Until very recently, if you wanted a wireless keyboard, mouse, or trackball , you needed to use RF technology. Bluetooth devices have just started shipping, so the majority of wireless peripherals around for the near future are likely to be RF. RF devices have one big plus to go along with their multiple negatives . The big plus is that they don't (unlike IR) require line-of-sight. The bad news:
A.1.1 Keyboards and MiceUnlike the limited number of manufacturers of Bluetooth input devices, most of the usual third-party Mac hardware companies make keyboards, mice, and trackballs that work wirelessly via RF. Companies such as Logitech, MacAlly, and Kensington all make wireless variants of their wired devices, generally for just a few dollars more. Figure A-1 shows the Logitech Cordless MX Duo, which allows you to unwire both your keyboard and mouse with a single receiver. Figure A-1. The Logitech Cordless MX Duo includes a cordless keyboard, a cordless rechargeable mouse, and a USB receiverInstallation of these peripherals varies from maker to maker, but for the most part they consist of three steps: plug in the receiver to one of your Mac's USB ports (or to a port on an external USB hub), install the accompanying software, and verify that the device can communicate with the receiver. Some manufacturers include multiple channels on their devices so that you can change them if you run into interference: if that's the case, make sure both the device and the receiver are on the same channel. To get the best results, carefully read any accompanying documentation that may ship with your devices. Common recommendations include not using mice on glass or metal surfaces: use wood or plastic instead. A.1.2 Other PeripheralsKeyspan ships their Keyspan Presentation Remote (shown in Figure A-2), which (unlike their Digital Media Remote, mentioned below) works with a small RF receiver to allow you to control your Mac. The KPR is a handy device if you frequently make presentations, and it even includes a laser pointer. Figure A-2. The Keyspan Presentation Remote and receiverWe've had mostly good results with the KPR, but have a one major recommendation if you want to use it: make a small copy of the instructions and put them inside the carrying case. In order to keep the device from getting turned on accidentally and using up the battery, Keyspan made the on/off instructions so convoluted that you'll forget how to turn the remote on if you don't use it regularly. And, speaking from experience, it's unpleasant to be setting up for a presentation session and find that you can't recall how to work your remote. |