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Saitek Cyborg Command Unit
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Observation
I see before me a sharp-looking product from Saitek's Cyborg line of gaming peripherals. I see 21 buttons labeled "1" through "21" (skipping 17-20), where "2", "5", "6", and "7" are W, A, S, and D on a QWERTY keyboard, respectively. By default, 1-11 are intended to signify the left side of a standard keyboard, but of course, this is fully customizable using the included software. The F keys (F1-F4) at the top of the Command Unit are likely also customizable, and seem to be the 17-20 keys. There is also a small joystick on the right side.
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Testing
The first thing to do is to run the software on the included CD. When this opens, you're greeted by a mostly blank screen asking you to connect your devices. Upon doing so, you can go to the next step which will install the software for the device. The software is extremely basic and provides the means to program the keys however which way you want. All in all, with the switch in the upper left, you can have a grand total of 144 programmable commands, though switching between modes doesn't seem to make sense in the heat of battle. On top of all that, you can save different combinations for different games as appropriate, by saving each combination to its own profile if you so choose.
What you can't help but notice is that the key locations are nothing like what you're used to seeing on a standard keyboard. This will require getting used to. There is also a small joystick-looking controller on the right side. The exact purpose is uncertain as it did not come up in my testing, but just like the beaucoup keys on this product, somebody will find it convenient.
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The second thing I notice as I begin to play (the first being that I can't find Shift and Space immediately) is that it feels awkward/uncomfortable. I'm used to positioning my left hand a certain way, and then it becomes obvious that I can't position it the same way on the Command Unit, primarily being that the wrist support angles up, and then the keypad angles down. It requires some time and patience to adjust, but in simply glancing, it looks to be more comfortable than hovering above a standard keyboard.
Of note is the eye candy provided. The keys are backlit by green LED's. The neat part is that, using the included software, there is a slider bar that allows you to increase/decrease the intensity of the LED's, all the way down to being off if they bother you. I personally like the backlight.
Conclusion
Overall, the Saitek Cyborg Command Unit is a nice peripheral for those who have always griped about playing PC games on a standard keyboard. And at $35 from circuitcity.com, it is inexpensive enough to fit into just about anybody's budget. There is definitely a learning curve, but when you're used to it, keys/commands that once required you to look down at the keyboard to find, say, the 'P' key are now at your fingertips via any of the programmable keys of your choice. The time saved in hectic game situations could be more than significant.