Whether you like sport or not, we know from the 2012 Olympics the buzz of the event will get us all involved. In preparation of this huge sporting event, we’d like to help you understand what it’s all about.
So, to start things off, let’s talk a little bit about what the Commonwealth Games are and what they represent. The Games are a sporting event which takes place using people who are part of the Commonwealth of Nations, a group of 54 states across the world which are almost all former British Empire territories. The first Commonwealth games took place in 1930 and have, with only two exceptions, owing to WWII, taken place once every four years.
The Commonwealth Games, at the time of writing, serve as the more inclusive and diverse counterpoint to the modern Olympic Games. Athletes with a physical disability are included as full members of their representing teams rather than competing in a different sub-category like the Paralympics, making the Commonwealth Games the most fully inclusive sporting event in the world. Furthermore, in 2018, the Commonwealth games became the first multi-sport event on the planet to incorporate an equal number of medal events for men and women.
To be honest, we are pretty excited for the games to take place. The Commonwealth Games attract a lot of prestige, and to be able to host them is always a great honour, which is why having them in Birmingham is a real privilege.
Hopefully, the games will attract a thriving crowd of sporting fans and tourists, who will then be able to see what makes the city such a great place to visit.
Sports technology has come a long way since the Commonwealth Games first started out in 1930. In today’s world a click of the button can help with those all-important sporting decisions and that’s why it’s vital to ensure you have the right technology.
We know that a lot of the games and events taking place will make use of technology like our X-keys tools. We’ve designed them to be as accurate as possible, and they work mostly for camera control and instant replays. Take a look at a couple of our customer favourites;
X-Keys One Button Switches: these can be used to programme a command (or chain of functions). They are often used in the footballing world and allow the Virtual Assistant Referee (VAR) to communicate with the on-field match officials.
X-Keys KKE-64 Replay is an instant replay solution which is suitable for both recording sports and live streaming. We use it with the vMix template, which provides an instant level of setup for all keys and indicators. This allows people to control all four channels of instant replay in vMix Pro and also create clips for multiple highlight reels.
As a business based in the West Midlands, we’re extremely excited to see the Commonwealth Games come to Birmingham and super proud that the technology we sell will assist in this event.
Visitors will have plenty of opportunity to see exactly what this city can offer and join one of the biggest and most inclusive sporting events in the world. We can’t wait to enjoy the games and hope to see some of you there!
]]>The Healthcare Show, part of Health Plus Care has been running since 2015. The show returned with the primary theme of ‘Recover, Reset, Restore’ as the last few years have been pivotal in terms of Mental Health, Cancer and learning from the Pandemic. In order to keep moving forward, many different sectors and topics need to be assessed, and the Healthcare Show provides a place where professionals and industry experts can come together and share information.
With 6 theatres and over 200 speakers there was plenty of valuable content for all.
2022 saw the introduction of Clinical Priorities Theatre, covering key therapy areas from the NHS Long Term Plan.
The organisers of the Healthcare Show stated, “care quality and efficiency are the two most fundamental issues for the NHS” and with this in mind the Care Quality & Efficiency Theatre delivered informative talks, specifically for the issue of reducing health inequalities.
Keyboard Specialists were next to The Patient Safety & Infection Prevention Theatre, and this was busy throughout both days with lots of people standing due to a packed theatre. This clearly demonstrates how recent events have impacted us all and the importance of educating ourselves on infection prevention.
It was a perfect day for the show, the sun was shining and all the attendees were in high spirits, and the show featured many incredible innovations. With over 250 exhibitors, all delegates were guaranteed to find new solutions. Walking around the show was a fantastic opportunity to see the many ways healthcare was evolving.
Each stand was more interactive and innovative than the last. It was a fantastic opportunity to see what the medical industry was lacking in infection control. More importantly the keyboard, mouse and computer peripherals sector.
A few exhibitors stood out to us;
Orbel Health had produced a roller for hand sanitising that simply clips to your belt, providing quick and efficient sanitary usage!
