Kensington keyboard packs top-mounted USB
updated 03:40 pm EDT, Tue April 8, 2008
Kensington Ci70 with USB
Kensington has provided a spin on the routine for keyboards today by launching its Ci70 Keyboard with USB Ports. In a still-rare break from most keyboard designs, the updated Ci70 adds two full USB ports for peripherals but places them at the top of the keyboard rather than at the back or sides, making it easier to load in a flash drive or some portable media players. A third mini USB port with cable also lets users with digital cameras quickly hook up to the computer without finding the appropriate cable or leaving clutter on the desk.
Like earlier versions, this newest Ci70 is claimed to be genuinely small with a third less footprint than most keyboards and notebook-like keys that provide quicker typing than full-height desktop models. Media keys at the top and side supply both shortcuts to commonly used apps as well as navigation for music and videos.
Kensington has no listed launch date but says that the Mac- and Windows-compatible keyboard sells for $50.
Sliding door thing
04/08, 04:07pm reply
Is it important to cover those hot keys while using the USB ports?
crevatis
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Feb 2005
re: sliding door
04/08, 04:13pm reply
that's basically what I was thinking. it appears that those are multimedia keys...so if you want to listen to music and use the usb ports (other than the one on the back) you can't use the hotkeys....strange design.
also, is the cable the camera is plugged into connected to the keyboard? meaning is it a short extension cable type thing? or is it the camera's cable, plugged in inside the keyboard? not very good pictures of the "new" feature
rsande
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: May 2004
again, not the first
04/08, 10:08pm reply
I wish I could find brick and mortar stores that carry Mac keyboards so I can try them for feel. Apple hasn't made a good mouse or keyboard in 10 years and I know I can't rely on other people's opinions for what's a good keyboard for me. And here's the first time I saw USB 2.0 in the top of the keyboard: http://matias.ca/usb2keyboard/
JackWebb
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Aug 2007