A keyboard having an improved numeric section and an improved numeric key cluster
in the numeric section. The keyboard preferably includes an alphanumeric or QWERTY
section and an editing section laterally disposed from the numeric section. A row
of function keys is preferably provided above at least the numeric key cluster.
The present invention also provides keys frequently used with the numeric section
within, or in close proximity to, the key cluster in the numeric section. A Tab
key or an Equals "=" key has been provided within the key cluster for improved
efficiency. Additionally, a row, preferably including four keys, is provided above
and in close proximity to the numeric key cluster. These keys preferably include
a Left Parenthesis "(" key, a Right Parenthesis ")" key, a Backspace key, and a
Tab key or an Equals "=" key, whichever is not provided within the numeric key
cluster. The keyboard does not include a specifically labeled NumLock key within
the numeric key cluster. The keys provided in the numeric key cluster and in its
proximity are frequently used with digit keys and enhances the effectiveness of
the numeric key cluster when it is being used for many program applications and
alleviates the problem of having to reach over number pad or use the other hard
to acquire keys in the alphanumeric section of the keyboard.