Want to see what it’s all about? Take a look at XEC7 Group, exclusive UK distributor for Orbel® www.xec7.com/orbel
Philip from The Doctors Club, explained they offer an exclusive place for doctors, consultants and Health Professionals to build networks and, converse with fellow medical professionals in a relaxed setting.
Many exhibitors had the usual giveaways, but it was great to see more interactive ideas being introduced, including a large steady hand buzzer game!
Day 1 of the show was busy from the get go, with a constant stream of delegates walking the show and attending the theatres. We had lots of interest and questions about how keyboards and mice can be used in healthcare environments. By around 3pm we saw a reduction in new visitors coming to see us.
Day 2 started off quiet but by mid-day it was much busier, again lots of questions and interest. In the afternoon, exhibitors had more time to walk the show and it was great opportunity to network.
We were joined by Stefan from Active Key in Germany. As Keyboard Specialists were showcasing our Active Key range of infection control keyboards and mice it was a great opportunity for Stefan to provide his expertise about the Active Key range of products.
As a leading supplier of infection control keyboards and mice, Keyboard Specialists were of course going to stand at this event. From booking the event to pack up, the CloserStill Media team (who put on the event) were fantastic. They provided constant support and opportunities. Clear instructions were provided on how to set up for the event, where to go and what to do. The drinks reception after day 1 of the event was a huge hit and provided vital networking opportunities.
The Healthcare Show at the Excel in London was a great success for Keyboard Specialists. Our stand was next to the infection prevention theatre and with the Active Key keyboards on display this was the perfect combination. We had lots of interest and questions about how the keyboards and mice can be used in healthcare environments. With both Ardeep Badwal, Managing Director from Keyboard Specialists and Stefan Leitz, Business Development Director from Active Key we were able to educate and inform people from across the healthcare profession about the benefits of washable/wipeable keyboards and mice and how this can help them.
It was great to see socialising on the up with shows coming back which is fantastic news! As much as digital advancements have come along, there’s nothing quite like meeting people in person.
We would like to thank you for visiting our stand and we hope you have a much better understanding of infection control keyboards and mice across all sectors!
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Our Stainless Steel Panel Mount Keyboard with Trackball comes with an additional protective layer of thick silicone underneath the keyboard, this unit is completely waterproof, tested to an IP 65 rating for use in manufacturing plants or outdoors. Rugged and vandal resistant, this highly reliable keyboard and integrated mechanical trackball provide full functionality to the user in kiosk applications with 66 full profile, tactile keys. Almost indestructible, this keyboard also comes with a 12 month warranty to give you even more peace of mind.
The BenefitsIf you need some more convincing, why not read about how stainless steel is a green product and better for the environment.
The CHERRY DW 9100 SLIM desktop set stands out due to its innovative functions, excellent workmanship and very flat design. The keyboard contains an integrated metal plate, lending it optimal sturdiness and stability. If you prefer a steeper angle while typing, you can adjust the wireless keyboard using the removable magnetic strip. High stability is ensured by the metal plate, which prevents bending and bounding when typing. Regardless of mobile working, in the office or home office. The DW 9100 SLIM Desktop is your constant, stylish companion. The choice of Bluetooth® or wireless connection means you are flexibly equipped for all eventualities.
The Benefits
The AK-8000 FlushKey keyboard is a modern PC keyboard with convincing qualities regarding cleanness at the workplace. The flat, sideways slant keys allow for easy cleaning. The keyboard can be fully rinsed and washed from all sides. Best results are achieved by manually cleaning with a piece of cloth or a soft brush whilst rinsing under the tap or in the sink. With this in mind, you can make sure to disinfect this keyboard regularly to stay safe without damaging the keyboard.
The Benefits
Manufactured with large 1-inch square keys, the Accuratus Monster keyboard is ideal for Early Learning due to its contrasting colours making it the perfect keyboard for those with certain sight deficiencies. This keyboard utilizes mixed colour lower case keys to separate vowels, consonants, numbers, and punctuation. A mix of white and black legends ensures high contrast in the key lettering for easy visibility. Making this an ideal keyboard for users with learning challenges such as dyslexia or early learning. Learn more about the importance of typing for special needs learning.
