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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: jeffrey on Fri, 05 June 2009, 18:01:34

Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Fri, 05 June 2009, 18:01:34
is there anyone wants to try i-rocks new KR-6280E/RF-6520/KR-6230? i-rocks US branch is looking for all feedback.

If you are interested, please feel free to email to jeffrey.hsieh@pcusacorp.com

Jefffrey
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Fri, 05 June 2009, 19:00:18
Quote from: jeffrey;94423
is there anyone wants to try i-rocks new KR-6280E/RF-6520/KR-6230? i-rocks US branch is looking for all feedback.

If you are interested, please feel free to email to jeffrey.hsieh@pcusacorp.com

Jefffrey
we are looking for serious users who are willing to test it and provide valuable feedback on geekhack.com or other forums to discuss it.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: bigpook on Fri, 05 June 2009, 19:16:55
what do you mean by serious?
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Fri, 05 June 2009, 19:28:00
Quote from: bigpook;94432
what do you mean by serious?


people who love keyboards :)
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: bigpook on Fri, 05 June 2009, 19:38:03
Well, you are certainly in the right place.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: watduzhkstand4 on Fri, 05 June 2009, 19:46:25
I'm interested
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: zwmalone on Fri, 05 June 2009, 19:47:44
As am I...
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: Manyak on Fri, 05 June 2009, 19:48:55
I'd do it!
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Fri, 05 June 2009, 19:53:26
thanks you all for quick response; please feel free to send email to jeffrey.hsieh@pcusacorp.com


1. First/Last Name
2. Email
3. Phone
4. Ship-to address
5. Model you'd like to review
6. Where you'd like to post your review
7. if any post/review on keyboard? if yes, please list the links.

After we receive your email, we will reply your email within 72 hours. At this moment (in June), we will pick 10 users for KR-6230, 10 users for KR-6820E and 10 users for RF-6520.

I will keep you all posted every month for free eval products.

Jeffrey
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: Manyak on Fri, 05 June 2009, 19:56:18
Oops, I already sent the email, heh.

I'll just send another one I guess.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: zwmalone on Fri, 05 June 2009, 19:57:41
I sent one as well...
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: Hak Foo on Fri, 05 June 2009, 21:28:46
Just a post, more than an actual request (there are others who can abuse(backspace)(backspace)(backspace)(backspace)(backspace)review it better), but I think no matter what other positive properties the mechanical 6230 may have,  a lot of people WILL NOT be able to tolerate the layout.  Look at it carefully-- and notice they moved the slash key over.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: bigpook on Fri, 05 June 2009, 21:35:38
not to mention the enter key.


I can't find the 6280, anyone have a picture of it?
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: cchan on Fri, 05 June 2009, 21:43:07
Quote from: bigpook;94456
not to mention the enter key.


I can't find the 6280, anyone have a picture of it?
try 6820.
And I singed up to review the 6230 to see if the layout is really as bad as its made out to be.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: bigpook on Fri, 05 June 2009, 22:15:03
ok, the 6820 is the 'gaming' keyboard. the layout looks ok but the keys are not mechanical.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: watduzhkstand4 on Fri, 05 June 2009, 22:28:06
I think all keyboards now should go back to mechanical just to feed our appetite. I don't understand how people can still stand rubber dome. I'm sure once mechanical keyboards get popular, the price will drop a little and it would make it just a tad more affordable for the average.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ch_123 on Sat, 06 June 2009, 06:28:12
What sort of Cherry switch does the 6230 use?
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: huha on Sat, 06 June 2009, 06:32:45
Anything planned for the European market?

