Gigaware® Wired Multimedia USB Keyboard

Comments about Gigaware Wired Multimedia USB Keyboard:

I just bought this to replace my old oversized-key keyboard which wasn't working anymore. I use it mainly for word processing for several hours per day. It's quiet and feels smooth enough, which is a good sign, since I'm still in the adjustment stage. Switching from one style of keyboard to another usually leaves me feeling awkward, but I'm not having any problems.

I've never used an ergonomic keyboard (because I've never needed one) so I can't rate this type in reference to that, but I spend a great deal of time typing and I've clocked myself at 91 wpm, so I think I can say that this device is completely adequate.

Also I'm really glad that it came with a USB plug along with a PS2 converter, because it helped me to determine the cause of my old keyboard's dysfunction. The converter is a simple and convenient one-piece that plugs into the end of the USB cord.

All in all, I'm very glad to have bought this, and the only reason I haven't given 5 stars is because I lack a wide range of experience in different keyboards, so I can't claim that it's the best. But if it lasts a few years the way my other did, then as far as I'm concerned, it may as well be the best. I highly recommend it.

Comments about Gigaware Wired Multimedia USB Keyboard:

I write for a living so I use my keyboard a lot. I'm also picky; maybe it's because I type really fast (last test was 83 wpm) or maybe it's something else, but I don't like keys that feel stiff to me - my fingers need to be able to slide over the keys easily and quickly. I asked the store people if I could try this one out; they opened the box for me and I tested the keys through the plastic wrapping. They felt OK so I bought the keyboard.

My laptop is running Windows XP Pro SP3. I plugged the keyboard in when the computer was off, turned it on, and the keyboard worked without having to run the included installation CD (which I think is for Windows 98 anyway). Actually what I should say is the alphanumeric part of the keyboard worked. I never tried the special hot keys because as soon as I started typing I knew this keyboard wouldn't work for me. When I tried it at the store it was fine, but *I didn't try the space bar.* Big mistake.

The other keys feel OK to me, they're not too stiff. The space bar isn't stiff either - in fact, it feels loose and rattly. And it makes *a lot* of noise - so much that I would be afraid of waking my roommate if I tried to use it late at night (which is when I work the best).

I'm also not happy with the height; like most keyboards it has extendable pieces underneath that will raise the back up, which is something I need. But they don't raise it much. I did discover this at the store but was willing to put up with it because the extenders on my current keyboard are broken so anything would be better. But combined with the space bar issue, it's too much. I'm returning it to the store this afternoon.

I can't comment on the hot keys because I never used them and I can't comment on its durability because I'm not keeping it. But like most electronics these days it's made in a country whose quality I don't trust (maybe quality control is the reason for the space bar problem).

I think this keyboard might be fine for people who don't care about noise or who don't use a keyboard much; maybe the space bar wouldn't be a problem for them. And if they don't need a very ergonomic keyboard this might be a good choice. For me - not so much. I'll look for something else. And next time I'm definitely trying the space bar too.

Comments about Gigaware Wired Multimedia USB Keyboard:

Driver not needed for Windows 7 havent tried XP or Linux.
Each hot key has a unique sequence of letter and numbers that Windows can assign a program like Outlook or Internet explorer.
Search in HELP for:
(Create keyboard shortcuts to open programs)
Or (Multimedia Keyboard) or see attached image.
I'm Loving it.

Comments about Gigaware Wired Multimedia USB Keyboard:

The arrow keys didn't work and couldn't find how to program hotkeys, so not much use in my profession of transcription. Returning tomorrow.

Comments about Gigaware Wired Multimedia USB Keyboard:

You don't need to install the software that comes with it. Just let plug and play do it. And that goes for any keyboard or mouse.
Nice touch to the keyboard, not as good as a mechanical keyboard but then this isn't over a hundred bucks either. If your a touch typist who like me learned to type on a IBM selectric this keyboard is also as fast. And better than most. If you learned on apple's new low travel keyboard you won't like this keyboard. But then I hate the keyboard apple included with my mac mini and promptly threw it in the trash. Some of us like clicking and a postive touch.

Comments about Gigaware Wired Multimedia USB Keyboard:

Wireless [*] I had kept dropping keystrokes and weird things going on with it. Needed a replacement in a hurry. This turned out to be a good deal for the money spent. Keystrokes are a little on the loud side when tying, but compared to the problems I had, it's a blessing to know when I type, it's appearing, so a small price to pay. Couple of nice internet and multimedia Hot Key buttons for all the basics too. So far, loving it.

Comments about Gigaware Wired Multimedia USB Keyboard:

I have had no problems. I plugged it right into the USB port, and all features worked (WITH WINDOWS 7, 64BIT) If those who were having problems would take the time to read the directions, you would see that the disk isn't necessary unless you are running like win98. I plugged mine in, right out of the box, and all buttons and features worked. It is a little noisy, but hey, it's only [$]. What do you want.

Comments about Gigaware Wired Multimedia USB Keyboard:

My old keyboard's keys were missing letters it was so old so I got this one. It works great WHEN it works! Software is buggy - wouldn't work when I installed software but then DID work when I uninstalled!? That's a first. Now it, periodically, turns itself off for no apparent reason - have to unplug and replug or completely turn off computer and back on again to get it to start working again. POC...buy something else!

Comments about Gigaware Wired Multimedia USB Keyboard:

Bought a new bare bones computer from Tiger Direct and forgot to order a keyboard. Went up to Radio shack and bough this piece of junk. Says it will run on XP. Doesn't. Says the OS needs updating! Now I'm running from office computer to my den computer with my Logitech keyboard under my arm. Lesson learned. Stick with what you know will work and work well. No I don't own stock in Logitech! Ron the Sorry

Comments about Gigaware Wired Multimedia USB Keyboard:

its a keyboard....its not a $60 wow super keyboard. does everything i need it to...that includes typing, typing, alt tabing, and then window button lol the only neg. is that my media buttons dont work if im out of itunes...woopty doo. i got it for [$] and it works just fine. stop bi****** about a cheap keyboard...you get what you pay for