Press Release - September 17, 1997

Kinesis Corporation
Jon Biggs, Director of Sales & Marketing
(425) 402-8100
jbiggs@kinesis.com
www.kinesis.com

Kinesis Announces Introduction of adjustable keyboard
and stand alone numeric keypad

Bothell, Washington -- Kinesis Corporation, the leading developer of ergonomic computer keyboards and accessories, announced the release of its first adjustable-split keyboard. Available in September ‘97, the Kinesis Maxim^tm; adjustable keyboard offers the most ergonomic features for users who want zero setup and adaptation time. Maxim's many ergonomic features include:
· Variable split: allows the user to select a preferred separation angle between the left and right keys to straighten wrists;
· Adjustable lateral tilt: provides three "tent" settings (0, 8 & 14 degrees). This allows the user to minimize forearm tension without the pitfalls of excessive tilt;
· Removable, padded palm supports: adds comfort by providing a padded surface to support arm weight, thus relaxing the neck and shoulders and providing a soft resting place for the hands; and
· Soft tactile switches: provides both a soft touch and tactile feedback

Dr. William Hargreaves, President and CEO of Kinesis, noted "Our intention is to provide a complete line of high quality ergonomic computer keyboards and accessories that meets the needs of a wide variety of computer users. The Maxim adjustable keyboard furthers this goal by targeting individuals who do not require the advanced features of our contoured keyboards, but at the same time want significantly improved comfort and flexibility."

The Maxim was not only designed for comfort but incorporates many productivity features as well, including:
· Embedded 10-key: just like with Kinesis contoured keyboards, the embedded 10-key enhances productivity by eliminating the need to reach away from the home row. The numbers are right underneath the user's fingertips.
· Extremely easy transition: with a layout identical to traditional PC keyboards, adaptation time is virtually zero;
· Pointing device is close at hand: the Maxim has the smallest footprint of any QWERTY ergonomic keyboard, allowing a shorter reach to a mouse;
· Separate 10-key: the optional Kinesis numeric keypad is available as either a stand alone item or as an accessory connected to the keyboard. Perfect for intensive 10-key users, the Kinesis keypad can be positioned for either the right or left hand.
· Flexible configuration: features combine to improve efficiency since the keyboard conforms optimally to the user's preferences and immediate tasks; and
· Windows^® 95 compatible: has dedicated right and left Windows keys and Application key.

Priced at $179.00, the Kinesis Maxim is backed by the same limited lifetime warranty offered on the Kinesis contoured keyboards along with a 60-day money back guarantee. "We listened to the marketplace!" stated Jon Biggs, Director of Marketing. "Many computer users are requesting a keyboard that adjusts and conforms to their physical attributes and typing habits, while still incorporating the familiar PC keyboard layout. That's what we have accomplished with the Maxim - an ergonomic design that's fully adjustable without requiring an adaptation period."

Also available in September ‘97 is the Kinesis keypad. This separate 10-key allows users several configurations - as a stand alone item, in operation with other PC keyboards, or in conjunction with the Kinesis Maxim adjustable keyboard. Selling for $79.00, the Kinesis keypad plugs in the keyboard port of any PC and does not require special software or drivers. Because the keypad plugs directly into the keyboard port, the computer recognizes it with no setup required. The Kinesis keypad can also be used alongside any PC keyboard (including Kinesis contoured keyboards) by utilizing a Dual Keyboard Adapter, available from Kinesis for $49.95. However, the keypad does not require the dual keyboard adapter when operating with the Maxim.

Other options include specially-priced packages ($259) combining Maxim keyboard and interface devices for Macintosh or Sun computers.
Located in Bothell, Washington, Kinesis Corporation celebrates its sixth year of operation, and fifth year of continuous production of its highly-regarded contoured keyboards. For more information about Kinesis Corporation and its products, please call (425) 402-8100 or send e-mail to sales@kinesis.com.

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