Learn more about the importance of typing for special needs learning here
The Benefits
The original – only smaller: The CHERRY G80-3000N RGB TKL is a classic corded keyboard with a reduced key layout for more desktop space. A modern version of the classic that meets all today’s requirements but in a ten-keyless version. CHERRY is extremely reliable and great for consistent, long-lasting use. So there you have it, KBS’ Top 5 Keyboards for 2022. If you are looking for something specific or need some advice, call us on 0203 474 0234 for more information.
The Benefits
Active Key is a prominent manufacturer of industrial and hygienic keyboards. Their focus is on maximum writing comfort, precise key activation, and excellent haptic technology. Active Key's product range includes industrial keyboards with integrated trackball or trackpad features, a broad selection of wireless or cabled protected keyboards/mice, medical keyboards, mice with backlight functionality, and POS devices with an integrated magnetic card or chip card reader. All Active Key products are 100% waterproof and dishwasher safe, making them ideal for cleaning or regular wiping with medical grade disinfectants.
The SplashKey keyboard is flat and has sideways slant keys which makes cleaning simple. The keyboard may be cleaned and rinsed from both sides. For best results, you can manually wash Active Key products with a piece of cloth or a soft brush under water or in the sink. The SplashKey keyboard can be submerged for up to 30 minutes. Washing should be done using skin-friendly detergents. The AK-8000 SplashKey assists you in keeping your keyboard and work environment clean.
Watch the presentation video:
]]>Last month we attended the EBME Expo at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes.
This was our first show following COVID lockdown restrictions and it was great to be able to network once again. A big thank you to the organisers for putting on a COVID safe show, including lots of coffee which was needed. The event was attended mostly by staff from various NHS trusts, and it was a pleasure to meet them and thank them for their service.
It was great to engage direct with the people who use our products and really understand what they are looking for and how our keyboards have been helping them. We’re looking forward to attending more shows in the coming year and we’ll be bringing along a range of keyboards and mice with special offers and discounts at each event.
]]>When choosing a foot pedal as an input device there are a few important considerations.
Depending on the answers to these questions, different physical configurations of foot input will work better than others. X-keys XK-3 USB Foot Pedal comes in both a front and rear hinge version, but single and other more durable foot input options can be created with an X-keys switch interface attached to one or more of many foot switches that we carry.
KBS carries the complete line of X-keys input devices including several types of foot pedals. All of them are fully customisable so they can trigger the proper keyboard shortcuts, mouse commands or other input required for you software.
If you are unsure which version works best for you application or any other questions regarding this unique input solution do not hesitate to contact us.
]]>Following the pandemic we were keen to provide young people work, skills and training. The Kickstart Scheme offers funding to create new opportunities for those aged 16-24 who are on Universal Credit.
The scheme is vital as it helps individuals who may face long-term unemployment. Here at KBS, we offer 6 month Kickstart Scheme job placements to help young people gain valuable experience and we are happy to announce our recent new starters! Ameenul Hoque, Hafsah Patel and Jordan Russell have started at trainee customer service advisors and Lucas McCabe has joined as a trainee business admin assistant. The Kickstart scheme will also allow us to give our recent new starters the opportunity to stay on with us for an apprenticeship.
]]>Is it vital that workstations are kept clean and safe. Anti-bacterial keyboards such as wipeable and washable keyboards can be used to reduce the spread of bacteria. Both wipeable and washable keyboards can be regularly and deeply cleaned, keeping you safe at home and when we return to the office.
Washable keyboards and mice are safe to put in the dishwasher or can be washed with soap by hand. The keyboards can be placed in the dishwasher with the cords safely wrapped from all moving parts of the dishwasher and the door. It is recommended to wash the keyboards using dishwasher detergent and a standard wash. Washing the keyboard using high temperatures or heat drying can cause damage to them. After the keyboards are washed the excess water can be wiped away and they can be left to air dry before use.
