Notebooks: Weak Link in Ergonomics

August 1996 / Bits / Notebooks: Weak Link in Ergonomics

Ergonomics is a hot topic among computer vendors and users, but the term notebook ergonomics remains an oxymoron. While mouse and keyboard makers continually search for new ways to make their devices more ergonomic, or comfortable to use, the same can't be said f or notebook makers. Instead, they say privately, the basic idea is still to "get as much as possible in the smallest package possible."
Consequently, few if any notebooks have ever shown any real ergonomics. One exception is the SENS 810 Multimedia Notebook from Samsung ((800) 933-4110). It features an adjustable split keyboard that you can pull out at angles from the center to allow more natural wrist and elbow positioning. The keys also are full-size. The only other ergonomic approach was probably the muc h-touted but ill-fated IBM Butterfly, which had a keyboard that expanded to full size from its subnotebook format. Beyond that, don't expect much from notebooks in this area.
True, LCD screens don't have the ergonomic drawbacks of monitors in terms of emissions, but otherwise, the smaller keyboards and pointing devices that are generally inferior to conventional PC mice and keyboards will leave users who are concerned about ergonomics in a dilemma.

Go to next article: MOLAP, ROLAP, Overlap

Matthew Wilson
My approach to software engineering is far more pragmatic than it is theoretical--and no language better exemplifies this than C++.

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