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Ars Technica Reviews Controller Keyboard

Posted by ryuzaki0 on from the unique-is-an-understatement dept.

phaedo00 writes "Ars Technica has reviewed the AlphaGrip AG-5 handheld keyboard and mouse. From the article: 'After lots of research and five revisions, the perfectionists at AlphaGrip finally decided that they had a product worthy of marketing, and they released the long awaited AG-5. Although the AG-5 looks strange and intimidating, it is a unique and highly innovative product that deserves consideration, particularly by mobile computing enthusiasts. The AG-5 interfaces with computers via a single removable USB cable. It uses a simple chord-like keyboarding model and an integrated trackball to provide complete keyboard and mouse functionality in a unique form factor that looks a bit like a console gaming controller.'"

4 of 150 comments (clear)

  1. But what I want to know... by solarbob · · Score: 4, Interesting

    ...Is how is it going to effect people with RSI. Having something which looks relativly heavy and having to hold it up for a longish period at a time isn't going to be good for your wrists (not that a keyboard is much better tbh)

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    SolarVPS - Quality Windows and Linux Virtual Servers
  2. Engelbart Chord Keyset by daddyrief · · Score: 3, Interesting

    That thing looks like a beast.

    This is Offtopic, but maybe someone here would know...

    I've been looking to get a chord keyset similar to the 5-key style that Engelbart created. Picture. I vaguely remember seeing one or two products when i looked a few months back, but nowhere could i find a purchase link.

    I guess the question is: does anyone know where i could buy a chord keyset? Maybe some uber-nerdy slashdotter has one laying around i can buy?

    --
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  3. Re:Real geeks won't use it by mrsev · · Score: 3, Interesting

    Your two hands comment is actually very correct. This many provide a useful tool for people who type alot of the time in a "conventional" manner but most of the time I am doing other things with one of my hands (I can predict the replies to this part of my comment). I like to eat, drink, hold up a piece of paper or hold one of my kids on my lap. Plus my kids will be pissed that it does not seem to be able fit their hands very well.

    On the whole a good idea and a great device for alot of people but not for me.

  4. Looks good for VR by bigpat · · Score: 3, Interesting

    Using the headtracking on my Z800 to full effect has been a challenge, since I have been largely stuck using the keyboard for FPS gaming. But this thing could really give me some extra freedom of movement. Just need a long enough USB cable and I should be able to manage the cables well enough to do a few 360 degree turns without getting too tangled.

    I tried a wireless programmable controller, but the batteries didn't last very long and their seemed to be some latency. This thing should provide all the keyboard commands you could ever need.