Keyboards
Posted By: The Singing MT on 2006-01-09
In Reply to:
Once upon a time, I used one of those split keyboards. Considering buying one again. Does anyone use one? How does it compare over the longterm?
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Anyone know what OEM means? Looking at keyboards to buy & there are some MS 4000 keyboards advertise
anyone have a clue?
These keyboards are designed after the original IBM keyboards that
have the "clicky, audible sound" when pressing the keys - not the hushed, soft, nonexistent touch & feel of the newer keyboards.
Think it depends on what you've learned on & "typed" on as to your preference regarding touch, sound feedback, etc.
When my original IBM keyboard was going on the blitz(1995),I searched far & wide for a company to repair such and/or replace it. This company has repaired such - several times. This company does offer clones of the original IBM that are very comparable to the original. They also have other keyboards available made by their company, but I have no personal knowledge as to their touch, etc.
As a side note, this company will repair most model keyboards for a very nomimal fee if you have a favorite you don't want to part with - ask for Jim Owens - he's a doll-babe !!
I know this company makes several of their own keyboards, but what I believe mdlfcrs is referring to is not known to the newer transcriptionists. In other words, the keyboard she/he and I are talking about is not ergonomic, soft-touch or mushy feeling. It goes back to the days of the typewriter - you heard it, you felt the keys - a totally different feeling compared to most "computer keyboards" -
keyboards
I am constantaly having trouble with the letters being worn off -- have been through 4 keyboards in the past two years -- any suggestions, though I know where the keys are, it looks funny when they are blank.
Thanks.
Patti
keyboards
Jen, did you call about the keyboards? Anything I found said that Cirque is no longer in business, and when I went to the other site, found only the pads, not the keyboards. The original looks wonderful. If you find where it can be purchased, let us know.
Keyboards
It didn't take any time at all to get used to the GoldTouch in the tented position. I bought mine off of ebay and am keeping my eyes open for another one, cheap, to have as a back-up.
I have a COuntoured keyboard that I bought off Ebay. I have had it for a month or 2 but just havent had the time to work with it. It seems kind of complicated to get set up. The Goldtouch, I plugged into a USB port and off I went.
I have seen and bid on all kinds of keyboards. They even have one handed one that resemble the top of a job stick. One hand does it all. And there are ones called Bats (I think) that are everything done by one hand. I am trying to buy one of those kinda cheap.
ALso, I have tried Dragon Naturally Speaking but the time to train it took too long. It was quicker to type.
Keyboards
I have no idea when I will be trying that out but can let you know. If I lose your email I will post that I have tried it. It looks to me like it is going to be like when you spell something out on the telephone. So many clicks per number to get a certain letter.
I have never had trouble buying anything off ebay. I have seen new and used keyboards. Mine have all been used but I always check the stats on the seller to see that history. Also pay with PayPal so would have that as a recouse also if had problems. And of course, I save all correspondence, etc, not just for ebay but any kind of cyber transcactions.
Keyboards
Hi Anna, check out this website. http://office-ergo.com/12things2.htm I searched for Ergonomics on google, and came up with a ton of sites. Hope this helps.
Keyboards - sm
I am a keyboard snob. I only use mechanical keyboards (which are usually older keyboards). They have the "click" that comes from the spring action making connection. My preferences are Magitronic, Keytronic, or (best) NMB. These keyboards have "sliders" that make typing a joy. The older IBM M keyboard is also mechanical action, but I find the keys rather harder to type on. I like a clicky, soft touch mechanical-action keyboard. I usually buy them on ebay - some are rather expensive, some are cheap - all are old and all are mechanical action! 
keyboards
I had a Kensington keyboard that I bought I think at Comp USA, somewhere more than 3 years ago. It was not really expensive, and didn't have a split keyboard, but had slanted keys, which I thought were quite a bit easier to use and I really liked it. The letters didn't wear off, and it was working fine until I dumped a whole glass of diet orange pop on it about a month ago. A whole glass, that is, except what went all over my desk and the wall. I took it all apart, rinsed everything out, set it out in the sun to dry well, put all the little rubber dothingies back in place on each key, and have a keyboard that doesn't work anymore. Sigh. I would buy another one just like it, and hope to find one as soon as I can stop putting money in other things, like furnace repairs.
