Entering assembly and quality control information into a computer can be time consuming. Each minute spent typing at a keyboard is time not working on other work. Staff can spend hours entering shifts, downtime both planned and unplanned, and defects to mention a few.
To speed data entry programs implement shortcut keys. While these can speed up input speed they first have to be learned and then remembered. We all have seen a key combination that we soon forgot.
Use of an overlay keyboard alone or in combination with a normal keyboard can be the solution. An overlay keyboard adds the extra functionality that a regular keyboard does not. Your imagination is the only limit on how an overlay keyboard can be used in any application.
Items to seek in an overlay keyboard include:
Ability to reproduce all characters and commands
Unlike a numeric keypad that simply transmits digits to the computer an overlay keyboard can transmit all of the characters or commands found on a normal keyboard. This includes all possible control and alternate key combinations, arrow keys, page controls keys and tab key to cite a few.
Multiple characters/commands per key
Every key on an overlay keyboard can transmit any string of characters and commands. An individual key can transmit one character/command or an arbitrarily long series.
Speed control
The speed of the computer, operating system and talent of the programmer all effect how quickly the computer can process input. With an overlay keyboard you can fix a default speed at which characters and commands are transmitted to the computer and then vary the speed as circumstances require. Also time delays can be included in a key sequence for sluggish section of program code.
Repeat commands
An overlay keyboard will permit a section of a key sequence to be repeated for as long the key is held down. When the key is released the remaining section of the key sequence will be executed.
Sufficient number of keys that are easily labeled
An overlay keyboard needs to have an abundance of keys that can be easily labeled. It should be simple to change the labels as the meaning of the keys change. It is also advantageous if the keys can be colored for easy location.
Easy to program
The overlay keyboard should be easy to configure. The commands should be straightforward and intuitive. Up loading the program into the keyboard needs to be quick and easy.
Sturdy
Like all equipment that are used in an industrial setting an overlay key needs to be sturdy. The keyboard needs to be constructed of metal to bear up against heat, cold, dirty fingers and all other conditions the work place may exhibit.
About the Author:
To find out additional information regarding overlay keyboards and the many way they can be employed drop in to Philip Kidder's website.. Free reprint available from: The Advantages Of Using An Overlay Keyboard In Production Settings.
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