View source for Kinesis (keyboard)

{{More citations needed|date=May 2009}}
[[Image:Kinesis-keyboard.jpg|right|thumb|250px|The Kinesis Advantage keyboard]]
'''Kinesis''' is a company based near [[Seattle]] that offers [[computer keyboard]]s with [[ergonomic]] designs as alternatives to the traditional keyboard design. Most widely known among these are the contoured ''Advantage'' line, which features recessed keys in two bucket-like hollows to allow the user's fingers to reach keys with less effort. Moreover, the keys are laid out in perfect vertical rows to avoid the need for lateral movements during typing. In addition, the modifiers such as enter, [[Alt key|alt]], backspace, [[Control key|control]], etc. are moved to a central location so they can be pressed with the stronger [[thumb]]s rather than the pinky fingers.

==Corporate history==
Kinesis was founded in 1991 with its headquarters in [[Bothell, Washington]], a suburb of Seattle.<ref name=MPCpr97>{{cite press release |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/3f3.html |title=First Mac-to-PC convertible ergonomic keyboard ships from Kinesis |date=November 13, 1996 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970107021317/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/3f3.html |archive-date=January 7, 1997 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation}}</ref> The company released its first keyboard, the ''Model 100'' (first in the long-running ''Contoured/Advantage'' line), in 1992.<ref name=ZMK-letter/> Kinesis's first adjustable keyboard, the ''Maxim'', was released in 1997.<ref name=Maxim-pr97/>