Keyboards
I have bought some of the best and the longest they last is 6 to 8 months witout starting to come off. So I buy a new keyboard about every 12 to 15 months as it also looses its bounce. Guess that comes with doing 45,000 to 50,000 lines per month but you would think that they would make them so that they last a little longer.
Keyboards
 I have this problem as well and was told by Dell tech support that it is the grease on the fingers, i.e, lotion, eating while working etc that makes the letters wear off. I have gone through 6 keyboards in 2 years and now I put clear finger nail polish on the keys and this has worked thus far. You must do this prior to using the new keyboard first, as in no greasy fingers.
RE: Keyboards
I use the Microsoft Wireless Natural Multimedia Keyboard and it is wonderful. Love it. I don't use the shift key on the right either apparently.
Keyboards - sm
I have tried all three, and always go back to the Maxium. The Goldtouch was too loud and cumbersome. I could not get use to the Freestyle, but love the Maxium. If you decide on one, and I have the Goldtouch in my computer closet I would sell you...email if interested.
KEYBOARDS
I agree about what a difference the keyboard can make!!
I looked at the split keyboards, but my hands are kind of small so I went with a WAVE keyboard.
It is made by Logitech and you can find it at Office Max and Staples. It is wireles and came in a combo with a wirless mouse for about $75. It has well paid for itself!! for me!
About trying out keyboards
About the keyboard advice previously given, when you try them out, can you tell you like them right away or do they all feel a bit awkward? I'm just wondering how to know what I'll like best when picking one out.
Thanks for your ongoing help! 
Keyboards I tried out
I looked at keyboards yesterday and tried them (pretended to type) in the store. The ones they had with each hand's keys father apart (which is what I thought would be best) were big, bulky, with keys that stuck up too high and just felt awkward. The one that felt best was smaller ... more in order of a normal keyboard but curved a bit to accommodate more natural hand position.
Do you think this is an accurate assessment of what would work best for me, or would one get more used to the other type? Are there split keyboards that don't seem so bulky and awkward from the start?
Thanks. I really want a new keyboard, but I'm afraid I'll buy something I regret. Just not sure how to tell what's best. 
keyboards
I've been an MT for over 20 years and my shoulders and arms are feeling starting to feel it. I've been using a MS ergo keyboard for years now, but would like to invest is a super good keyboard. Anyone have one you particularly like? Anyone try one of those keyboards where you type sideways? TIA
keyboards
I have narrowed my selection of new keyboards down to the Microoft Natural Wireless 7000 and the Logitech cordless. I need speed and comfort. I will test drive each but until I do does anyone have any comments on either of these keyboards? TIA
i own like 5 keyboards
--for some reason, I don't know! I only use one for work. I must be a pack rat. I don't know about the locked keys, my idea was that one key was stuck, but she said the number keys work. I don't know whats up with that unless you have another keyboard hooked up with something pressing down on those keys.
Ergonomics/keyboards
I started using a split keyboard years ago. I love them. The first one I had was PC Concepts, I believe. When I finally wore that one out and went to get another, I couldn't find that brand. I got Microsoft's keyboard next. It's okay, although the #6 key is on the left, which I found to be true of all the split keyboards. My PC Concepts KB had the #6 on the right, which made more sense to me. I was never able to adjust to this, so I constructed a "bridge" for the #6 key. I have never been able to find a split keyboard with the #6 on the right. Does anyone know of one?
Also, I use my mouse too much and I'm starting to get pains. Yea!! So, I'm wondering, does anyone use a split keyboard with a built-in mousepad-thingy on the bottom of the keyboard? I was thinking about trying one of these next, but I hate to spend the $ w/o getting some opinions first. If you use one, what brand; do you like it; does it really work; any suggestions?
