High-performance wireless keyboard combines reliable RF technology, full keyboard and mouse touchpad for cordless computer control.
AUSTIN, TX - October 1, 1997 — Wireless Computing, Inc., developers of leading-edge presentation control technologies for professional and home applications, has shipped its newest product, the Wireless SurfBoard™. A high-performance radio-frequency (RF) keyboard for IBM-compatible computers, the Wireless SurfBoard is available through select audio/visual, computer and consumer electronics dealers at a U.S. suggested retail price of US$399.
In a corporate environment, the Wireless SurfBoard — just like its predecessor, the RF-50 Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Touchpad — provides complete keyboard and mouse control for people operating a computer in front of an audience. Using it, business presenters can operate the computer from anywhere in the room, rather than being anchored to the PC, according to Martin Phillips, president of Wireless Computing, Inc. At home, the Wireless SurfBoard can be used on computers equipped to display their output on televisions or other large-screen display devices. According to Mr. Phillips, "Business and home PC users will use the Wireless SurfBoard to surf the Internet, compose Email messages, and even play computer games."
The Wireless SurfBoard consists of a compact, 83-key keyboard, a touch-sensitive mouse touchpad with dual mouse buttons, and a RF transmitter/receiver. It provides all the functionality of a standard (corded) keyboard and mouse, but without cords or cables. The product includes ports for connecting a joystick or mouse, so those devices can be operated wirelessly, too. And, since the Wireless SurfBoard uses RF rather than infrared signals as its technology base, there are no line-of-sight limitations or data integrity problems, even at its full operating range of 50 feet.
As with a cordless telephone or TV remote-control device, convenience is the Wireless SurfBoard’s chief advantage over corded devices. "Each day, more and more people equip their computers with large-screen display devices. Users enjoy seeing their PCs from more than 18 inches away and controlling it from greater distances. That sort of power and control are exactly what the Wireless SurfBoard provides," states Phillips.
Applications For Wireless Keyboards
A relatively new computer peripheral, the wireless keyboard is not yet standard equipment on personal computers. Nonetheless, wireless keyboards are being adopted early, and rapidly, in two unique environments.
In corporate A/V settings, wireless keyboards are being used by presenters, trainers and product demonstrators. In addition to addressing the audience from virtually anywhere in the room, the convenience factor helps presenters overcome natural reluctance to rely on computers in audio/visual settings.
Also, a visible cable on or underneath a corporate conference table constitutes both aesthetic and practical negatives, whereas the wireless devices' "no wires" effect enhances both professionalism and dignity of the surroundings.
The home setting, where wireless keyboards are making inroads, is being driven by a new generation of televisions capable of being used as computer monitors. Also, PCs have been migrating from home offices and dens into family rooms and living rooms, and may well be the platform of choice for the home entertainment center. This migration makes 'net-surfing', game-playing, and running standard PC applications available to families in the same setting in which the view television. For better or worse, once computers are equipped with wireless keyboards, they can be operated from the same place television is most often viewed - from an armchair or sofa.
Why "RF"?
The new Wireless Surfboard relies on the proven benefits of RF technology to achieve its "maximum distance cordlessness" and essentially error-free transmission. Compared to infrared technologies found in television, VCR and some PC-presentation remote controls, RF provides a much higher level of data transmission integrity because it is not subject to the line-of-sight and signal dropout problems of infrared. Simply stated, infrared is not suited for high-integrity applications, such as in a computer keyboard.
Mr. Phillips observes, "Imagine what would happen using an infrared keyboard that isn't 'getting through' very well: someone can type 'Good Morning' on the keyboard but see 'Goo Mrnig' on the screen. Who wants to use a keyboard that makes typing mistakes of its own?"
Wireless Computing is a trademark of Wireless Computing, Inc., Austin, Texas.
Wireless Computing, Inc. designs and manufactures high-performance wireless computer peripherals. Their Wireless That Works product line of keyboards, mice and presentation controllers are used in corporations, educational institutions, high-end home media centers and government facilities worldwide.
For more information, please contact:
Wireless Computing, Inc.
3703 Peak Lookout
Austin, TX 78738
phone 512 263 2205
fax 512 263 9425
email sales@wireless-computing.com
or visit our web site www.wireless-computing.com |