In 2000, Kinesis entered a strategic alliance with Cramer, Inc. of Kansas City, which manufactured ergonomic seating. Kinesis took over production for the Cramer ''Interfaces'' chair arm-mounted split keyboard,<ref name=Cramer-2000>{{cite press release |url=http://kinesis-ergo.com/presscramer.htm |title=Strategic Alliance Formed Between Two Leaders in Ergonomic Keyboards |date=August 1, 2000 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010520121007fw_/http://kinesis-ergo.com/presscramer.htm |archive-date=May 20, 2001 |url-status=dead}}</ref> releasing a revised version as the Kinesis ''Evolution'' in 2001.<ref name=Evolution-2001>{{cite press release |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/pressevol.htm |title=Kinesis Introducs First Fully-Adjustable and Retractable Ergonomic Computer Keyboard |date=January 10, 2001 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010310102247fw_/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/pressevol.htm |archive-date=March 10, 2001 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Products==
{|class="wikitable" style="font-size:100%;text-align:center;"
|+Kinesis keyboard lines
|-
! colspan=2 | Line
! rowspan=2 | Image
! rowspan=2 | [[List of keyboard switches|Mechanical keyswitch]]
! colspan=2 | Interfaces
! colspan=3 | Layout
! rowspan=2 | Programmable
! rowspan=2 class="unsortable" | Notes / Refs
|-
| Name || Models
| Computer || Pedal
| Adjustable split || Vertical columns || Contour
|-
! ''Contoured''
| KB1''x''0, KB13''x''PC(/QD), KB333PC
| [[File:Kinesis-Contoured Keyboard Classic-1.jpg|frameless|150px]]
| {{ya}} [[Cherry MX]] brown
| PS/2 || RJ11
| {{no|fixed}} || {{yes O}} || {{yes O}}
| Classic, Professional
| style="text-align:left;font-size:90%;" | <ref name=ContouredManual>{{cite web |url=https://archive.org/details/kinesiskbmanual/mode/2up |title=User's Manual: Kinesis Contoured PS/2 Ergonomic Keyboard Family |date=2005 |publisher=Kinesis Computer Ergonomics |access-date=7 October 2022}}</ref>
|-
! ''Maxim''
| KB200, KB210USB
| [[File:Ergonomic keyboard.jpg|frameless|150px]]
| {{na}} (dome)
| colspan=2 | USB & PS/2
| {{maybe|limited}} || {{no O}} || {{no O}}
| {{na}}
| style="text-align:left;font-size:90%;" | <ref name=MaximPS2-manual/><ref name=MaximUSB-manual/>
|-
! ''Evolution''
| KB4''xx''
|
| {{ya}} (tactile)
| colspan=2 | PS/2 (+USB for dual touchpad)
| {{yes O}} || {{no O}} || {{no O}}
| {{ya}}
| style="text-align:left;font-size:90%;" | <ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/evol_chair.htm |title=The Kinesis Evolution Fully Adjustable Keyboard (Chair Mount) |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010620232606fw_/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/evol_chair.htm |archive-date=June 20, 2001 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/evol_track.htm |title=The Kinesis Evolution Fully Adjustable Keyboard (Track Mount) |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010611143743fw_/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/evol_track.htm |archive-date=June 11, 2001 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://kinesis-ergo.com/evol_desk.htm |title=The Kinesis Evolution Desktop Keyboard |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030610051216fw_/http://kinesis-ergo.com/evol_desk.htm |archive-date=June 10, 2003 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
|-
! rowspan=2 | ''Advantage''
| KB5''x''0USB(/QD)
| [[File:Kinesis Advantage KB500USB-blk 2.jpg|frameless|150px]]
| rowspan=2 {{ya}} [[Cherry MX]] brown, red
| rowspan=2 | USB || rowspan=2 | RJ11
| rowspan=2 {{no|fixed}} || rowspan=2 {{yes O}} || rowspan=2 {{yes O}}
| rowspan=2 {{ya}}
| style="text-align:left;font-size:90%;" | <ref name=AdvantageManual/><ref name=AdvantageBUG/>
|-
| (''Advantage2'')<br/>KB6''xx''
| [[File:Computer Keyboard 1 2018-06-16.jpg|frameless|150px]]
| style="text-align:left;font-size:90%;" | <ref>{{cite web |url=https://kinesis-ergo.com/wp-content/uploads/Adv2-Users-Manual-US_6-22-21.pdf |title=Advantage2 Contoured Keyboard Family |date=2021 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |access-date=7 October 2022}}</ref>
|-
! rowspan=4 | ''Freestyle''
| KB700
| [[File:My new keyboard.jpg|frameless|150px]]
| rowspan=2 {{na}} (dome)
| colspan=2 | USB
| rowspan=4 {{yes O}} || rowspan=4 {{no O}} || rowspan=4 {{no O}}
| rowspan=4 {{ya}}
| style="text-align:left;font-size:90%;" | <ref name=FreestyleManual>{{cite web |url=https://archive.org/details/manualzilla-id-5993269/mode/2up |title=Kinesis Freestyle Solo Convertible Keyboard (KB700PB) optimized for PC |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |access-date=10 October 2022}}</ref>
|-
| (''Freestyle2'')<br/>KB800PB, KB800PB-BT
| 
| colspan=2 | USB (Bluetooth on "Blue" model)
| style="text-align:left;font-size:90%;" | <ref>{{cite web |url=https://kinesis-ergo.com/wp-content/uploads/kinesis_freestyle2_pc_manual.pdf |title=Kinesis Freestyle2 Convertible Keyboard (KB800PB) for PC |date=2013 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |access-date=7 October 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://kinesis-ergo.com/wp-content/uploads/kinesis_freestyle2_blue_pc_insert.pdf |title=Kinesis Freestyle2 Blue Multichannel Bluetooth Keyboard for PC (KB800PB-BT) |date=2014 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |access-date=7 October 2022}}</ref>
|-
| (''FreestylePro'')<br/>KB900
| [[File:Kinesis Freestyle Pro KB900.jpg|frameless|150px]]
| {{ya}} [[Cherry MX]] brown, red
| colspan=2 | USB
| style="text-align:left;font-size:90%;" | <ref>{{cite web |url=https://kinesis-ergo.com/wp-content/uploads/Freestyle-Pro-KB900-User-Manual-v-1.0.536-Sept-16-2020.pdf |title=FreestylePro User Manual — KB900 |date=2020 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |access-date=7 October 2022}}</ref>
|-
| (''Freestyle Edge'' & ''Edge RGB'')<br/>KB950 & KB975
| [[File:Kinesis Freestyle Edge KB950 2.jpg|frameless|150px]]
| {{ya}} [[Cherry MX]] blue, brown, red, silver
| colspan=2 | USB
| style="text-align:left;font-size:90%;" | <ref>{{cite web |url=https://gaming.kinesis-ergo.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Freestyle-Edge-KB950-User-Manual-3.10.20b.pdf |title=Freestyle Edge User Manual — KB950 |date=2020 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |access-date=7 October 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://gaming.kinesis-ergo.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Edge-RGB-Manual-v.1.0.121-Sept-15-2020.pdf |title=Freestyle Edge RGB User Manual — KB975 |date=2020 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |access-date=7 October 2022}}</ref>
|-
! ''Advantage 360''
| KB360
| [[File:Kinesis Advantage 360 Wired.jpg|frameless]]
| {{ya}} (Gateron)
| colspan=2 | USB-C (Bluetooth)
| {{yes O}} || {{yes O}} || {{yes O}}
| {{ya}} SmartSet / ZMK
| style="text-align:left;font-size:90%;" | <ref>{{cite web |url=https://kinesis-ergo.com/wp-content/uploads/Advantage360-SmartSet-KB360-Users-Manual-v7-5-22.pdf |title=Advantage360 User's Manual: SmartSet Programming Engine |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |date=2022 |access-date=10 October 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://kinesis-ergo.com/wp-content/uploads/Advantage360-ZMK-KB360-PRO-Users-Manual-v10-7-22.pdf |title=Advantage360 Professional User's Manual: ZMK Programming Engine |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |date=2022 |access-date=10 October 2022}}</ref>
|}