Thanks!!
ergonomic keyboards
Not only is it impossible to use, the salesperson was rude and difficult when I called for return instructions. Also, there was a money back guarantee on the website, but in small print "if refurbished, we cannot refund your money." And guess what, you don't know its refurbished until it arrives on your doorstep!! Needless to say, 350 bucks flushed down the toilet.
I recently ordered the "ergoflex" keyboard, and was wondering if anyone has tried this? It lets you rest each arm as far away as possible, which is what I need. I've been typing on two keyboards, one for the left, one for the right, and it just takes up too much space. I'm hoping this will help. To the poster below about keyboard testimonials, these could probably be secured to the end of your arm rests, and also on the web site they have separate arm rests that look real comfy you can adjust to your table top.
http://www.ergonomicresource.com/ergoflex.html
This does not work on all keyboards, someone tried it and
x
goldtouch keyboards anyone?
I did a search but came up empty handed, which I do not understand as I recall seeing Goldtouch mentioned before.
Are people generally happy with this keyboard?
Where can I get one of the split keyboards
I would love to have one, but the only ones I've seen are very expensive.
alternative keyboards
Is anybody using an alternative keyboard? I have seen some pretty nifty designs and wonder which one has the most sensitive touch. Any users of the kinesis contoured keyboard?? Please give your comments, as I am currently shopping...
How do you all clean your keyboards? SM
I eat and drink at my desk, as I'm sure most of us do. And of course, crumbs fall, drinks drip, and there's the dust. I was just wondering what everybody else uses to clean their keyboards. I have tried canned air to blow out the crumbs and then use alcohol on the surface and stick Q-Tips down in all the crevices and between the keys. Just wondered if there was some miracle solution that would make it easier and less time consuming?
Thanks to all who responded. I will look into these keyboards. nm
x
A4 Tech keyboards
Hi, I just ordered one of these keyboards. Supposedly they will increase your production and had really great reviews. I ordered the 2680RP model which is wireless keyboard and mouse. Just wondering if anyone else has used these and what they thought. Mine is supposed to be here today. Can't wait to try it out. Any info about them would be really appreciated.
This key is on all windows keyboards.
xx
CORDLESS KEYBOARDS
does anyone know of a good cordless keyboard, one where i could put in page inserts and do everything w/o the mouse. I have a Logitech which I am not happy with.
thanks
ergo keyboards
Is Goldtouch the name of company or the product...where can I get one online? thanks...sfm
Ergo keyboards sm
I know this has been discussed before, but I need opinions on the ergo keyboards, best, cost, why you like them. I'm considering going with the Kinesis but would like input on the other kinds out there as well. How is the Microsoft one? It's reasonably priced but when I looked at it at Staples, it didn't seem much different than the regular Dell I have now.
Favorite keyboards?
Need to get a new one...looking for suggestions....
About 1 to 1-1/2 years. I buy the $19.99 keyboards. sm
Can't see spending a lot of money on a keyboard.
Looking for opinions on keyboards sm
I like the keys on my keyboard to be easy to touch, not feeling like you have to bang them down to get a letter to appear. I've been reading about the ergonomic keyboards. What do you find comfortable? I looked on Amazon.com about the Microsoft 4000 Ergonomic keyboard and there were a lot of reviews, some of them saying that the keys were hard to press, especially the spacebar.
thanks 
I would like recommendations on keyboards
My ancient and well loved keyboard gave up the ghost a while back. This one is not making me any money. I am looking for a keyboard with a light touch and a little more space. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
TIA
I have one of the old Kinesis keyboards, sm
which I've never been able to use because I couldn't get any help with disabling its function keys so that I could use my expanders. Do you know how I might disable them?
I'd love to be able to use that keyboard. My CTS is really getting bad in both hands.
