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Logitech Cordless MediaBoard Pro  (Source: Image Via Logitech)
Logitech announces new Cordless MediaBoard Pro for PS3

Logitech announced an updated version of their Cordless MediaBoard for PS3 called the Cordless MediaBoard Pro today. The original MediaBoard used a matte silver finish, which did nothing to go along with the looks of the PS3.

With the updated Cordless MediaBoard Pro, Logitech uses a glossy black chassis for the keyboard that looks like it came with the PS3. The main difference between the new MediaBoard Pro and the old MediaBoard is in the connection of the keyboard to the PS3. The original MediaBoard uses a USB transceiver plugged into one of the PS3’s front USB ports.

The new Cordless MediaBoard Pro uses Bluetooth connectivity just like the Sony Sixaxis controllers so no USB adapter is required. If you are using your PS3 for media playback, you will be glad to hear that the MediaBoard Pro has a 10-meter wireless range. An integrated touchpad eliminates the need for a mouse.

Logitech also included an assortment of media keys to make accessing the web browser and movie menus easier. Power for the keyboard is via a pair of AA batteries that provide up to 200 hours of use. A two stage battery light shows when battery power is getting low.

 The Cordless MediaBoard Pro will be available in October for $79.99.

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Is it just me?
By MADAOO7 on 9/12/2007 5:25:50 PM , Rating: 2
Is it just me or do companies make their most simplistic devices, call them "chic and professional" and then charge ridiculous prices. You could buy a wireless keyboard AND mouse combo with more features from Logitech for ~$30 at Target.




RE: Is it just me?
By MADAOO7 on 9/12/2007 5:29:08 PM , Rating: 2
Furthermore, where's the NUM pad? ......o I forgot....it's a "Pro" keyboard. Then again, everyone knows that wireless keyboards have much better performance than their wired counterparts (sarcasm).....


RE: Is it just me?
By Moishe on 9/13/2007 7:39:38 AM , Rating: 3
This is not a regular keyboard. it's not intended to be used as a PC keyboard would be used. Yes, a number pad would be nice, but instead they gave it a track pad... which considering there is no mouse for the PS3 is really very useful. it also "looks" like the PS3, which some people will care about.

So in a way, this is just a keyboard and they're selling it for a premium because it's for the PS3. On the gripping hand, it's really a specialized custom KB for the PS3. Either way I don't see the problem.


RE: Is it just me?
By Etern205 on 9/14/2007 12:54:35 AM , Rating: 2
quote:
Yes, a number pad would be nice, but instead they gave it a track pad... which considering there is no mouse


I prefer a track ball.


RE: Is it just me?
By hrah20 on 9/14/2007 1:06:45 AM , Rating: 2
Can you imagine playing a fps game with this keyboard having no mouse?, nice idea,bad execution.


RE: Is it just me?
By XtremeM3 on 9/16/2007 2:54:37 AM , Rating: 2
Why wouldn't you have a mouse? Last time I checked I could have a keyboard and mouse plugged in at the same time...but maybe that's changed. Let me check. Yup. Still have both.
("...eliminates the need for a mouse..." does not mean "Eliminates the possibility of hooking up a mouse in conjuntion with this keyboard so you are FUBARed if you want a mouse.")

This specific keyboard is for media applications. While I'm only assuming that, as I have not spoken directly with the designers, I'm making that assumption based on the fact that the name of the keyboard contains the word "media." So pure assumption, please do not quote me on that.

I think it would make a nice Media center keyboard, because of the limited need for a mouse so the pad would work just fine w/o having to have a mouse connected as well. I think it's funny that a new product comes out and everyone is so quick to point out flaws and complain about it. Hey if you don't like it, don't buy it. There is a big difference between constructive critisism and just plain whining. (OMG!!11! ITS TEH SUXOR!!11ones)

Have a good one. (Man, I need more coffee)


RE: Is it just me?
By Murst on 9/12/2007 5:44:03 PM , Rating: 2
Please show me where I can get a bluetooth keyboard for $30. The only one I see on target.com is $110.


RE: Is it just me?
By MADAOO7 on 9/12/07, Rating: -1
RE: Is it just me?
By gramboh on 9/13/2007 12:54:03 AM , Rating: 2
Except with Bluetooth it will interface directly with the other Bluetooth device (e.g. PS3) without the need for a dongle. The PC ones need a dongle in a USB port to pick up the RF signal, that is the difference.


RE: Is it just me?
By Funksultan on 9/13/2007 7:57:39 AM , Rating: 3
Instead of clicking 4 times, you shoulda hit wikipedia and read the difference between RF and Bluetooth.

HUGE difference. RF blows, Bluetooth dominates.


