Effects of a Vertical Split-Keyboard on Posture, Comfort and Performance

Twelve, female, touch typists were tested with a traditional keyboard (TK) and a vertical split-keyboard (VK). The use of articulating forearm supports and the VK was also tested. Wrist posture was measured simultaneously for both hands during typing trials. Typing performance was assessed by measuring speed and accuracy. Self-assessed fatigue, discomfort, and preferences were assessed by questionnaires. Results showed that the VK significantly improved the proportion of typing movements performed in a neutral zone of wrist motion (71% for flexion/extension; 78% for radial/ulnar movements) compared with the TK (44% and 25% respectively). Typing performance was slightly slower for the VK and accuracy was only marginally affected.