New front row for extra strong keyboard

EAO, the Expert Partner for Human Machine Interfaces, launches an MF2 ‘office style’ version of the W.series vandal-resistant keyboard.

The new edition to this range of mechanical, metal keyboards offers six rows of keys including the standard ‘F’ function keys. The ‘F’ keys perform the same, standard functions as any other office keyboard. Different language layouts are available also.

Even with an extra row, the external dimensions of the MF2 layout are exactly the same as the existing 5-row keyboards, so existing equipment can be upgraded without design changes.

Strength and durability are at the heart of this product. A brushed, stainless steel front plate provides resistance to shock and vandalism up to IK09 (10J) and resistance to liquid and dust penetration to IP67. The anti-pull-off keys are made from Zamak with a chrome finish and offer more than four million operations. Key markings are enhanced by using laser engraving methods to give better resistance to wear.

The keyboard can be supplied with an integrated numeric pad, similar to a standard office keyboard, or with an integral ‘trackball’ pointing device, which is available in three types: stainless steel, phenolic (plastic), and optical.

The optical trackball provide full sealing to IP67 and is resistant to liquid penetration including soft drinks (except milk), oils and dirty water. A drainage feature at the rear allow liquid to be emptied to maintain internal hygiene and prevent damage from freezing. The only moving part in the entire assembly is the ball itself, whose movement is sensed directly without the need for shafts, separate encoders and opto-couplers, making this product virtually maintenance free.

EAO’s W.series keyboard range is particularly suited to the needs of any public environment applications including kiosks and information terminals, or any harsh industrial environment.