-huha
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: cchan on Sat, 06 June 2009, 08:48:08
Quote from: ch_123;94474
What sort of Cherry switch does the 6230 use?
Cherry browns.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: IBI on Sat, 06 June 2009, 09:09:02
This is an international forum so you might like to specify which countries you want testers from. I'd assume anywhere in Mainland USA is fine, and you're probably not interested in testers from anywhere outside North America but what about Alaska/Hawaii? Or Canada and the rest of the North American countries?
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: FunkTrooper on Sat, 06 June 2009, 19:11:36
I signed up to review the KR-6230.  Dunno if I'll be allowed, what with living in Ireland and all that... but i thought it would be worth a try. You never know.  I certainly wouldn't mind trying some Cherry Brown switches; I've never used them before.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ricercar on Sun, 07 June 2009, 20:06:13
Crossing fingers that a pro writer is articulate and seasoned enough. He doesn't say we get to keep it though; clever.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: huha on Sun, 07 June 2009, 21:18:58
Quote from: ricercar;94649
Crossing fingers that a pro writer is articulate and seasoned enough. He doesn't say we get to keep it though; clever.

I wouldn't review anything I'd get to keep. The incentive to not destroy it would be just too high. In my opinion, you can't really review a product properly if you haven't opened it up and taken a look around what's going on inside. Asserting a product does what it's supposed to do doesn't take much skill nor dedication, so bad reviews stop there. Good reviews, however, will continue plucking away on the object to be reviewed until something interesting shows up. So, keeping the exact product you'll be reviewing would be somewhat of a hindrance.

-huha
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Mon, 08 June 2009, 13:11:33
Quote from: bigpook;94460
ok, the 6820 is the 'gaming' keyboard. the layout looks ok but the keys are not mechanical.



KR-6820E is membrane keyboard with orange back lit.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Mon, 08 June 2009, 13:16:39
Quote from: IBI;94481
This is an international forum so you might like to specify which countries you want testers from. I'd assume anywhere in Mainland USA is fine, and you're probably not interested in testers from anywhere outside North America but what about Alaska/Hawaii? Or Canada and the rest of the North American countries?


we will be focusing on the reviewers in Mainland USA, excluding AK/HI. however we are doing our best to provide free samples for all reviewers, like FunkTrooper in Ireland.

Today, we will post the first list of reviewers (ID) that we are going to UPS out this week.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Mon, 08 June 2009, 13:25:44
Quote from: Hak Foo;94453
Just a post, more than an actual request (there are others who can abuse(backspace)(backspace)(backspace)(backspace)(backspace)review it better), but I think no matter what other positive properties the mechanical 6230 may have,  a lot of people WILL NOT be able to tolerate the layout.  Look at it carefully-- and notice they moved the slash key over.


Thanks for your valuable feedback, Hak Foo; we will email it back to our PM.

We are here to hear more comments, not only pros but also cons. All valuable comments will be considered in our future development on I-ROCKS keyboards.

Jeffrey
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: Stevie Wonder on Mon, 08 June 2009, 13:28:12
Man, I hope I get on the list.

I wanta take a look at that KR-6820.  I like Orange LEDs.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: iMav on Mon, 08 June 2009, 15:57:34
I assume you guys will be posting those reviews here.  :)
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: itlnstln on Mon, 08 June 2009, 15:58:28
Quote from: iMav;94788
I assume you guys will be posting those reviews here. :)

If I'm selected, no doubt.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: Manyak on Mon, 08 June 2009, 16:20:53
Quote from: iMav;94788
I assume you guys will be posting those reviews here.  :)


Nah, not enough people on this site care about keyboards. :lol:
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: IBI on Mon, 08 June 2009, 17:20:37
Quote from: jeffrey;94729
we will be focusing on the reviewers in Mainland USA, excluding AK/HI. however we are doing our best to provide free samples for all reviewers, like FunkTrooper in Ireland.


Ah, I assumed you only wanted people who might be buying one of your keyboards, but as you're happy to accept applications and review from users in markets you don't sell in I'll send mine in too.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Mon, 08 June 2009, 17:45:30
Hi,

By far, there are 6 applications have been approved:

RF-6520:
 1. XXXXXXXXXX  (IN)
 2. XXXXXXXXXX  (TX)

KR-6820E:
 1. XXXXXXXXXX  (VA)
 2. XXXXXXXXXX  (CA)

KR-6230:
 1. XXXXXXXXXX  (NY)
 2. XXXXXXXXXX  (IL)

We will be keeping you all posted if there are more approved.

