TypeMatrix Keyboards in the News Click here to return to the News Index Page (FallBrook PC Users Group, October 2002;page 22)"A New Ergonomic Keyboard" "The question 'What will they come up with next'
went through my head when I first saw a copy of this remarkable new
keyboard at the recent Southwest Regional User Group Conference in
San Diego. As you can see from the above screenshot, it's layot is
quite different from the conventional boards on the market. Unlike ergonomic products that only correct the placement of hands
and wrists, TypeMatrix uses a patented matrix design to reduce
injury-causing motions. It is believed to be the only balanced
ergonomic keyboard that reduces the motions that known to cause
Repetitive Strain Injury. By solving ergonomic issues without the use of bulky contouring or
'tenting', this keyboard delivers all the functions of a standard
keyboard in one small, sleek and logical package that fits in a
standard keyboard tray as easily as in a briefcase. It is less than
1/2" thick, only 14-1/8" wide and this compact size allows for more
prime real estate on your desk. The thin profile promotes a more neutral wrist position,
reducing the angle that has been the cause of Carpal Tunnel syndrome. Keys are arranged in columns to promote less finger strain and after
you get used to this new layout, greater accuracy and speed can be
expected. And here is something I really like and which - among other things -
makes this keyboard so revolutionary: Center Space Bars and the Enter
and Backspace are large and easy to reach with the index finger on
either hand. The Shift key is also much larger and found on both
sides of the board. The symmetrical keypad layout promotes more neutral hand and body
positions while typing, thereby reducing injury-causing motions of
hands, fingers, wrists, and shoulders. All in all I had no probem with using the re-arranged keys, enjoyed the
new environment and will keep the board connected to my main machine.
The retail price is $99 and it can be ordered on the company's Website
at http://www.typematrix.com. A very helpful free MasterMind Touch Typing Tutor for use with
the TypeMatrix keyboard (for Windows 95 or later) can also be
downloaded and installed on your computer for reference.
by Guenter Schott
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