Microsoft launches keyboard for MCE and photoediting

Microsoft has today launched two new keyboards with quite specific uses. The most spectacular of thew them has to be Microsoft Remote Keyboard for Windows XP Media Center Edition. It is simply a keyboard with three functions in one; remote, keyboard and mouse. And of course, these functions has been created exclusively for Microsofts Media Center operating system. They have also launched a keyboard-mouse combo aimed towards the digital camera user.

Microsoft Remote Keyboard for Windows XP Media Center Edition seems, to us, as the optumal choice for a Media Center-system, at least on paper. Just as the regular Media Center-remote Microsoft’s Media Center keyboard uses IR-signals. This will give considerably better range than regular RF-signals (10m) and peaking from experience we can say that Micosoft’s IR-system for MCE is very good. Thus we can’t imagine that there will be any problems even with bad sighting. Microsoft’s Media Center keyboard is expected to arrive in September costing somewhere around $110. However we hope to be able to take a closer look at a copy even sooner.

Microsoft Remote Keyboard for Windows XP Media Center Edition: 

 • Three-in- one- controller – remote, keyboard and mouse for Media Center PC makes it possible to change the channel, point and click and type with the same device.

 • Enlightened buttons – for easier navigation in the dark.

 • Media Center button – green quickbutton that boots up Windows XP Media Center and brings you to the main menu at the press of a button.

 • IR technology – makes it possible to control your Media Center PC from up to 10m without disturbances.

 • TV-remote – change the channel, record your favourite show, navigate through the tv-guide and the DVD menu.

 • Key-Lock – Locks the keys.

 • Simple to use – no installation nor software required.

Microsoft Remote Keyboard for Windows XP Media Center Edition

Microsoft’s other keyboard is as we mentioned earlier geared twoards the digital camera user but here we’re talking a quite more ordinary keyboard. But Microsoft Wireless Optical Desktop 5000 is packed with specialbutton and functions to work optimal with the integrated photo editing software. Microsoft seems to hope that we will not only stay home to develop our own pictures but also edit them. Microsoft Wireless Optical Desktop 5000 will hit the stores in September as well and cost about $90.

Source: Microsoft