I wasn't sure what to make of the CombiMouse keyboard when I first noticed it on ShinyShiny.tv. But, I imagine that it will add another great option to the ergonomic keyboards on the market today.
The CombiMouse is just as the name suggests: a combination keyboard and mouse. On the left is the stationary QWERTY keyboard; On the right, is the mobile keyboard, which also feels/acts as a mouse. Then the keys I, O, J, K, L and < become mouse click buttons. To switch from keyboard to mouse, you simply press the Contact button located on the side.
A prototype of the CombiMouse was invented and patented by CEO Ari Zagnoev, and developed by Wichita State University. It is supposed to provide computer users with "instant and effortless transition between keyboard and mouse operation without the need for the user to move their hand away from the keyboard." (Of course, if you want that, you can always opt for the HoverMouse I mentioned last week.) It is also said to eliminate shoulder abduction.
The CombiMouse will work with both a desktop and notebook computer. But what about lefties? Well, currently the team is working on that.
In April 2006, the last prototype was completed, so expect the CombiMouse to launch (hopefully) soon. I know that I can't wait to review one!! I'll keep you posted when I find out its availability.
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May 31, 2006 11:42 AM
this is a cool keyboard
May 31, 2006 8:35 PM
I don't think the Cad and Graphics Users will like it. Cad and Graphics users uses the mouse more extensively than the keyboard itself, mouse movement is a must and alot of mouse movement, the optical mouse is really good, allows movement more freely and accurately. As a Cad and Graphics user, I don't think i'll like this keyboard+mouse myself.
June 1, 2006 10:56 AM
Aproximately 10% of the USA population is left-handed. This won't work well for us.
June 1, 2006 11:46 AM
Back in the early 90's several of us got together over beers and decided the keyboard/mouse combo was inefficient. We "designed" (over much beer) a solution. We didn't need a mouse, we needed a desk weasel! Our idea was to put a mouse ball on the bottom of the keyboard with some additional mouse bottons near the space bar. Thus you would just move the whole keyboard around the desktop to move the mouse. This would work well for lefties in addition to righties. Well, it seemed like a good idea at the time...
June 1, 2006 12:03 PM
Look at the dinky, little return and shift keys. I might be interested in trying one if the price isn't too outrageous. I think they might sell a bunch at $60, but not $100. I've always hated having to reach over past the numeric keypad to get to my mouse.
June 1, 2006 12:24 PM
I had to double check the calendar! No, it is not April 1st.
June 2, 2006 1:06 AM
Given how much my shoulders hurt on any given day, I'd like to give the CombiMouse a try. I already have two mice (left and right) on my system so I can rest which ever shoulder feels the worst.