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Product:
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Ideazon Zboard |
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Price:
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$62 (CAN) / $46 (U.S), Add-on keyboards $30 (CAN) / $22 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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Everglide
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Author:
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Shennon
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Date:
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June 26th, 2003
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Rating:
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MODTHEBOX would like to thank Everglide
for sending the Ideazon Zboard for review.
Introduction:
For PC gamers, the best combination for gaming has been the keyboard and mouse. As the mouse has evolved,
the keyboard has essentially stayed the same, with a few exceptions such as cordless or extra button
add-ons. While a few manufacturers have shifted focus to developing new egonomic based keyboards, Ideazon,
a new company based out of Vaughan, Ontario has designed a keyboard with specific games and common applications
in mind called the Zboard. Today in the MTB Labs, we will be evaluating the new Ideazon Zboard, a
revolutionary all in gaming and application interchangable keyboard.
Specifications:
The theory behind the all-new Zboard is that the keys can be swapped out for a layout tailored
specifically for games and applications. MTB first had a chance to preview a protocol version of this
keyboard last year at Compufest & Fragapalooza East 2002.
Here are some specifications as taken directly from the Ideazon and Everglide websites:
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Ideazon Zboard - Key Specifications:
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| Ideazon Zboard: Manufactured by Ideazon |
| Revolutionary two-piece interchangeable keyboard |
| Quickly and easily exchange keyboard interfaces |
| Allows novices to quickly learn both games and applications |
| Ergonomic shapes and positioning of keys for enhanced game play |
| Easy to read icons |
| Coloured and indexed keys |
| Intuitive command grouping |
| Get the most out of your games and applications |
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Ideazon Zboard - Requirements:
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| IBM compatible system (no Macintosh or SGI support) |
| PS/2 port free for keyboard use |
| 200MHz+ CPU |
| 64MB RAM |
| CD-ROM drive |
| Microsoft® Windows™ Operating System (98, 2000, Me, XP - NT and 95 are not supported) |
| Microsoft® Internet Explorer version 4.5 or higher |
| Whatever software application your Zboard™ Interface(s) is/are designed for (games, productivity tools, etc) |
| Zboard™ keyboard interface |
| Sound card and speakers for Zboard™ multimedia controls |
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The Ideazon Zboard is packaged in a retail cardboard box, similar to most other keyboard boxes on the
market. On the front of the box as well as inside shows how to install a keyboard interface while the
rear shows the advantages of both gaming and business applications of the Zboard over traditional
keyboards. The Zboard comes pre-packaged with a Microsoft Windows and Internet Explorer interface which
should accommodate most consumers.
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Click image for larger view
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Once out of the box, there is a wide variety of accessories that are included with the Ideazon Zboard.
Included is a wrist rest to help in prevention of musculoskeletal disorders (including carpal tunnel
and tendonitis) by supporting the wrist, an installation CD and a user guide for the Windows and
Internet Explorer keyboard interface. Also in the box is a Limited Warranty Statement sheet that
outlines both the health risk in using the product as well as the Warranty information for each of
the parts. I was a bit surprised by the 90 day warranty on the gaming interfaces versus a one year
warranty on the business interface, but it makes perfect sense since business applications are used
on a daily basis. At this time of this review, the Zboard comes with a PS2 plug, but there are USB
versions coming in the near future.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The Ideazon Zboard allows you to change the keyboard interface by lifting the end tab up and folding it
over. Simply remove the interface and reverse for installing. To ensure it is installed correctly, the
tab on the right side snaps into place and a small LED lights up just above the keypad.
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