===Contoured / Advantage===
[[File:Kinesis-kps-chart-adapted-for-SP.png|thumb|right|Kinesis contoured keyboard, default layout]]
The original ''Model 100'', released in 1992, featured a single-piece contoured design similar to the [[Maltron keyboard]], with the keys laid out in a traditional [[QWERTY]] arrangement, separated into two clusters for the left and right hands.<ref name=ZMK-letter>{{cite web |url=https://kinesis-ergo.com/zmk-and-kinesis/ |title=ZMK Open Letter |author=Hargreaves, Dylan |date= |website=Kinesis |access-date=7 October 2022}}</ref> A 1993 article in ''[[PC Magazine]]'' described the {{USD|690|1993|round=-2}} keyboard's arrangement as having "the alphabet keys in precisely vertical (not diagonal) columns in two concave depressions. The Kinesis Keyboard also puts the Backspace, Delete, Enter, Space, Ctrl, Alt, Home, End, Page Up, and Page Down keys under your thumbs in the middle".<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=SZtn0ArSohkC&pg=PA44 |title=Carpal Tunnel Savior? Kinesis Tries New Ergonomic Design |author=Willmott, Don |date=March 30, 1993 |magazine=PC Magazine |page=44 |volume=12 |number=6 |publisher=Ziff-Davis}}</ref>

The top row of keys, including the escape key and function keys, are small soft-touch keys with membrane dome switches. The remaining keys are standard size and each has its own [[Cherry (keyboards)|Cherry]] MX brown key switch, providing a tactile feel, but no click. A piezo buzzer provides optional key click. All Kinesis contoured keyboards (except the Essential) support the capability to re-map individual keys.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mykeyboard.co.uk/kinesis/|title=My Kinesis keyboard|publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bobulous.org.uk/imho/kinesisClassic.html|title=Review: Kinesis Classic Contoured Keyboard|publisher=}}</ref> Recent models also come with the ability to switch between the [[Dvorak Simplified Keyboard|Dvorak]] layout with the press of a special key combination, though keycaps printed with dual-legend [[QWERTY]]/[[Dvorak Simplified Keyboard|Dvorak]] letters are included only on specific models.

