257. Special Features of Typewriter. Learn how to use the attachments on the typewriter to get the greatest service from it. If a machine is equipped with tabulating keys, much time is saved by using them for the indentations instead of working the space bar until the desired place is reached, or by using both hands to release the carriage and move it to its desired place. Some machines are equipped with a key marked "ribbon" key. This key, when pressed, lowers the ribbon so that no impression from it is made on the paper. When the ribbon is removed, stencils may be cut with the letters for mimeographic work. These are only two examples. There are many automatic aids on each make of machine.
258. Interchangeable-Type Typewriters. On these machines, the type is not placed at the end of a shaft, but the complete set of letters is put on a semi-circular plate which is attached to a wheel which brings the desired letter to the point wanted when the key is pressed (Fig. 146).
Fig. 146. Hammond interchangeable typewriter.
The change of type can be made very easily so that with the proper semi-circular plate any one of several languages may be written on this kind of typewriter regardless of the characters used to represent the letters.
Charts of the keyboard are furnished with each set of letters to guide the operator in writing. This machine requires the same general care as other typewriters.
259. Care of Typewriters.
1) Read the directions for cleaning and oiling the machine. Keep them for future reference.