Logitech Cordless Desktop MX for Bluetooth

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Today we will be reviewing the Logitech Cordless Desktop MX for Bluetooth. This keyboard/mouse combo touts the latest in Cordless Technology, coupled with an integrated Bluetooth hub, to make it a very enticing product for anyone looking to move to cordless. Read on to find out more about the product, as well as our findings after seeing the product in action.

Logitech has been working for years to perfect its wireless technologies. One might even say that Logitech basically invented the category of "Cordless Peripherals" at the desktop. Truth be told, wireless peripherals have evolved much since their creation back in the 1980s and continue to embed themselves as a viable alternative to the wire-entangled desktops most of us live with on a daily basis.  With over 45 million cordless devices sold, it is easy to see why Logitech is the market leader in this arena.

The first cordless mouse on the market was based on IR (infrared) technologies, and was not usable if the mouse moved out of visible range of the IR receiver. The model I had even had problems when it was sitting right in front of the receiver. Even when it was working perfectly, the cordless mouse of old could just not match the transmission rates of a corded mouse.

Luckily for us, times have changed. Logitech moved away from IR (they haven't used IR since 1984) and into the RF (radio frequency) range for better cordless communication for its cordless mice and keyboards. Since 1992, Logitech has been using their proprietary Palomar 27Mhz cordless technology which, unlike RF, does not require a direct line of site.  With the advent of "FastRF," cordless devices have moved out of the technological stone-age to join the rest of the computer electronics in the twenty-first century.  To this day, Logitech still uses their Palomar technology to drive their cordless products

The next big leap for Logitech was the integration of MX technology. With MX Technology and FastRF, Logitech was able to offer increased reporting ratio, higher transmission rates, and lower latency. In general, Logitech's cordless products were quickly pulling ahead in the race for a reliable cordless desktop.

Enter Bluetooth. With its latest offering, Logitech has integrated Bluetooth technology into its cordless desktop. Here is how Logitech describes Bluetooth:

"Bluetooth is a standard wireless technology aimed at allowing users to make effortless, fast connections between various devices, such as mobile devices and computers. The sophisticated mode of transmission ensures protection from interference, increased security of data and offers greater wireless range. Your Bluetooth devices by Logitech will work up to 10 meters away from the included Bluetooth wireless hub.

"Bluetooth is based on a low-cost, low power, short-range radio link. Bluetooth eliminates the cords that used to tie up digital devices. And because Bluetooth utilizes a radio-based link, it doesn't require a line-of-sight connection in order to communicate. "

In essence, Bluetooth technology is a standard wireless communications protocol that offers increased distance, with outstanding reliability. 

Logitech has no intention on replacing their robust Palomar technology with Bluetooth.  The Bluetooth offering is a high-end, integrated solution for users who desire to connect other wireless devices to their desktop.

Next: Product Specs and Requirements >>
 

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