http://www.microsoft.com/TechNet/hw/kbqa.htm (PC Press Internet CD, 03/1996)
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Our experience with the success of the Microsoft Mouse 2.0 showed us that there are a large group of users who are interested in well designed, comfortable peripherals for their computer. In interviews with these customers Microsoft learned that the number one concern of these users was the comfort of their keyboard.
Why is this a better keyboard?
The Microsoft Natural Keyboard is the result of extensive ergonomic, market and usability research that results in a keyboard which is responsibly designed for greater comfort. This means that the design promotes a more natural posture for typing. The Microsoft Natural Keyboard also includes extensive information to help the user manage their computing environment and comes with powerful, easy to use new keys and software that make it simple to control the Windows interface from the keyboard.
What does natural posture mean?
A natural posture for typing is a straight wrist position that also supports a relaxed shoulder and forearm posture. This means that, if you were to rest your hands in front of you on your desk the keyboard should fit comfortably underneath. The keyboard also has the appropriate adjustability to allow the user to maintain a straighter wrist posture by using the Wrist Leveler underneath the palm rest.
How long does it take to get used to?
Formally trained touch typists seem to adjust quickest, hunt and peck or self taught typists have to unlearn cross over habits which appears to take from one to three days to fully adapt.
Does this keyboard cure or prevent Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI) like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or Tendinitis?
No. Microsoft makes no claim that this keyboard either cures or prevents RSI.
What do the new keys do?
The two new Windows keys make it a simple two key operation to switch to running applications or launch new applications. The applications key will be used by new applications to provide short cut menus to the user, effectively mimicking the functionality of the right mouse button in some applications today. The new keys become even more useful in future versions of the Windows operating system.
Why are there warning labels on the keyboard?
The warning labels are intended to notify the user that they should read the setup and use information on the underside label, the User's Guide and/or the on-line documentation to properly use the keyboard. The labels and documentation are meant to educate the user about how they should manage their computing environment to help reduce the workplace risks of repetitive stress injuries.
What does the user need to do to manage their computing environment?
It is useful to use the analogy of cholesterol to understand how keyboard use needs to be managed. Each individual has a particular cholesterol level that their doctor will tell them to manage with diet, exercise and frequent check ups in order to reduce the associated risks of cholesterol with heart disease. Keyboard use should be similarly managed in order to help reduce the associated risks of keyboard use with repetitive stress injuries. A keyboard user should reduce the constant duration of their typing with frequent breaks and the user should setup their keyboard, desk and chair to achieve a straighter wrist posture while typing. The information in the warning labels and in the documentation also recommends to use a light touch while typing, to use the palm rest to rest your hands in between typing and to consult a qualified health professional if the user feels any aching, numbing, or tingling in their arms, wrists or hands.
Does the market really exist for this keyboard?
The keyboard evolved through extensive market research and customer involvement from concept to the final design nuances. Microsoft believes the market opportunity is substantial for a Windows centric keyboard that addresses people's comfort and productivity concerns.
Who will buy this keyboard?
The user who already customizes their workspace for comfort. They may have a palm rest, a monitor stand, ergonomic furniture or a Microsoft Mouse for instance. This keyboard comes with greater comfort and Windows productivity benefits for a very affordable price. Microsoft is a registered trademark and Natural Keyboard and Windows are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
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