Logitech Cordless Desktop Helps Cut Cords for Notebook Docking Station

Logitech (SWX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI), the inventor of the cordless keyboard-plus-mouse desktop set, today announced that it is manufacturing cordless keyboards and cordless optical mice for the new HP xb2000 Notebook Expansion Base.

The original equipment manufacturer (OEM) arrangement between Logitech, the world´s leading manufacturer of cordless PC peripherals, and HP is indicative of the increasing popularity of cordless PC peripherals. The NPD Group, a market information company based in Port Washington, N.Y., reported that from 1999 to 2003, sales of cordless mice and keyboards grew 532 percent in the U.S. In France and Germany, sales of cordless mice and keyboards grew 354 percent during the same period, according to Germany-based GfK.

This is the second OEM agreement between Logitech and HP to be announced this fall. In September, Logitech announced it would manufacture HP iPAQ Bluetooth™ Stereo Headphones for HP iPAQ Pocket PCs.

HP´s new notebook docking solution is designed for customers who want a desktop experience, without the nuisance of unnecessary cords, as well as the mobility inherent in a notebook PC. The HP xb2000 Notebook Expansion Base features an angled, adjustable docking stand, which allows an open notebook PC to be at eye level, eliminating the need for a bulky monitor. It also features integrated stereo speakers, along with the cordless keyboard and mouse, minimizing desktop clutter.

“Through this great new solution from HP, we can help notebook users experience the benefits of a full size keyboard and mouse as well as a cords-free experience,” said David Henry, Logitech senior vice president for the Control Devices Business Unit. “Mouse and keyboard cords are an unnecessary annoyance. Cutting those cords gives people the ability to compute without any physical restrictions, and makes it easier to focus on the task at hand rather than the mess on the desk.”

Logitech, which has sold more than 50 million cordless PC peripherals, introduced its Logitech® Cordless Desktop® concept in 1998 — the first time a cordless mouse and keyboard were sold as a set. It was the beginning of what would become one of the company´s best-selling product families.

“Logitech´s wireless technology for mice and keyboards has redefined the market for PC peripherals,” said Brett Faulk, director of consumer notebook product marketing for the Personal Systems Group at HP. “Logitech´s cordless mice and keyboards, along with the HP xb2000 Notebook Expansion Base, deliver a clutter-free desktop experience.”

The HP xb2000 Notebook Expansion Base is expected to be available in retail stores in Asia and the U.S. beginning this month. The suggested retail price in the U.S. is $249.(1)

Author:  

Email:    

Topic:    

Content: