The BigKeys LX has been designed for advanced users who need the functionability of a normal keyboard, combined with the large and visible keys of the BigKeys keyboard. With additional punctuation and a separate shift key, the LX is a natural choice for users who need the full range of keys for writing letters, email, spreadsheets and other text entry.

The clever design means that the BigKeys LX takes up the same desk space as a standard keyboard, yet the key tops are four times the area. The high contrast lettering is ten times as big as those on a standard keyboard, which means that the keys are easy to see, find, read and press. This makes the BigKeys LX particularly suitable for users with a visual impairment or hand tremor.

The coloured version appeals to learners, with black lettering on assorted coloured keytops. The colours act as a memory aid; Y is Yellow, B is Blue, G is Green, R is Red, W is White, and the vowels are highlighted in yellow. This helps to provide a friendly and quick to learn keyboard.

The high contrast black lettering on white keytops option is ideal for poorly sighted users, and those wanting a sensible, normal keyboard look to their BigKeys.

The high contrast white lettering on black keytops option is preferable for some poorly sighted users.

The lower case keys are less confusing for children or slow learners; and make the keyboard compatible with Keystage 1 and 2 guidelines.

The ABC layout is simple to learn for those unfamiliar with a computer keyboard, and more straightforward for users with learning difficulties. It is also great for teaching kids the alphabet.

• Extra large keytops - one inch square
• Compact design means keyboard takes no more desktop space than a conventional keyboard
• No run on - one key press produces one letter
• Standard PS/2 Connector
• PS/2 to AT adapter included on request for free
• Full instructions included
• Strong design with steel structure and hard plastic case - will withstand a lot of bashing without breaking!
• Plug and go - no software needed!
• Compatibility: All IBM-style PCs, Acorn A7000, RISC-PC, iMac (with PS2 to USB adapter)
• Punctuation and comprehensive symbols
• Assist mode

Punctuation and special characters

BigKeys LX includes all the number keys, alphabet keys, and special characters that are available on a standard keyboard. Function keys F1 through F10 are included, as are the cursor control keys.

• Shifted Numeric Keys: ! " £ $ % ^ & * ( )
• Punctuation Keys: : ; @ ' . , < > ? / ~ ` _ - + = | { } [ ]
• Cursor Control Keys: Left, Right, Up, Down
• F1 - F10 keys: When you press and hold the alphabetic 'F' key, the numeric keys become F1 - F10.
• Other function keys: Backspace, CapsLock, Ctrl, Ins, Del, Esc, Tab, Shift, Alt
• Print Screen: F + P
• Euro Symbol: F + E
• Characters on a standard keyboard that are not available on the BigKeys LX:
  F11 and F12 (F11 is F+/; F12 is F+')
  Numeric Pad Keys
  Pause/Break

BigKeys LX Assist Mode

The Assist Mode on BigKeys LX accommodates users who cannot press two keys simultaneously. Assist Mode works with and enhances the Windows 95/98 'Sticky Key' Accessibility Option.

When not in Assist Mode, the function keys are produced on BigKeys LX by pressing simultaneously the F key and a number key. (F+1 produces the F1 function, etc.)

The BigKeys LX Assist Mode enables you to press the F key and have it remain active until you press another key. In Assist Mode, the F key becomes a 'Sticky Key'.

Examples of using the BigKeys LX Assist Mode:

• To obtain an F1 in Assist Mode, press and release the F key, then press and release the 1 key.
• To obtain an 'Alt-F4' in Assist Mode, press and release the Alt key, then press and release the F key, then press and release the 4 key. (The Windows 'Sticky Keys' Accessibility Option must be turned ON for this example.)

To enter the Assist Mode, press the BigKeys LX CapsLock key 3 times in a row.

To exit BigKeys LX Assist Mode and return the keyboard to normal operation, again press the CapsLock key 3 times in a row.

Note that while in BigKeys LX Assist Mode, it will be necessary to press the F key twice to send a F to the computer.

Using BigKeys LX to Control Dolphin Software

Dolphin Computer Access have created a special hotkey set to allow visually impaired computer users access to the core magnification features of Lunar, LunarPlus and Supernova through the BigKeys LX keyboard. Click here to read more or download the hotkey sets.

