Microsoft B61-00002 Natural Keyboard Pro

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Title : Microsoft B61-00002 Natural Keyboard Pro
Author : Microsoft
Release Date : 19991029
Binding : Electronics
Regular Price : $74.95
Amazon.com Price : $60.99 (19 %)
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Editorial Reviews :
Your hands might be ready for a change and you don't even know it. Why not give them a break with a completely new style of keyboard: the Microsoft Natural Keyboard Pro. It has a split keyboard design that's remarkably comfortable to type on--you'll wonder how you ever got along with out it.
The keyboard comes with a USB connection and PS/2 adapter. Once you've plugged it into your port of choice, all you need to do is install the included software so you can program all those nifty hot keys that run the length of the keyboard's top. We found the volume control and general multimedia functions to be the most useful, but there were also Internet and e-mail hot keys such as Back, Forward, Stop, Refresh, Home, Favorites, and Mail that made online activities a breeze. We also appreciated the inclusion of two USB ports on the rear of the keyboard, allowing you to conveniently plug in a USB mouse or game controller.

After years of typing on a standard keyboard, we found getting used to the new layout slightly difficult. However, after an hour or so, we were typing more quickly than we ever had before. Fingers have an easy time finding the correct key because of the natural layout. We also appreciated the fact that Microsoft went back to the inverted-T arrow-key layout in the Natural Keyboard Pro, which is imperative for serious gaming.

The only feature we had a problem with was the key action. The keys are made of such a lightweight plastic that it's hard to tell if you're even typing at times. While some may consider this is an asset, others might prefer a heavier, louder keyboard.

However, if the action doesn't bother you and the split layout appeals to you, the Microsoft Natural Keyboard Pro has your name written all over it.

Pros:

Comfortable to use
Retains inverted-T arrow-key layout
Easy to install
Keyboard includes two USB ports

Cons:

Keyboard action is difficult to get used to

Buyer Reviews :
I spent a fair amount of dithering before I bought this keyboard. Not that it's excessively expensive. Rather, it looked a bit of an ugly duckling up there on the shelf and I wasn't sure if it would be comfortable enough.

On my third trip to the shelf, I finally studied it a bit more carefully. I noticed the little messages on the keys to remind my failing mind of control functions. I noticed the special function keys that provided web navigation, media control, instant access to My Computer and the calculator, and the sleep key. I noticed the volume control keys. I remember that I hadstarted to turn off the sound on my Klisch 4.1's because their volume occasionally gave the cats heart attacks.

I figured, 'What the heck, I've made dumber mistakes' and brought one home. I already had an old, grungy Intellipoint keyboard, so intallation took about 30 seconds of hardware time and a minute to install the software. 'So far so good' I say to myself. One star for installation.

Test one: typing. Ooh the extra large wrist rest that looked so ugly in the store looks pretty good. And the angle feels a bit better. The keys have a nice thunk and a springy feel. One star for feel.

Next I try the volume control - Wow! The look of worry vanishes from the cat's faces. The rest of the media keys work fine and the internet navigators are great. When I hit the sleep button my machine does exactly that. One star for cool features.

The software is simplicity itself. Adjustments for speed, language, hotkeys, some special options and a nifty little on screen display for keys like volume. Everything works just great! One star for easy of use and clear instructions.

The last star is for the two USB ports on the back of the keyboard. This basically changes one of the USB ports from the back of my machine into two on my desk. Works great for a mouse and, in my case, a zip drive.

I've gotten used to the original funny shaped Intellitype. This new model seems like the perfect set of improvements in functionality and ergonomics. Given the amount of time I spend with my fingers on the keyboard it's well worth the money.

(by Marc Ruby)

Features/Technical Specs :
* Design encourages natural hand, wrist, and forearm positions
* 19 hot keys, including ones for Internet, multimedia, and e-mail applications
* Launch your browser and surf the Web directly from your keyboard
* 2 USB ports let you easily plug USB devices directly into your keyboard
* IntelliType Pro Software lets you customize hot keys

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