Thank you,

Jeffrey
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ricercar on Mon, 08 June 2009, 17:57:33
Thank you Jeffrey.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: cchan on Mon, 08 June 2009, 18:39:33
Aw, come on, nobody in Michigan... :P
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ricercar on Mon, 08 June 2009, 18:59:26
Looks like the i-Rock backlit gamer keyboard has rubber plungers similar to the MacBook (respectively):

(http://www.i-rocks.com/Images/KR-6820E_Instant-Response-K.jpg)(http://gadzikowski.com/images/nv30/100_3566crop.JPG)

The longer travel of the desktop keyboard should help with the overall feel, which was somewhat funky, even for a laptop. Hopefully the sculpted keys can keep fat fingers centered on the mechanism. I was always hitting the neighboring keys on the MacBook.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: IBI on Mon, 08 June 2009, 20:29:58
Quote from: ricercar;94854
Looks like the i-Rock backlit gamer keyboard has rubber plungers similar to the MacBook (respectively)


Yes, and similar 90% of keyboards currently availible.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ashort on Tue, 09 June 2009, 16:26:04
Got my UPS Tracking number in email today, Thank you!  Looking forward to it!  

One quick ugly question. I Know this is going in my review, but I can be REALLY nice about it.  2.4Ghz wireless keyboard rf-6520, why not bluetooth?  I readily admit that plugging in the dongle with no cord is far better than plugging in the dongle with a cord, which is what I do today with my laptop.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: skriefal on Tue, 09 June 2009, 18:06:24
The absence of Bluetooth is usually a cost-saving measure.  Fewer licensing fees, I suspect.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ashort on Tue, 09 June 2009, 18:26:55
Quote from: skriefal;95073
The absence of Bluetooth is usually a cost-saving measure.  Fewer licensing fees, I suspect.


It is a very small complaint.  Looking forward to putting the RF-6520 in my sig. =-D
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: FunkTrooper on Tue, 09 June 2009, 19:01:29
oh, looks like I haven't been approved.  That's a shame... though maybe if I just be a little patient things will change...

*is hopeful*
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: watduzhkstand4 on Wed, 10 June 2009, 00:59:28
I'm just wondering how many people signed up for the review lol.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: itlnstln on Wed, 10 June 2009, 08:03:06
I am suprised I got picked.  I thought I was going to be late to the party.
 
If am not mistaken, FunkTrooper, the "rules" stated that you had to live the in the continental 48 states of the US.  I don't think they were taking overseas applications.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: chimera15 on Wed, 10 June 2009, 09:46:18
I got picked for the KR-6820E. ;)
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: chimera15 on Wed, 10 June 2009, 09:50:13
Quote from: ripster;95175
Congrats - your name start with a P or a M??

Just kidding - don't answer that.


Did he put our names somewhere? Or did a mod edit them out?  Doesn't matter really...
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: itlnstln on Wed, 10 June 2009, 09:50:58
My name is Don.  As in The Don.  I am the ItlnStln, you know.  I don't really care if people know my name.  As I was the only person listed from Texas, you probably figured my name out pretty quick.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: itlnstln on Wed, 10 June 2009, 09:51:46
Quote from: chimera15;95176
Did he put our names somewhere? Or did a mod edit them out? Doesn't matter really...

In one of the earlier posts, he showed our real names as the selected testers. Jeffrey later edited them out.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: itlnstln on Wed, 10 June 2009, 10:02:43
Quote from: ripster;95179
I thought it was **** Bender (http://www.tulanegreenwave.com/sports/m-baskbl/mtt/bender_****00.html) that edited them out. Click the link if you don't believe me.

Wow, that's just as bad as **** Butkis or Harry Reed.
 
My all time favorite, albeit fake, is Mike Litoris.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: FunkTrooper on Wed, 10 June 2009, 18:24:59
Quote from: itlnstln;95180
Wow, that's just as bad as **** Butkis or Harry Reed.
 
My all time favorite, albeit fake, is Mike Litoris.