RE: Is it just me?
By blwest on 9/13/2007 10:46:02 AM , Rating: 2
quote:
HUGE difference. RF blows, Bluetooth dominates.


You sir, are why marketing departments succeed. By the way Bluetooth uses RF (radio frequency) to transmit data. BT is 2.4ghz while RF keyboards/mice typically run at 27 MHz.

Actually, this couldn't be further from the truth. The 2.4 GHz spectrum is so crowded and such a poor frequency to pick for latency sensitive operations such as mousing. Simple things like cordless telephones, microwave ovens, 802.11 b/g wireless devices all share the 2.4 GHz spectrum. Do you actually own a blue tooth mouse? They're garbage, no matter who owns them. Logitech's Fast RF in ~27 MHz range dominates any bluetooth device for mousing.

If you have a bluetooth mouse, try firing up your cordless phone (2.4ghz, of course), or tossing something in the microwave, your mouse WILL lag and become worthless. I know that I'm not the only one with this problem, read the Newegg customer reviews on any bluetooth mouse.


RE: Is it just me?
By PrinceGaz on 9/13/2007 10:53:17 AM , Rating: 2
+1


RE: Is it just me?
By Truxy on 9/13/2007 11:50:57 AM , Rating: 2
While not trying to be biased for Bluetooth, I can attest that it does just seem to work better. I do IT work for dental offices, and regular RF wireless keyboard/mice packages have a range of about 7-8 feet before becoming useless. The offices generally have a lot of metallic instruments scattered between the receiver and the keyboard/mouse, but nothing that transmits wireless signals. As the 7-8 foot range became a problem we tried a Bluetooth package and it's pretty much completely solved the problem, I've tested it across the room from about 20 feet with no problems.
Downsides: Not a simple setup (ie plug and play) like regular USB/PS2 is. When idle, the ones I've installed have had a sort of 'sleep mode' after a while, where they take a few seconds to re-initiate themselves on movement/keypress. Overly expensive, they're obviously making a killing here.


RE: Is it just me?
By Yawgm0th on 9/13/2007 8:15:46 AM , Rating: 4
If you think Bluetooth and RF are the same, then you really don't understand what you're talking about and probably shouldn't be arguing.


RE: Is it just me?
By Cogman on 9/14/2007 10:00:58 AM , Rating: 2
If you think they are different things, you have no right to be criticizing others. Bluetooth IS an RF standard. RF stands for Radio Frequency. So class, how does bluetooth work? Does it use really fast fairies? light? Sonic the Hedgehog? Nope it uses a Radio Frequency.

While an RF device is not necessarily Bluetooth, Bluetooth IS an RF device. I would love to see what you believe that would make Bluetooth not an RF device.


RE: Is it just me?
By Murst on 9/14/2007 10:23:24 AM , Rating: 2
Who cares about the method of transfer? It is the protocol that matters. If I get an RF keyboard, there is no way in hell I can make it work out of the box with a PS3.

If you're buying a printer, and do not have a parallel port in your computer, are you going to buy a printer that interfaces via a parallel port? Of course not. Sure, you can buy adapters that make it work, but why not just buy a USB printer and have it work right out of the box? Are you also going to argue that parallel and USB are the same thing?

This keyboard is intended to work with bluetooth devices. An RF keyboard is not. It is amazing that people will argue it is the same thing.


RE: Is it just me?
By Cogman on 9/15/2007 10:03:55 AM , Rating: 2
I'm not arguing that RF devices will work with bluetooth, I realize that is not true. What I am arguing is that it is dumb to say "Bluetooth is not RF" Thats like saying "A printer that uses a USB cable doesn't use wires" or "An Ethernet cable is not a collection of wires"

Furthermore, when comments try to dismiss others comments because they are ill informed for saying that *gasp* Bluetooth is an RF standard, I see idiocy. I think that the argument of a bluetooth keyboard being an RF device stems from someone making the comment that it is UBER better because it uses bluetooth. But because Bluetooth is an RF standard, bluetooth is subject to the exact same follies and problems that any RF device will have.

One last time, I'm NOT argueing that everyone should use parallel port printers because they are the same as USB printers (Both using cables). Im arguing against the retards that would say that a USB printer doesn't use cables, or has Uber performance compared to its Parallel port counter part.


RE: Is it just me?
By PrinceGaz on 9/13/2007 10:52:19 AM , Rating: 1
If anyone here is considering buying the Logitech EX110 cordless keyboard & mouse due to it seeming to be good value, my advice is don't.

I picked one up in the local Tesco supermarket a few months ago for £18. The mouse was dreadful- prone to occasional pointer-creep when stationery, and random jumps to the side of the screen. As for the keyboard, I can't say much because it was DOA, but that certainly doesn't bode well for it.