Thanks!
types of keyboards
I just recently purchased a Logitech wave computer, switched from the ergonomic ones I have used for years. This one was easy to adjust to, my spend is just as fast and yet the rest of the family can use it, they were so confused by the ergonomic ones. I just want to know who makes a keyboard that the letters do not wear off, have had this one only a month or two and the L is just about gone along with the S, E and N almost unrecognizible.
Do many of you use ergonomic keyboards?
a microsoft one I saw. I am just wondering if there is a adjustment period where it feels awkward or are any of you out there that just could not get used to them at all. I have been at this for many years, and I still have no hand/wrist problems. Could ya'll list the pros and cons. Thanks MTs!!! Have a good evening!
Do many of you use ergonomic keyboards?
a microsoft one I saw. I am just wondering if there is a adjustment period where it feels awkward or are any of you out there that just could not get used to them at all. I have been at this for many years, and I still have no hand/wrist problems. Could ya'll list the pros and cons. Thanks MTs!!! Have a good evening!
Do many of you use ergonomic keyboards?
a microsoft one I saw. I am just wondering if there is a adjustment period where it feels awkward or are any of you out there that just could not get used to them at all. I have been at this for many years, and I still have no hand/wrist problems. Could ya'll list the pros and cons. Thanks MTs!!! Have a good evening!
It posted, Jen. Those are some interesting keyboards! Thanks.
ss
That does look just like it. There are some keyboards I would love to try, especially the ones made
by Kinesis, but they are so darn expensive! Then if you can't adapt to it, your stuck having spent all that money. I wish they had demo models that you could try out before buying. Thanks for the link!!
There are keyboards that have a touch pad incorporated
in them. I think I've seen them with a tracker ball too.
I may have one. I've got a pile of keyboards and other
computer stuff I'm sorting through, trying to decide what to recycle, what to give to Goodwill, etc. I'll look tomorrow to be sure and let you know.
Gold touch keyboards
I have had mine for about a year now and I will never use any other kind. The touch on these keyboards are wonderful! You can't go wrong with a Gold touch.
Questions regarding ergo keyboards. (SM)
I saw the post below and looked at the Kinesis Classic keyboards. Wow, they are very different looking. I wonder how long it takes to get used to working with one of these...
What ergo keyboard do you like?
How long did it take to get used to it?
Any advantages over other keyboards?
How long until my wrists and hands stop hurting?
I'm seriously debating making this investment, but I have on idea where to start. Thanks so much for taking the time to help.
Black keyboards and key stickers here...
Don't know anything about how these keyboards are for longevity of letters/numbers on the keys, but here they are:
http://www.datacal.com/black-keyboards.htm
And here are replacement key cap overlays/stickers:
http://www.datacal.com/alpha-replacement-overlays.htm
And more keyboard stickers of all kinds:
http://www.datacal.com/catalog.htm#SoftOverlays
Are there ergo heated keyboards? nt
nt
Ergo Heated Keyboards
I'm afraid I haven't seen any ergonomic heated keyboards. In fact, I think there is only one heated style that's really out so far. I think there will be more soon though. Between cold offices, Raynaud's and more people using keyboards, something better should be along soon. In the meantime, the heated wrist rest http://www.raynauds.org/offers/ThermalRest.cfm looks like a possible alternative.
See now, I LOVE clacky keyboards!
I have to search long and hard to find one that has that snappy response and "clack" sound to the keys. I learned to type on an IBM Selectric and I can almost sense through my fingers and ears when I've misspelled a word. My husband loves the mushy silent keyboards, but I absolutely CANNOT STAND THEM! I've got a neato one going right now from Saitek that has lighted "clacky-ish" keys...I can choose from blue, red, or purple lights, which is pretty cool because I work at night and it makes me feel mildly psychadellic. Okay, not like mushroom psychadellic, but I can pretend. I got mine cheap cheap at Sam's Club, but here's a link for anyone interested in what it looks like:
http://www.crazypc.com/products/4184.html
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