By 1995, Kinesis had released its fourth-generation ''Model 130''. In 1996, Kinesis added two sub-lines to its contoured keyboards: the ''Essential'' (introduced that June), which was not programmable but could be upgraded,<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://kinesis-ergo.com/pr-essen.html |title=Kinesis launches a new ergonomic keyboard at the lowest price ever! |date=June 14, 1996 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990220101924/http://kinesis-ergo.com/pr-essen.html |archive-date=February 20, 1999 |url-status=dead}}</ref> and the ''Professional'' (November), which included on-board macro programming, a foot switch, and Keyware software for Windows.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://kinesis-ergo.com/presspro.html |title=Kinesis launches high-end, state-of-the-art ergonomic keyboard, "The Professional", for intensive computer users! |date=September 3, 1996 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990220160736/http://kinesis-ergo.com/presspro.html |archive-date=February 20, 1999 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The Essential had a suggested retail price of {{USD|265|1996|round=-1}} while the Professional was more expensive at {{USD|395|1996|round=-1}}.<ref name=MPCpr97/> In July 1997, the mid-range ''Classic'' sub-line was launched to replace the Model 130, offering key remapping and macro programmability, but with half the memory of the Professional.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://kinesis-ergo.com/press-cl.html |title=Kinesis Classic Keyboard replaces venerable Model 130 with new features, same price |date=July 1, 1997 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19980115140721/http://kinesis-ergo.com/press-cl.html |archive-date=January 15, 1998 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Specific model numbers included the ''Essential'' (KB132PC), ''Classic'' (KB133PC), and ''Professional'' (KB134PC); ''Classic'' and ''Professional'' models also were available with QWERTY/Dvorak dual-legend keys (KB133PC/QD and KB134PC/QD, respectively).<ref name=ContouredManual/> The ''Ergo Elan'' (KB333PC) was launched in 1999 with a revised (U.S. International) layout to accommodate European and Japanese users; it has basic programmability, corresponding to the capabilities of the Classic.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://kinesis-ergo.com/Elan-spec.html |title=The Ergo Elan international keyboard |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990503010142/http://kinesis-ergo.com/Elan-spec.html |archive-date=May 3, 1999 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

[[Image:Xmonad-screen-triplehead-dons.png|thumb|Kinesis Contoured Advantage Pro employed in conjunction with [[tiling window manager]] [[xmonad]].]]
In 2002, Kinesis released the ''Advantage'' line, updating its contoured keyboards with a USB interface. The non-programmable model was dropped and the USB contoured keyboards were available in two versions: the ''Advantage'' was offered in black or white and the ''Advantage Pro'' had a metallic silver finish with black keys.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/pressadvant.htm |title=Kinesis introduces USB versions of its patented contoured keyboard |date=October 24, 2002 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030427190615fw_/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/pressadvant.htm |archive-date=April 27, 2003 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Specific models included the ''Advantage MPC'' (KB500USB) and ''Advantage Pro MPC'' (KB510USB); ''MPC'' indicates Macintosh and PC compability. The ''Advantage MPC'' model also was available with QWERTY/Dvorak dual-legend keys (KB500USB/QD)<ref name=AdvantageManual>{{cite web |url=https://archive.org/details/manualzilla-id-5739718/mode/2up |title=User's Manual: Kinesis Advantage MPC USB Contoured Ergonomic Keyboards (Mac/PC switchable) |date=2015 |publisher=Kinesis Computer Ergonomics |access-date=7 October 2022}}</ref> and in a version (KB500USB-LF) that uses Cherry MX red linear keyswitches.<ref name=AdvantageBUG>{{cite web |url=https://archive.org/details/manualzilla-id-5889686/mode/2up |title=Brief User's Guide: Kinesis Advantage Keyboard |date=2013 |publisher=Kinesis Computer Ergonomics |access-date=7 October 2022}}</ref>

