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September 17, 2008
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Hello All,
I recently switched over to a different keyboard - I used to use (and still do on my linux box) an EluminX backlit keyboard over to a Unicomp model (the one that is modeled after the old IBM 'clicky' model) - but I really miss not being able to see the keys in the dark or in low lighting. What I'd like to do is utilize one of my many available USB ports to power a USB-powered light tube. My intent is to mount it under my desk just above the pull-out keyboard tray, however I've not been able to find anything that will serve this purpose.
Does anyone know if such a solution is available? I have to believe so, as a few years ago I bought a handful of external USB-powered blue lights (they can either be turned on or switched to pulsate to the beat of the background music/noise) however they've since gotten pretty dim and won't cut it with regards to my needs. As always, any and all input is appreciated. TYIA.
Kindest Regards,
JoseyWales
August 11, 2011
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I've never bought such a thing, but it stands to reason that it would be a simple enough product for a USB device.
A quick google search returned several options.
[url:o36hru1b]http://www.google.com/products?q=usb+light&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&ei=fM7KSbKJBMrfnQee4KnsCQ&sa=X&oi=product_result_group&resnum=1&ct=title[/url:o36hru1b]
So, no recommendations from me, but Targus is a well respected brand.
--zig
September 17, 2008
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Thanks Ziggie, but I'm looking for something more in the fashion of my existing "blue light" theme. I did a bunch of google searches and found more than my fair share of white, book-reading lights, but my intent is to get something that is not distracting, more subtle, but enough to see my keyboard kinda thing.
I do however truly appreciate the reply. If you can find something/anything I've not yet found I would greatly appreciate the heads-up.
Regards,
JoseyWales
August 7, 2011
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[url:w9d048hy]http://www.meritline.com/metal-usb-led-light-laptop-silver-234---p-34061.aspx[/url:w9d048hy]
Meritline.com is a good place for this type thing. If the above doesn't suit your needs do a search for USB light. There are quite a few options. If you find the light too bright stick a pc of scotch tape over it to diffuse the light.
September 17, 2008
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What I'm looking for is similar to the Antec lights that I have surrounding my monitor right now, in that they are slender blue tube lights, all USB powered, not so much a 'spot light,' more of a floodlight, effects look. Just enough background light to make my new 'clicky' keyboard as functional in the dark as my Eluminx keyboard was/is.
August 7, 2011
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Josey,
I still think something like this would work -[url:2kpvsi11]http://www.meritline.com/usb-led-light-silver---p-23897.aspx[/url:2kpvsi11]. If it is too bright put a couple strips of clear Scotch tape over the lens to defuse the light.
Heck, for $6 shipped (for 2 of them) you can't go wrong!
September 17, 2008
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Yeah Dave, for that price I guess it won't hurt to try. I happen to have an unused 4-port USB hub laying around, so I'm gonna order two pairs and see what kind of funky set-up I can create. I wonder how to turn the light blue...just replace the bulbs?
Thanks for the advice.
August 7, 2011
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I want pictures when you're done!
September 17, 2008
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I'll see what I can do....not too much of a modder (in other words, I've never done anything remotely close to what would be considered "modding" my system). My first thought was that the bulbs just popped in/out, and this may be true (hopefully), but after looking around online for blue LED lights I see that most have 2 wire prongs sticking out which leads me to believe it may require soldering (which I've never done) or something else I've never done. Should find out soon though....fingers crossed.
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