I know I'm now going to sound really *really* stupid, but what's so funny about Harry Reed?  I'm trying so hard to find some sexual reference in there but... I just can't find it.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: FunkTrooper on Wed, 10 June 2009, 18:27:51
Quote from: itlnstln;95150
I am suprised I got picked.  I thought I was going to be late to the party.
 
If am not mistaken, FunkTrooper, the "rules" stated that you had to live the in the continental 48 states of the US.  I don't think they were taking overseas applications.


There were “rules” posted?? I certainly can't find any such rules.  Or am I just having one of those days where you miss really obvious things?
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: Manyak on Wed, 10 June 2009, 19:15:39
I got picked for the KR-6230 :)
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: Manyak on Wed, 10 June 2009, 20:16:13
Quote from: ripster;95323
That's the one I'm most curious about.  Should be fun to compare with your Brown Cherry Compaq.


I really wanna see how the 16 key rollover is implemented. If it works 100% properly over USB that'll be a good achievement for them. Of course I've got my doubts but I guess we'll just have to wait and see :)
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: IBI on Thu, 11 June 2009, 09:59:20
Quote from: ripster;95192
My son showed me that one


I don't usually object, but don't you think obscene references in this particular thread is going a bit far?
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: itlnstln on Thu, 11 June 2009, 10:35:03
Quote from: ripster;95423
Sorry, but I consider the posting of actual names to be a major mistake. The OP deserved to get some ribbing for that one. Could have easily be handled through PM or email.
 
The site admin had to XXX them out.
 
Usually I'm a lot more considerate of vendors (at least I like to think I am).

I guess, but other than state, it's unlikely any of us would have known who they were.  I think name security is overrated (although, I respect other people's privacy even if I don't care).  Hell, in the Military, you throw around your Social Security Number like it's a nick name.  I mean if my name is James Smith, how many others are there, and how would oine narrow me down.  IMO, I think people are a little over-paranoid on identity-related issues (I wouldn't throw around my SSN like I did when my dad was in the Military, though).
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: itlnstln on Thu, 11 June 2009, 10:54:23
Quote from: ripster;95429
Thank you 567-392-4791 for that comment. Somehow I don't think the military is the model I'm striving for.

Dude, the SSN format is ###-##-####.  You posted my phone number.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: itlnstln on Thu, 11 June 2009, 11:01:16
Quote from: ripster;95434
Haha - insert dirty joke here -->

Yeah, I got your good time.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ricercar on Thu, 11 June 2009, 22:27:47
I'm CA or VA with the backlit keyboard review, depending on where that other guy lives. It arrived today UPS. The packaging is NOT excessive (excellent!), neither over packaged in shipping nor in the retail box. It's USB (unexpected pleasure). I've just plugged it in ....

And this is the first typing. It's key action is firmer than I expected (good). The orange color is nice, more appealing than I expected. More later after thorough punishment ...
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: wellington1869 on Thu, 11 June 2009, 22:37:26
Quote from: ricercar;95612
I'm P or M with the backlit keyboard review, depending on that other guy's initials are. It arrived today UPS. The packaging is NOT excessive (excellent!), neither over packaged in shipping nor in the retail box. It's USB (unexpected pleasure). I've just plugged it in ....

And this is the first typing. It's key action is firmer than I expected (good). The orange color is nice, more appealing than I expected. More later after thorough punishment ...


gotta love a freshly unwrapped board.  Its like opening a new can of tennis balls. ;)
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ricercar on Thu, 11 June 2009, 22:47:57
Quote from: wellington1869;95617
gotta love a freshly unwrapped board.  Its like opening a new can of tennis balls. ;)


Yea, exactly. I won't be eating my escargot, chips and dip, or jelly tortes with my fingers while I type ... until at least until tomorrow.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: huha on Thu, 11 June 2009, 22:57:03
And remember, guys: Reviewing something without opening it up is not reviewing. It's just taking pretty pictures.

-huha
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ricercar on Thu, 11 June 2009, 23:39:42
In order to please huha I plan to drop test it multiple times. I'll definitely do the drop-tryToCatch test with outstretched fingers raking across the keys, to see if any keycaps get ripped off the 'board--my Macbook failed that particular test when it was less than a month old.

