The Computer

Interactions with computers | Computer peripherals and parts | Why know the computer devices?

QWERTY

1. Common Use: Predominant in English-speaking countries.

2. Design Origin: Evolved from typewriter layouts to reduce jamming.

3. Characteristics: Not optimized for speed or ergonomics; layout results from historical design rather than efficiency.

4. Geographical Use: United States, Canada, and other English-speaking regions.

QWERTZ

1. Common Use: Adapted for German and Central European languages.

2. Key Differences: 'Z' and 'Y' keys are swapped; includes characters like ä, ö, ü, and ß.

3. Design Rationale: Reflects the frequency of 'Z' in German.

4. Variations: Altered versions exist for other Central European languages.

AZERTY

1. Common Use: Mainly in French-speaking countries.

2. Key Differences: Modified layout to accommodate French orthography; direct access to à, é, è, ç.

3. Design Rationale: Tailored for the French language, changes in number and special character access.

4. Geographical Use: France, Belgium, and some parts of North and West Africa.

DVORAK

1. Common Use: Designed for English typing efficiency.

2. Key Differences: Vowels and common consonants on the home row; reduced finger movement.

3. Design Rationale: Aims for increased speed and reduced fatigue; benefits are subject to debate.

4. Adoption: Less widespread, available as a software setting on most computers.