The SafeType™ vertical keyboard is the first keyboard that solves the problems of pronation, dorsal flexion and ulnar deviation that occur while working on a conventional keyboard (unfamiliar with these terms? Go to 'Want to know more '.)

The design

You can picture the SafeType™ vertical keyboard as follows:

• take a conventional, straight, horizontal keyboard
• remove the section that contains the cursor keys and the numeric keypad
• imagine cutting the keyboard in two halves
• turn the two halves upward from the inside to a vertical position
• place the section with the cursor keys and the numeric keypad between the two halves

Simply use a handshake position with the palms facing each other, and, with your index fingers on the familiar 'home' keys (F and J), begin to type, just like you do now with other keyboards. The keyboard layout is the same as on conventional keyboards, so no re-training is required for experienced typists (the keyboard is available in all major European languages). The movements your fingers make on the SafeType™ vertical keyboard are not different from those on a conventional keyboard. The keys are in the same position and the distance between them is no different than on a flat keyboard. The only thing that is different is that your hand is rotated 90 degrees. But that makes all the difference!

The adjustable mirrors are there so you can see the keys on the less familiar top rows if necessary, and the lettering on the these keys is reversed so you can read it properly in the mirrors.

The touch typing system

In order to work with the SafeType™ vertical keyboard you must be able to touch type, or be willing to learn how to touch type. If you have no touch typing experience we recommend TypingMaster Pro, a professional touch typing coach that helps you to master touch typing. The TypingMaster software is available at a reduced price in combination with the SafeType™ vertical keyboard.

If you want to see the SafeType™ vertical keyboard in action, press the following links for a video presentation of the SafeType™ keyboard.

How the mirrors work

Raise and lower the mirrors by pushing only on the hinge on the back of the keyboard. Get as close to the slot as possible. Push up from the bottom to raise the mirrors. To lower them, push the hinge down from the top. Many users do not use the mirrors at all. They are included primarily to help with the 'Function' and 'Numeric' rows of keys because many typists are less familiar with those keys than the letter keys that they use constantly. As with any keyboard, most users will be more efficient as a touch typist if they do not use visual references. Do not use the mirrors until you understand how they work and where to lift them. Pulling on the mirrors in the wrong place could cause them to break.

The information on this site will only provide you with a brief insight in the principles that underlie the SafeType™ keyboard. It took several years of thorough research to arrive at the product as it is shown on this site.

In cooperation with Cornell University in 1998, a randomized clinical trial was completed that screened the influence of posture on nerve function and blood flow of the lower arm. Read all about it  in 'Want to know more? '.