How are keyboards and mice made?

Keyboards and mice might seem pretty straightforward, but there’s some cool tech behind their creation.

Keyboards:

A keyboard is made up of various layers and components:

1. Keycaps: These are the actual keys you press. They’re usually made from plastic or sometimes more premium materials like metal.
2. Switches: When you press a key, it pushes down on a switch beneath it. There are different types of switches (like membrane, mechanical, or optical) that determine how a key feels and registers a press.
3. Circuitry: Underneath the keys, there’s a circuit board that helps transmit the signals when keys are pressed. Each key has its own switch and an electrical pathway to send signals to the computer.
4. Frame and Housing: This is the structure that holds everything together. It can be made of plastic, metal, or other durable materials.

Mice:

Mice might seem simple, but they’re pretty intricate too:

1. Outer Shell: The mouse’s body is usually made of plastic, but high-end mice might use other materials for durability or aesthetics.
2. Buttons and Scroll Wheel: These parts are often made of plastic or metal. Buttons use switches underneath them, similar to the ones in keyboards, to register clicks. The scroll wheel has its own mechanism for scrolling up and down.
3. Optical Sensor: This is the ‘eye’ of the mouse. It tracks movement by taking pictures of the surface it’s on and using those images to figure out how far and in which direction the mouse has moved.
4. Circuitry and Connectivity: Just like keyboards, there’s a circuit board inside the mouse that processes your clicks and movement. Wireless mice also have additional components for connecting to your computer.

Both keyboards and mice require precise engineering to ensure they’re durable, responsive, and comfortable to use. Manufacturers test them extensively to make sure they work well before they end up on store shelves.

These devices might seem simple, but there’s a lot of thought and technology that goes into making them so essential for everyday computer use!