Logitech’s Wireless Solar Keyboard

If you’re a wireless keyboard user, you know the biggest problem with those is worrying about the batteries (or the charge) dying after a few hours. Logitech’s Solar Keyboard K750 eliminates the need to recharge or reload your keyboard with batteries. It has two integrated solar panels that can generate power in sunlight or artificial light from inside your home/office.

“The keyboard is still the best input device for typing e-mails and IMs, updating your Facebook page or posting responses to your favorite blogs – and the Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard K750 is the next big innovation in keyboard technology,” says Denis Pavillard, vice president of product marketing for Logitech’s keyboards and desktops. “The Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard is powered by light but can work in total darkness for up to three months. Plus, with its PVC-free construction and fully recyclable packaging, it’s designed to minimize its footprint.”

The first thing I noticed about the 750 is that it’s easy to type on with the incurve keys, concave design and rounded edges. The keys support the shape of your fingertips and help guide your fingers to the proper keys without you having to look down. There are legs on the bottom to enable you to use it at an angle, but those two plastic legs are so flimsy they could easily break off.

To preserve your keyboard’s power, there’s an on/off switch along with a button that can show if the keyboard can generate any power from your current lighting conditions or not. When you press the “lighting condition” button while you’re under adequate lighting conditions, you’ll see a green light appear next to a smiley face. Likewise, if the lighting conditions are weak, a red light will appear next to a frowning face.

You can download the solar power app, a lux meter to help you gauge the necessary light to power the keyboard. The app gives you an easy at-a-glance interface about battery levels and provides you alerts when you need more light/power. The only drawback is the app only works on Windows (no Mac version). Just to clarify, the keyboard works with either operating system, but the solar power app will not work with your Mac.

It looks as if Logitech is leading the way for solar-powered keyboards with its Solar Keyboard 750. The best thing about it is that it’s environmentally friendly with no need for batteries.

For more information or to purchase Logitech’s $80 Solar Keyboard 750, visit logitech.com.

Mad Catz Cyborg R.A.T.9

The Cyborg R.A.T.9 is not your everyday mouse. Its appearance is something out of a sci-fi movie, and unlike your typical mouse, it’s highly adjustable to custom fit your hand. Meant for the serious gamer, the Cyborg R.A.T.9 is powered with a rechargeable lithiumion battery pack that provides up to nine hours of gameplay. Two hot swap-pable battery packs are shipped with your mouse so you’ll have power at the ready in case your other battery dies.

Most important, there are 42 grams of removable weights, which allow you to set your desired weight to meet your individual preference. Comfort was the first thing in mind with the interchangeable palm rest, adjustable pinkie grips, length, width and height settings.

The Precision Aim mode allows you to hold down a button and temporarily slow down cursor movement to steady your aim during a battle.

Additionally, five programmable buttons combined with a three-position mode switch allow you to create up to 15 user definable commands. The included Cyborg ST software allows you to remap programmable buttons and create custom macros.

R.A.T.9 is compatible with Windows 7, Vista and XP. Sorry, no official Mac support. The retail price is $150, and you can find on Amazon.com. For more information, visit madcatz.com.