|
There are many types of keyboard platforms that are
available in the market ranging from manual knob adjustment to a modern pneumatic lifting
platform. Price range base on these keyboard platforms depending on adjustment capability,
durability, and others added features. Here are some basic guidelines that you should
follow to get the right keyboard tray for your workstation:
- Ensure that the surface the tray is going to be attached to
is sufficiently high enough. The desk height should be at least 31 inches in order to
provide sufficient knee clearance.
- Choose a keyboard platform with a height adjustable feature.
According to PEOSH VDT Guidelines, the height from the floor to the top surface of the
keyboard support surface should be adjustable from a range of 23 to 28 inches.
- Choose a keyboard tray with an adjustable surface angle. The
keyboard tray should be in a slightly negative tilt or flat position when performing
computer keying. Avoid getting a keyboard tray with a positive tilt/slope surface.
- Choose a keyboard tray that has a length adjustable arm,
and is able to retract the keyboard fully under the work surface.
- Assess and determine how to set up or organize your work
desk before buying or installing the keyboard tray. For example, putting the tray at the
90 degrees corner desk may need a different size and shape of tray and arm extension than
putting it at the center of the desk.
- Choose a keyboard tray that has a mouse platform attached.
For computer workstations that are used by many people, it is recommended to get a
keyboard tray with a mouse platform that can slide in and out on either side of the tray
to accommodate left and right handed people.
- Avoid getting a keyboard tray that has an adjustment knob
below it. The knob can interfere with knee clearance and getting close to the computer.
- Finally, after installing the keyboard tray, it is
essential to learn the adjustable features and how to perform the adjustments. Because
people have different body sizes, the keyboard tray adjustment for each person will be
different and unique. For more detail on how to perform the adjustments,
go to the Keyboard
section.
Remember to adjust the keyboard tray so that your arms and
hands are in line with your wrists. Your shoulders should be in a relaxed position and
wrists are straight or in a slightly negative tilt when keying. Vary your sitting posture
during the day to reduce the risk of developing computer related injury. See the
Computer Equipment with Adjustable Features information on
where to purchase adjustable keyboard trays.
Back to Keyboard
and Mouse Surface >>> |
