Microsoft has taken it right up to Logitech with a stunning new range of keyboards mouses and controllers.
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 motion_ 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.
A big new development from Microsoft’s hardware team is in the gaming arena and according to Microsoft they have been listening to what gamers want. “We heard from gamers that they wanted a mouse designed specifically for their PC gaming needs, equipped with features and functionality that optimised their game play,” said Jeremy Hinton, “We have answered that request with a perfect PC gaming solution: Laser Mouse 6000. Equipped with a thin, flexible cord for the feeling of wireless, gaming-specific software features, advanced laser technology and more, Laser Mouse 6000 will take gaming to a whole new level.”
Microsoft’s first wired laser mouse delivers greater precision and increased control. Its ergonomic design provides comfort, and the advanced laser technology delivers enhanced accuracy and performance. The 6000 model include a Precision Booster, enabling users to shift between ultra fast speed and precision control for targeting, and a Gaming Toggle that lets users easily switch between favourite weapons or program frequently used action sequences – all with the touch of a button.
A thin, flexible cord is the closest feeling to wireless while still having a wire. Say Microsoft. The scroll wheel with detents is great for desktop navigation and gaming, for amazingly accurate in-game weapons changing and scrolling. In addition, productivity-boosting features including a new Magnifier tool, for real-time enlargement and editing, deliver maximum efficiency on the PC.
Joining the Game Precision Series is a new Xbox 360 wireless controller which works with most Windows XP-based PCs and Xbox 360. Microsoft claims that it delivers a consistent and universal gaming experience across both of Microsoft’s gaming systems and eliminating the hassle of learning a new controller layout.
It also has two vibration feedback motors, improved ergonomic design, new left and right shoulder buttons and up to 25 percent higher resolution with an Analog to digital converter (ADC) compared with the original Xbox controller; enhanced precision and accuracy in both thumb sticks.
In all this is a very impressive range that not only looks good but includes some cutting edge technology where it counts right at your finger tips.
October 2005
Microsoft Wireless Optical Mouse 5000 – $79.95
November 2005
Microsoft Wireless Notebook Optical Mouse 4000 – $79.95
December 2005
Microsoft Wireless Notebook Laser Mouse 6000 – $99.95
Microsoft Notebook Optical Mouse 3000 – $49.95
Microsoft Wireless Laser Desktop 6000 – $199.95
Microsoft Wireless Laser Mouse 6000 – $129.95
*Prices are Australian recommended retail prices. Actual prices may vary.