Importance

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Abstract

In one embodiment, the method and related apparatus for configuring and operating a computer keyboard includes providing a personal computer system having a monitor, central processing unit, memory, sound generator and a keyboard input/output interface. The keyboard is substantially flat and has a planar user interface surface with a plurality of discrete membrane switches protruding a small distance (less than one-eighth of an inch) above the surface. In addition, each switch is circumscribed by a key channel. The domes of each membrane switch enhance the tactile response to the child or young adult learning to use the keyboard because upon depression of the key face, the dome deforms into a concave shape and closes a normally open circuit junction in a key switch matrix beneath the user interface surface. The method as well as the apparatus electrically blocks the generation of multiple digital key strike signals whether based upon continual actuation of one of the key switches (i.e., continual depression of a single key) or whether based on actuation of a plurality of key switches within a pre-determined time period. Multiple digital key strike signals are inhibited by setting the microcontroller in the keyboard such that virtually all keys on the keyboard are configured as a 'make only' key. This make only key strike routine is customarily used for the escape key on the standard computer keyboard. Inhibiting generation of multiple digital key strike signals based upon actuation of a plurality of key strikes (caused by a child depressing multiple keys) is enabled with a time out circuit either in the software on by the personal computer or the routines or programs in the microcontroller operating the keyboard.

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First Claim