doublekeyboard

Doublekeyboard is a concept in computer input design describing configurations that involve two keyboards connected to a single computer, enabling dual input streams or layered input modes. It can denote either hardware arrangements in which two independent keyboards are used at once, or software configurations that expose two virtual keyboard layouts or profiles within the same system. The term appears in discussions of bilingual typing, collaborative data entry, and specialized workflows that benefit from separating input tasks between devices.

In hardware implementations, two keyboards may connect via USB or Bluetooth and share the same application focus, or operate as distinct input devices with independent contexts. Some setups pair a standard keyboard with a numeric keypad or a compact keyboard dedicated to macros, while others use two full‑sized keyboards for two users or as a split‑workflow arrangement. In such cases, users may configure per‑key mappings, macros, or cross‑device shortcuts to coordinate actions across the pair.

Software approaches range from OS‑level keyboard layouts that can be toggled or layered to dedicated utilities that route keystrokes to specific profiles based on active window, application, or button pressed on one keyboard. Advanced users may implement per‑application profiles, language switching without changing system input methods, or dual‑mode typing where one keyboard handles regular text while the other handles commands or data entry.

Applications include bilingual programming, collaborative document editing, accessibility workflows, and high‑volume data entry. Potential drawbacks include increased hardware cost, potential user confusion, and complexity in ensuring consistent behavior across programs and operating systems. See also: keyboard, split keyboard, input method, multi‑device input.