12/17/2006 — WASHINGTON (AFPN) — The new Airman Battle Uniform Keyboard and Mouse are ready for production and will be available in early 2007, said the Air Force deputy chief of staff for information management personnel. Many factors were considered in developing the keyboard & mouse, with the concern for Airmen being at the top of the list, said Brig. Gen Robert R. Allardice.

"We were looking for computer peripherals that would be easier to use," he said. "We wanted to provide input devices that the Airman wouldn't need to spend a lot of out-of-pocket expenses to maintain." Also, Airmen’s feedback throughout the process was beneficial in adding new keys to the keyboard.

The new keyboard/mouse design is a pixilated tiger stripe with four soft earth tones consisting of tan, grey, green and blue. "We listened to the Airmen's requests," General Allardice said. "It will have four programmable keys on the top of the keyboard, and also a small recessed button on the left side of the mouse. In addition, there will be two USB connectors to attach USB keyboard lights or cell phones."

The footprint of the keyboard was also a concern for Airmen. "I tested these peripherals," General Allardice said. "We're making them available in more sizes to fit the cubicle better," he said. "We've taken the time to produce more sizes and tailored them for men and women."

Some other ABUKM accessory items:

-- A tan video monitor will be used.

-- Suede mousepads in matching green-gray color; like the desert mousepad these will be polish-free and available in men’s and women’s sizes.

-- The screen saver marquee display color for the name, U.S. Air Force, and rank is midnight blue.

"This is the keyboard and the mouse of the future," General Allardice said. "Eventually when enough of these input devices are manufactured, we will phase out the old keyboards and mice." The current projected mandatory installation date for the new ABUKM is fiscal 2011.