| Additional Resources Accessories |
| Product Summary |
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The SafeType Vertical Keyboard is a fixed vertical split keyboard that eliminates both pronation of the forearms as well as wrist extension. The innovative design orients the hands in a neutral "handshake" position" which greatly reduces the potential for common issues associated with repetitive use of traditional "flat" keyboards. With pronation eliminated issues such as tennis elbow are largely addressed.
By orienting the primary alphanumeric keys vertically the potential for users to be affected by wrist extension are also greatly reduced. Since the hands remain vertically oriented the majority of the time there is low risk for users to rest the heel of their hand on the work surface.
Due to the unique vertical layout of the SafeType Vertical Keyboard this product is only recommended for users who are competent touch typists. Convenient mirrors provide assistance when needing to access less common upper rank numerics or the function keys (legends are printed in reverse on these keys so they present correctly in the mirrors).
The vertical design of the SafeType Keyboard means gravity will pull the hands down if they are not sufficiently supported. For that reason users should create a workspace equipped with appropriate arm rests that will support the hands in a neutral elevation. With a well-designed workstation layout users are able to relax their shoulders and arms, permitting the fingers to be activated with minimal stress. With relaxed shoulders and arms users are able to complete data entry for longer periods than would be possible using more traditional keyboard formats. |
| Ergonomic Benefits |
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Eliminates Pronation - The SafeType Vertical Keyboard rotates the hands into a vertical orientation, eliminating the risks associated with pronation - the palm-down position required by traditional flat keyboards. The bones in the forearm are actually straight and essentially parallel when the hands are slightly "supine", with palms facing upward. Pronating the hands (i.e. turning the palm downward) causes the bones in the forearm to cross and "scissor" the soft tissues in the arm. It forces blood vessels and nerves between two hard objects (your bones) and then puts a crushing pressure on them. Pronation also creates stress in the tendons running up the forearm to the outside of the elbow and can trigger the development of Tennis Elbow. The vertical orientation when using the SafeType Keyboard relieves that stress and reduces the risk of developing this painful condition. Learn More About Prontation
Reduces the Risk of Wrist Extension - Traditional flat keyboards encourage users to adopt positions which create "Wrist Extension" ( Learn More About Wrist Extension). When the heels of the hands are placed in contact with the desk surface while keying (or mousing) the hand is forced to angle upwards. This angle at the wrist creates pressure or tension which can lead to the development of symptoms such as pain, numbness or tingling in the fingers, and weakness of the hand and/or finger - all symptoms associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The SafeType Vertical Keyboard addresses the issue of Wrist Extension by orienting the hands in a vertical plane where the wrists can be maintained in a neutral "flat" alignment. Note: Users with broad shoulders may find that the fixed spacing of the SafeType Keyboard still requires a small degree of extension.
Relaxes The Muscles of the Shoulder and Arm - As explained above, the Vertical Design of the SafeType Vertical Keyboard addresses the most common sources of pain and injury associated with extensive keyboard use. All of these combined will result in a reduction of tension throughout the muscles of the entire arm, extending right up through the shoulders. When appropriately positioned arm rests are utilized and the weight of the arms is properly supported, users are able to fully relax these muscles and key from a fully relaxed posture.
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| Features |
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- Vertical Orientation: The vertical orientation aids users in avoiding several of the most common risk factors associated with extended keyboard use.
- Articulating Mirrors for Optimum Performance: The SafeType Vertical Keyboard features a vertical design that serves well for touch typists. However, even many touch typists are not as familiar with the Numeric and Function rows. Because they are unable to see these keys the SafeType includes mirrors which enable the user to clearly read the legends on these two rows. In order to accomplish this the legends for these two rows of keys are printed in reverse, thereby providing a corrected "mirror image".
- Stable and Rigid: Unlike other adjustable keyboards which offer angled orientations that can aid in reducing pronation, the sturdy "fixed" design of the SafeType Vertical Keyboard is not susceptible to movement or shifting as it is being used.
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| Images (Click on any thumbnail to view larger image) |
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SafeType Vertical Keyboard - black model
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SafeType Vertical Keyboard - white model
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| Technical Specifications |
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- Width: 15.5" (39.4 cm)
- Depth (front-to-back): 7.5" (19.0 cm)
- Height: 8.125" (20.6 cm)
- Distance between Left and Right Keycap tops: 11.5" (29.2 cm) to 12.0" (30.5 cm)
- Mirror Adjustment: 2" (5.1 cm)
- Mirror Size: 7" x 2" (17.8 cm x 5.1 cm)
- Keyswitch Rating: 10 million actuations
- Numeric Keypad: In center portion of keyboard
- Compatibility: PC (all OSs)
Mac (all OSs) (basic functionality, internet hot keys will not function) - Interface: Native PS/2 with PS/2 to USB adapter
- Warranty: 1 year. Manufacturerdirect only.
- Note: Do not use the installationCD with a Mac or withWindows Vista.
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| Usage Tips |
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- Arm Support is REQUIRED. The completely vertical orientation of the SafeType Vertical Keyboard requires that comfortable arm supports at the proper height must be available. In order to be successful the supports must be appropriately spaced in both width and elevation in relation to the keyboard. Correct elevation will have the shoulders relaxed (neither hunched nor hanging) with the weight of the arms supported by the arm rests. The elbows should be at roughly 90° and the hands should be aligned at the home row position. Achieving this optimum posture may require adjustment of the chair height, the addition of a suitable footrest, or possibly the installation of a height-adjustable keyboard arm and tray. A more common solution is the installation of an articulating forearm support which can be attached to the desk.
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| Models |
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| Model # | Description |
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| V902 | SafeType Vertical Keyboard, black | | V801 | SafeType Vertical Keyboard,white |
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