DOS / Linux Support / Windows Boot-Time support

[JEC]

The DirectIN line of hardware has been tested on Mac OS X.3, Windows XP and Windows 2000.

To make a long story short, the USB drivers by Windows used during boot time aren't as smart as the ones used when Windows is completely loaded. The USB 'enumeration' process, which is what happens when a new device is attached to a computer, requires a very delicately choreograped set of communications between the host and the device.

Our keyboards and boxes are currently only supported by a full installation of Windows. We're working to tweak things so that boot time and DOS running are supported.

We don't officially support Linux, though we agree it's a splendid way to run a computer.

[valdis]

"Our keyboards and boxes are currently only supported by a full installation of Windows. We're working to tweak things so that boot time and DOS running are supported."
This was written in January of 2006...

When do you think, this will be fixed? I just bought 8 keyboards for $2000 and I still need to use the original 8 keyboards additionally hooked up to the computers, to keep them fully functional during booting.

[JEC]

As of August 30, 2011, all DirectIN Keyboards are fully functional at 'boot' time. Thus, a second keyboard is not required for your PC to pass the POST tests.

Keyboards which shipped earlier this spring and summer, and which include a sticker on the rear panel which says '...and allows for easy firmware updating' may receive this update electronically at no charge. Contact John (sales@empirisoft.com) for more detail.

Other keyboards currently in the field may be returned to our shop for the update.

Thanks!