Microsoft Enters Keyboard Market with Ergonomic Design and Windows Optimization

Microsoft's foray into the computer hardware business begins with the release of a new keyboard, designed to capitalize on the company's influence with Windows software and computing products. The "Natural Keyboard" boasts 104 keys, 3 more than standard personal computer keyboards, and features ergonomic design and "usability" testing that spans 18 months. This keyboard is a result of Microsoft's desire to expand into other areas of the computer business and encourage customers to use products that take advantage of its features, especially Windows software.

Key Takeaways:

• Microsoft's keyboard has 104 keys, 3 more than standard personal computer keyboards, providing short cuts to Microsoft's Windows software.
• The keyboard features ergonomic design, including split and rotated keypads to encourage a straight wrist position and a built-in palm rest.
• The keyboard has a front edge that can be adjusted to accommodate various desk and chair heights and is designed to help users keep their shoulders straight and arms relaxed while typing.
• The keyboard requires Windows software and will not work with Apple Computer Inc.'s Macintosh, except using a special program.
• The new keyboard reflects Microsoft's strategy to expand into other areas of the computer business and increase sales of its Microsoft software, especially Windows.
• Microsoft collaborated with the Key Tronic Corporation, the largest independent maker of keyboards, to manufacture the new keyboard.
• Several leading computer manufacturers, including Dell Computer Corporation and Zenith Data Systems Corporation, will offer the Microsoft keyboard with their machines this fall.
• The keyboard will have a suggested retail price of $99 and is expected to be broadly available through computer retailers in early October.

Statistics:

• 104 keys: the number of keys on the Microsoft keyboard, 3 more than standard personal computer keyboards.
• 18 months: the duration of ergonomic and "usability" testing for the Microsoft keyboard.
• $99: the suggested retail price of the Microsoft keyboard.
• 3 days from Tuesday: the time period when the keyboard will be broadly available through computer retailers in early October.

Sources:

• Microsoft Corporation.