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What is DVORAK?
Dvorak refers to an alternate keyboard layout which is more efficient than the standard QWERTY layout. It rearranges the keys on the keyboard so that the highest frequency keys are located on the home row, with lower frequency keys on the other rows.
QWERTY was designed to prevent people from typing too fast, in order to prevent jams when people typed on mechanical typewriters. We have left the mechanisms behind, but the layout remains...for those who wish to optimize their typing patterns, the Dvorak layout has the answer.
Benefits from using the Dvorak layout
- Increased productivity due to reduced finger movement
- For new typists, easier and faster to learn
- Common word patterns easier to type than on standard QWERTY layout.
The Dvorak Layout
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Specialized Dvorak Layouts
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Right Handed Layout |
Left
Keyboards
Most keyboards which offer the Dvorak layout are switchable...that is they can switch back and forth between QWERTY and Dvorak with a single keystroke or combination of keys. ErgoCanada.com offers several keyboards which support the Dvorak layout including the entry level Dvortyboards (Standard and Ergonomic) and the premier level TypeMatrix EZ-Reach, Kinesis contoured line of keyboards (Classic and Professional). The Fingerworks TouchStream LP Zero Force keyboard is switchable, but does not offer a dual-legended option - only the traditional QWERTY legends or DVORAK legends (link to Fingerworks web site).
Software Option
You don't need to purchase a new keyboard to use the Dvorak layout. Windows 95/98/2000 contains a feature which allows you to remap your standard QWERTY keyboard to a Dvorak layout...here is the procedure:
1. Click on the "Start" button
2. Highlight "Settings"
3. Highlight and click "Control Panel"
4. Double click on the "Keyboard" icon
5. Click on the "Properties" button (you may have to click on the Languages
TAB first)
6. Click the drop down list and select US-Dvorak
7. Click on OK
8. You may be required to insert your Windows 9X media (CD) - make sure
it is handy..