Logitech unleashes cordless desktop combos

A day after releasing a new Web cam, Logitech announced a batch of mouse-and-keyboard combinations on Tuesday, including one that lets you control your desktop from 20m away.

The PC gadget maker's four latest peripheral products include the diNovo Media Desktop Laser, the next-generation of the company's flagship media package. It comes in silver-metallic finish with blue accents and features a detached, multipurpose number pad that can act as a remote control.

The pad also has an interactive display that shows incoming instant messages and emails, and also displays the status of instant-messenger buddies. In addition, the pad can be used as a standalone calculator.

The diNovo package also comes with the MX 1000 laser cordless mouse originally launched last year and a Bluetooth wireless-enabled keyboard, which the Swiss-American company said could let customers transmit a picture from a mobile phone or camera to the PC or use a wireless headset to conduct voice over Internet protocol, or VoIP, phone calls.

The product is expected to ship in October in Europe and the US with a $199.99 (about £110) price tag.

Logitech has upgraded its other multifunction products as well. The company's MX 5000 cordless mouse and keyboard features a built-in LCD that can display email and instant-message notifications, as well as show music player information. The combination is also equipped with Bluetooth wireless and is expected to ship in October for $149.99.

Take away the LCD display and the Bluetooth and you get Logitech's cordless MX 3000. Available beginning this month in Europe and the US for $99, the package includes a laser-based mouse with Logitech's low-profile keyboard. The 12 function keys have a second mode that allows the owner to programme separate actions such as going to a particular Web site or opening an email program.

Logitech is also offering a cordless keyboard, the S 510, that includes a remote control for the PC and other devices. The package comes with an 800 dpi optical mouse and a keyboard uses the 27MHz wireless spectrum with a range of 5m. The device has seven customisable keys, including three smart keys.

The mouse-keyboard remote is expected to be available in September for $99.99. A version without a remote or mini-receiver will also be available for $79.99, Logitech said.

Last week, Logitech took the wraps off a box of new goodies for PC game enthusiasts, including a programmable keyboard with an LCD display and two mice with laser tracking technology.