Wipeable keyboards and mice have a silicone sealed cover meaning they can be cleaned regularly with an antibacterial wipe or spray to kill germs. This makes them safe and sanitary for use in the office, especially if hot desking has been implemented. Wipeable keyboards can withstand medical grade disinfectants but normally have a lower IP rating, meaning that they do not allow for as rigorous washing compared to the washable keyboards.
What you need to consider when choosing between the two?
If you’re looking for a keyboard that can be thoroughly and deeply cleaned, washable keyboards allow for a higher degree of water resistance as they have a higher IP rating. This means they will not be damaged if washed with soap and water. If you are looking for a keyboard that can be sanitised quickly, wipeable keyboards would be suitable as the silicone sealed cover allows for regular sanitisation.
What keyboard works best in which environment?
Both wipeable and washable keyboards and can be used at home and in an office environment. Wipeable keyboards would be better suited to an office environment as they can be quickly and easily sanitised ready for use. If you work from home, we recommend a washable keyboard, as they allow for a deeper clean to clean all food or accidental coffee spills!
What does the IP rating actually mean?
An IP rating is short for an Ingress Protection mark. An IP rating is usually a two-digit grading system that’s applied to the enclosure of a mechanical or electrical item. Unlike vague terms such as ‘waterproof’ - an IP rating is more specific.
The ratings widely accepted as ‘waterproof’ for most general purposes are IP65, IP66 and IP67.
Keyboard Specialists offer a range of keyboards which meet the highest IP68 standards.
]]>Before looking at the future of keyboards, we need to look at their limitations.
Computer processing power has increased exponentially in the last decades, but the peripherals we use with our computers have essentially remained the same (i.e. mouses, trackpads or keyboards). Today’s interfaces are built to do as much as possible within the limitations of a human’s motor sensory systems. The problem lies here. In order for computers to progress, the way in which we communicate with them will have to change.
However, it’s both expensive and difficult to try and change the norm of how the general public interacts with their gadgets. It’s also not only about the function, but about the products’ aesthetic appeal, which is why Apple products have been so successful.
Is the future of keyboards simply a techier keyboard?
New technologies are giving way to different types of keyboards. For example, laser projector keyboards remove the physical aspect by projecting an image of the keyboard onto a table or flat surface. When you ‘touch’ the keys, a sensor logs your keystrokes and conveys them to the computer.
But who needs a laser to project a keyboard when you could just wear it on your fingers? Tap was the first wearable keyboard and allowed the user to slip it onto their fingers and tap away on any surface. Similarly, Myo is a wrist-worn gadget that allows you to control your phone, computer and more touch-free.
Still, experts question if a physical keyboard will survive.
Is there a future for keyboards or will they be phased out?
Many experts in the industry, including Android co-founder Rich Miner, believe the keyboard will be phased out over the next 20 years or so. But then the question arises of what will replace them as the dominant mode of communication with computers?
Voice Control
Many experts believe the keyboard will be phased out and replaced with voice control. The technology is already ever-present in society with the increase of Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, Google Assistant, and Microsoft Cortana.
Introducing information into a computer through voice is faster than typing, but is it more efficient?
Many experts believe that voice-recognition technology is still not good enough; though this does not mean it never will be. However, voice recognition systems will need to understand context as context is the root of conversation.
There are also other barriers to voice control technologies, such as confidentiality. In some situations, such as in a train, at a bar, or in a library, we need to be quiet or simply don’t want people to hear what we are doing on our devices.
As technologies like speech recognition and facial recognition improve, it makes sense that our interactions with machines would go beyond screens to more subtle forms of communication.
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Many technologists believe the next big thing will be virtual and augmented reality. A good example is the Microsoft HoloLens, a mixed reality device with apps and solutions that are meant to enhance collaboration. Although, some find the touch-typing on the HoloLens with the virtual keyboard in midair does not function very efficiently.
Several engineers also warn that such a leap would require large technological advancements that are simply not there yet.
But why stop at virtual and augmented reality when you can let your mind do all the work? While it is still a long way off, there have been discoveries into mind-control technology.
