DataHand
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Computer hardware |
| Founded | 1985 |
| Founder | Dale J. Retter |
| Fate | Production suspended in 2008 due to supplier issues; limited orders until 2010 |
| Headquarters | United States |
| Products | DataHand keyboard |
The DataHand represents a distinctive computer keyboard introduced in 1990 by DataHand Systems, Inc.. It was engineered to function without requiring wrist movement or finger extension.
History
Established in 1985, DataHand Systems, Inc. created the DataHand keyboard, an invention credited to Dale J. Retter, with production dating back to 1990.
After unveiling a prototype in 1995, the company launched the Professional and Professional II versions. The latter model incorporated advanced programming features, including the ability to record keystroke macros.
In early 2008, sales were halted due to complications with suppliers, leading to a suspension of manufacturing until a new production partner could be secured. Although limited orders for the Pro II were briefly reopened in 2009, inventory was depleted by April 2010.
Revival
In 2019, an experienced user known as JesusFreke introduced the open-source lalboard, a keyboard inspired by DataHand’s design. This model utilized 3D-printable plastic components, circuit boards suitable for hand soldering, and readily available magnets. It preserved the original’s magnetic key return system alongside optointerrupter-based sensing.
By 2023, another enthusiast developed the Svalboard, a small-scale production iteration evolving from the lalboard concept.
In 2024, Svalboard released the Lightly DataHand-style keyboard, which integrated trackpoint and trackball pointing devices and provided a kit for self-assembly through 3D printing.
A dedicated Discord community exists for users of DataHand, lalboard, and Svalboard keyboards, fostering discussions on layouts, construction techniques, and input methods.
Layout
The device consists of two distinct "keyboards," one designated for each hand. Each finger manages five buttons: four directional controls plus a downward press. Thumbs operate five buttons as well—one positioned inward, two outward, along with upward and downward presses.
While initially arranged similarly to a QWERTY layout, keys in the middle columns (such as H, Y, G) are accessed through lateral finger movements. Additional keys outside the main three rows require toggling among three modes: letters, numbers/symbols, and function/mouse control. Though mastering this system requires practice, it can lead to enhanced typing speeds.
The buttons are held in place magnetically and activated via optical sensors to reduce finger fatigue while delivering tactile feedback. Finger modules can be adjusted independently both vertically and horizontally to improve ergonomic comfort.
In popular culture
- Utilized as spaceship controls in the 1997 science fiction film Contact.
- Featured in the 2006 espionage film Stormbreaker.
- An Industrial Innovations variant appeared on Mighty Morphin Power Rangers.
- Employed by Agent Grasso in Shadow Conspiracy (1997).
- Visible in Teddy KGB’s office scene within Rounders (film) (1998).
See also
- Keyboard technology
- List of human-computer interaction topics
- Computer keyboard
- Ergonomic keyboard
- Computer accessibility
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Repetitive strain injury
- Adaptive technology
External links
- Archived DataHand.com website from 1996
- DataHand technical documentation – Bill Buxton, Microsoft
- Overview of DataHand at Typing FAQ
- Instructions for disassembling and cleaning the DataHand
- Image gallery of the DataHand keyboard
- Personal review with photographs by a DataHand user
- Detailed review by Jan Goyvaerts (2007)
- Follow-up review by Jan Goyvaerts (2008)
- Analysis by Robyn Peterson, ExtremeTech (2003)
- Comprehensive review by David Madison
- Review article by Paul Fatula at ATPM (2001)
- Evaluation by G Martin (1994)
- Assessment by Cliff Lasser (1992)
- Review by Bryan Rosner, BioMed Publishers (2008)