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In the world of third-party keyboards there are two simple ways to break down the ever-expanding features: things you need and everything else. Now, of all the features that fall into the extras category, many are practical, innovative additions. In fact, one could say that a few manufacturers of keyboards and mice have let some of the basic functionality fall to the wayside as they continue to focus on developing all of these bells and whistles. Not so with Logitech's newest cordless keyboard and mouse. The S530 Laser is an effective mix of the two; the product is utilitarian with fun new features, but it doesn't distract from its core function as a tool.
Overall, the keyboard's ergonomic design and light key weight make typing an altogether fluid experience. The peripherals, conveniently located to the side of the keyboard body, have one-touch functions that can launch iTunes, iPhoto, Spotlight, your default mail server and your homepage. If you don't use programs such as iPhoto, then often you can set the one-touch icon to open another application of your choice, such as Photoshop CS2 ($650; www.adobe. com) or QuickTime. There also is volume control on the right and a scroll function on the left, which allow for fast commands without reaching for your mouse.
The MX600 laser mouse itself is comfortable to grip and contains subtle key functions along its smooth contours, such as volume control and mute. There are two slim thumb buttons that default to the right and left arrows on the keyboard, but can be programmed as command keys. Clicking on the wheel of the mouse enables you to switch between horizontal and vertical scrolling. You can control the speed of these functions as well.
The keyboard is exceptionally thin, with a footprint of 18"x8"x3/4", and it's quite demure on the desktop. The wireless USB connection delivers signal to the keyboard and mouse from your computer, and the units come with two AA batteries for the mouse, and two AAA batteries for the keyboard. The software setup is simple and fast, and if you're content to keep the defaults, you're ready to plug away almost instantaneously.
–COLIN MORRIS
Cordless Desktop S530 Laser: 
Logitech | www.logitech.com | 800-231-7717 | $100
Pros: Types as smooth as butter, lots of useful functionality.
Cons: Lack of a Dashboard default button.
Requires: OS 10.2.8 or higher, USB port
macHOME recommends: Programming command keys specific to your needs into the mouse
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