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Microsoft Wireless Optical Desktop 4000 (3.0) Silver PS2/USB Mac/Win by Microsoft
Digital Photo Product DetailsManufacturer: Microsoft Format: CD Platform: Windows XP Model: BX2-00004 Color: Silver & Black Product features: - Tilt Wheel Technology
- Smart technology reduces the likelihood of interruption by notifying you when it detects interference or low battery
- Many users experience a half year of battery life
- Designed by Microsoft ergonomics experts, the arched shape provides support for your hand in a natural, comfortable position
- Compatible with Windows XP Professional Edition, XP Home Edition, or 2000 Professional
Accessories:
Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Microsoft Wireless Optical Desktop 4000 (3.0) Silver PS2/USB Mac/WinCustomer Review: Felt Comfortable, But I Had To Return It Summary: 2 Stars
I've been using a Microsoft split (ergonomic) keyboard for years, now. I've loved it, but banging on it for hours on end ever day for a few years has brought it past its prime.
And, I thought I would finally go wireless to free up some wires going to my desk.
First, the Pros.
The keyboard felt great!!! The keyboard is slightly "split" but not as much as the ergonomic keyboard. It took a little bit for me to get used to it, but afterwards I had no trouble typing on it and it didn't feel nearly as bad as the regular, non-split keyboards. The keys were responsive to my typing and it felt like a finely build keyboard.
The mouse felt fantastic as well. It felt like it was made for my hand. I had to switch over to left handed for a little while and it felt great in that hand, too.
The quick-access keys are nice. I've never had them before so I'm still in the habit of running all these programs out of my start button of off the desktop. But if I could get into the habit it would speed my access to a lot of applications I use daily.
The photo zoomer on the left hand side is nice, though it seems to take up a lot of space for such a seldom used function. But it was nice to shrink the text on some web pages with it, that was a nice bonus.
Now the Cons.
Okay, I only had one. SIGNAL!!! The mouse worked the better of the two and I rarely had a problem. But even with the receiver only 6 inches away from the mouse I would regularly get a message saying my mouse had a poor signal. It never acted like it had a poor signal, it ran quite smoothly, actually. But that message made me nervous.
However, I never got a message saying my keyboard had a poor signal. But it was the keyboard that wouldn't cooperate with me at all. I play games now and then and I couldnt' hold down a keyboard key for more than a few seconds without it cutting out. It wasn't a setting because the timing was never consistent. Sometimes I'd get a fraction of a second and sometimes it would work its way up to 3 seconds. ANNOYING!!!! I tried everything, even moving the receiving within two inches of where my keyboard was sitting. Still problems. I also had problems when it came to typing. I'd type 10 characters but only 8 or 9 of them would make it. And sometimes when I hit the shift button, I would end up typing five or more characters without the shift button pressed but still end up with capital letters.
It was slowing me down so much I couldn't work and, worst, I couldn't play. So, I took it back. At first I thought I might have had a bum keyboard (not unplausible) but after talking to others they have also experienced the same problem with this model. The next model up is supposed to work better, but it is far too much out of my budget. Too bad. Somebody suggested a Logitech and, while it doesn't feel near as comfortable, it works flawlessly with the signal.
I'll write a review on that sometime, too. Jury is still out on whether it is a keeper or not.
Description of Microsoft Wireless Optical Desktop 4000 (3.0) Silver PS2/USB Mac/WinBuilt for comfort, designed for style. This stylish, ergonomic set looks as good as it feels, with a Comfort Curve Design keyboard and innovative zoom slider. Customizable "My Favorites" Keys provide one-touch access, and the Wireless Optical Mouse with Tilt Wheel allows you to scroll from side to side. Designed by ergonomic experts for enhanced comfort and style, the Comfort Curve Design keyboard helps your hands rest in a more natural position. Scroll every which way. Now you can scroll horizontally as well as vertically through documents and Web pages. The entire wheel tilts, acts as a button, and reacts smoothly to your speed. Finally, a solution to the top wireless hassle - now you can work longer without interruption. Many users experience a half year of battery life! Work wirelessly without intrusion. Take advantage of smart technology that automatically detects interference, so you don't have to worry about interruptions.
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