The ''Advantage2'' line was released in 2016; one major change was implementing mechanical [[Cherry ML]] keyswitches for the function key row. Internally, the Advantage2 had a new "SmartSet" engine and expanded memory for macro programming.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://xahlee.info/kbd/keyboard_kinesis.html |title=Kinesis Advantage2 Keyboard |author=Lee, Xah |date=March 21, 2022 |website=Xah Lee |access-date=7 October 2022}}</ref> Like the preceding Advantage, the Advantage2 has options for dual-printed keycaps and low-force Cherry MX red keyswitches.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com:80/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/kinesis_advantage2-brochure-8.5x11.pdf |title=Advantage2 Contoured Keyboard Family |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160823084828/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com:80/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/kinesis_advantage2-brochure-8.5x11.pdf |archive-date=August 23, 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Maxim===
The ''Maxim'' adjustable keyboard was launched in 1997 to compete with similar adjustable staggered-column keyboards with split halves and/or tenting such as the [[Apple Adjustable Keyboard|Apple Adjustable]], [[Microsoft ergonomic keyboards|Microsoft Natural]], and IBM Adjustable (M15)/Lexmark Select-Ease keyboards.<ref name=Maxim-pr97>{{cite press release |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/pressmax.html |title=Kinesis announces introduction of Adjustable Keyboard and stand-alone Numeric Keypad |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990221120056/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/pressmax.html |archive-date=February 21, 1999 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The front/back slope (6° and 12°), rotation (0–30°), and lateral tenting (0°, 8°, 14°) were adjustable to accommodate a wider variety of users;<ref name=MaximPS2-manual>{{cite web |url=https://archive.org/details/manuallib-id-2598196/mode/2up |title=User's Manual: Kinesis Maxim Adjustable Ergonomic Keyboard and Optional Numeric Keypad |date=2002 |publisher=Kinesis Computer Ergonomics |access-date=7 October 2022}}</ref> Kinesis advised new users to gradually increase split opening and tenting angles to acclimate to a more relaxed hand/wrist position.<ref name=MaximUSB-manual/> The Maxim is a [[Computer keyboard#Types and standards|tenkeyless]] QWERTY layout with the split halves bordered by F6, 6, T, G, and B on the left and F7, 7, Y, H, and N on the right;<ref>{{cite web |url=http://kinesis-ergo.com/images/maxmlay1.gif |title=Maxim layout |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19981206090749/http://kinesis-ergo.com/images/maxmlay1.gif |archive-date=December 6, 1998 |url-status=dead}}</ref> a [[numeric keypad]] with PS/2 interface was available separately.<ref name=Maxim-pr97/> In addition, the Maxim is compatible with the Kinesis 3-action footswitch via a daisychain connection.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://kinesis-ergo.com/prog_fs.html |title=Kinesis Programmable 3-action footswitch |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990220223704/http://kinesis-ergo.com/prog_fs.html |archive-date=February 20, 1999 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

As originally released, the Maxim was fitted with a [[PS/2 port|PS/2 mini-DIN interface]]; versions compatible with Macintosh and Sun were released in bundles with interface conversion boxes. The keyboard was reconfigurable to use the Dvorak layout by selecting the appropriate driver in Windows.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/max-spec.html |title=Kinesis Corporation's Maxim adjustable Ergonomic Keyboard and optional Numeric Keypad |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990221010836/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/max-spec.html |archive-date=February 21, 1999 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The accessory keypad connected using an RJ11 connector.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com:80/tech_support/brochures/maxim_ps2.pdf |title=Maxim Adjustable Keyboard brochure (PS2) |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041205231240/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com:80/tech_support/brochures/maxim_ps2.pdf |archive-date=December 5, 2004 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

A USB version was released in 2004; it uses a passive adapter for PS/2 compatibility.<ref name=MaximUSB-manual>{{cite web |url=https://archive.org/details/manuallib-id-2598165/mode/2up |title=User's Manual: Kinesis Maxim USB Adjustable Ergonomic USB/PS2 Keyboard |date=2006 |publisher=Kinesis Computer Ergonomics |access-date=7 October 2022}}</ref> With the USB update, the keypad was revised to incorporate a USB hub.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/pdfs/maxim-usb-keyboard.pdf |title=Maxim Adjustable Keyboard brochure (USB) |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071004062530fw_/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/pdfs/maxim-usb-keyboard.pdf |archive-date=October 4, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> It was named a ''PC Magazine'' Editor's Choice that year in a comparison of keyboards.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=xSaP6Is-1P8C&pg=PA100 |title= Keyboards and Mice: Trading Up |author=Peterson, Robyn |date=February 3, 2004 |pages=97–101 |magazine=PC Magazine |publisher=Ziff-Davis |volume=23 |number=2}}</ref>{{rp|100}}

