Keyboard

 

The Microsoft ergonomic keyboard 4000 is the latest model of ergonomic keyboards by Microsoft. This  is the successor of the Microsoft Natural Keyboard, which debuted in 1994; the Natural Keyboard Elite, which was introduced in 1998; the Natural Keyboard Pro, which was subsequently brought out to public in 1999; and the Natural Multimedia Microsoft wireless ergonomic keyboard, which was introduced in 2004.
Shorty after, the latest Microsoft ergonomic keyboard 4000 was launched in September 2005. It measures 19.8 inches in length and 10.3 inches in width. This model of Microsoft ergonomic keyboard is compatible for use with any of these operating systems: Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP Pro/Pro x64 Edition/Home/Media Center Edition/Tablet PC Edition, or Windows 2000 SP4 or higher. Also, the keyboard’s use would need an at least 60MB free hard drive space, a CD-ROM drive, and a USB port.

The Natural 4000 Microsoft ergonomic keyboard features an ergonomic design, which is primarily intended to ensure comfort to the user. This is achieved in three ways. First, the unique positioning of the keys in the Microsoft ergonomic keyboard allows proper arm and wrist alignment. The keys are strategically split and positioned following the natural slant of the wrists when placed on the keyboard. This concave design of the keys helps reduce repetitive motions.
Moreover, the modifier keys of the Microsoft ergonomic keyboard such as the “Ctrl” and “Alt” keys are enlarged to make them more noticeable. The “Ins” key, which is actually now obsolete, is removed. In its place is the “Del” key, wherein being a very useful key, is made larger as well. Additionally, Microsoft also developed left handed keyboard for left-handed computer users.

Second, the keyboard has a built-in padded leatherette wrist pad that helps a person endure long hours of computer use. Third, the Microsoft ergonomic keyboard has a detachable front stand, which allows an effortless typing, without the need for the wrists to bend to a certain angle in order to find their comfortable positions.
Other features of a Microsoft ergonomic keyboard includes a Zoom function that can be used to enlarge or minimize data. The keyboard also features very convenient multimedia keys, which allows a person to control the multimedia player, without having to open and close the music player every time. To illustrate this function, one can easily pause, stop, play, or switch songs, as well as adjust their volumes.
In addition, a Microsoft ergonomic keyboard has up to nine customizable application keys, which allows a person to change the default use of particular function and modifier keys, according to his convenience. These keys can launch any application with the use of the Microsoft IntelliType Software, which is available for both Windows and Macintosh Operating System versions.
A Microsoft ergonomic keyboard is preferred by heavy computer users like the information technology professionals and experts because of the obvious benefits of its added non-traditional features. However, the Microsoft ergonomic keyboard is also ideal for use in computer typing classes by beginners and novices, as it allows the students be comfortable while practicing typing, even with extended hours of use.