I ended up exchanging it for a Logitech LX5 cordless mouse (only) and I'm glad I did. That mouse, whilst not in the same league as laser-mice, is far superior to the one included in the EX110 set. It has never once exhibited either pointer-creep or jumps, and is sensitive enough for most users. Range is adequate at over twelve foot, and there are no issues with responsiveness (provided you remember to position the receiver at least six inches from other interference generating devices). I can't comment on battery life as I stuck a pair of AA NiMH cells in instead of the recommended alkaline, and they lasted about three months of fairly intensive daily use before giving the low battery warning (and that's without ever using the manual 'off' button). It's worth noting that it can run on one AA cell if you prefer a slightly lighter mouse as it actually connects the two cells in parallel.

So as I say, don't buy the EX110. In my experience it is junk, and apparently the included mouse eats through batteries like there is no tomorrow.


RE: Is it just me?
By boardstrapd on 9/12/2007 8:43:41 PM , Rating: 2
It's just you, especially since the 1st version of this keyboard cost the same but used 2.4ghz RF instead of the better Bluetooth. $30 combos are more for desktop use and don't work well as a media keyboard. Also, it's targeted for PS3, so what would a num-pad be needed for? Given the choice, I'll gladly take a touchpad over a keypad on a media keyboard used in a living room. Keeps it small, and no need for a mouse.


RE: Is it just me?
By TomZ on 9/12/2007 9:20:02 PM , Rating: 2
What is better about Bluetooth compared to 2.4GHz RF?

From what I've seen, Bluetooth may be technically better, but it seems that most 2.4GHz wireless keyboard sets outperform similar Bluetooth sets in terms of reliability and battery life.

What's your experience?


RE: Is it just me?
By Samus on 9/12/2007 11:32:49 PM , Rating: 2
range and battery life of bluetooth is far superior.


RE: Is it just me?
By s3th2000 on 9/13/2007 2:58:39 AM , Rating: 2
I dunno about the wireless keyboards, but Logitech MX1000 mouse has huge range (and is 2.4ghz not bluetooth). I dont know the exact range, but it is more than enough so that at its limit, you would barely be able to read anything on the tv. When was the last time you used a keyboard/mouse on the tv standing 10m away? I guess the only advantage of bluetooth is if you have other b/t devices connected, it saves one more plug...


RE: Is it just me?
By phattyboombatty on 9/13/2007 9:58:44 AM , Rating: 2
You're assuming that the wireless receiver is in the same location as the TV being watched, which is not the case in a lot of setups.


RE: Is it just me?
By PrinceGaz on 9/13/2007 11:01:02 AM , Rating: 2
It is perhaps worth noting at this point, that Bluetooth actually uses 2.4GHz RF. They both use the same radio frequency band. The only difference is that Bluetooth devices use a standardised protocol, whereas generic 2.4GHz RF devices can use whatever proprietary protocol the manufacturer chooses.

Assuming it is well designed, a 2.4GHz RF device will perform every bit as good as Bluetooth, and possibly better because the manufacturer can use a transmission protocol best suited to the device in question.


PC/MAC compatible?
By ninjit on 9/12/2007 5:14:17 PM , Rating: 2
I hope it can be used outside of a PS3.

A nice cordless keyboard with inbuilt touchpad is exactly what I've been looking for to use with my Media Center PC.




RE: PC/MAC compatible?
By cityplannerx on 9/12/2007 5:23:17 PM , Rating: 2
X2

I have been looking for a keyboard with touchpad for my HTPC also.


RE: PC/MAC compatible?
By othercents on 9/12/2007 5:42:12 PM , Rating: 1
The diNovo has a touch pad on it, and it is bluetooth.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N8...

Other


RE: PC/MAC compatible?
By walk2k on 9/12/07, Rating: -1
RE: PC/MAC compatible?
By rsasp on 9/12/2007 7:20:10 PM , Rating: 3
yea there is, look closely


RE: PC/MAC compatible?
By kkwst2 on 9/12/2007 8:01:53 PM , Rating: 4
Looks like from the picture that the Esc key doubles as the x, the F1 and F2 and the triangle and square, and the enter key as the circle.

A little too much coffee today? You seem a little on edge.


RE: PC/MAC compatible?
By walk2k on 9/12/07, Rating: -1
RE: PC/MAC compatible?
By omnicronx on 9/12/2007 10:52:03 PM , Rating: 2
look between the ctrl and alt on the right side.. those look like they could be something to me.. or there could be a shortcut key or something


Nice
By Murst on 9/12/2007 5:17:38 PM , Rating: 2
I've been looking for a keyboard for the PS3. Hopefully this has a USB port on it so that we can plug in a mouse and not use a touchpad.




