Bluetooth? Not in my mouth, but on my computer! Logitech's Bluetooth MX Keyboard/Mouse.
Written: Mar 03 '05 (Updated Apr 11 '07)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: BLUETOOTH, 10 METER RANGE, EXTENDED BATTERY LIFE IN THE KEYBOARD, THE-FEATURES-OF-MY-MX-KEYBOARD-KEYS
Cons: AT THIS POINT, I'M STILL DROOLING OVER IT!
The Bottom Line: My five years experience using different Logitech wireless combos, mice and webcams finds Logitech products great. They continually update software and hardware keeping their products the best available.
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| alexanderaku's Full Review: Logitech Cordless Desktop MX for Bluetooth (967301... |
2/22/2005
First, (tongue in cheek) I must say the correct category title here under keyboards at Epinions should read Logitech Cordless Desktop MX for Bluetooth #967301-0403, but that one is thoughtfully under Trackballs and Mice with no description under Details. I'll just scribble here, where the Details do list if not totally correct (price range is $100-$200), and with a category title that suggests a rather meager and simple keyboard only. However, I will mention the major Bluetooth features this product has. Now, if you were searching and found a listing for this product as Sony, don't worry yourself looking to Sony for it. It is a Logitech product, as it is stated there below More Information under Details there, although the Sony name is a fine one. I've also left a link at an Express review under the Logitech Open Box version as it was the only proper match appearing under the most usual searches, most people interested in this product type would use. There were no details under that category and (chuckle) you do have to open the box to use the product. Now that I have thorally confused you, if you've bothered to click on the links (Heh, Heh), on we go.
Am I Howling mad?
After I finished writing my last review on the Logitech MX DUO keyboard and mouse, I caught the Bluetooth fever. Poor sap that I am, I knew I wouldn't cool off until I visited a few sites for current prices and better descriptions from Logitech and merchants. This was originally a setup from Logitech in the $200 range and that in itself should have a cooling effect.
Low and behold, what I saw was, the people at Logitech had actually granted my wish of putting 4 AA batteries back into the new keyboard. BINGO! My fever began to soar. That means this keyboards batteries might last 2 years or so, like my 3 yr. old Logitech Cordless Freedom keyboard's batteries lasted. Then I read Logitech's words of 10 meter performance. Shaking badly now, with the knowledge this is about thirty feet, I began quivering from deep within. Now I knew that Bluetooth monkey on my back was in need of a quick fix, and trying to bite my right arm off at the elbow before I could find it or get to my wallet. My lower lip was trembling, I was drooling over my latest Logitech wireless MX keyboard, and sweat was now rolling down from my forehead as I continued to read. Aaaaoool!
Just a Tech junkie, or CRAZY LIKE A FOX?
Then I found it! New Egg was retailing my medicine at $115 plus shipping for a total of $121. That really tore a roughly $80 plug out of the original prices. Cha Ching! Out flew my trusty credit card as I knew I could have no relief until I entered my information to complete the sale. Ahhhh! I started feeling better as I cooled down after the transaction, even more so as I thought more of the Bluetooth features I would soon have.
Now wait a minute, I know I could have just bought a Bluetooth PC card. But really now, this is a much better solution with the added peripherals, and I've got about every PCI slot filled in this computer anyway. Why take a chance on how well that might work beside my USR5416 Wireless Card using IRQs there? Also, I know that Bluetooth receiver will just work better somewhere toward the front of my computer than using a tiny antenna on a PCI card in back of it.
Yep, it's got support for those products I've been revving up for - the new Bluetooth cellphone I'm about to purchase (the Motorola V3 RAZR, when I become eligible for my Cingular discount next month), and all those other gadgets like Bluetooth headphones and the rest I've been pining for, but holding back on.
Trepidation or rawhiding ahead?
I may have still jumped in a bit early - as I began downloading the latest software from Logitech, although Bluetooth isn't that new now. I say this because I noticed the latest Logitech Bluetooth keyboard software download (SetPoint V2.22 50Mb.) lists fixes and bugs, and support for Windows Media Player 9 (I have the new Media Player 10). It reminded me of the initial software flaws the Logitech MX DUO had. I continued to read and download. Guess what? The Mouseware is now included in that first download. What! Here's three more downloads, one for Easy Bluetooth messaging, Easy Bluetooth Synchronization, and Logitech Desktop Manager. I really like the sound of easy and I will use them. With my Alltel DSL this was an effortless download session lasting only a few minutes.
As I slowly regain my composure I will continue this review after the delivery of my new Bluetooth baby. I have to wonder will the Tooth Fairy still visit after seeing this "blue tooth" as I continue to sweat its arrival?
2/23/2005
Bluetooth or Why this product leaves most others behind:
Well, not one to rest on my laurels, sitting quietly like Whistler's mother, I will start by telling you just what Bluetooth is and why it is so enticing - before my purchase arrives. Hey, maybe writing will help satisfy that monkey. I know I'll be glad to have the cure in my hands and I'll feel much better when he jumps on someone else's back. My standard disclaimer is this; Warning: If you are susceptible, stop reading now!
