ZigBee intros spec for input devices on computers, set-tops
updated 12:10 pm EST, Mon December 20, 2010
ZigBee Input Device spec to replace IR technology
A team of global companies devoted to wireless technology, the ZigBee Alliance, on Monday announced it has finished a new standard for a human interface. Called ZigBee Input Device, it would replace infrared technology with its radio frequency connection and allow use of mice, touchpads, keyboards and more from longer distances. It's also capable of two-way communications.
The technology is also said to be much more energy-efficient than current, IR-based devices. At the same time, users can add special functions and add performance to their mice, keyboards and other input devices with the technology. Suupport likewise exists for gesture and multi-touch commands such as pinch to zoom or rotation in touchpads. The input and output devices can be paired by pushing a button, and the devices will get new features with over-the-air software updates.
The standard is compatible with HDTVs, set-top boxes and other devices that use the ZigBee Remote Control.