Brain-to-computer communication
Technologists and scientists in the past few years have been researching and developing ‘brain-to-computer' technology, supported by advocates such as Elon Musk and Rich Miner. At Gerwin Schalk’s laboratory, scientists are trying to develop interfaces for direct brain-to-computer processing. Similarly, a Microsoft patent was filed that outlines “changing the state of an application by detecting neurological user intent data”.
Scientists at Standford have also demonstrated that a ‘brain-to-computer' technology would allow patients will paralysis or other severe disabilities to type with speed and efficiency.
However, one of the biggest challenges is developing a way to measure the brain’s real-time activity. Scientists have already demonstrated that images produced in the mind can be transferred to an interface; for example, if you were imagining a word or an object. However, more advances are needed to capture precise measurements of brain activity and transfer them to interfaces to be deciphered without invasive procedures, such as brain implants.
With ‘brain-to-computer' technology you could make a computer do anything with a single thought. The potential implications are far beyond what we could even imagine and would exceed what any humans have done with technology to date.
However, a concern among some is that technology will become completely de-personalised. Among them, Miner believes we should take a ‘humanistic’ view of human-machine learning, where computers communicate on a more personal level. Technology would be advanced enough to understand speech, but also facial expressions and gestures; for example, holding your hand up to pause a video.
Many advances have been made in technology, but it seems the answer to the question ‘what is the future of keyboards?’ relies on the potential of technology advancements. But at least for the time being, it does not seem as though keyboards will altogether be phased out.]]>It doesn’t matter whether it’s a workplace keyboard used daily or a keyboard used casually at home, keeping everything clean is very important. Not only does cleaning your keyboard reduce the chances of keys becoming stuck and therefore out of action, but it also removes any bacteria and germs that may have built up over time. Plus, it’s a lot more enjoyable to use a keyboard that is clean and in a good condition. A lot of people avoid cleaning their keyboard, assuming it to be an arduous and time consuming task, but this isn’t the case. As you will see from our easy steps below, cleaning a keyboard is straightforward.
Cleaning Your Keyboard
At Keyboard Specialists, we have a wide range of keyboards and keyboard accessories for you to choose from. Whether you are looking for a keyboard for your home or for a specific industry, you are sure to find exactly what you’re looking for. To find out more, get in touch with our team.
]]>Here are just some of the area’s where these unique keyboards are being used today:
The banking and retail industries require technologies that are as secure and efficient as possible. Keyboards with built-in and specialised functions can help improve performance and accuracy. For example, the Accuratus K107 Smart Card Reader keyboard is great for the working environment that needs additional security with an integrated high-quality smart card reader. It has been tested with over 10 million operations per key and 300 thousand insertions, meaning it's very reliable, and the U shaped keys makes typing comfortable and tactile.
Whether you work in a school, university, college or any other educational institute, the keyboard is probably something that you would use on a daily basis. Different users require a different educational keyboard. For example, users with disabilities such as visual impairment, we have the Big Keys large keyboard which is designed with bigger keys for ease of use. Large multi-coloured keys printed with black legends makes each key easier to identify, and therefore to type on, and it also supports users who may have tremors in their hands.
With more and more people choosing to work from home, a good keyboard can help improve work performance. Customising your workstation to your preferences should start with the right keyboard for you. The Contour Balance Keyboard puts your hands in the perfect typing position, this means that your wrists will feel less strain from all the typing you have to do. This keyboard has adjustable legs and tilt option which allow for easy adjustability into negative, neutral and positive typing angles, and it is wireless and runs on 2 AAA batteries with power-saving technology. Investing in this keyboard will give you greater freedom for movement too.
The highest standards of cleanliness should be applied to everything including keyboards, especially during this COVID-19 pandemic. Medical and infection control keyboards should be used in every healthcare setting as cross-contamination and infection are prevalent and dangerous. Waterproof, fully cleanable and wipe-able keyboards can definitely minimise these health hazards.
The AccuMed Glass Keyboard with integrated touchpad is a great example. It has been designed for efficient cleaning in any medical environment. It’s an all in one device with wired and wireless bluetooth technology. The smooth tempered glass surface allows efficient and easy cleaning with any medical grade cloths or sprays with the IP67 rated, fully sealed design.
