Pinnacle Micro, Logitech improvise with a hygienic keyboard

Broad-based ICT distributor Pinnacle Micro and business partner Logitech have launched a hygiene-friendly keyboard, which is expected to prove popular in businesses, schools, universities, hospitals and homes.

To guard against the growth of a range of product-damaging bacteria on the surfaces of Logitech products, Logitech - in conjunction with Pinnacle Micro - has integrated the AglON antimicrobial compound into the Logitech Cordless Desktop MX 3200 laser.

Robert Stephan, Logitech brand manager at Pinnacle Micro, said: "It has been proven that the average keyboard carries more bacteria then a toilet seat. This is due to a number of reasons, including people eating at the desk, to cross-contamination from multiple mouse and keyboard users. This is an issue, not only in offices, but at schools, universities and homes. Contamination can even occur in hospitals, where there are rigid infection control practices."

Commenting further on the AglON antimicrobial, he said the substance is effective in protecting products against a broad spectrum of bacteria. Its active ingredient is silver in the form of silver ions.

Pinnacle Micro distributes a wide range of computer equipment, including for well-know companies such as LG Electronics, Canon, Western Digital, Logitech and Ridata. The company is part of JSE Securities Exchange-listed Pinnacle Technology Holdings. PTH notched up revenue of R1.72 billion for the year ended June 2007, up 62% compared to the previous year. Net profit came in at R75.3 million.

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Growing concern over bacteria on workplace surfaces

Awareness of this issue is growing. According to a survey cited by AgION Technologies, 80% of US adults are extremely or very concerned about bacteria. It is no wonder then that there is significant interest among computer users for keyboards and mice with built-in surface protection against the growth of a broad range of bacteria. According to an April 2006 market research survey conducted by Logitech, 40% of respondents said that an antimicrobial feature would increase their interest in purchasing mice and keyboards.

From silver linings to silver ions

Silver`s unique properties and proven safety have been recognised for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians used silver-lined vessels to preserve the purity of water. Silver was used by the Romans in medical treatments, and by medieval physicians to help heal battle wounds. Before the advent of refrigeration, people would place a silver coin in their milk to keep it from spoiling. Today, scientists continue to discover additional capabilities and benefits of silver, including the antimicrobial properties of silver ions, the active ingredient in the AgION antimicrobial compound.

How AgION antimicrobial compound works

The AgION antimicrobial compound, in ceramic powder form, is incorporated into some Logitech keyboards and mice, much like a pigment. The compound continuously inhibits the growth of product-damaging bacteria on the product`s treated surfaces. The active ingredient helps break down enzymes in the microbe, inhibiting its ability to reproduce and spread on the treated surfaces.

According to AgION, surfaces with the AgION antimicrobial compound can reduce the amount of certain product-damaging bacteria by 99%. This protection is long-lasting, and through testing, has shown the AgION antimicrobial compound to be less toxic than table salt and less irritating than talcum powder.