Editors' Rating
Published: 05 Nov 2004
Bluetooth keyboards and mice have long taken a backseat to their radio frequency-based (RF) cord-free brethren. Microsoft's £149.99 (inc. VAT) Optical Desktop Elite for Bluetooth, however, makes a solid case for ditching that big RF receiver on your desk once and for all. Connected to your computer wirelessly via an 2.5cm-long USB dongle, this keyboard and mouse combo is loaded with programmable features, tilt-wheel scrolling on both components and consistent reception. All of this functionality may be too much for someone who's just looking to go wireless, though, and the keyboard's size doesn't lend itself to cramped work areas.
Installation can be a bit tricky, so following the included Getting Started booklet is a must. Adding Bluetooth to your PC is as simple as inserting the bundled USB transceiver dongle into a vacant port -- but unlike with RF wireless devices, pairing the keyboard and mouse with your system calls for a little more effort. You'll need to navigate the multi-step setup software and maintain your calm if it takes a couple of tries to recognise all of the devices. And before you get started, you'll need to download Windows XP with Service Pack 2 if you haven't already; SP2 is required for this keyboard and mouse set. The keyboard is quite massive, measuring about 51cm wide by 27cm deep by 3.8cm high. Powered by three AA batteries, the keyboard also has an extensive set of quick-launch keys that you can easily customise through the software. Reassign them at will to open programs, files, Web pages, or shortcuts. The translucent-blue keys are well spaced with a nice spring to them--and little clacking. On the left edge, a tilt scroll-wheel helps you navigate pages both horizontally and vertically, though its spongy feel might turn you off. Above the wheel, there are useful Back and Forward buttons. A comfortable, padded wrist rest is built into the keyboard, providing a much better cushion than the plastic ones you'll find on other keyboards.
The optical IntelliMouse Explorer is perfectly shaped for right-handed users and features the same tilt wheel as the keyboard. Back and Forward buttons are located by the thumb, but with no space between them, accidentally hitting the wrong one isn't hard. We found the mouse to be precise and responsive during testing. Microsoft claims six months of battery life on two AA batteries or three months on one.
Going with Bluetooth over a standard RF desktop set also gives you the benefit of the former's improved range. Although RF devices lose their connection quite close to the receiver, Bluetooth stays connected up to 10 metres away. Also, the transceiver allows you to connect up to five more Bluetooth-enabled devices -- a Pocket PC, a mobile phone, a printer or other PCs -- wirelessly to your computer.
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