To conclude, there are many industries where keyboards can be utilised and from the examples mentioned you can see how unique each keyboard is and how it’s been designed for each scenario. There are many more industries that we cover, but have not mentioned, they include: dental, emergency services, kiosks, security and military & defence. We have a large selection of keyboards available for each of these markets and continue to source and supply cutting edge products to maintain our ongoing support as keyboard suppliers.
Recently at The Keyboard Specialists we have been working extremely hard to ensure that keyworkers are well supported during the COVID-19 pandemic. We have been supplying medical keyboards and mice to the NHS and we’ve also been working with many other companies to help supply the pop-up hospitals across the UK. Our team is committed to going the extra mile and using their contacts and resources to ensure that the right products get to the right place.
So, if you would like assistance finding your next keyboard please do check out our website or give us a call on 0203 474 0234.
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What are the benefits to the market for the partnership between KBS and Glory Star?
Glory Star Touch Tablets are an extension to KBS‘s keyboard and peripheral solutions, for all applications where there is a need to display more information and control commands that require layers of information. Through the partnership with Glory Star, KBS will be able to provide local solutions for integration of touch tablets.
Data collection is important to every company for making better decisions for their clients, and a touch interface control platform allows for data to be driven through calculated touches; an example of this would be a coffee machine would be able to collect data for the quantity and types of coffee being ordered, sending information back to the cloud which allows for product improvements and/or adjust the quantity and types of coffee required for each location.
KBS has profound experience in keyboard control fields of Banking, Retail & POS, Dental and Medical and enhancing their portfolio to include Glory Star Android or Windows touch screens will be game changing.
Keyboard Specialists Ltd (KBS)
KBS has grown rapidly to become one of the largest specialist internet retailers of Keyboards and Keyboard Accessories in the UK and around the World, distributing and selling special keyboards and customisable accessories since 2006.
Glory Star
Glory Star has been the leading provider and manufacturer of touch consoles and display solutions since 1984 and we are the pioneer of display screen and all-in-one touch interface with more than 500,000 units of installation across fitness, retail, self-service and building automation industries globally.]]>Managing Director
Radio Station Solutions
PI Engineering flew all the way from the US to be at the show. They did an excellent job showcasing and sharing their expertise on X-Keys with all the visitors of IBC 2019.
Thank you to all those that visited us and made IBC 2019 a fantastic show once again. See you all next year ...
]]>The typeface used on the key-caps themselves are new and look very sleek and modern. Also, the new font on the key-caps look great and mesh nicely with the Cherry logo. Unlike its predecessor, the MX Board 3.0, the logo isn't backlit and is instead printed on the bottom of the board in a silver, metallic effect plastic; This makes it look sharp when combined with the black of the keyboard and its back-lighting. The backlighting, like the Cherry MX Board 6.0, also features 100 hundred levels that can be selected individually with the button combinations on the function key and the F5 and F6 keys respectively. The backlighting, when on, makes the keyboard looks sleek and modern and the key-caps, allow the light to shine through which gives the keyboard a radiant look.
Being a fan of both switches on this keyboard, I can personally say that I prefer MX-Red silent as opposed to the MX Browns. In general, I haven’t really been the biggest fan of noisy keyboards and MX-Reds do the job, providing you don’t press down on the keys too hard. Both switches, are guaranteed to fifty million actuation's which is displayed on the box.
Overall, the new Cherry MX Board 1.0 is an improvement to its predecessor, it features some great updates such as the new typeface. It has a much nicer design compared to the MX Board 6.0 and its overall quality has vastly improved compared to its former's and I can gladly say that it would appeal to a wide range of customers
For any more information you may require on the Cherry MX Board 1.0, please contact Keyboard Specialists on 0203 474 0234.
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Ardeep Badwal, Managing Director of KBS Keyboard Specialists Ltd, of Darlaston, said he wanted to do something to say thank you to those who helped and cared for his mother who was taken ill with heart problems.
