Thursday, October 11, 2007

New Apple Wireless Keyboard

So Apple has released a new wireless keyboard and I must admit the tiny footprint and stylish aluminum and new keys make it very attractive. Attractive enough that as a Windows XP user I'd still use it to clear up the clutter on my desk. With a dual monitor setup and small sized Bose speakers, my keyboard takes up most of my desk space when i want to study a textbook or do some reading while using my computer. While the new wireless keyboard takes away the number pad, the space gains may be worth it if you find yourself hardly using the number pad anyways. The keyboard functions on blue tooth and the battery housing serves double duty to provide the keyboard slight elevation as well. My camera's battery is not charged so I will put up pictures of the setup at a later date. Overall it functions well under XP but the alternate media functions only work with a Mac. If there are driver updates in the future this keyboard will be the ultimate media center keyboard, small enough to type in your lap with ease while maintaining proper spacing for those with fatter fingers. The option key functions as the alt key while the command/apple key is the windows key on a windows machine. Syncing the keyboard required going to my bluetooth menu in windows and powering on the keyboard. I had no problems using a passkey although others in forums seem to be having problems, I'm not sure if its legitimate or them not being familiar with bluetooth devices. I only wish that the keyboard came with a bluetooth dongle but that's not a big deal as you can easily get one if your computer doesn't already have bluetooth.

If anyone finds new XP drivers to enable the multimedia buttons please let me know.

Verdict: Well built and aesthetically pleasing. For anyone looking for a wireless keyboard with a tiny footprint without the extra keys on an extended keyboard. Multimedia buttons do not work in XP. Slightly pricey at $79 so definitely a splurge if you already have a wireless keyboard. Does not come with bluetooth adapter.

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