EDIT
The viewing angle of the backlit keyboard is adequate for side to side variance, but I have to be almost directly overhead before the vertical angle no longer dims parts of the letters.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: IBI on Fri, 12 June 2009, 06:06:16
Quote from: ripster;95429
Thank you 567-392-4791 for that comment.  Somehow I don't think the military is the model I'm striving for.

Oh, and IBI, I will be sensitive when you're the OP.  If anyone ever has a problem just PM me.  There is a delete post key available at all times.


Oh don't worry about me, I've been reading stuff on the internet long enough to stop wincing every time such colourful language is used. I just felt that the ... private parts reference in the post of yours I quoted and Itlsln's one above might be going too far in an official PCUSA/I-Rocks thread. This may be my culturial bias speaking so if you feel nobody at i-rocks/PCUSA will care then leave it.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ironcoder on Fri, 12 June 2009, 08:58:00
Quote from: jeffrey;94423
is there anyone wants to try i-rocks new KR-6280E/RF-6520/KR-6230? i-rocks US branch is looking for all feedback.

If you are interested, please feel free to email to jeffrey.hsieh@pcusacorp.com

Jefffrey


Damn I can't believe I missed this thread. Is this offer still valid?

I'm a software developer and I'm on the machine all day long.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: chimera15 on Fri, 12 June 2009, 12:52:31
Quote from: ricercar;95612
I'm CA or VA with the backlit keyboard review, depending on where that other guy lives. It arrived today UPS. The packaging is NOT excessive (excellent!), neither over packaged in shipping nor in the retail box. It's USB (unexpected pleasure). I've just plugged it in ....

And this is the first typing. It's key action is firmer than I expected (good). The orange color is nice, more appealing than I expected. More later after thorough punishment ...



I haven't gotten mine yet.  I didn't get a ups tracking number from them either..I hope everything's ok still.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ricercar on Fri, 12 June 2009, 13:47:43
Did you get an email confirmation, chimera? I had a UPS tracking number in the email confirmation from Jeffrey.

more K-6820E observations:

Don't worry Jeff. I _will_ be collating my thoughts into a concise review article. This is just thoughts as they occur to me, to back up my notes later.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ricercar on Fri, 12 June 2009, 14:52:56
I just discovered this on another thread
http://random.xem.us/rollover.html

KR-6820E has 6 key rollover.

There's something special "Anti Ghost Key" about the WASD cluster, spacebar, and arrow keys on the box cover (no printed booklet documentation), so they may test differently than the rest of the keys when I get down to the serious review.

Quote
KR-6820E makes of anti-ghosting technology extended gaming sessions user had no issues with ghosting while playing games."

sic. Looks Like a poor translation. I'll be proofing the box copy, for my review.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ricercar on Fri, 12 June 2009, 15:19:32
If the web page test is valid and accurate, then the keyboard has no 6-key rollover. I made a bad assumption in the rollover definition. Henceforth I shall be better.

When I mash down large numbers of keys, I get seemingly random results from 0 to 6 keys. Zero appears more often than any other number.

When I type and hold, the timing is significant. Pausing will end the keypress reception.

Example
   human press a,s,d,f,g,h
test result count 6

human press a,s,d, [pause], f,g,h
test result count 3

human press [numeric keypad ]
test result count 3 (maximum, all tests)

human press [anti ghosting keys q w e a s d {space} and {arrows}] any sequence
test result usually count 6, with pauses having almost no effect

human press [anti ghosting keys] + z x, any sequence
test result usually count 6, with pauses having almost no effect

This is not meant to represent scientific (or even consistent) testing at this point.


