A Closer Look

At first glance this new revision of the Vidabox Keyboard is nearly identical to the older revisions we've reviewed in the past. There have been some changes however. The keys are now more clearly labeled, and have a new "Precision Scissor" style mechanism that makes for more accuracy for faster typists. You will also notice that the "Hotkey" buttons located at the top of the keyboard are black in this revision. The keyboard is very compact and has been designed with an ergonomic shape to allow the user to hold the keyboard like a game console controller when using the mouse feature.


Located near the top of the keyboard are the "Hotkeys" that are provided to make for quick and easy access to Operating System features and programs. On the left hand side you will find the button for syncing the RF signal with the USB receiver unit. Located to the right of that you will find a "Green Button" for launching Windows Media Center. Then you'll find three volume buttons (Mute/Un-mute, Lower, and Raise) followed by a Play/Pause button. Located on the other side of the RF "eye" you will find Stop, Previous Track, Next Track, Email, and Web.


Located at the upper left hand corner you will find the left and right mouse buttons. Opposite to that, on the upper right you will find the laser trackball. When holding the keyboard as you would a console gaming controller, this is an optimal placement for the mouse buttons and trackball. I do find it disappointing that there is no means of scrolling.


In the top center of the keyboard you will find the RF "eye". RF, short for Radio Frequency, has longer range than IR (infrared) and doesn't have to have a "line of sight" view of the Receiver unit. This means you can plug the USB receiver to a back panel USB port on your HTPC as well as have obstructions such as furniture or walls in the way and still get good, reliable signal. For when not in use the keyboard has rubber feet located on the underside that keep it from sliding around on your coffee or end table.