In my opinion two of the most important tools when using a computer are the keyboard & mouse and more than likely they are the most abused from coffee and paper clips to being stuffed into bags along side a notebook. So it was interesting to sit down recently and listen to two Microsoft executives explain the rational behind a brand new range of very impressive Microsoft accessories spanning mice, keyboards and wireless gaming controls. There is even magnification technology that makes reading spreadsheets a breeze.
Among the new range are five new mice including a new generation of laser and optical mice which have been designed from the ground up for the conditions that a mobile user often finds themselves in. There is a new generation of ergonomic keyboards plus a new Media Center controller. And if that is not enough they have even launched a wirless Xbox 360 controller.
The process Microsoft goes through to deliver a new accessory range is not dissimilar to the way a car company builds a brand new car.
First there is the human behaviour research from electrodes on the body to the filming of users for weeks so that Microsoft engineers can understand precisely how we all use our accessories. Then comes the 3D modelling followed by the plastic models. At the same time Microsoft engineers are developing new chip capabilities that they say deliver faster more responsive accessories.
This time around Microsoft has delivered a new generation of software that allows for more functions including a really neat magnifier. This I believe is what sets Microsoft appart from any other keyboard or mouse vendor including Logitech. For example a new magnifier tool delivers real-time magnification on any section of the screen, making viewing and editing of hard-to-see text or pictures easier than ever. A new Tilt Wheel makes navigating and viewing documents, spreadsheets and images more efficient with four-way scrolling capabilities. And High Definition Optical Technology provides more precise, responsive and smoother tracking.
In addition Microsoft has developed new cutting-edge High Definition Optical and Laser Technology that they claim is two generations ahead of standard optical and laser mice and delivers advantages such as improved responsiveness - With 1,000 dpi (dots per inch)
Each of these High Definition mice delivers the right amount of responsiveness in relation to hand movement, requiring less hand motion² in small spaces such as coffee tables or airplane trays.
Microsoft engineers have also achieved greater precision with a high definition mouse that captures 6,000 FPS (frames per second) to accurately track hand movement to prevent stopping or skipping, even when moving very quickly. The mouse engine operates at a higher processing power which enables the mouse to do more in less time.
All of the new high definition mice are equipped with a state-of-the-art chip, which requires less power and maximises efficiency, delivering an average of more than six months of battery life.
Jeremy Hinton, Hardware Product Marketing Manager, at Microsoft Australia said. "More than ever before, people want higher performance from all types of products - from cell phones to TVs to cars," he said
He added "We developed this exclusive line of high definition mice because higher-performance peripherals create a better PC experience. Our proprietary tracking technology, raise the bar for mouse performance."
A recent study showed that notebook mouse users experience a lower incidence of pain compared with users who don't use an external pointing device. Answering this need, Microsoft has introduced three new notebook mice.
These three new notebook mice are fitted with a new generation of smart navigational features including the new magnifier. The 6000 Mouse has a snap-in USB receiver
For desktop users Microsoft have a new wireless Laser Desktop set of mouse and keyboard. This desktop set, including a Wireless Laser Mouse 6000 and a Comfort Curve Keyboard design, is outfitted in a futuristic silver finish, adding style to any desktop. Features such as the new Magnifier tool and Tilt Wheel are included.
For Gamers: See next page.