EDIT: clarified human touch parameters, and specified ghosting keys as shown on box.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Fri, 12 June 2009, 15:38:50
Quote from: ricercar;95748
Did you get an email confirmation, chimera? I had a UPS tracking number in the email confirmation from Jeffrey.

more K-6820E observations:
  • it is good to have an extra pgup and pgdn key between the alt and ctrl on the right. That scroll menu key on most keyboards is worthless to me.
  • Cursor arrows without a plastic "home row" nibby to feel (or empty space around them) are very hard to locate by touch. There's no space between the right arrow and the numeric keypad 0 to use for locating the arrows by feel.
  • The (compact) width of the keyboard is nice. It's no wide than the 17" laptop I use it with. I've taken to placing the KR-6820E over the laptop keyboard, where it happens to lie without pressing any keys on the laptop.
  • The feel of the keyswitches is better than the toshiba laptop. It has greater travel (as I hoped), and is firmer and provides more tactile feedback.
  • As expected, one can trigger a keystroke fairly easily without feeling the rubber collapse. However, the relatively large key travel has me in the habit of hitting the keys pretty firmly, and I'm not getting any typos from miskeying or dexterity issues.


Don't worry Jeff. I _will_ be collating my thoughts into a concise review article. This is just thoughts as they occur to me, to back up my notes later.



Appreciate that! all pros and cons are welcome.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ricercar on Fri, 12 June 2009, 15:43:11
Quote from: ripster;95794
So in a real life example if you're playing a FPS and crawling SW, throwing a grenade, and jabbing the "call for help" button you're dead.

If i was using a walkie talkie while throwing grenades and crawling PLUS trying to play a computer game, I'd likely die.

Thanks for your patience with the edits. I should know by now that people on this board reply in real-time, so I need to complete ALL my edits before posting.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: IBI on Fri, 12 June 2009, 17:30:17
Quote from: ironcoder;95677
Damn I can't believe I missed this thread. Is this offer still valid?

I'm a software developer and I'm on the machine all day long.


I assume it'll be open until jeffery or some other I-rocks representative makes a post saying that this batch of testers have all been picked. I won't be sending my application in until after I've posted the review of my current keyboard in a day or two.

Quote from: ripster;95794
OK, so it is 3-key for most keys but 6 if you use CERTAIN keys.


I'd imagine the highlighted keys are simply ignored for the purpose of blocking so it's 3-"plus however many of those you are holding down"-key minimum blocking.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: chimera15 on Sat, 13 June 2009, 15:20:00
Quote from: ricercar;95748
Did you get an email confirmation, chimera? I had a UPS tracking number in the email confirmation from Jeffrey.

more K-6820E observations:
  • it is good to have an extra pgup and pgdn key between the alt and ctrl on the right. That scroll menu key on most keyboards is worthless to me.
  • Cursor arrows without a plastic "home row" nibby to feel (or empty space around them) are very hard to locate by touch. There's no space between the right arrow and the numeric keypad 0 to use for locating the arrows by feel.
  • The (compact) width of the keyboard is nice. It's no wide than the 17" laptop I use it with. I've taken to placing the KR-6820E over the laptop keyboard, where it happens to lie without pressing any keys on the laptop.
  • The feel of the keyswitches is better than the toshiba laptop. It has greater travel (as I hoped), and is firmer and provides more tactile feedback.
  • As expected, one can trigger a keystroke fairly easily without feeling the rubber collapse. However, the relatively large key travel has me in the habit of hitting the keys pretty firmly, and I'm not getting any typos from miskeying or dexterity issues.


Don't worry Jeff. I _will_ be collating my thoughts into a concise review article. This is just thoughts as they occur to me, to back up my notes later.



 I got an email saying I was selected.  I wrote back and said Great! Then nothing after that...
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: chimera15 on Sat, 13 June 2009, 15:33:14
oops
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: chimera15 on Mon, 15 June 2009, 13:25:33
Got it today! yes! Thanks a bunch!  I just read the news that there's going to be another downloadable content pack for fallout 3 too! Should be fun to use with it.  Thanks a bunch!!!
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: itlnstln on Mon, 15 June 2009, 13:27:23
Mine should be arriving tomorrow at my office.  I can put it through its paces Tuesday and Wednesday, and write something up on Thursday.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Mon, 15 June 2009, 15:50:49
thank you all and look forward to seeing your valuable feedback soon. take your time :)
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: poonsmjj on Mon, 15 June 2009, 21:31:17
is it too late to join in? :(
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: Manyak on Tue, 16 June 2009, 02:20:28
Well I just got the board last night :)

I think I'll give it about a week of use before writing the whole review.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: Manyak on Tue, 16 June 2009, 04:17:51
Question:

The two USB ports on the back of the KR-6230: does the keyboard itself set a limit to how much power each port can provide (like, max of 200mA per port) or can you just use a single port with as much power as available from the PC?
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Tue, 16 June 2009, 14:03:13
Quote from: poonsmjj;96618
is it too late to join in? :(


all available keyboards are all assigned and shipped to selected reviewers for this month. I will be posting if any model or qty become available.

