The pre CES 2006 press-releases start to trickle in. For instance New Standard Keyboards (NSK) of Santa Maria, California will introduce a new line of patented USB computer keyboards at CES 2006.
Actually this 53-Key Keyboard already appeared in January 2005 the first time. Back then the release date was April 2005. Maybe it works this time.

There have been many attempts to replace the QWERTY keyboard. New Standard Keyboards (smart company name) tries it's luck with a 53 key model. The NSK measures a space saving 12.5 inch x 5 inch.
The keyboard is the invention of John Parkinson, an electrical engineer with a degree in psychology and background in industrial psychology and ergonomics. Parkinson says: "The New Standard Keyboard has several functional and ergonomic advantages over standard QWERTY keyboards, which will make it a desired accessory for new system buyers and those wishing to upgrade their keyboard".
The advantages of the New Standard Keyboard apparently are:
- Keys are aligned with natural movements of fingers to insure proper posture when typing
- Alphabetical letters are easier to find and keys are color-coded on the NSK535R to aid hunt & peck typists
- All keys can be easily reached from the home position
- Shift keys are centralized and shift characters can be typed one-handed for assisted applications and handicapped
- Editing keys are integrated
- The keyboard has a smaller footprint, which allows the mouse to be placed right next to the typing keys
- There are only half as many keys to learn

The New Standard Keyboard will be sold to distributors and resellers and has a suggested retail price of $69.95. It will ship in February, 2006.
If we are not too busy we will report about this new keyboard from the CES 2006 show-floor.

More details on the New Standard Keyboards site (currently under construction).