1463 Keyclick is a Mac OS X preference pane that provides subtle audio feedback for each keystroke the system recognizes. Years ago keyboards were made with premium key switches that provided a resounding click when a key snapped over. Today most keyboards are made using rubber domes which can provide a similar force displacement or tactile feel, but not the sound. Human factors work on video terminals in the 1980s showed that the perception of keyboard crispness is correlated with audio feedback. Keyclick provides that feedback while improving on the original.

While there are existing programs that imitate the sound of an old fashioned typewriter, they do not appear to be intended as a practical touch typing aid. To be most effective, the feedback needs to subtle and non-distracting. Keyclick allows you to adjust the volume up or down at any time without even visiting the Keyclick Preferences Panel. Use Cmd-Shift-) for louder, and Cmd-Shift-( for softer. The volume is also affected by the system volume setting so it can adapt more easily to quiet or noisy surroundings. I suggest starting just above the softest volume that's clearly discernible.

Many long time computer users have fond memories of a favorite keyboard. Perhaps it was the Apple Extended keyboard (saratoga) or IBM Model M. Replacement keyboards with premium mechanical key switches are still available and popular with some programmers (like the Matias TactilePro), but at $30 and up these keyboards may be more than desired. Keyclick is only US $2.50 for up to 5 keyboards you own or control, and works on laptops. If your keyboard seems mushy, or you've ever longed for the crisp feel of an older keyboard, give it a try. You might be surprised how much you like the keyboard you already own.

Features and Benefits:
• Provides subtle but important feedback for each keystroke recognized by the system.
• Clicks for each auto-repeated character but does not click for modifier keys.
• Clicks in real time even when the program you are using is too busy to respond.
• Improves touch typing by confirming each successful keystroke.
• Relaxes the need for visual feedback of keyboard input.
• Adjustable keyclick volume directly from the keyboard.
• Simple low cost solution.

New in version 1.1.8:
• Build with Xcode 3.0 under Leopard for improved compatiblity. If you are upgrading from a previous version, you will need to stop the previous KeyclickServer and then re-enable Keyclick to begin using the new features.

System requirements:
Mac OS X 10.4 (Tiger) or later (at this time)
Runs on either PPC or Intel (Universal Binary)

System support:
PPC/Intel

$5.00 demoware - Keyclick features a fully functional 21 day trial period.

For more information, visit:
http://sustworks.com/site/prod_keyclick_overview.html

Tags: Software Updates ï Utilities ï

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