Bluetooth is a method of wireless communication utilizing the 2.0-2.45GHz. frequency band much the same as a cordless telephone or that wireless PC card. However, it frequency hops across 79 channels at a rate of about 1600 times per second, reading and comparing bits of information in two tier levels. This means interference from other devices is kept to a minimum. It also exchanges information at 1Mbps. which is about the same as slower broadband connections, which isn't shabby at all. The range of Bluetooth is about 10 meters (or 30 feet) as limited by current power constraints. This all means you wouldn't want an infrastructure wireless computer network set up this way - but for close proximity cellphone interaction, PDA's, and new electronics equipment such as headphones and multimedia players, it is a great method for them all to interact and at the same time. Imagine a Bluetooth TV, VCR, DVD, cellphone, media computer, and printer. These devices could all communicate wireless with each other without any setup other than you telling them to do so once. Remember how well you liked that RF (radio frequency) remote in comparison to IR (infrared)? This is better, as it can offer a total control solution without any wires for other than the power on those non-battery powered units! Hey, that can end a myriad of wires in my home with the conversion to Bluetooth devices, except for my higher end surround sound's speaker wiring. Remember those Sci-Fi movies where the person walks into their room and announces a number of things they want and it instantly happens? That day is here and growing closer for everyone.
Rats! When is my Bluetooth remote coming? FedEx had better deliver it Monday.
Well you didn't stop reading before, so read on!
3/3/2005
I decided to stop writing a few days after my install on Feb. 28, so I would have a better feel for this setup. I also purchased a new Motorola Razr V3 Bluetooth phone that day but had to stop delivery and re-order it, in order to take advantage of a $150 dollar savings in a sale that appeared 12 hours later at Cingular. This will prevent my checking the Synchronization software for now, but I will update when I get the re-ordered phone (at that $150 Discount).
The Keyboard, Mouse and Receiver:
* Note that this is the latest current Logitech hardware version offered and be sure to check for this number: 967301-0403 before purchase. I'm telling you this now as there are other Logitech models that look very similar, but are not the same as this model. Some of those earlier versions may be quite different from this keyboard and its rechargeable MX 900 mouse. So don't get confused in a purchase.
The keyboard is an improved version of Logitech's Elite MX DUO keyboard, appearing much the same with all the same keys I mention in my review of the MX DUO. The major differences here, respectively, are the Bluetooth communications and the 4 AA batteries it uses for improved distance and battery life. It is also gray and a closer match to my Antec SX1040B tower than my MX Duo was and it lack the shiny plastic panels at the top corners under those function keys. The look is an improvement in my eyes and the keys are, again, well marked. The feel is the same as the MX Duo keyboard's good key press feel was requiring light short travel key presses.
This keyboard is known as an Internet keyboard for the style of its added keys across its upper body and is Logitech's Elite model. Eight of those keys can be set to open anything you wish with an entry you can type in the setup program to change the default with any of four main and more different selections you can make, any time you want. The main selections are website, program, menu, and keystroke - with a few more for customizing the E-Mail, Favorites, and Messenger keys. The media keys, which operate sound, track movement, stop, pause, forward, and mute cannot be changed. The media button does list all players on your system, when pressed, asking for your choice of player to open. The sleep button is programmed under Windows Power Options for sleep or standby. As you can see, these key options make navigation from this keyboard very quick.
What you will not see here are any glowing lights warning of key settings such as capital locks, scroll locks, number locks, or the F=lock key function position. This of course would be a drain on battery life. What you will see is a green on screen descriptive prompt on you monitor for a few seconds, when the function keys are pressed, to advise you of status. This is the same with all the non-standard keys and the volume roller. The variation here is red for the mute button when on and green when off as it is pressed.
The left hand pod function and look is identical to that of the MX DUO except for the scroll wheel which functions differently now.
The lower button here brings up an "Open" box just as the same button on the MX DUO did, however, the box no longer contains the prefix http://www. Simply typing any website name, such as epinions.com, and pressing the enter key, will take you to the site. The center button is identical in function to the earlier model, being a browser back button, or forward when used in conjunction with the Shift key.
The scroll wheel no longer brings up a function menu when pressed, instead it is set from the keyboard configuration. The default setting allows it to scroll pages or when pressed to change the type sizing on the page you are viewing. I noticed one change I made in it from default, caused the scroll wheel on the mouse to stop working. (Most likely a software bug.)
The mouse is also very similar in appearance and function to the MX 700 rechargeable mouse. The major difference here seems to be increased battery life from the Bluetooth technology and its better range. It also has the same programmable 8 buttons the MX 700 had with the non-programmable right click. The variation in their selectable function is also the same. The mouse is designed for right hand use and is a bit awkward for use with the left but still usable. Of course, the light on it for charging (flashing green), needing charging (flashing red), and charged (no light) are the same as the MX 700. All this reflects the good design the MX 700 already had. The finish on this one seems to be an improvement, as it has what looks to be an added shiny coating to that painted surface that wore off on my MX Duo mouse.
