Smart keyboard can recognize users and power itself

At a time when all equipment is being made smarter, the keyboard cannot be left behind. A Georgia Institute of Technology smart keyboard can not only recognize who is pressing the keys, but also power itself.

According to the makers of the smart keyboard, it not only registers whether a key is pressed, but also how much force is involved, and how much time there is between two keystrokes. Physorg reports that. This should yield a pattern that varies from person to person, and so can be used for identification and security. A test shows that the keyboard can tell most people apart, although there is a small margin of error.

But the keyboard, which was developed by scientists at the George Institute of Technology, has more technical gadgets on board. With each keystroke, a small electrical current is generated by the force used. In addition, a layer has been placed over the keys that receives the electrical signals that come from the fingers. Ultimately, this could generate enough power for a wireless transmitter, which transmits the keystrokes to the PC. Due to the way the keyboard is built, it is also moisture resistant. So you can safely spill coffee.

The makers believe that they can market their smart keyboard for a competitive price because they use cheap, commonly used materials. However, no details have been given about a commercial release yet, so interested parties will probably have to wait a little longer.