===Savant===
The ''Savant'' and ''Savant Professional'' were keypads with 20 and 58 unlabeled keys, respectively; each key could be programmed with up to 480 (Savant) or 915 (Savant Professional) keystrokes.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/savant.html |title=Kinesis Savant programmable keypads |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000325004630/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/savant.html |archive-date=March 25, 2000 |url-status=dead}}</ref> They were designed and produced by P.I. Engineering and marketed by Kinesis; P.I. Engineering marketed identical products as the X-keys Desktop and Pro.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.xkeys.com/product/catalogframeset.htm |title=Our Catalog!!! |publisher=P.I. Engineering |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001001230957fw_/http://www.xkeys.com/product/catalogframeset.htm |archive-date=October 1, 2000 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Interfaces / Evolution===
The ''Interfaces'' keyboard was developed by Cramer, Inc. as a split keyboard mounted on the user's chair arms.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ergointerfaces.com/why_use.cfm |title=The Ergonomics of the Interfaces Keyboard |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991010050500fw_/http://www.ergointerfaces.com/why_use.cfm |archive-date=October 10, 1999 |publisher=Cramer, Inc. |url-status=dead}}</ref> Kinesis assumed responsibility for manufacturing the Interfaces in 2000,<ref name=Cramer-2000/> then released an updated version in 2001 as the Kinesis ''Evolution''.<ref name=Evolution-2001/> The Evolution added programming capabilities and included a bundled [[touchpad]] pointing device that could be moved to the left or right halves. The cable connecting the keyboard to the computer was {{cvt|10|ft}} long, while the cable linking the halves was {{cvt|5|ft}}; mechanical, tactile keyswitches were used.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://kinesis-ergo.com:80/tech_support/brochures/evolution.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030705002906/http://kinesis-ergo.com:80/tech_support/brochures/evolution.pdf |archive-date=2003-07-05  |title=Evolution Fully Adjustable Keyboard |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |access-date=10 October 2022}}</ref> To improve flexibility, track-mounted (taking the place of an underdesk tray) and desktop configurations of the Evolution were released.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/evolution.htm |title=The Kinesis Evolution Keyboard Family |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010609185856fw_/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/evolution.htm |archive-date=June 9, 2001 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The specific model number depends on the mount style chosen and the trackpad options, which were for the left, right, or both sides.

===Freestyle===
[[File:Working at Boneshakers.jpg|thumb|right|Kinesis Freestyle and laptop]]
The ''Freestyle'' keyboard line was launched in 2007;<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/press_freestyle.htm |title=Kinesis introduces revolutionary, new ergonomic keyboard, the Freestyle |date=June 13, 2007 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071004184719fw_/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/press_freestyle.htm |archive-date=October 4, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> like the Maxim, the Freestyle was a staggered-column keyboard split into two halves, but each half was an independent module now, linked by a cable. The keyboard halves were sold as the ''Freestyle Solo'',<ref name=2007pr/> and was bundled with the ''PivotTether'', which allowed any arbitrary split angle.<ref name=2008pr>{{cite press release |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/press_freestyle_v3_ascent.htm |title=Kinesis announces first-ever fully adaptable ergonomic keyboard |date=July 21, 2008 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081120153715fw_/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/press_freestyle_v3_ascent.htm |archive-date=20 November 2008 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Initially, several additional accessories were released with the Solo, including palm rests (AC706), the ''Incline'' (AC710, a base providing a fixed 10° tenting angle and adjustable split angle) and the ''VIP'' (AC720, adjustable 10°/15° tenting angle via lifters on each half).<ref name=2007pr>{{cite web |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/freestyle.htm |title=Freestyle Adjustable Split Keyboard |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070630055721fw_/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/freestyle.htm |archive-date=June 30, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The next year, ''V3'' (AC730) and ''Ascent'' (AC740) tenting accessories were also offered; the V3 allowed tenting angles of 5, 10, and 15° without palm rests, and the Ascent provided tenting from 20–90° in 10° increments.<ref name=2008pr/> Also that year, Kinesis released a version of the Freestyle for Macintosh.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/press_freestyle_mac.htm |title=Kinesis introduces Freestyle convertible keyboard, the first fully-separating keyboard for Macintosh |date=June 4, 2008 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080821160426fw_/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/press_freestyle_mac.htm |archive-date=August 21, 2008 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The different versions could be distinguished by model number (KB700PB for the PC version, and KB700MW for the Macintosh version) and color (black for PC, white for Mac).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/support/kinesis_freestyle_pc.pdf |title=Freestyle convertible keyboard for PC |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090816125510/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/support/kinesis_freestyle_pc.pdf |archive-date=August 16, 2009 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://kinesis-ergo.com/support/kinesis_freestyle_mac.pdf |title=Freestyle convertible keyboard for Mac |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090219081537/http://kinesis-ergo.com/support/kinesis_freestyle_mac.pdf |archive-date=February 19, 2009 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

