On the Kinesis Advantage MPC keyboard, most of these keys have the PC legends. Mac and PC users commonly confuse the Delete and Backspace keys. Note that the Mac Delete key (backwards delete action) is legended Backspace on the Advantage MPC USB keyboard. Keyboard model 24 macro mode 36 macro mode 48 macro mode Advantage Advantage Pro. More than a Month with the Kinesis Advantage. Earlier this year, I reviewed the TECK—Truly Ergonomic Computer Keyboard—one of the few keyboards on the market that combines an ergonomic layout.

The Kinesis line of ergonomiccomputer keyboards is an alternative to the traditional keyboard design. Most widely known among these are the contoured Advantage line, which feature recessed keys in two bucket-like hollows which allow the fingers to reach keys with less effort as well as a central array of modifiers such as enter, alt, backspace, control, etc. where they can be pressed with the thumbs. All Kinesis keyboards (except the Essential) support the capability to re-map individual keys.^[1][2] Recent models also come with the ability to switch between the Dvorak layout with the press of a special key combination, though keycaps printed with dual-legend QWERTY/Dvorak letters are included only on specific models. Moreover, the keys are laid out in perfect vertical rows to avoid the need for lateral movements during typing.

The top row of keys, including the escape key and function keys, are small soft-touch keys with membrane dome switches. The remaining keys are standard size and each has its own Cherry MX brown key switch, providing a tactile feel, but no click. A piezo buzzer provides optional key click.

Uses[edit]

The Kinesis line of keyboards are marketed to those who type throughout the work-day, and thus perceive a higher risk for such injuries as RSI. The Kinesis was first used among computer programmers, who continue to be the primary market for the devices.^{[citation needed]}

See also[edit]

References[edit]

1. ^'My Kinesis keyboard'.
2. ^'Review: Kinesis Classic Contoured Keyboard'.

External links[edit]

• Contoured keyboard page on the Kinesis site.
• Jamie Zawinski on keyboards and other ways of dealing with wrist pain.
• An in-depth review.

Kinesis Advantage Pro Keyboard Parts

Kinesis contoured keyboards are based on a unique, patented design that minimizes the pain and strain typists experience from heavy use of conventional computer keyboards. The Advantage offers ergonomic and programmability features most suitable for the everyday computer user.

Information Sheet on the Kinesis Advantage Pro Contoured Keyboard Line in PDF format.

AdvantagePro model
This is the most advanced and versatile model of Kinesis' contoured keyboard family. The Advantage Pro USB contoured keyboard sets a new standard for ergonomic keyboards. The Advantage line incorporates the same advanced ergonomic design as other contoured keyboards by Kinesis and delivers additional features not found on other USB keyboards. Easily customized, it is optimal for most computer users.

What Makes this Keyboard Ergonomic?

The ergonomic design resulted from two years of research and testing and has proven itself in over six years of commercial use. Kinesis contoured keyboards are prescribed by physicians and placed by physical and occupational therapists dealing with keyboard-related repetitive strain injuries. They offer a wide range of features which make them an excellent choice for anyone who is not a hunt and peck typist, and seeking to reduce the pain and fatigue from typing, or prevent problems arising from typing activity.

Click here to review all the ergonomic benefits
or
Why Should I Buy this Keyboard?
(Very helpful in determining whether this keyboard is right for you)

Features

• Advanced ergonomics PLUS on-board programmability
• Powerful Programming features
  • Remap any or all keys!
  • Double the Memory of the Advantage
    • Select 24, 36, or 48 macros (142, 94, or 70 characters long, respectively)
    • Switch between QWERTY and Dvorak layouts seamlessly!
    • Modifier keys can be 'sticky' (set individually)
  • Memory Locking Switch protects users or managers against accidental or unauthorized programming of the keyboard
  • Integrated 2 port USB hub - USB devices can be hot-plugged safely
  • Automatically switch between PC and Mac operating systems
  • Instant configuration for Windows, Mac and non-Windows PC operating environments, includes Windows and Mac legended keys.
  • Single Action Footswitch Accessory (FS005RJ11) included at no extra charge
  • Supports the Kinesis Triple Action Footswitch Accessory (FS006TAF) - allows you to map any keyboard action (including toggling on the numeric keypad) to one of three footswitch actions.
• High durability dirt/dust/stain resistant glossy metallic finish doesn't turn yellow over time like white keyboards or show dust immediately like black models

