Abstract: The Keyboard has two areas of keys each with its own microcomputer control circuit, a first area comprising system selection and associated function keys, and the second area comprising a standard alpha numeric key arrangement. Data deriving from operated keys in the second area is sent by the associated control circuit to the control circuit associated with the first area, from where it is transmitted to the destination identified by the keys operated in the first area. The use of separate control circuits gives the keyboard great flexibility of use while allowing the second area of keys and the associated control circuit to be of conventional type.