Thank you all,
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Tue, 16 June 2009, 14:04:35
Quote from: Manyak;96662
Question:

The two USB ports on the back of the KR-6230: does the keyboard itself set a limit to how much power each port can provide (like, max of 200mA per port) or can you just use a single port with as much power as available from the PC?


I will post the detailed spec on USB ports tomorrow, Manyak.

Thank you,
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Wed, 17 June 2009, 11:06:11
Quote from: Manyak;96662
Question:

The two USB ports on the back of the KR-6230: does the keyboard itself set a limit to how much power each port can provide (like, max of 200mA per port) or can you just use a single port with as much power as available from the PC?


Hi Manyak,

The two USB ports on KR-6230 can provide 250mA~300mA (at least) in total and here is how it works:

(generally) 500mA from USB port on system
KR-6230 needs 50mA and the Hub IC (inside of KR-6230) needs 200mA. Therefore:

500-50-250=250(mA) for two USB ports on KR-6230.

In fact, most of systems can provide 650-750mA to each USB ports, so 250mA is the minimum power provided by two USB ports on KR-6230.

Any further questions, please feel free to let me know.

Thank you,
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: chimera15 on Wed, 17 June 2009, 11:40:19
Quote from: jeffrey;97067
Hi Manyak,

The two USB ports on KR-6230 can provide 250mA~300mA (at least) in total and here is how it works:

(generally) 500mA from USB port on system
KR-6230 needs 50mA and the Hub IC (inside of KR-6230) needs 200mA. Therefore:

500-50-250=250(mA) for two USB ports on KR-6230.

In fact, most of systems can provide 650-750mA to each USB ports, so 250mA is the minimum power provided by two USB ports on KR-6230.

Any further questions, please feel free to let me know.

Thank you,



Why are the macro keys covered over on the 6820? ;)
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Wed, 17 June 2009, 12:49:38
Quote from: chimera15;97094
Why are the macro keys covered over on the 6820? ;)


Hi Chimera,

I will get back to you tomorrow too. Thanks for your detailed review.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Wed, 17 June 2009, 12:51:25
Quote from: itlnstln;96498
Mine should be arriving tomorrow at my office.  I can put it through its paces Tuesday and Wednesday, and write something up on Thursday.


Hi itlnstln,

You may give it a try on Wii, PS3 or Xbox; i tried RF-6520 on my Wii and PS3 without problem. :)

Let me know if any other questions. thanks
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: itlnstln on Wed, 17 June 2009, 13:12:16
Quote from: jeffrey;97122
Hi itlnstln,
 
You may give it a try on Wii, PS3 or Xbox; i tried RF-6520 on my Wii and PS3 without problem. :)
 
Let me know if any other questions. thanks

Unfortunately, I am not a gamer.  I would rather go outside and play (Hell, I barely use my PC at home).  I will try to loan it to someone I know with a Wii and see what they think.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: o2dazone on Wed, 17 June 2009, 13:50:26
Quote from: itlnstln;97138
Unfortunately, I am not a gamer.  I would rather go outside and play.


