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Keyboard & Mouse
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Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) can affect both blue collar and
white collar workers, the most common cause of RSI in the white
collar environment is due to the overuse and improper use of keyboards
and mice. Because of this, keyboard and mouse ergonomic software
programs are becoming more popular, helping more and more people
prevent and reduce RSI.
There are multiple keyboard and mouse software programs available
to computer-users these days. Some of the most popular types of
software are as follows:
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Voice recognition software – This virtually eliminates
the need for either a keyboard or a mouse. The user simply speaks,
and a microphone picks up the voice and transcribes it into
text that can later be edited manually. These speech recognition
systems are continually being improved, so be sure to get one
of the newest versions. Also be sure to choose one that allows
you to speak commands, thereby lessening the necessity of using
a mouse. Consider wearing a headset to improve clarity and eliminate
background noises.
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Automatic clicking – The use of automatic clicking software
eliminates the need for the repetitive motion of clicking the
mouse. Most forms of this software recognize when the mouse
is moving, then automatically click once the mouse has stopped
moving. It is also possible to use this software for double
clicks and other mouse functions. Of course, realize that many
forms of RSI are caused by the position and movement of the
workers forearm and wrist while using a mouse, not just the
clicking…
-
Dvorak keyboard layout – Assigning different letters
to each keyboard key helps some people reduce the risks of RSI.
Many people find that the Dvorak layout is faster and more efficient.
The Maltron layout is also popular. And while it may not reduce
RSI, using these special layouts can help prevent it, especially
since when you first start using it, you will not be able to
type as fast!
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Sequencing programs – By using key sequencing, a computer
user can automate common tasks. A complex sequence can be assigned
to a single key or combination of keys.
Other functions that keyboard and mouse ergonomic software may
highlight or include are:
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Keyboard to mouse – replace mouse clicking with keyboard
combinations; use the numeric pad for operations like drag and
drop.
-
Sticky shift keys – reduce the need to stretch your
hand across the keyboard to hold the shift at the same time
as other keys.
-
One handed typing – while one-handed typing can give
a break to a hand with RSI, you must be aware that you are doubling
the work of the other hand, thereby increasing the chance of
RSI in it.
The type of keyboard and mouse ergonomic software that you should
use depends greatly on how you use your computer and what you use
it for. Try out a few of the abovementioned types of software, and
find one that works well for you.
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