Creating a dual-keyboard setup using two affordable USB keyboards
Creating a dual-keyboard setup using two affordable USB keyboards
2 piece keyboards are quite costly. What about using two standard ones instead? Are there any issues with this approach? I've tested Microsoft and Dell USB keyboards, and they seemed to function well—shift activation works properly when pressing keys on the other side. If you're aiming for a smaller size, you could fold the circuit board beneath so only the left and right sides remain, leaving no numeric keypad (which is rarely used). You'd need to cut the case on both sides, making two cuts each. This would result in a very portable, ergonomic keyboard design. Why isn't this being done more often? And if it fails, it's so inexpensive and simple to repair or replace. These keyboards are available everywhere; they're not particularly valuable! You might already have a few lying around.
No, they are not suitable.
These items are highly tailored to individual needs.
I’d prefer two keyboards, each using only one side of the device, with plenty of extra cables, etc., which would be beyond practical use.
Having used and owned ergonomic keyboards from manufacturers like MS, I think it’s better to stick with something designed for your hands.
A haphazardly assembled or modified keyboard? I won’t bother.
Since most folks prefer a custom build from two budget keyboards, it isn't sufficient to simply cut the case in half and bend the boards. You'll need to ensure the remaining side functions properly with just one USB port. Still, it could be an interesting endeavor. Go ahead.
I just tried it and it worked well with two USB keyboards. You don't need to cut it in half, of course. It just gets a bit bulky when you have two. Since most keyboards get cleaned more often than they actually are, think of this as a spring cleaning, adding a bit of sawing along the way.
It doesn't seem to fit well with ergonomics or practicality. You'd need to stretch your arms to press the keys, and the desk area would be excessive, unless you're using a keyboard that covers 60% of the space, which still requires a lot of room.
Two pieces are always the most comfortable because you can position each one wherever you like. However, they tend to be quite costly. The size is another reason I suggested reducing them. If you're a left-handed person or don't mind using your left hand for the mouse, it's definitely better if you don't want to reduce them. They are definitely more suitable in a resized form. I haven't experimented with typing with my hands spread out much. It feels a bit awkward, but maybe it's not that bad. My current setup is too compact for me to try this. I plan to adjust it soon. I previously cut down a Microsoft Natural keyboard because I grew tired of navigating the numeric keypad to reach the mouse. (I could have simply removed those keys and attached a platform to the top, but a trackball would have taken up much more space.) The project was quick to complete. Cutting plastic is straightforward. Just wear a respirator or do it outside with a strong wind blowing away from you. Folding the circuit board requires some attention, but not much. It performed very well for years.
No, they are not suitable.
These items are highly tailored to individual needs.
I’d prefer two keyboards, using just one side of each, along with plenty of extra cables, etc., which would be beyond practical use.
Having used and owned ergonomic keyboards from manufacturers like MS, I think it’s okay if a purpose-built keyboard fits your hands... otherwise, skip it.
A haphazardly assembled version? I won’t bother.