COMPUTER ADVICE: As promised, we now post James Derk's computer column each Tuesday on Biz Waves. His column previously ran for several years in Thursday's Business section. Derk is a former newspaper reporter turned computer geek who now owns and runs a computer repair service in Evansville, Indiana. In addition to handling a household full of adopted children, Derk deals daily with his clients' computer troubles and disasters, and offers genuine advice with the interests of users and consumers foremost in mind. You can enjoy the column from an honest, sincere, down-to-earth computer techie from the Heartland below:
Microsoft makes hardware, too
COMPUTER CENTRAL
Column By JAMES DERK
Microsoft is so well known for its software that many hobbyists forget they make excellent hardware. It started with the ubiquitous white Microsoft mouse of a decade ago but since has grown into better mice, keyboards and Webcams. I would like to cover some of the cool toys available for this holiday season. Ever run out of USB ports on a laptop?
Microsoft has resolved this one by putting a 1GB flash drive in the little USB fob that you stick in to power the Microsoft Memory Mouse 8000. This $99 gem is a solid laptop mouse with a rechargeable feature too. The only downside is the USB fob ... I know you need one to connect the mouse to the computer but I am pretty afraid of losing it like I have my 20 flash drives. But that’s just me.
This is a solid mouse for the price. Microsoft also has a solid “presenter mouse” (Model 8000) that once connected also serves as a wireless PowerPoint controller. I use mine every day and love it with a passion. Microsoft also is branching into the Webcam market, which is expanding now because of widening exposure to broadband Internet connections. One effort is the LifeCam NX-3000, a $59 notebook camera that clips on the top of the LCD screen and provides 1.3 megapixel performance. However, I preferred the $99 NX-6000 camera, which also is the same size as a lipstick but has much higher resolution, both as a still camera and in video. It also has a 3X zoom. Both have microphones built in. The clips that hold the camera onto the top of your LCD is very tight (and not readily apparent) but I guess it needs to be to hold the cam tight. For desktops, there is the VX-7000, a larger cam that also would work for a laptop if a firm attachment is not needed. It offered the brightest image of the bunch and also costs $99. In terms of keyboards and mice combos, Microsoft has released the BMW of keyboards with the Wireless Entertainment Desktop 8000. It had better be nice for $299, about the cost of a low-end PC. But the keyboard has a ton of features, including backlighting and USB ports, that make it a good choice for a home theater, a living room PC or other sites where a remote keyboard is needed.
It operates on Bluetooth technology so the wireless connection over short distances is robust. It also is rechargeable so if you remember to cradle it once in a while you will never be without power. (There is a battery indicator light if you forget.) The keyboard had a great feel and cutting-edge design that will compliment a living room. It is pricey but worth it under the right circumstances.
WEEKLY WEB WONDER: Check out all Microsoft hardware at www.Microsoft.com/hardware.
James Derk is owner of CyberDads, a computer repair firm and tech columnist for Scripps Howard News Service. His e-mail address is jim(at)cyberdads.com.
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