He donated a package worth £1,000 to Walsall Manor Hospital – and did the same for Wolverhampton’s New Cross Hospital where his Willenhall mother was treated.
Included in Mr Badwal’s generous donation were keyboards and mice that can be put into a dishwasher or cleaned with antibacterial wipes and he handed them over to staff from Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Infection Prevention and Control team.
He explained: “One package comprised of three keyboards and mice that can be washed and might be most suitable for administrative staff while the other was three sets of flat keyboards and mice, silicone coated, that could be put to better use by doctors and nurses on hospital wards.
“When I came into the Manor to hand them over the staff were really pleased because of the infection control aspect. For me, it was important to say thank you to the NHS for being there when we need it. My mother was treated at New Cross but a Walsall paramedic came out to see her and he stayed over his shift to get her the right treatment and help her and without that commitment she wouldn’t be alive today.”
]]>As I stated above, the keyboard is perfection personified, its thin construction is not only practical but also astonishing from a design point of view. The colour combination is immaculate with the bronze and black meshing well together whilst looking simplistic. This creates the effect of a minimalistic design which Cherry and other keyboard manufacturers seems to be going for more nowadays. This trend is often butchered due to its simplicity although Cherry doesn’t fail here. The user experience did not seem to dwindle from the packaging to the practical use of both products. Cherry opted for a bolder design as opposed to just keeping it simplistic. The keyboard is laser engraved which makes it much easier to read and identify, whilst the keys themselves use a scissor mechanism. The keys on the DW9000, are attached to the keyboard via two plastic pieces that interlock like scissors. The scissor pieces then link the keycap to a plunger that then depresses the rubber dome with a 2mm travel distance which is shorter than what you’d find in regular rubber dome keyboards. They keyboard has a bronze accent on the back which has rubber pads which stop the keyboard from sliding from the surface it’s on. Cherry also provides additional rubber pads to change the tilt of the keyboard.
The mouse comes with a stone finish which is applied to the plastic covers to give it a better grip. It’s a completely symmetrical design, meaning that you could switch over for left handed use depending on your preference. The mouse also comes with 6 buttons. On the top of the mouse, there’s a dpi selector which has three levels which are: 600, 1000 and then 1600 dpi. The lower half of the mouse has an abstract pattern which gives it an extra grip whilst using it. Under the mouse however, is a wireless receiver attached into the bottom magnetically, which enables the mouse to be used separately from the keyboard. Also, both the keyboard and mouse can be connected wirelessly via a radio frequency or bluetooth. The combo boasts lithium-ion batteries in them which can be recharged via micro usb.
For any more information you may require on the Cherry DW9000 Slim Keyboard & Mouse Combo, please contact Keyboard Specialists on 0203 474 0234.
]]>The Contour Unimouse allows a user to change angles between 35° and 70°; The Unimouse does this in order to enable users to get the chance to find the right angle for them, the idea of the mouse is to mimic a handshake which I thought that Contour captured well. The Unimouse provides comfort and precision regardless of the user’s hand size, making it truly universally unique.
Not only does it boast customisable angles, the Unimouse also comes equipped with an adjustable thumb rest which is tiltable and retractable. This along with the complete design of the mouse, allows the user to avoid strain as the thumb support helps position your hand to prevent pinching. The mouse is adjustable vertically which enables a user to reduce pain and discomfort. Contour pride themselves on helping to reduce the risk of RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) which is proven by the build quality and full design of the Unimouse. An upright vertical hand position can take away the pressure in your wrist and arm. This is a greater alternative to normal mice as since they’re normally flat, your arm would naturally twist in order to keep your hands flat.
Keeping up the theme of being ergonomic and being well suited to all types of users, the Unimouse comes in four different models. With two being wireless and the other two wired, both with left handed and right handed models depending to a user’s personal preference. The wireless version comes with its own receiver that has been attached to a Micro USB cable although, it can be detached to be used separately, I think this is a great addition as it enables you to charge the mouse whilst getting rid of disruptions making it essential for a workplace environment. The battery is long lasting as it enables the mouse to last for up to three months. It also comes equipped with a smart sleep battery system which then amplifies the battery’s longevity. With a plug and play compatibility, there’s no effort required in setting up the Unimouse whether it may be the wireless or wired version.