Again with the receiver/charger you will see a striking resemblance to the MX 700's receiver/charger in attachment, but only using one PS/2 connection and the wall outlet chargers connection with a USB connection for the mouse. Lights and its single button for operation are also the roughly the same with two operation lights normally on, one indicator light showing if the capital lock is on, and what is now a blue lighted center button for clearing the connection information in the receiver and making a new connection.
Battery life:
After several complete charges, the supplied 1800ma. batteries charge life has improved, decidedly so on mine (1500-1900ma batteries recommended by Logitech). In a good estimation, after my 4 days of use, they can be expected to last a full work day without charging - possibly longer. I would suggest just getting in the habit of using the receiver/charger, which isn't a hard thing to do. Here too, as with the MX 700 mouse, battery life will increase by simply using a white or light colored mouse pad. As for the keyboard's battery life, I would think at least a year or so, but it's too early to tell.
The Software:
Here are the major differences beyond the MX Duo software. The new software now combines the keyboard and mouseware software into one installer package. This makes rebooting after the install a one time event. It provides a nice GUI, with good help if needed, that will easily walk you through your setup. No more awkward setup or long procedure steps here, as with the MX Duo and others. The added Synchronization, Messaging, and Logitech desktop software provides for the following and more.
During setup, You are asked to press the keyboard reset in back and then the receiver/charger's blue lighted button. You are then prompted to enter a four digit number for your keyboard to be secure - much easier than the MX DUO requires.
One icon for this software installs to the taskbar for easy checking on and control of the keyboard and mouse functions.
Two more icons will appear on the taskbar as you install all the software, one for easy messaging, and another for Bluetooth. The options here are numerous and complete in my opinion. Just too many to list or explain in this already long review.
Hewlet Packard and others have Bluetooth capable printers which will require only the wall outlet power connection, allowing them to be placed across the room and out of the way, if needed. Cell phones will all eventually have Bluetooth capability and many already are. The included Bluetooth software and a Bluetooth cell phone allows for easy synchronization of calenders, phone books, and anything else on your phone. You also can use your computer keyboard to send messages, view your phone's screen on your computer monitor, or use your phone as a modem (with the proper phone service), all with no wires. The same applies for new Bluetooth PDA's, and other Bluetooth devices. The sky is the limit as more electronics begin to use this technology.
As you can tell the install went smoothly and despite what appeared to be a small bug in the software, I noted above, I have every reason to believe I will see flawless communications with my new cellphone (when I receive it). I base this on how well the Bluetooth discovery went for the keyboard and mouse which was quick, taking only a few seconds during the install. I have also noted the communications, after that initial install discovery, are instantaneous between my computer and the keyboard and mouse (even only a few seconds after a complete power cycling). This does not mean you will have to wait to use the keyboard after boot-up during a normal power-up. I have seen no interference from or with my 2.4GHz. USR wireless G 125Mb network equipment (USR5450 access point, USR8022 Gateway, and USR5416 PCI cards) or my cordless phone, so that Bluetooth frequency hopping is working quite well.
Conclusions:
Bluetooth is a technological breakthrough that is of huge benefit for anyone with interest in the equipment I have already mentioned. The technology works and provides numerous advantages that will increase greatly in time. For Media computers this can be an invaluable aid. For the businessman, in today's world, it already is a time saver of importance (note PCs and laptops have already appeared with Bluetooth built in). Should you buy one? Why not? It will only make life easier to have the proper tools, and the ergonomics of this keyboard and mouse are excellent along with this hardware and software's performance. How well do I like it? It blows all the competition away, even the excellent Logitech MX Duo I was using.
***Update 3/21/2005***
As I suspected, this Logitech hardware's software works well with my new Motorola Razr V3 cell phone from Cingular. The communications are a snap. While the Razr V3 is not listed in the Logitech software's supported phones as yet, most of the features listed do work. I am able to use it as a computer modem, send/receive data, faxes, or messages, and to send or receive pictures and ringtones (mp3's) to and from the phone - all using the Bluetooth connections provided on my computer using this keyboard's Logitech software and hardware. I can also answer and text message using the phone from my computer. While I do not as yet have Motorola's software at this time, I do feel the Logitech mobile phone suite synchronization feature will also work when it is installed. That will allow me to edit and backup my 1000 number phone book in the Razr V3 also using my computer just as I did with my earlier Nokia phones. For now, I've just become insufferable with my screensavers, mp3 ring tones, and individual pictures assigned to names, I installed to my new phone. (Chuckle) I have edited (modified) the pictures of many of my friends to appear on my phone as "Wanted" posters, police "mug shots" and such - when they call or are called.
***Update 4/11/2007***
Logitech has now supplied software for use of this keyboard and mouse with Vista 32-bit and Vista 64-bit operating systems. Bluetooth has also been updated and the setup is now fully functional within these OS. I'm using mine with Vista Ultimate x64 as I write this. The link for the new Vista software is here, just pick the one you need for x32 or x64 Vista and follow the instructions for installation.
http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/downloads/software/US/EN,CRID=1796,contentid=7693
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 121
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