About Vertical Keyboard

The vertical keyboard represents quite a change from the traditional computer keyboard. Although the letters remain in the QWERTY arrangement, the keyboard is split into two halves that are perpendicular to the base of the board. This means that typing on the vertical keyboard means the thumbs are upward instead of in horizontal position.

An early vertical keyboard was tested by Cornell University in 1999 to address the ergonomic issues of the standard keyboard.

Since most typing means the hands must remain at an ergonomically challenged position, the vertical keyboard was thought to be a solution for typists who might be suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome due to long bouts of typing.

Those who have used the vertical keyboard do describe their first use as somewhat awkward as compared to use of a normal keyboard.

Sometimes a vertical keyboard is sold with side mirrors to help new typists.

Typists who have used the vertical keyboard also report that it is difficult at first to type letters with the pinky fingers as these are closest to the base or table on which the board sits.

Using a vertical board might allow some workers to return to typing even if they have carpal tunnel syndrome already. However, some dislike the new arrangement, and the vertical board tends to require more space than does the normal keyboard.