Built-in memory
The presence in the keyboard of its own built-in memory.
This feature is found mainly in high-end models
of game specialization(see "Intended use").
The built-in memory in such keyboards is mainly used to store user settings — for example, the set functions of programmable keys — as well as macros (sequences of commands that are activated by pressing one or two buttons). Anyway, the presence of its own memory means extended options for customizing the keyboard.
USB port
The number of native USB ports in the keyboard design.
The presence of these ports actually allows you to use the keyboard as a USB hub — for connecting various peripherals to a computer. Such a connection is convenient because the connectors are literally at hand, you do not need to reach for the system unit. The number of ports corresponds to the number of USB devices that can be connected to the keyboard at the same time without the use of splitters and other additional equipment.
Audio jack
The type of audio jack provided in the design of the keyboard (if it has such a function at all).
The audio jack on the keyboard is often more convenient than the jack on the PC case: it is right under the user's hand, you do not need to reach for the system unit to connect audio devices (headphones, microphones, etc.). Specific types of connectors can be as follows:
— Mini-Jack (2x3.5 mm). A set of two 3.5mm mini-jacks. It is for such connectors that plugs are made in most modern headphones, as well as specialized computer speakers and microphones. Note that each of the jacks has its own specialization: one (usually green) is an output for headphones / speakers, the second (red) is an input for a microphone (or headset microphone plug). The same principle of connecting audio devices is used in most modern sound cards, so this option is most popular in keyboards.
— Mini-Jack (4-pin 3.5 mm). A specific type of 3.5 mm mini-Jack connector that has 4 pins (instead of the standard 3). It is intended mainly for connecting mobile headsets: such headsets, unlike computer ones, have one plug through which both headphones and a microphone work. However, ordinary “ears” can also be connected to the 4-pin socket — this possibility is allowed by the design. Connectors of this type are found mainly in
tablet keyboards, as well as in some
gaming models.
Interface
Interface used in a wired keyboard (see "Connection type").
—
USB. A standard universal connector for connecting peripherals, present in almost all modern computers — from desktop PCs to microcomputers. USB keyboards are the most versatile, so this option is the most common today. The main disadvantage of this option is that the USB slot occupied by the keyboard may be needed for another peripheral device; however, this problem is quite easily solved — for example, using a USB hub or purchasing a keyboard with its own hub (see below).
—
PS/2. A specialized connector with a characteristic round shape used to connect keyboards and mice; in modern PCs, both two ports can be provided, for both, and one universal. Anyway, this connection method is convenient in that all USB ports remain free; this can be important when using numerous USB peripherals. At the same time, the PS/2 connector itself is rather large and poorly suited for laptops and other compact equipment, and therefore is found only in desktop PCs. And even in the latter case, it's ok to check the availability of PS/2 before buying a keyboard with such a plug.
— USB or PS/2. Usually, in this case, we mean USB keyboards equipped with an adapter for a PS/2 port. Features of both interfaces are described above; here we note that this option is the most versatile, it allows you to choose the connection method depending on th
...e situation. In addition, it is convenient because there are relatively few PS/2 models, and it can be easier to find a suitable USB keyboard equipped with an adapter. The adapters themselves are inexpensive and do not really affect the price of the device; of course, they are sold separately, but the kit is often the preferred option.
— Corporate. Connection using a specific connector, which does not apply to the standard (described above) interfaces and is mainly used in the technique of a certain brand, at best, in some third-party devices. This option can be very convenient for tablet accessories (see "By Direction").
