Logitech V220 and More

Logitech today launched a major expansion of its notebook peripherals with a mouse joining desktop stands and travel cases. The V220 is built to be useful both at home and on the road and includes a 1,000 DPI optical sensor that gives better tracking than many other notebook mice; it also includes horizontal scrolling and an RF wireless USB adapter that stows underneath the mouse for traveling. Battery life is estimated at 6 months but can be made even longer when using an automatic power-down feature that saves energy during idle moments, Logitech says. The V220 supports both Mac OS X and Windows and will ship in July for $30.

Expanding at the same time as the portable mouse range is Logitech's Alto set of stands for notebooks used as desktop replacements. The Alto Connect uses a cross-shaped design to keep the notebook steady while also freeing up space for expansion and cable management: a fully-powered, four-port USB hub includes a port at the front for quick-access peripherals and a nook for storing attached cables when not in use. A simpler stand, the Alto Express, provides a curved, clear base for those who just need to lift and angle their notebook without add-ons. Both are rated to support Apple's MacBook lines as well as most Windows portables; the Express ships first in July for $30, while the Connect appears in September for $80.

The company has also leapt into notebook storage with its new Kinetik cases. Both the 15.4 Briefcase and 15.4 Backpack have toughened exo-shell casings to resist shocks and a rounded back that helps the bag conform to the wearer's body. A padded notebook sleeve guards most 15.4-inch notebooks as well as the 17-inch MacBook Pro, while both cases include separate compartments to keep books and other devices organized and away from fragile parts. The debut of the Kinetic line is scheduled for September, when both 15.4 designs will sell for $100.

V220 notebook mouse



Alto Connect



Alto Express



Kinetik 15.4 Briefcase



Kinetik 15.4 Backpack

By Electronista Staff