| TECH EDGE EXTRA
[Web Exclusive]
By John M. Williams
Computers are essential to my survival. As I glide through my sixties, the standard keyboard no longer meets my word processing needs. Because of declining vision and dexterity challenges, I need a keyboard with larger keys, various adjustable heights, larger letters and a lighter key touch. For over a year, I have been testing various keyboards and had not found one to address my needs. And so when I discovered the MoreKeyboard, I decided to try it. I am glad I did.
The versatile design of the MoreKeyboard convinced me that the developer, Brad Hippenstiel, spent a long time studying the typing challenges of individuals with large hands, seniors, individuals with visual challenges, children and people, who input data, wearing gloves.
The MoreKeyboard’s letter and number keys are more than 25% wider than those of standard keyboards. For an individual with my challenges, the larger landing area on the big keys helps with locating and operating the keyboard and is a solution to enable me to type with more accuracy and confidence.
The large print on the number and letter keys of the MoreKeyboard are three times larger than those on standard keyboards. The bright white printing on the large black keys increases visibility and contrast making the MoreKeyboard easier to read. This is helpful to individuals with vision impairments, and for those who wear reading glasses, bifocals, or work in low-lighted areas.
The MoreKeyboard’s dimensions are 18″ x 7,” therefore taking up the same amount of desk space as a traditional keyboard.
The main objective when typing is to keep your hands in a wrist neutral position. That is, when the wrist is neither up (extension) or down (flexion). The MoreKeyboard was designed with this in mind. Its multiple leg system has front and back legs with three different height adjustments. This allows the user multiple height and angle adjustments to achieve a more wrist neutral position. I like the various leg adjustments. One result is my carpel tunnel has not flared up in two weeks.
The multi-dimensional keyboard is designed for:
Physically challenged: Those who are physically challenged may experience both vision and coordination (dexterity) challenges. The big keys and easy-to-see lettering will enable users to improve their skills in both of these areas. It has mine. My accuracy and productivity have increased by 20%.
Children: The larger easy-to-see and find keys are suited for the motor skills of young children who are eager to play on the computer. My youngest son has used the keyboard on another computer in our house. The keyboard is a motivator in him using the computer.
Larger framed (big hand) users: Individuals with larger hands require more space on their keyboard to enter data correctly. My hands are average. The MoreKeyboard addresses this challenge by providing a larger landing surface than the standard keyboard.
The keys on the MoreKeyboard require less pressure than those on a standard keyboard. This feature increases my productivity and reduces fatigue.
I would like to see the MoreKeyboard adapted to a personal computer. It could enhance sales, if it was properly marketed.
There is a good market among seniors for the MoreKeyboard.
The MoreKeyboard sells for $69.95. This is a steal.
I use the keyboard daily. It is lightweight and easy to plug into a USB port. This versatile keyboard is excellent assistive technology worth having. It has improved my life. It can yours.
John Williams writes for United Spinal. His web site is www.atechnews.com. His e-mail address is jwilliams@atechnews.com.
