Bluetooth keyboard and mouse

Ann · Mar 13, 2009, 16:24:38

I need help!! I rather like everything about the MS desktop 8000 but it uses bluetooth.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Microsoft-Wireless-Entertainment-Desktop-Keyboard/dp/B000UTL7QM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1236961197&sr=8-1

It says it comes with a mini bluetooth transceiver. Does this mean that the computer doesn't have to have bluetooth itself? And if not, does it actually work well?

I've been looking at keyboards and mice on the web all day... yawn. I have a particlar list of things I want to have and can't find them together except in this one set.

Rik · Mar 13, 2009, 16:27:00

No, the computer doesn't need BT built in, the dongle will provide that (and I'm sure all the software and drivers will be on the CD.

I've not used a BT keyboard, but generally I find BT a more reliable technology than 'ordinary' wireless for such things.

kinmel · Mar 13, 2009, 16:42:45

I use a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse with my theatre setup, it a gives more reliable connection over a longer range.

The USB dongle will only accept a connection from the keyboard and mouse, other bluetooth devices need another dongle.

It all works just fine.

Ann · Mar 13, 2009, 16:43:27

Excellent. Thanks guys. Just what I wanted to hear. I've heard that some computers won't start with them as they don't recognise there's a keyboard attached but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it. If all else fails, I'll just have to upgrade my computer.

I'll do some searching tonight and find the cheapest deal.. am at work now and working oh so hard..

Rik · Mar 13, 2009, 16:45:57

I always keep a wired keyboard in the cupboard, Ann, just in case...

kinmel · Mar 13, 2009, 17:08:11

Quote from: Ann on Mar 13, 2009, 16:43:27
I've heard that some computers won't start with them as they don't recognise there's a keyboard attached but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it.

Just make changes in your system BIOS so it doesn't halt on keyboard errors.

Ann · Mar 13, 2009, 19:41:27

Yes, I've never come across such an option in the BIOS which is my worry. I will check though.

Gary · Mar 13, 2009, 19:55:14

Hi Ann, I had the entertainment desktop 8000, I sold it in the end, the keys scratch easily the aluminium on the mouse discolours as well, it looks great but its not a good build, even the word Microsoft peeled off the mouse and the touch sensitive buttons did not always work, they sent me another and it did the same, for less cash you can get a better keyboard, I really was dissapointed though when the keys scratched and the light shone through it looked awful, I would honestly suggest you avoid it, it looks great but it isn't and sometimes at boot in loses contact as well and you end up with no mouse

Ann · Mar 13, 2009, 21:16:55

Oh great

Den · Mar 13, 2009, 22:21:08

I use a Logitech MX3000 key pad and MX600 mouse and think it's great with Vista. Just down loaded the latest software update for it and it all works well.

I use a Microsoft wireless mouse on my laptop and it's noware near as good.

Gary · Mar 14, 2009, 00:08:38

Quote from: Ann on Mar 13, 2009, 21:16:55
Oh great

I just wanted to warn you before you spent the money, I was very disappointed in the purchase, it looks gorgeous, but it really is not up to scratch, I went for a logitech in end myself. The entertainment 7000 is the same design but without the backlit keyboard etc and much cheaper, a better bet to be honest as the keys wont scratch and you have not got the desktop charging unit and hub, which is bulky to say the least. It was a shame as if MS had made the keys out of aluminium maybe or at least made the keys scratch proof and the whole thing less buggy it would have been the best keyboard I had used. The Word Microsoft on the 8000 mouse is a made up of metallic letters that come unstuck and fall off, the 7000 is embossed, I would go for that if you want a bluetooth keyboard along the same lines, or better still a Logitech which would be more reliable in the end. The set Den uses The MX3000 and MX600 mouse I had, and it was great

Sebby · Mar 14, 2009, 00:42:50

Have a look on eBuyer, Ann. I find the user reviews very handy when choosing something like a keyboard and mouse.

Ann · Mar 14, 2009, 10:23:12

I've got logitech now and the function keys have never worked for some reason. I got into big discussion with the logitech guys about it but never did resolve it. That pisses me off a bit, having them there and being unable to use them. I'm also fed up with black so won't go with the MS7000. You see the considerations I'm up against here! I'm not fussed about bluetooth but I have a list of things I do want. I'm doing the rounds of reviews now... eBuyer is the cheapest when you take into consideration postage costs too.

Glenn · Mar 14, 2009, 12:09:38

I prefer light keys with dark lettering myself

Rik · Mar 14, 2009, 12:11:22

I'm the exact opposite.

Glenn · Mar 14, 2009, 12:13:05

You will be happy then Rik, as most keyboards seem to come with black keys now.

Rik · Mar 14, 2009, 12:24:34

I am, I am. Though this is what I'd really like.

Ann · Mar 14, 2009, 13:37:59

Someone has just told me to turn on USB legacy in the BIOS which will help. I have done so and now need to test it but have to actually order something first.. LOL. Black shows the dust which I'm fed up with it. It's also so 1990s

I've been watching that Optimus keyboard for a few years Rik. It's lovely and while I always say money is no object when I am determined I'm going to have something, that really is a bit over the top.

Rik · Mar 14, 2009, 13:57:14

Same here, Ann. If it ever reaches a realistic price, I'd love one, but that price is just silly.

Sebby · Mar 14, 2009, 14:41:11

Quote from: Ann on Mar 14, 2009, 10:23:12
I've got logitech now and the function keys have never worked for some reason. I got into big discussion with the logitech guys about it but never did resolve it. That pisses me off a bit, having them there and being unable to use them. I'm also fed up with black so won't go with the MS7000. You see the considerations I'm up against here! I'm not fussed about bluetooth but I have a list of things I do want. I'm doing the rounds of reviews now... eBuyer is the cheapest when you take into consideration postage costs too.

Did you install the Logitech software, Ann?

Ann · Mar 14, 2009, 14:46:49

Oh yes, did all the installing and fiddling years ago. Nope.. this keyboard has got to go.

Gary · Mar 15, 2009, 10:05:00

Quote from: Rik on Mar 14, 2009, 12:24:34
I am, I am. Though this is what I'd really like.

That is a gorgeous keyboard, Rik

Rik · Mar 15, 2009, 10:06:16

Isn't it.

Gary · Mar 15, 2009, 10:08:45

Quote from: Rik on Mar 15, 2009, 10:06:16
Isn't it.

It is....but not at that price sadly, its something I shall count when I need to go to sleep instead of sheep

Ann · Mar 15, 2009, 10:41:46

I bought a version of this last night for 3 quid on ebay.. it's supposed to be new.. just thought it looked different enough to play with.. it has a blue backlights and blue is my favourite colour! One I got is a wired keyboard with a wireless rechargeable mouse. http://www.nortekonline.com/EMEA/EN/deskset-electa-fluo.asp