In 2012, the ''Freestyle2'' (KB800) was introduced in PC and Mac versions; externally, the most visible improvement was a reduction in keyboard height/thickness.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/about-us/press-releases/freestyle2-intro/ |title=Kinesis Introduces the Freestyle2 Ergonomic Keyboard, the Award-Winning Ultra-Thin Update of the Original Freestyle |date=July 10, 2012 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140616023645/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/about-us/press-releases/freestyle2-intro/ |archive-date=June 16, 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/about-us/press-releases/freestyle2-for-mac-introduced-102612/ |title=Kinesis Introduces the Freestyle2 for Mac, a Fully-Splittable Ergonomic Keyboard |date=July 10, 2012 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140616023657/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/about-us/press-releases/freestyle2-for-mac-introduced-102612/ |archive-date=June 16, 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref> A matching low-profile numeric keypad was available.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://kinesis-ergo.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/kinesis_freestyle2_pc.pdf |title=Freestyle2 Convertible Keyboard for PC |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140710100812/http://kinesis-ergo.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/kinesis_freestyle2_pc.pdf |archive-date=July 10, 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The ''Freestyle2 Blue'' was released in 2015, updating the Freestyle2 with a multi-channel [[Bluetooth]] wireless connection.<ref>{{cite press release |url=https://www.kinesis-ergo.com/about-us/press-releases/freestyle2-blue-multichannel-bluetooth-21015/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160603111743/https://www.kinesis-ergo.com/about-us/press-releases/freestyle2-blue-multichannel-bluetooth-21015/ |title=Kinesis Introduces Bluetooth Freestyle2 Fully-Splittable Ergonomic Keyboard with Multichannel |date=February 10, 2015 |archive-date=June 3, 2016 |url-status=dead |publisher=Kinesis Corporation}}</ref> Freestyle2 was released with an updated VIP3 (AC820) tenting accessory, but remained compatible with the V3 (AC730) and Ascent (AC740).

The ''Freestyle Edge'' was created by the Kinesis Gaming brand as a [[Kickstarter]] project in 2017; it incorporated mechanical keyswitches into the split-module Freestyle design. Backers had a choice of Cherry MX blue, brown, or red switches in a keyboard with blue backlighting.<ref>{{cite press release |url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170315005196/en/Kinesis-Introduces-Freestyle-Edge-the-First-Split-Mechanical-Keyboard-for-PC-Gaming |title=Kinesis Introduces Freestyle Edge, the First Split Mechanical Keyboard for PC Gaming |date=March 15, 2017 |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |access-date=10 October 2022}}</ref> Updates followed in 2018 (''Freestyle Pro'', which deleted the backlighting and was aimed at business/office users with brown and red keyswitches) and 2019 (''Freestyle Edge RGB'', which added RGB backlighting).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://xahlee.info/kbd/kinesis_freestyle_pro_keyboard.html |title=Kinesis Freestyle Pro Keyboard |author=Lee, Xah |date=March 12, 2021 |website=XahLee.info |access-date=10 October 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://kotaku.com/my-favorite-split-gaming-keyboard-is-more-colorful-and-1836383336 |title=My Favorite Split Gaming Keyboard Is More Colorful And Comfortable Now |author=Fahey, Mike |date=July 15, 2019 |work=Kotaku |access-date=10 October 2022}}</ref> The Edge and Pro were released with updated VIP3 (AC910/AC925) and V3 (AC930) tenting accessories, the former bundled with palm rests.

