How the computer accepts input from the keyboard?

A computer mainly takes its input from the keyboard and mouse. But these two are not the only input devices of a computer system.

There are a number of input devices which we use with our PC.

Some very common types of input devices are keyboard, mouse, joystick, scanner, game controller, touch pad, touch screen, microphones, camera etc.

We can use our daily used PC for a number of tasks using these input devices.

However, the question arises that how the computer accept input from the keyboard or other input devices. The process is different for every input devices.

I will discuss the method of taking input from the keyboard in the post.

After reading this your concept will be clear that how a compute takes the input from the keyboard.

Process to accept input from the keyboard

The process of taking input can be divided into some small procedures. Let’s discuss serially.

Normally it seems that the keyboard simply sends the letter of a pressed key to the computer—after all, that is what appears to happen.

Actually, the process of accepting input from the keyboard is more complex, as shown bellow;

Function of keyboard controller to accept input

When you pressed a key at the keyboard as an input from the keyboard, a tiny chip called the keyboard controller that a key has been pressed.

The keyboard controller places a code into part of its memory, called the keyboard buffer, to indicate which key was pressed.

Buffer is a temporary storage area that holds data until it can be processed.

The keyboard controller then sends a signal to the computers system software, notifying it that something had happened on the keyboard.

Function of system software to accept input

When the system software receives the signal you entered as input from the keyboard, it determines the appropriate response.

When a keystroke has occurred, the system reads the memory location in the keyboard buffer that contains the code of the key that was pressed.

The system software then passes the code to the CPU.

The keyboard buffer can store many keystrokes at one time.

This capability is necessary because some times elapses between the “pressing of key” and the “computers reading of that key” from the keyboard buffer.

With the keystrokes stored in a buffer, the program can react to them when it is convenient.

Of course, this all happen very quickly. Unless the computer is very busy handling multiple tasks, you notice no delay between pressing keys and seeing the letter one your screen.

In some computers, the keyboard controller handles input from the keyboard and mouse and stores the setting for both devices.

One keyboard setting the repeat rate, determines how long you must hold down and alphanumeric key before the keyboard will repeat the character and how rapidly the character is retyped while you press the key.

You can set the repeat rate to suit your typing speed.

The process of taking input from other input devices is not the same but the concept is same.

As we take most of the input to our computer through the keyboard, so I have discussed this method here.

How to choose the best keyboard?

When choosing a keyboard, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, what type of keyboard do you need? Do you need a wired or a wireless keyboard?

If you need a wired keyboard, what type of port do you have? Do you need a full-size keyboard or a slim keyboard?

Do you need a keyboard with a numeric keypad or a keyboard with a non-numeric keypad?

Once you have answered these questions, you can start to consider the other factors. Do you want a keyboard with a backlight?

Do you want a keyboard with anti-ghosting capabilities? Do you want a keyboard with macro capabilities?

After you have considered all of the factors, it is time to decide which keyboard is the best for you.

Conclusion

Keyboard is one of the most commonly used input devices. It’s versatile, easy to use, and can be used in a variety of settings.

Keyboard can be used for a variety of tasks, such as writing, browsing the web, and working on a spreadsheet. One of the main benefits of using a keyboard is that it is easy to use.

Most keyboards are designed to be easy to use and are organized in a way that makes it easy to find the keys you need.

I hope that you have got a clear concept about how a computer accept input from the keyboards.

I have tried my best to make the topics very simple and understandable for you.

If you have any doubt about the topics then don’t forget to tell us using the comment section bellow. We will always try to solve your problem.

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