What is a 106 keyboard? Explanation of the basic concept of the Japanese keyboard that realizes comfortable input

Explanation of IT Terms

What is a 106 keyboard?

Have you ever come across the term “106 keyboard” and wondered what it refers to? In the context of keyboards, a 106 keyboard is a specific type of keyboard layout commonly used in Japan. While most English-speaking countries use the QWERTY layout, the 106 keyboard is a QWERTY-based layout with additional keys to accommodate the Japanese writing system.

Explanation of the basic concept of the Japanese keyboard

The Japanese keyboard is designed to enable comfortable input for Japanese users. In addition to the standard QWERTY keys, it incorporates specific keys for inputting kana characters, a script used in the Japanese writing system. The 106 keyboard, in particular, has all the keys required for efficiently entering Japanese characters.

The keys on a 106 keyboard are labeled with both Roman letters and kana characters (hiragana and katakana). It also includes a prominent key called the “kana/kanji key” or “conversion key.” This key allows users to toggle between inputting kana characters and converting them into kanji (Chinese characters) through an input method editor (IME). This conversion process is vital for effectively expressing Japanese words and sentences.

To illustrate, when a Japanese user wants to type the word “sushi,” they would press the keys corresponding to the Roman letters “s-u-s-h-i” on the keyboard. The input would be displayed in kana characters. By then pressing the kana/kanji conversion key, the input would be converted into the corresponding kanji character for “sushi.” This flexibility in inputting and converting characters is a distinctive feature of the 106 keyboard.

Moreover, the 106 keyboard incorporates additional keys for various purposes. These can include keys specific to Japanese punctuation, special characters used in the Japanese language, and media control keys. The layout and positioning of these keys meet the specific requirements of the Japanese language and its writing system.

In conclusion, the 106 keyboard is a keyboard layout designed for Japanese language input, allowing easier and more efficient typing. Its incorporation of additional keys, kana/kanji conversion functionality, and specific Japanese language features make it indispensable for Japanese users. So, next time you come across the term “106 keyboard,” you’ll know that it is a specialized keyboard tailored to meet the unique needs of Japanese language input.

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