Problems with my older Dell Dimension
Pros:
layout, quick launch keys, inexpensive (around $20)
Cons:
doesn't work in older PC's, software shipped is older version
The Bottom Line:
Good inexpensive replacement multimedia keyboard, but watch it in older PCs
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Overall Rating:
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Author's Review
I purchased this keyboard to replace the Dell Multimedia Keyboard that came with my PC (a three year old Dimension 8250).
I was looking for a multimedia keyboard, didn't want to spend a lot, and didn't need wireless.
The keyboard is well designed and offers a variety of "quick keys" for launching common windows functions - like the calculator. This is very handy. There are also some keys "favorites" that you can program yourself (e.g., start MS Word and launch a new document in a specific template).
A few issues however.
The version of the software shipped with the product - MS Intellitype Pro 5.2 - is not the latest version and will not work properly with iTunes and WinAmp. For example, with iTunes, the next track button on the keyboard skips two songs ahead as opposed to one. This is not a huge deal since the 5.5 version of the software seems to correct the issue.
Another issue - a much bigger one for me - is that the keyboard doesn't work consistently with my older Dell desktop via USB. All started well and it worked when first installed, but the next day when we cold started the PC, the keyboard was not recognized. Another reboot got it to work again. Subsequent reboots/restarts and the problem got worse. The keyboard itself is not defective - it works in other PC's well, but it is now consistently failing in my older Dell. A BIOS upgrade, reinstallations, switching USB ports, etc. have not helped. The keyboard works fine during boot up (i.e., going in and checking BIOS settings), but fails when Windows XP Home is loaded (I can see the Num Lock light go out).
Now, the keyboard does come with a USB-PS/2 adapter plug and that MAY solve the problem, but my wife threw that out along with the box. I need to give that a try, but I cannot be 100% sure that will work.
Based on it working with other PCs, I think this is a good keyboard, but a word of warning for those with older PCs.
Microbarn.com