Compatibility

Instant configuration for Mac, PC and Non-Windows PC environments, including Mac and Windows Legended keycaps. No drivers required, only requirement is one free USB port.

• USB Interface for PC - Supports Windows 98/98ME/2000/XP/Vista including 64 bit editions (includes Windows key actions and legends), and non-Windows PC operating environments (Free BSD, LINUX, etc.).
• USB Interface for Mac - Supports Mac OS 8.6 and higher.
  

Layout Options for the Advantage contoured keyboard

• All Advantage keyboards models can switch between QWERTY and Dvorak key layouts with a combination keystroke. Here are the three configurations available for this keyboard in QWERTY (when switched to DVORAK only letters and core symbols are altered)
  • Macintosh configuration (as shipped from the factory)
• Want dual legends? Buy a 'QD' Qwerty-Dvorak dual-legended model or if you want to upgrade later, buy a keycap upgrade kit . Sorry, but Dvorak-only legends are not available.
• The embedded keypad offers maximum productivity and comfort for 10-key users, especially using a foot switch. Click here for more information on how to use the embedded numeric keypad.
• The Windows keys are easily accessed by pressing the embedded function key assigned to them.
  

Model Numbers

• Advantage Pro Contoured Keyboard for PC/Mac, Metallic Silver Case - KB510USB-MET
• Advantage Qwerty/Dvorak dual legend Keycaps set, Black, KC020DU-BLK

Keyboard Specifications:

Keyboard Dimensions: Width: 16.5 inches Height: 2.9 inches Depth (front-to-back): 8 inches Weight: 2.5 lbs Front Slope: 10 degrees Lateral Tilt ('thumbs up'): 20 degrees Center Separation: 6.75 inches FOOTSWITCHES (Optional; single and triple available) Default is 'Keypad Shift' (numeric keypad mode is enabled until footswitch is released) Second default footswitch action is 'Shift' Programmable when used with programmable keyboards ACCESSORIES INCLUDED User's Manual Adaptation Materials Self-adhesive Black Palm Pads

Key Action Specifications: ALPHANUMERIC KEYS: Full travel, tactile mechanical keyswiches: 68 Peak Force: 1.59 oz. or 45 grams Pre-travel: 2 mm Total Travel: 4 mm Keyswitch Life: 50 million operations Audible or silent click mode available FUNCTION KEYS: Elastomeric keyswitches: 18 Soft Tactile action EMBEDDED KEY ACTIONS: Numeric keypad actions: 18 Windows 95 key actions: 3 International key actions: 2 Other programmable key actions: 60 WARRANTY: Two Year Limited Warranty

If you opened this page from our online catalog, close this window to return to it. If you opened this page from outside the ErgoCanada.com web site, click here to enter our online catalog.

Please bookmark this site and check back often, as we continuously add new products and update product information.

Ergonomics Portal: ErgoCanada.com
P.O. Box 9022 Saskatoon, SK, Canada S7K 7E7
Phone: (306) 382-5995 Fax: (306) 382-4995
Toll-Free: (866) 335-3746 (ERGO)
Email: sales@ergocanada.com

Check out our other portals:

Advantage 2 Kinesis

ExtremeGamingDevices.com - Specialty gaming products for extreme gamers
ErgoLaptop.com - Ergonomic products for laptop users.
BirdXCanada.com - Bird control products

Ergonomic Keyboard Kinesis

All materials copyright © 2008 Micwil Group of Companies Ltd.