Photovoltaic keyboard

A photovoltaic keyboard is a wireless computer keyboard that charges its batteries from a light source such as the sun or interior lighting, addressing a major drawback of wireless computer peripherals that otherwise require regular replacement of discharged batteries. The first keyboard that was solar-powered was Logitech K750 that was announced by the company in 2010. In 2018 Microsoft filed a patent describing how solar panels could be used to extend battery life for Microsoft's Surface Pro [1].

Logitech K750

The Logitech K750 has a set of photovoltaic cells on the top edge, charges from any light source including sunlight and under a standard bulb, can work up to three months in total darkness, and includes software to display battery charging status. It is a fullsized keyboard, including the usual movement keys and NumPad section on the right side, with low-profile keys much like a laptop.[2]. There are two models, compatible with Windows or Macintosh operating systems.[3][4][5].

Even though the keyboard is not officially supported in Linux, a third party application named Solaar provides functionality akin to the original Logitech software, such as battery and connection status indications, and allows device pairing/unpairing.[6][7][8][9][10]

Logitech K760

Another Logitech keyboard, the K760, is also PV powered, is highly useful. It is smaller and communicates with the computer via Bluetooth. [11]

References
  1. http://www.freepatentsonline.com/10528083.pdf
  2. "The wireless keyboard that lasts forever without new batteries or recharging is back down to $40". Retrieved March 23, 2020.
  3. Biggs, Jogn (2011). "Logitech K750 Is The World's First Solar Keyboard". techcrunch.com. Retrieved October 9, 2011.
  4. Fingas, Roger (2011). "Review - Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard K750 Review". macnn.com. Retrieved October 9, 2011.
  5. Clancy, Heather (2011). "Green Gadget of the Week: Logitech solar keyboard for Mac". zdnet.com. Retrieved October 9, 2011.
  6. https://github.com/pwr-Solaar/Solaar
  7. "Photovoltaic Wireless Keyboard Test" (in German). Retrieved 2018-06-29.
  8. http://www.omgubuntu.co.uk/2013/12/logitech-unifying-receiver-linux-solaar
  9. "Logitech's Solar Powered Keyboard is Just What We Need". 2010. Retrieved March 23, 2020.
  10. "Logitech's Latest Innovation: a Wireless Keyboard Powered by Light". 2010. Retrieved March 23, 2020.
  11. CARNO, DAVID (June 16, 2012). "Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard K760" (in German). Retrieved 2020-03-23.


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