Wireless Keyboards - Using The Power Of Radio Frequencies

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An essential component to any computer, be it a desktop, laptop or notebook computer, keyboards have generally been a fixed device directly connected to the control of the computer. The spaghetti junction worth of cables, wires and plugs was not only unsightly, but severely limited the options of the user as well as posing safety risks.

In a bid to give the user more freedom, and to help save on space, wireless keyboards have became increasingly common and popular. It is a testimony to the value of wireless keyboards that they are now being sold as an included component of the machine, as opposed to as an accessory.

Many of the early prototypes of wireless keyboards did not have a particularly successful career, due to limited battery lifespan and a constant need to replace the batteries soon irked consumers. Advances have now been made which have ensured that the longevity of the batteries are ensured. Whilst keyboards in general are always assumed to be the QWERTY model so often associated with desktop and laptop computers, wireless keyboards have became increasingly common amongst handheld devises such as PDA and other media players.

These wireless keyboards are used to more conveniently play and manipulate media, and include fast forward, rewind, play features as well as volume control and mute function. Miniature QWERTY keyboards which are fully wireless are also available for the likes of PDAs and other hand held devices so as to allow the user a greater ease for entering data and contacts.

Other useful features include a button which can be used to engage the internet browser, and another dedicated to email. Rather than being a traditional keyboard minus the cords, wireless keyboards are a clear mark in the next stage of evolution of keyboards, designed to be more user friendly as well as of greater, Hot Swap benefit to the user. Many wireless keyboards also come with a pointer device akin to he standard mouse which is designed to eliminate the need for a traditional mouse, and this further increases the freedom for the user.

Concerns have been raised however as to the actual security of the wireless keyboards. Wireless keyboards in order to actually work, need to transmit signals from the device to the computer and this has meant that they are open to abuse and exploitation.

Radio frequency (RF) or infrared (IR) signals sent and received from the keyboard and the unit attached to the computer facilitates it to work as wireless keyboard and these can be readily intercepted by hackers. This means that not only can the keyboard itself be compromised, but that the actual integrity of your system can also be compromised as well.