===Advantage 360===
In 2021, Kinesis announced the ''Advantage 360'', which combined aspects of the Advantage (contoured, linear key layout) and Freestyle (individual split left/right key modules). It is available as the standard version, which uses USB-C ports to link the halves to each other and to the computer, and the Professional version, which uses Bluetooth Low Energy to link the halves together and to the computer; for the Professional, the link to the computer can be made using a USB-C cable if desired. In addition, the Professional model uses an open-source ZMK programming engine, while the regular 360 uses the Kinesis SmartSet engine. The Professional has white backlighting, while the regular 360 has none. Preorders opened in December 2021, limited to 360 reservations.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.neowin.net/news/kinesis-advantage360-preorders-open-this-monday-on-drop/ |title=Kinesis Advantage360 preorders open this Monday on Drop |author=Howell, Dean |date=December 18, 2021 |work=NeoWin |access-date=10 October 2022}}</ref>

==Applications==
The Kinesis line of keyboards are marketed to those who type throughout the work-day, and thus perceive a higher risk for such injuries as [[Repetitive strain injury|RSI]]. The Kinesis was first used among [[computer programmer]]s, who continue to be the primary market for the devices.{{Citation needed|date=November 2010}}

===In popular media===
Kinesis keyboards have appeared in films and television shows, including:<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/hollywod.html |title=Hollywood Connections |publisher=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990219221229/http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/hollywod.html |archive-date=February 19, 1999 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* [[Contact (1997 American film)|''Contact'']] (1997)
* [[Men in Black (1997 film)|''Men in Black'']] (1997)
* [[Flubber (film)|''Flubber'']] (1998)
* [[NetForce (film)|''NetForce'']] (1999)

== See also ==
* [[Physical ergonomics]]
*[[Dvorak keyboard layout]]

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
* {{cite web |url=http://kinesis-ergo.com/con-orvu.html |title=Contoured Keyboards overview |website=Kinesis Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19980115141220/http://kinesis-ergo.com/con-orvu.html |archive-date=January 15, 1998 |url-status=dead}}
*[http://www.kinesis-ergo.com/contoured.htm Contoured keyboard page on the Kinesis site].
*[http://www.jwz.org/gruntle/wrists.html Jamie Zawinski on keyboards and other ways of dealing with wrist pain].
*[http://jakeseliger.com/2009/07/20/kinesis-advantage/ An in-depth review].

===Patents===
* {{cite patent |number=5689253 |country=US |invent1=William R. Hargreaves |invent2=Shirley A. Lunde |assign=Kinesis Corporation |title=Ergonomic keyboard apparatus |status=grant |pridate=April 9, 1993 |gdate=November 18, 1997}}
* {{cite patent |number=6005496 |country=US |invent1=William R. Hargreaves |invent2=Shirley A. Lunde |assign=Kinesis Corporation |title=Ergonomic keyboard apparatus |status=grant |pridate=May 12, 1997 |gdate=December 21, 1999}}
* {{cite patent |number=7828489B1 |country=US |invent1=William R. Hargreaves |invent2=Carsten Buus |invent3=Jonathan H. Biggs |assign=Kinesis Corporation |title=Keyboard with a pair of pivotable keying modules |status=grant |pridate=January 27, 2006 |gdate=November 9, 2010}}
* {{cite patent |number=8289684B2 |country=US |invent1=William R. Hargreaves |invent2=Carsten Buus |invent3=Jonathan Biggs |invent4=Mark Ando |assign=Kinesis Corporation |title=Computer keyboard |status=grant |pridate=April 19, 2007 |gdate=October 16, 2012}}
* {{cite patent |number=8454254B2 |country=US |invent1=William R. Hargreaves |invent2=Mark Ando |invent3=Carsten Buus |invent4=Jonathan H. Biggs |assign=Kinesis Corporation |title=Computer keyboard |status=grant |pridate=November 26, 2008 |gdate=June 4, 2013}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Kinesis (Keyboard)}}
[[Category:Computer keyboard models]]
[[Category:Physical ergonomics]]