A normal keyboard PCB, also known as a printed circuit board (PCB), is an essential component of the keyboard’s internal structure. It plays the role of receiving the user’s instructions and converting them into electronic signals that are recognized by the computer. When the user touches any key on the keyboard, the corresponding switch is immediately closed, activating the PCB circuit. The circuitry then processes the signal and transmits it to the computer through the USB interface or wirelessly to complete the input operation.
The PCB can be thought of as the control center of the keyboard: it is responsible for sending commands to the computer, ensuring that we can execute various commands and keystrokes as we type. Without this component, the computer will not work properly.
Normal keyboard pcb function in much the same way as circuit boards in other electronic devices. They all realize their functions by connecting electronic components, while the main duty of the keyboard PCB is to transmit the key signals.
Common normal keyboard pcb working principle
A computer keyboard consists of several components that work together to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of typing.When we press a key on the keyboard, the key is pressurized and makes contact with an internal spring-loaded switch.
This switch is connected to a circuit board inside the keyboard, which then sends an electrical signal to the computer through a wire in the USB or PS/2 port.
The computer receives the signal and interprets it according to the currently running application program. If word processing software is on, the computer will recognize the received signal as an alphabetic keystroke; if spreadsheet software is active, it will interpret it as any other type of keystroke.
Classification of normal keyboard pcb
Single-panel PCB: As the basic form of PCB, the single-panel concentrates all circuit elements on the same level and is suitable for keyboards with simpler designs, such as certain membrane keyboards.
Multi-layer PCB boards: such PCBs have multiple circuit layers, which can support more complex circuit design and achieve higher performance, mostly found in mechanical keyboards, which can meet the demand for more functionality and key customization.
Flexible Printed Circuit Boards (FPCBs): These PCBs, which can be freely bent, offer unprecedented flexibility in normal keyboard pcb design and are ideal for use in ultra-thin or foldable keyboard designs.
What is the normal thickness of a keyboard PCB?
The thickness of a normal keyboard pcb is a critical factor that has a direct impact on the stiffness or flexibility of a keyboard. Specifically, the thicker the PCB, the more pronounced the feedback force or stiffness felt when typing. On the contrary, if the PCB is too thin, it may lead to premature wear and tear of the switches, which in turn affects their lifespan. On the market, 1.5mm is the most common PCB thickness, although 1.2mm PCBs are also quite popular.
As for the size of the circuit board, it determines the overall size of the keyboard and its achievable layout. For example, a standard mechanical keyboard has a circuit board that is about 60mm wide and 18mm long. Larger keyboard layouts, such as 100% layouts, on the other hand, require the use of larger circuit boards than 60% layouts.
As the core component of a normal keyboard pcb, the printed circuit board (PCB) of an ordinary keyboard not only carries the heavy responsibility of transforming user operations into computer commands, but also meets the diverse needs of different users for keyboard feel, performance, and portability through its diverse form and thickness design. At the same time, the appropriate PCB thickness and size selection is also the key to ensure the durability and layout of the keyboard rationality.
