Kinesis Advantage Pro Keyboard

Kinesis Advantage Pro Keyboard. I’m a fan of the Kinesis Advantage keyboard, but it’s definitely long-in-the-tooth these days. The keyboard’s basic design reaches back over twenty years. The current USB version was introduced in 2002, and I don’t think there have been any significant changes in the past twelve years.

The Kinesis Advantage Pro keyboard isn’t the god of ergonomic keyboards, but it is decidedly more comfortable to use than its traditional brethren, and offers some ergonomic benefits. It is Macintosh-friendly, and programmable, with the ability to remap keys and create macros. Before switching to the Advantage, I was using a Kinesis Freestyle. This keyboard (a fully split design) allowed me to position my hands in a way that reduced wrist strain, but I was still having to strain to reach the keys, due to the lateral movement of you fingers required by keyboards that do not feature a 'matrix' key layout.


Kinesis contoured keyboards are based on a unique, patented design that minimizes the pain and strain typists experience from heavy use of conventional computer keyboards. The Advantage offers ergonomic and programmability features most suitable for the everyday computer user.

Information Sheet on the Kinesis Advantage Pro Contoured Keyboard Line in PDF format.

AdvantagePro model
This is the most advanced and versatile model of Kinesis' contoured keyboard family. The Advantage Pro USB contoured keyboard sets a new standard for ergonomic keyboards. The Advantage line incorporates the same advanced ergonomic design as other contoured keyboards by Kinesis and delivers additional features not found on other USB keyboards. Easily customized, it is optimal for most computer users.

What Makes this Keyboard Ergonomic?

The ergonomic design resulted from two years of research and testing and has proven itself in over six years of commercial use. Kinesis contoured keyboards are prescribed by physicians and placed by physical and occupational therapists dealing with keyboard-related repetitive strain injuries. They offer a wide range of features which make them an excellent choice for anyone who is not a hunt and peck typist, and seeking to reduce the pain and fatigue from typing, or prevent problems arising from typing activity.

Click here to review all the ergonomic benefits
or
Why Should I Buy this Keyboard?

(Very helpful in determining whether this keyboard is right for you)

Features

  • Advanced ergonomics PLUS on-board programmability
  • Powerful Programming features
    • Remap any or all keys!
    • Double the Memory of the Advantage
      • Select 24, 36, or 48 macros (142, 94, or 70 characters long, respectively)
      • Switch between QWERTY and Dvorak layouts seamlessly!
      • Modifier keys can be 'sticky' (set individually)
    • Memory Locking Switch protects users or managers against accidental or unauthorized programming of the keyboard
    • Integrated 2 port USB hub - USB devices can be hot-plugged safely
    • Automatically switch between PC and Mac operating systems
    • Instant configuration for Windows, Mac and non-Windows PC operating environments, includes Windows and Mac legended keys.
    • Single Action Footswitch Accessory (FS005RJ11) included at no extra charge
    • Supports the Kinesis Triple Action Footswitch Accessory (FS006TAF) - allows you to map any keyboard action (including toggling on the numeric keypad) to one of three footswitch actions.
  • High durability dirt/dust/stain resistant glossy metallic finish doesn't turn yellow over time like white keyboards or show dust immediately like black models

Compatibility

Instant configuration for Mac, PC and Non-Windows PC environments, including Mac and Windows Legended keycaps. No drivers required, only requirement is one free USB port.

  • USB Interface for PC - Supports Windows 98/98ME/2000/XP/Vista including 64 bit editions (includes Windows key actions and legends), and non-Windows PC operating environments (Free BSD, LINUX, etc.).
  • USB Interface for Mac - Supports Mac OS 8.6 and higher.
Kinesis Advantage Pro Keyboard

Kinesis Advantage 3

Layout Options for the Advantage contoured keyboard

  • All Advantage keyboards models can switch between QWERTY and Dvorak key layouts with a combination keystroke. Here are the three configurations available for this keyboard in QWERTY (when switched to DVORAK only letters and core symbols are altered)
    • Macintosh configuration (as shipped from the factory)
  • Want dual legends? Buy a 'QD' Qwerty-Dvorak dual-legended model or if you want to upgrade later, buy a keycap upgrade kit . Sorry, but Dvorak-only legends are not available.
  • The embedded keypad offers maximum productivity and comfort for 10-key users, especially using a foot switch. Click here for more information on how to use the embedded numeric keypad.
  • The Windows keys are easily accessed by pressing the embedded function key assigned to them.

Model Numbers

  • Advantage Pro Contoured Keyboard for PC/Mac, Metallic Silver Case - KB510USB-MET
  • Advantage Qwerty/Dvorak dual legend Keycaps set, Black, KC020DU-BLK


Keyboard Specifications:

Keyboard

Keyboard Dimensions:

  • Width: 16.5 inches
  • Height: 2.9 inches
  • Depth (front-to-back): 8 inches
  • Weight: 2.5 lbs
  • Front Slope: 10 degrees
  • Lateral Tilt ('thumbs up'): 20 degrees
  • Center Separation: 6.75 inches

FOOTSWITCHES (Optional; single and triple available)

  • Default is 'Keypad Shift' (numeric keypad mode is enabled until footswitch is released)
  • Second default footswitch action is 'Shift'
  • Programmable when used with programmable keyboards

ACCESSORIES INCLUDED

  • User's Manual
  • Adaptation Materials
  • Self-adhesive Black Palm Pads

Key Action Specifications:

ALPHANUMERIC KEYS:

  • Full travel, tactile mechanical keyswiches: 68
  • Peak Force: 1.59 oz. or 45 grams
  • Pre-travel: 2 mm
  • Total Travel: 4 mm
  • Keyswitch Life: 50 million operations
  • Audible or silent click mode available

FUNCTION KEYS:

  • Elastomeric keyswitches: 18
  • Soft Tactile action

EMBEDDED KEY ACTIONS:

  • Numeric keypad actions: 18
  • Windows 95 key actions: 3
  • International key actions: 2
  • Other programmable key actions: 60

WARRANTY:

  • Two Year Limited Warranty

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