No Run-on Feature

Only one keystroke is sent to the computer for each key depression. This feature prevents multiple characters that might occur inadvertently when holding down a key for long periods.

How big are the keys on the BigKeys keyboard?

The large keys on a BigKeys keyboard are one-inch square, beveled to 3/4-inch square on the top surface.

That's about 4 times bigger than the keys on standard keyboards!

How big is the lettering on the BigKeys keys?

The lettering on the large keys is 7/16-inch tall (just under 1/2" tall).

Are special software or device drivers needed to use a BigKeys keyboard?

No special software or device drivers are needed to use BigKeys. Just plug the BigKeys keyboard into your computer in place of regular keyboard, and you're ready to go.

Connectors

Connection	PC Socket	Cable end	Pins	Size and Width
PS2			Six (6)	Round, pencil sized
AT			Five (5)	Round, thumb sized
USB			Four (4)	Flat rectangular

 

Does the BigKeys have a PS/2-style connector or an AT-style connector?

The BigKeys has a PS/2 connector, and we can provide a PS/2 to AT adapter for free if you need it. Please ask when ordering.

So you will be able to use the keyboard right out of the box, whether your computer has a PS/2-style or AT-style connection.

My PC only has a USB connection for the keyboard; can I use a BigKeys keyboard?

Yes, using the BigKeys PS2 to USB adapter.

iMac compatibility: Will the BigKeys work with an iMac?

Yes, using the BigKeys PS2 to USB adapter. You can use the Mac BigKeys utility (bigkeys.hqx 292KB) from RJ Cooper & Associates, which will allow you to use the BigKeys Alt key as the Mac Command key. This software will also allow you to use the BigKeys arrow keys to control the mouse cursor, see below for more information.

Two keyboards: Can I use both BigKeys and the standard keyboard on my PC?

Yes! With use of the BigKeys YFork Keyboard adapter, you can connect two keyboards to a PC, and use both.

Changing Layout

Changing the order of the BigKeys keys from ABC to standard QWERTY layout, or from QWERTY to ABC

The BigKeys is available with two key layout options, enabling you to find the perfect solution to your needs. It can be configured with either the standard QWERTY keyboard layout (as found on most keyboards) or the simpler ABC layout, ideal for newcomers to computers or dyslexics.

The BigKeys keyboard can be configured in either ABC order or standard QWERTY order. To change the order of the keys on your keyboard:

Change the order switch:

1. The order switch is located on the reverse side of the keyboard, on the left. Use a pencil tip to move the switch.
   For QWERTY order, the switch should be towards the lower edge of the keyboard. For ABC order, the switch should be towards the upper edge of the keyboard.
   (Once this switch is moved, the computer will interpret all keystrokes as coming from the alternate keyboard order.)
2. Rearrange the keycaps:
   Remove all of the large letter keycaps. This can be accomplished by looping a length of strong string under and at the centre of the keycap (dental floss works well for this), and pulling straight up with a quick, strong snap. Alternatively, we can supply a dual keycap puller.
3. Then snap the keycaps back on in the new configuration. Use the diagram as a guide for keycap placement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mouse Keys: Can I use BigKeys to move the mouse pointer on the screen?

Not using Windows MouseKeys - but yes if you download this Keymouse software from RJ Cooper & Associates, which will enable you to use the BigKeys arrow keys to control the cursor:
Keymouse for Windows - bigkeys.exe 570KB - Enables PC Windows users to use the BigKeys arrow keys to control the mouse cursor.
Mac BigKeys utility - bigkeys.hqx 292KB - Enables Mac users to use the BigKeys arrow keys to control the mouse cursor, and to use the BigKeys Alt key as the Mac Command key.

I need another copy of the instructional insert that comes with my BigKeys.

Send us an e-mail or call us to request a new copy by mail.

Can I try a BigKeys keyboard before I buy one?

We operate a 30 day money back guarantee. If you buy a BigKeys keyboard and decide it is not for you, you can return it for a full refund within 14 days (excluding postage and packaging) - but please retain the original packaging in good condition.