| My
first reaction to the Microsoft Natural MultiMedia Keyboard was one of
wonder and amazement as the keyboard itself is split into three different
sections and I wondered how on earth could I use such as a device. As with
all Microsoft products, everything is designed for a reason and the reason
for the split keyboard system is to allow the user to have a more natural
and ergonomic keyboard experience. 
The
installation of the keyboard was extremely easy and Windows XP detected
the new device immediately without the need for the installation CD. The
installation CD is only needed for those with older Windows based
operating systems or for users who wish to customize their keyboards with
the Natural MultiMedia Keyboard software. Once
the keyboard was installed (via the PS/2 port), I proceeded to finally use
the keyboard and I must say that it was indeed a strange experience. After
spending over twenty years using various 101 keyboards, the Natural
MultiMedia keyboard feels very strange to use. The primary reason for this
is the strange layout of the keyboards but I must confess that after about
30 minutes of using the keyboard (thanks to my touch typing skills), the
keyboard felt extremely natural to use. Navigating through various Windows
applications such as Word, Excel and Internet Explorer was perfect but
every now and then one of my fingers would try to visit another part of
the keyboard but this is only due to my inexperience. 
I
commend Microsoft for the hotkeys at the top of the keyboard that can be
customized to your own preferences. The pre-programmed buttons all open
the right folders and programs such as the "My Documents" area
or Microsoft Outlook for instance. The only thing missing from the
keyboard that I discovered was the lack of a scroll wheel that are
sometimes found on other keyboards but it's a small price to pay for such
a easy to use keyboard. In order to customize the keyboard, you must
install the software that comes with the keyboard but it is extremely easy
to use and also lets you change various settings of the keyboard such as
speed and hardware settings. One of the most impressive functions of the
Natural Keyboard is the built-in CD player buttons that lets you change
tracks or even the volume of the songs while the program runs in the
background. That is, I could control Windows MediaPlayer without the need
to bring the program into the current process which is brilliant. When
it comes to gaming, the Natural MultiMedia keyboard cannot be beaten as
everything can now be performed on one side of the keyboard. Another
important feature to gamers is that there is no need to worry about
hitting the wrong keys because the keyboard is now split into three
sections. I tested the keyboard on Medal of Honor Spearhead and I must say
that I could really get use to using a keyboard like this. Whenever you
play a game, there is always a slight pause to make sure you are placing
your fingers on the right key but with the Natural MultiMedia keyboard,
these fears are now a thing of the past because of the ergonomic design of
the keyboard. In
conclusion, I would recommend the Microsoft Natural MultiMedia keyboard to
anyone who uses their computers for long periods of times or for gamers
that wish to improve their gaming experience. The keyboard has a stylized
yet natural design that will take some time getting use to but after
awhile, it will become second nature. Check it out! - Andrew B Copyright ©2002 www.impulsegamer.com | 