For any more information you may require on the Contour Unimouse, please contact Keyboard Specialists on 0203 474 0234.
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The silver partner award, is an award that is given to employers that have demonstrated significant social value for the local people of Walsall.
By winning this award, Keyboard Specialists has shown that we've not only just demonstrated a commitment to the people of Walsall, but we've also taken the initiative by embedding social value in their work.
The Silver Award shows that we have completed activities that help support important areas such as:
Keyboard Specialists works closely with Walsall Works in order to ensure that the citizens of Walsall are able to gain new skills or improve their current skill set in order to improve their availability and increase confidence in a working environment.
]]>It was another busy show and we had fun showcasing X-Keys to the broadcasting world.
]]>With a sleek compact design this functional keyboard saves on space whilst appealing to a more style-conscious user. Ideal for everyday use in offices or home spaces the KC 6000 is sturdily built boasting an integrated keyboard and precise scissor mechanism keys.
To add to its functionality Cherry has added six practical keys. One to gain you access to your preferred browser, one to lock your system, three for adjusting volume and a calculator key. Coming with a 1.8m cable, status LEDs and USB connection the KC 6000 is well suited for not only a desk setup but also for travelling with as it only weighs 660 grams.
Its ultra-flat design helps to make the average keyboard user feel comfortable typing. With laser engraved keycaps this keyboard has been built to last. The KC 6000 is available in silver with white keys and black with black keys. For MAC uses who would like to buy a non-Apple keyboard but would still like the same aesthetic then the silver would be the ideal choice.
The Cherry KC 6000 Slim is not only practical but an economical one too, why not have a look at it here.
For any more information you may require please contact Keyboard Specialists on 0203 474 0234.
]]>BVE is a hub of creatives, professionals and companies. Coming together under one roof allows for questions to be answered and knowledge to grow. Technology is a big part of BVE as it always strives to be the UK's leading broadcast, production and media tech event. The variation in companies and visitors encourages diversity within the X-Keys products. Bringing to you a range of 300+ companies BVE makes sure to prepare its visitors will unlimited choice. The 250+ speakers will provide entertaining and insightful discussion. With seminars for visitors to be a part of, to trade stalls for them to engage with, BVE encompasses all levels of understanding. Located in London's ExCel Centre, BVE provides trade in the latest technologies and helps to provide a growing community of creative minds, tech innovators and business leaders with the opportunities to grow in unconventional ways. By having this space for CEOs, managers, executives, freelancers and students BVE truly is the place to be.
We at KBS are extremely proud of being a part of BVE and always look forward with relish towards the next show. With it being just a few days away the anticipation is building. We will have demos available and be able to show you what you need to know (or maybe even what you want to know). We encourage everyone to step up and say hello to us and be a part of our experience at BVE 2019!!
If you are interested in attending BVE this year and want to come and demo some exciting new X-Key products then please sign up and get your tickets here:
https://www.excel.london/visitor/whats-on/bve-2019
We look forward to seeing you there!
]]>Contour’s range are designed to reduce the risk of RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) and to help improve posture. Their RollerMouse is iconic and allows you to be able to eliminate unnecessary movements in your wrists and elbows whilst doing your everyday tasks. By using the RollerMouse you are able to work from a central position which helps in reducing RSI. To find more about Contour’s range of products click here.
To add to the celebration of all things new at KBS, we have taken on two new employees. We are excited to see them grow and become part of the team. With our team expanding it will help us to be more efficient than ever in order to make your experience with us that much better.
As with the previous two years we will be attending the BVE Show in London partnering again with X-Keys to show off their latest products. There will be demos available and experienced staff to answer all of your questions. So please come join us at the BVE Show on 26th to 28th February 2019 at Stand L47.
Furthermore, you will also find us at the IBC Show in Amsterdam on the 12th to 17th September 2019, so we hope to see you there!
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