HP’s Link-5 technology consolidates USB dongles for wireless input devices and it is is essentially the same concept as Logitech’s Unifying Receiver technology, which debuted two years ago. The idea is that instead of using an individual USB RF receiver dongle for each wireless input device and you can free up USB ports by routing the devices through a single receiver dongle………..
HP announced a new lineup of wireless accessories equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity and HP Link-5 technology to promote mobility and ease of use.Products such as the company’s exclusive HP Wi-Fi Mobile Mouse allow users to do more without the hassle of wires and with the assurance of extended battery life.“HP offers its customers a wide variety of accessories that are simple to use with connectivity options to meet their unique needs,” said Scott Pappan, director, Accessories, Personal Systems Group, HP. “For consumers who desire PCs that are light and small but offer fewer USB ports, or for those who use their PCs in multiple settings, options like Wi-Fi and Link-5 allow users to keep USB ports free for other devices.”The new HP Wi-Fi Mobile Mouse is the first mouse to connect quickly and easily without a USB dongle via a PC’s built-in Wi-Fi receiver.A reliable, first-time pairing connects the mouse to the PC, allowing users to work with ease and confidence. The mouse instantly reconnects during each use and operates without interference from other wireless devices.
HP also introduced new PC accessories with HP’s exclusive Link-5 technology. Link-5 allows users to connect up to five HP-compatible PC accessories with one receiver, freeing up valuable USB ports.There are no drivers or software to install. Users simply press the ”Connect” button on a Link-5 device to pair it with their PC. The wireless receiver then “remembers” all paired devices, making Link-5 accessories ideal for those using a PC in multiple settings such as the home, office or other mobile locations.Link-5 delivers reliable connectivity using 2.4-GHz wireless technology and has an intelligent sleep mode to ensure the longest possible battery life. The latest Link-5 accessories lineup includes:
- HP Wireless Mini Keyboard: Just the right mobile companion for a tablet or entertainment PC, this full-featured keyboard is lightweight and ultra-small in size.
- HP Wireless Ultrathin Wireless Keyboard: Offering a stylish look and feel, this keyboard is durable, full-featured and a great value.
- HP Wireless Elite v2 Keyboard: Featuring a sleek, ultra-slim design, this keyboard offers superb performance and comfort.
- HP Wireless Optical Comfort Mouse: Offering a comfortable, secure grip for use in the right or left hand, this mouse features an optical sensor with adjustable sensitivity that works on most surfaces.
- HP Wireless Laser Comfort Mouse: Using a laser sensor with adjustable sensitivity, this mouse delivers optimal performance and works on most surfaces.
- HP Wireless Mobile Mouse: Designed for users who are on the go, this mouse delivers reliable wireless connectivity at a great value.
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Why do we need a new shape for the wheel? Bluetooth has been doing the same type of function as Link5, except you can find it in so many different things…
Link5 means I need another USB port, and a whole new batch of drivers. It also means it won’t work with most tablets, and SmartPhones. Way to limit your market penetration, HP!
By the way, the same holds for Logitech, and their “Unifying” system. Now, all we need is for Microsoft and Apple to do the same, and we will have 4 USB ports tied up with proprietary “standards” that free up USB ports! Oh, wait, Apple went with the Bluetooth standard, so their keyboards/mice/trackpads don’t need one, and Bluetooth has been standard on Apple gear (including iPhones, iPads, and Macs) for many, many years now.