Why Are There No Ergonomic Laptop Keyboards?
Have you ever noticed a product that seemed mainstream and beneficial, but then disappeared from the marketplace? Or have you ever noticed a problem solved in the design of a product, but then manufacturers do not incorporate the changes into the design of all of the products of that type? Considering how computers have changed over the last twenty years, the astute observers might well be asking “Where are the laptop computers with ergonomic keyboards?!”
Back in 1977, computer developers created an ergonomically-correct keyboard to help alleviate the stress on muscles and tendons in the hands from repeated typing. While that technology was not widely incorporated at the time, during the Clinton Administration, Congress passed laws that required employers to provide their computer operators with ergonomic keyboards. The intent of the law was to lower the number of repetitive stress muscle injuries and Carpel Tunnel Syndrome worker’s compensation claims. For a while, ergonomics was a common buzzword in American politics and society.
At that time, ergonomic keyboards were everywhere. The design of an ergonomic keyboard includes a split-keyboard with an extended front section, which reduces stress on the fingers, wrists and tendons of the computer user. After Congress struck down the reforms that required businesses to incorporate ergonomic keyboards, it seems that computer manufacturers decided to not include ergonomically correct keyboards into new laptop designs.
Why did computer manufacturers fail to incorporate ergonomics into the design of laptop computers? The answer has everything to do with space, as the cramped keyboards of many laptop and notebook computers actually exacerbate the problematic muscle movements ergonomic keyboards prevent. A proper ergonomic keyboard requires space. Computer manufacturers market laptop and notebook computers using the portability and convenience as a key selling point. A proper ergonomically-correct keyboard would necessitate a laptop computer that was several inches wider. The average ergonomic keyboard is over nineteen inches wide, which is quite a bit wider than most laptop computers these days!
What proponents of ergonomics fail to account for most when lamenting the lack of ergonomic keyboards for laptop computers is the height requirement of an ergonomic keyboard. Ergonomic keyboards are usually raised more than two inches at the top in order to help reduce muscle strain. Laptop manufacturers quickly came to the conclusion that there was little point in making impressive, ultra-thin LCD monitors on laptops if they had to attach the monitor to a gangly base with the awkward keyboard.
Ergonomically-correct keyboards are still widely available and some laptop computers have keyboards with better ergonomic designs than others. But the computer manufacturers are not looking to make laptop computers with true ergonomic keyboards, even though laptop computer sales have risen in recent years and many consumers are replacing their home computers with laptop computers. For those making such an upgrade, keep your ergonomic keyboard, it is well worth using one of your laptop’s USB ports to keep your hands comfortable and healthy!
About RESCUECOM:
RESCUECOM provides computer repair and computer support, 24/7: Meeting every tech support need including data recovery, virus removal, networking, wireless services, and computer support for all brands of hardware and software. For computer support or information on products, services, or computer repair, visit https://www.rescuecom.com or call 1-800-RESCUE-PC.
For More Information, Contact:
David Milman, CEO
315-882-1100
david@rescuecom.com
Filed under: business, david a. milman, david milman, laptop, pc support, performance, rescuecom, tech support, tips, winning