This is the reason I don't play The Sims. It's a game that revolves around me doing chores I normally do anyways. TF2 on the hand...well, let's just say there's more strings attached killing someone with a bat to the head in real life than a video game.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: wellington1869 on Wed, 17 June 2009, 13:54:44
Quote from: o2dazone;97147
This is the reason I don't play The Sims. It's a game that revolves around me doing chores I normally do anyways.


lol
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: o2dazone on Wed, 17 June 2009, 14:19:38
I play mostly jump maps nowadays. At least until the "OMG THE HUNTSMEN OWNS LETS PLAY SNIPER THE WHOLE ROUND" dies off a little...
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: itlnstln on Wed, 17 June 2009, 15:40:13
Quote from: o2dazone;97147
This is the reason I don't play The Sims. It's a game that revolves around me doing chores I normally do anyways. TF2 on the hand...well, let's just say there's more strings attached killing someone with a bat to the head in real life than a video game.

Disc golf is more fun, anyway.  I gotta get geared up for a tourney in Kyle next weekend.  My girlfriend and I are going to play after work.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Thu, 18 June 2009, 12:38:50
Quote from: chimera15;97094
Why are the macro keys covered over on the 6820? ;)


Hi Chimera,

Yes. there is a set of macro keys on the top of KR-6820E; we have plan to launch programmable gaming keyboard in the near future.

Thank you,
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: jeffrey on Thu, 18 June 2009, 14:26:42
Quote from: ripster;97420
Please tell the engineers to make it a truly 6-key rollover gaming keyboard.  We're kinda picky around here.


you got it.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: chimera15 on Thu, 18 June 2009, 16:00:40
Quote from: jeffrey;97414
Hi Chimera,

Yes. there is a set of macro keys on the top of KR-6820E; we have plan to launch programmable gaming keyboard in the near future.

Thank you,


Ah, that's really interesting,  will this version be upgradable? lol
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: chimera15 on Thu, 18 June 2009, 16:02:07
Quote from: ripster;97420
Please tell the engineers to make it a truly 6-key rollover gaming keyboard.  We're kinda picky around here.


I think it is? What's the test for that?
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ch_123 on Thu, 18 June 2009, 16:05:53
Check the stickey at the top of the keyboard section.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: IBI on Thu, 18 June 2009, 16:53:11
Quote from: chimera15;97476
I think it is? What's the test for that?


try U+I+K+L
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: chimera15 on Thu, 18 June 2009, 17:07:52
Alright, I'll try both of them..
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: chimera15 on Thu, 18 June 2009, 17:15:35
Yup, it passed both on usb.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: chimera15 on Thu, 18 June 2009, 17:29:26
Quote from: ripster;97502
Hmm.... Ricercar got different results here (http://geekhack.org/showpost.php?p=95790&postcount=84).

The other thing that makes me skeptical is why did they only highlight certain keys as being "anti-ghosting'.

I'm confused.

Show Image
(http://www.i-rocksusa.com/lg_image/KR-6820E-BK-1.jpg)


Maybe you could PM Ricercar or something to compare thoughts on the 6820.


I  noticed the arrow keys  on  the n-key rollover test in the n-key rollover thread weren't registering at all, that's probably why.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: chimera15 on Fri, 19 June 2009, 02:08:21
Quote from: ripster;97537
So you push UpArrow and don't get ?  All my keyboards register fine with the test, numpad or aux arrows.

That's really strange.

Or you mean you push some combo of other keys and don't get UPARROW?

The pause thing is a possible gotcha since in normal gaming your're crawling, running, so a bunch of keys are mashed and THEN you hit another key to throw the grenade or call for help.  I'm not trying to trash results here, just trying to understand the inconsistencies.  In the end  it may not matter to anyone and "Close enuf" is "good enuf".

No problem with the Filco Blue Cherry board BTW for any combo I throw at it.  Pauses or no pauses.  Up to 6 key on USB.  Relief.


You push uparrow, and get 0.  You push uparrow and any other combination of key and get 0.  I didn't see any indication of the pause he was talking about, unless it was in relation to the arrow keys.  The keys are functioning fine and working as an arrow keys, but they're not registering in the rollover test.

With the rollover test you gave me in the prior post they work fine though.  I don't see any delay or anything that stops 6 keys from registering immediately in any combination on the board.
Title: keyboard evaluation
Post by: ricercar on Wed, 24 June 2009, 14:34:10
I'm still here. Mostly. I need to digest the N-Key tests and perform a controlled experiment before I respond with meaningful data.