IndoWord Tamil keyboard layout
The is not a single, unique layout but rather a versatile software driver developed by Lastech Systems Pvt. Ltd. in Chennai to bridge the gap between traditional Tamil typing and modern digital publishing. First released in 1996, IndoWord became a cornerstone for Tamil journalists, writers, and publishers who needed a reliable way to enter Tamil text into early Windows applications like PageMaker and Corel Draw. A Multi-Layout Approach
comprehensive support for multiple industry-standard and legacy layouts
- Look for Indoword documentation or project pages, Tamil transliteration standards (e.g., ITRANS, ISO 15919 for Indic transliteration), and open-source transliteration libraries for reference implementations.
Step 1:
Open Settings > Time & Language > Language & Region . Step 2: Click "Add a language" and search for "Tamil". Select Tamil (India) . Step 3: Click on the installed Tamil language pack > Options . Step 4: Under "Keyboards," click Add a keyboard . Step 5: Scroll down and select Tamil (Indoword) . (Note: In some older Windows versions, it may be labeled "Tamil (Typewriter)" or "Tamil (Legacy)"). Step 6: Remove any other Tamil keyboards like "Tamil 99" or "Anjal" to avoid confusion.
Typewriter Layout
: Mimics the traditional Tamil typewriter keyboard. This is best suited for experienced typists who are already familiar with mechanical Tamil typewriters.
: Specifically designed for those trained on traditional Tamil typewriters. It mimics the physical arrangement of characters found on old Remington or Olympia machines, facilitating a smooth transition for veteran typists. Romanised (Phonetic) Layout
