious thought have you really given to your keyboard? The answer is likely not too much. But for something that's an integral part of your everyday computer use, something that's the direct link between you and your computer, it's worth taking some time to assess your current keyboard against your computing needs. 

When you bought your computer, it included a keyboard. It's likely it's a standard 101- or 104-key keyboard without many bells and whistles. But there are plenty of keyboards available today with options that are worth considering. There are ergonomic keyboards designed to relieve repetitive stress sometimes experienced from standard keyboards. There are wireless keyboards to free you up to move about the room or for those who might prefer to type from their recliner. There are keyboards designed just for kids, and there are boards designed for those who are particular about the feel of the board and the action of its buttons (like this writer). The list goes on, but one thing for sure is there's a keyboard for everyone. 

How do I install and use it?
Always power down your computer before installing any new hardware and follow any included installation instructions carefully. USB keyboards do not require that you shut off or disconnect the power from your computer. 

First, disconnect the existing keyboard and then connect the cable or wireless receiver to the proper port, repower your computer and install the driver software that's included with the board. Windows 95 or Windows 98 will recognize the new hardware for you automatically. 

How do I go about buying one?
The keyboard that's best for you is simply determined by your personal and/or professional needs. However, your first consideration should be comfort, particularly if you're a frequent user. There are several types of keyboards that we will place in the following categories: standard, ergonomic, boards with integrated pointing devices, multimedia-ready boards, and wireless. Another consideration should be the interface between your computer and keyboard 

Standard:Your computer probably came with a standard 101- or 104-key board featuring the standard QWERTY layout. There are no bells and whistles on these boards and they are usually sufficient for casual use. If you're likely to eat and drink while using your computer (like this writer), or have kids, a standard keyboard is your best option. With costs between $10 - $20, they are easily replaced. 

Ergonomic:Frequent users should seriously consider an ergonomic keyboard, especially if you've experienced discomfort from repeated use. Ergonomic boards usually feature a built-in wrist rest so you aren't unnecessarily straining muscles to hold your hands in a typing position. Yet other ergonomic boards feature a split keyboard that's contoured so you can rest it in your lap or another position you find more comfortable. The cost of ergonomically designed boards ranges from KD20/- to as high as KD60/-. 

Pointing Devices: If you have limited desk space and want to integrate your mouse functions into your keyboard, a board with an integrated pointing device is the way to go. Some feature a trackball in the middle of the board and others have a touchpad. Both require some getting used to at first, but are good options if you want to consolidate some of your input devices. Prices on these boards vary, usually depending on the type of integrated pointing device that's installed on it. 

Multimedia:Some keyboards include inputs for a microphone and headphones. These are ideal options if you like to listen to music while working or use voice-activated or telephony software. Often, the cords for microphones and headphones are not long enough to reach their respective jacks on your computer. A multimedia keyboard offers some freedom from this restriction. Multimedia boards range from KD15/- to KD50/-. 

Wireless:Wireless keyboards are ideal for computing from a distance, especially for educational and business presentations. Being wireless, you have more freedom to move about during your presentation. However, wireless keyboards can be difficult to install and configure, sometimes causing hardware conflicts. They also run on batteries so you should consider the added expense of regularly replacing them. There is also a distinct difference between infrared (IRDA) and digital wireless keyboards. To properly operate an infrared keyboard, you need a direct line to the receiver. A digital board, however, uses radio signals and offers more mobility. You should only consider a wireless keyboard if you're really going to benefit from its mobility. Most wireless boards cost around KD20/-, but higher end boards can go as high as KD60/-. 

Interface:Your choices are PS/2, Universal Serial Bus (USB), or serial port. Your best option is to select the interface your current keyboard uses. This will likely ensure fewer problems during installation. 

PS/2: The standard keyboard connection, the PS/2 port is small and round with six pins. It's likely your computer has one PS/2 port for your keyboard and one for your mouse and that your current keyboard is connected to one of them. If this is the case, your best option is a PS/2 keyboard. However, many PS/2 keyboards include an adapter for a serial port and vice versa. 

USB: Only consider a USB keyboard if you're using Microsoft's Windows 98 operating system and have an available USB port. Most USB keyboards are more expensive than PS/2 or serial boards and do not present enough advantages that might offset that additional cost. 

Serial: Most wireless keyboards use one of your computer's serial ports as an interface for its receiver. As mentioned, installing a wireless board can be difficult and cause hardware conflicts. Some standard keyboards also use a serial port, but usually include an adapter for a PS/2 port. Be sure to check the product documentation carefully to ensure an adapter is included.