RE: Nice
By Zandros on 9/12/2007 6:05:50 PM , Rating: 2
USB hubs are seldom placed on devices using Bluetooth connectivity.


RE: Nice
By walk2k on 9/12/2007 6:55:28 PM , Rating: 2
You can plug in a USB mouse and use both at the same time actually.


RE: Nice
By daftrok on 9/12/2007 9:52:20 PM , Rating: 2
Or just use the trackpad, really it isn't that bad for web browsing, its better than the analog stick


RE: Nice
By Moishe on 9/13/2007 7:43:37 AM , Rating: 2
If they would let you plug in a mouse... then FPS on the PS3 just became a lot more interesting.

I think that one of the main reasons why I prefer PC gaming is the control scheme. The consoles have no excuse about not offering that same control scheme (for a price) as an alternate.


RE: Nice
By OxBow on 9/13/2007 1:16:43 PM , Rating: 2
UTIII is supposed to support keyboard/mouse use on the PS3.

I'm so looking forward to that.


They're not getting any more of my money.
By Director on 9/13/2007 1:23:40 AM , Rating: 3
I paid $320 (AUD) for the DiNovo bluetooth to replace the failed MX5000 desktop from before it. ATM I'm using a $30 keyboard aas the DiNovo one just wont work. I STRONGLY suggest that anyone considering one of these things shouls visit the Logitech support forums first. ;-)




RE: They're not getting any more of my money.
By Lazarus Dark on 9/13/2007 6:07:59 AM , Rating: 2
I got the Dinovo Edge the week it came out. No problems whatsoever. Coolest keyboard ever and quite functional. Especially since I prefer laptop style keyboards and touchpads.


By Director on 9/13/2007 5:31:42 PM , Rating: 2
Glad you lucked out. ;-)


Games?!
By oldman42 on 9/13/2007 12:12:46 AM , Rating: 2
Any chance this will work with games? I'm tired of watching console FPSes pass me by 'cos my thumbs are too gimpy to play with the sticks. 1000s of gaming dollars went elsewhere from me and most people I know simply 'cos the keyboard support was awful on PS2.




RE: Games?!
By OxBow on 9/13/2007 1:23:52 PM , Rating: 2
ditto


Im waiting for...
By TimberJon on 9/13/2007 11:57:02 AM , Rating: 2
The Logitech Wave, wireless or not.. Its full of functionality.

I'll probably go with the corded one, just because I dont need the other mouse.

This bluetooth crap is... crap! Why would I need bluetooth when I dont use a wireless keyboard at all.. and an RF board would function better? This MUST be for PPC or notebook users. If it even integrates... it would be very nice for the HTC 8525. Kind of hard to type on that thing.




RE: Im waiting for...
By Murst on 9/13/2007 12:47:52 PM , Rating: 2
quote:
Why would I need bluetooth when I dont use a wireless keyboard at all


Just because you don't use bluetooth, it certainly doesn't make it crap. For example, I don't play guitar, but does that mean all guitars are crap? Maybe one day you'll realize that there's other people in the world, and not every product is meant for you.

quote:
This MUST be for PPC or notebook users


I'm not sure how you could miss that it is developed with PS3 owners in mind from the article.

Now that I think about it... why would you even think that a wireless keyboard would be targeted at notebook users in the first place?


Glad to see a Bluetooth Version
By SirLucius on 9/12/2007 10:18:07 PM , Rating: 2
I was looking to get the original wireless version of this keyboard but I was a little discouraged by the lack of Bluetooth. I know that generally the RF devices perform better, but I wanted to keep a USB port or 2 free as I usually have things plugged into my PS3. Plus the price is great. $80 for a BT keyboard is a really good deal. Most other decent keyboards I've seen go for $110+.

One thing that will be interesting to see is how well a keyboard like this performs for gaming when (hopefully) Sony starts rolling out games with keyboard and mouse support. I know it's a wireless media keyboard, so I'm not expecting much, but it would be so nice to be able to toss my old wired keyboard I'm currently using. Downsizing ftw.




Wish they made one for the pc
By s3th2000 on 9/13/2007 3:03:37 AM , Rating: 2
I wish they added a touchpad to the g15, that would be nice. Even tho it wouldn't be for gaming, i use my g15 for everything including typing. A touchpad would make it easier to edit some things without having to switch between mouse and keyboard. But then again, maybe its just me being lazy :P




Cool
By kloker on 9/13/2007 6:55:30 AM , Rating: 2
Logitech always astonishes to us with very functional
products.
I think that this it will not be less. The PS3 players you would agradeceran it.
http://www.islabit.com




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