There is a wealth of information available on how to setup ones office workstation. The problem is that there are relatively little information available on choosing a mouse and keyboard to ensure the proper fit.
One size does not fit all when it comes to mice and keyboards. There are a number of factors that need to be considered to ensure a proper fit.
Mice and pointing devices
1. Consider the size of the user’s hands.
A user who has small hands, or is a child, will require a smaller sized mouse to allow the hand to be in a more natural position.
A user who has large hands will require a mouse that allows the user to comfortably fit over the mouse without overreaching the mouse buttons. Many individuals in this category prefer the use of a trackball as they indicate there is less muscle strain and fatigue.
When a family or office shares a mouse the size factor is often overlooked, however, the WhaleMouse is adjustable in size for small to large hands.
2. Does the user have special needs?
There are now pointer devices that are specifically geared to individuals with mobility limitations.
The NaturalPoint TrackIR Hands Free Mouse uses the individual’s head movements to control the mouse.
The No Hands Mouse consists of two foot pedals, one controls the movement of the mouse while the other provides the click functionality.
3. Does the user have repetitive strain injuries?
An individual suffering from repetitive strain may require a mouse that places their hand in a more natural position.
The Vertical, Quill and Zero Tension models provide a more natural hand positioning.
The tablet allows the user to move the pointer with either a stylus or a finger, which can reduce the strain associated with repetitive movements.
For more information and illustrations please refer to this website http://web.mit.edu/atic/www/tools/mice.html.
Choosing the right keyboard
1. Consider the size of the user’s hands.
A user should be able to comfortably reach the keys on the keyboard.
Users with small hands may find they are more comfortable with a keyboard that is shallow (in other words, the keyboard height is low). Those with large hands would likely prefer a keyboard that has a greater depth.
Companies are recognizing the need for shallower and more compressed keyboards. New models are being introduced to the market to provide for this need.
2. Consider the need for a split keyboard or contoured keyboard.
For individuals who must be on the keyboard for long periods of time the experts usually recommend a split keyboard or a contoured keyboard.
There is a difference between a split board and a contoured board. The split board allows the user to determine how the board is positioned.
The contoured board is static, meaning that the keys and the board itself are placed in a specific configuration wherein the hands are positioned at a slight angle to allow for a more natural hand position.
Both types of keyboards provide more natural positioning of one’s hands and should help to reduce the level of fatigue experienced by the user. Carefully research the board and if possible test drive it before buying it.
3. Special needs
There are keyboards that have been configured for one-handed typists. These are usually compressed and often are designed to have the most frequently used keys to be easier to reach.
Regardless of your needs, choosing the right keyboard will require some investigation. For more information and illustrations of the various types of keyboards please refer to this site http://web.mit.edu/atic/www/tools/keyboards.html.
