PS/2 - QWERTY - Stealth Black - MPN: 24P0375
Strengths: long receiver range, full size keyboard, built-in mouse controller, price
Weakness: AA battery operated, no USB version
The thing to know about wireless technology is that there is infrared (IR) and radio-frequency (RF) devices. The first is more limited because the device and the receiver must "see" each other (like a TV remote). On the other hand RF does not need it and so is much more flexible.
This RF keyboard is extremely versatile. I originally bought it to control an old PC that became my living room DVD player, but now I use it on my regular desktop!
Comparing: There are other devices similar to this keyboard, but they are often unbranded and smaller than average (i.e. laptop-type keys). This keyboard has full-size keys, which is much more comfortable for typing. Also, alternative keyboard-and-mouse solutions tend to be expensive.
Usability: You can type with this anywhere you want... it is not very heavy (about 1 pound), so you can hold it with one hand while typing with the other if you don't have a desk nearby. The mouse pointer is very comfortable to use if you grab the keyboard like a console joypad, thanks to two ergonomic handles in the back.
Battery life: In four months, I only had to replace the batteries once. However, I use the computer every day, so I was expecting a lot less.
Drawbacks: The device is PS/2, so it will only work on regular PCs. An USB version would have made it much more flexible. Also, there is no built-in recharger, so keep replacement batteries handy.
Conclusion: A great product that also looks cool.
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TopStrengths: looks, size and ease of use in any position; price; powered by inexpensive AA batteries; standard PS2 connector will work with any machine out there
Weakness: pointing device
I spent a couple of weeks on the Internet looking for a wireless keyboard for my new home-theater computer. I wanted:
- RF technology
- built-in trackball with wheel(s)
- compact design built around the assumption that the keyboard will be held in the lap
- up to $100 price tag
I found a couple of them: They all were weak on the pointing device which was either a stick (like in this case), or a disk, or a miniature trackball. None of them had the scrolling wheel or third mouse button.
I finally settled on this one primarily for the reasons listed under Strengths (which still hold true). As far as the main weakness goes, the pointing stick is proportional with two levels of pressure sensitivity (normal and accelerated) and overall not too bad, but still somewhat frustrating and hard to get used to: I'll be looking for an RF trackball to somehow glue to the keyboard and use instead.
The keyboard and stick worked flawlessly and were auto-recognized on my two Linux systems, one of which was very old and without USB support ...
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TopStrengths: light weight,joy stick mouse make it easy to navigate
Weakness: only come in ps2 connection
It is light weight and small. it is ideal to work in a tight space. The joy stick mouse and buttons are at a right spot for easy operation.
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Micro Innovations Wireless Navigator Pro Keyboard
Strengths: All in one design, good wireless range
Weakness: Keyboard layout isn't 100% standard
This is a great wireless keyboard. I've used one in the office for presentations for some time and liked it so well I bought one for the PC connected to my home theater. It takes very little practice to get the knack of using the built-in joystick and mouse buttons and a single piece of equipment to move around is fantastic.
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