KEP Marine Releases New Line of Marine-Grade Input Devices


Electronics Leader Unveils Latest Waterproof ECDIS and Military Specific Controls



Birdsboro, PA – Kessler-Ellis Products (KEP Marine) – the manufacturer of industry-leading, type approved displays, computers and peripherals, announced today the release of its newest line of marine-specific keyboards, trackballs and joysticks. The latest offerings from KEP Marine are well suited for exposed and protected navigation stations of recreational or commercial ships of all sizes. Designed to be stylish yet functional, the controls can work in coordination with Multifunction Devices (MDFs) as well as SOLAS Convention approved Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) navigation devices. Some units even meet strict military specifications.



Offered in a number of configurations, KEP Marine's new pointing and control devices are fully compliant with IEC 60945 standards and are certified water resistant. The new line of LTSX50 and E50 Ergonomic trackballs, KSML series keyboards, and Dual Function Joysticks possess a professional style and industrial durability that make them the best pointing and control devices for harsh or hostile conditions, indoor or outdoor. The use of stainless steel for metal parts ensures the best resistance to corrosion in salty and/or greasy environments. Offered in non-painted or black painted stainless steel, all of the devices can also be ordered in front panel mounted or in a fully enclosed versions. All panel-mounted versions can be installed with either holes or studs, and are supplied with a silicone sponge seal ring for exceptional protection. A cover plate on the rear side protects the internal components.



The standalone LTSX50 laser trackballs feature a 50mm black epoxy resin ball and a built-in scroll wheel designed for the highest level of durability and ease of use. The E50 Ergonomic trackballs are sculpted with a black soft touch case allowing users to rest their hands comfortably for extended periods of time in a natural position. The fiber optic KSML series 106- or 92-key keyboards require no external power supply, have an integrated trackball and include eight user-selectable backlit illumination levels with various colors of backlighting for keys, keyboard accents and trackball. The KSLM series have a compact full-sized keyboard with an integrated numeric keypad and the same 50mm laser trackball as the standalone LTSX50 versions. The Dual Function Joystick offers two modes of operation – a 3-axis joystick and a mouse pointer. Switching between the two functions is as simple as pressing the button on the top of the joystick. All KEP Marine input devices are plug play compatible with PS/2 and USB ports, and do not require special device drivers for installation.



"Commercial and military ships of all sizes and classifications rely on their navigation systems to be dependable and easy to use, regardless of the conditions," said Anthony Zuccarelli, director of marine products, KEP Marine. "Our new control and pointing devices are designed to provide the best interface for an ECDIS display, in any condition, day or night for even the longest and most grueling of voyages. When your career and life is at stake, you can trust that our trackballs, keyboards and joysticks won't fail you."



The KEP Marine LTSX50 and E50 Ergonomic trackballs, Dual Function Joysticks and KSML Series keyboards are priced starting at $679, $695, $625 and $1200 respectively, and can be purchased from authorized KEP Marine dealers and distributors worldwide. For more information on the KEP Marine trackballs and keyboards, KEP Marine or its entire marine product line, contact 800-631-2165 ext 353 (toll-free) in the USA or visit www.kepmarine.com.



About KEP Marine:

KEP Marine, a Sparton Corporation company, designs, manufactures and services industrial and marine type approval displays, computers and peripherals for the commercial and recreational marine markets. www.kepmarine.com



About Sparton Corporation:

Sparton Corporation (NYSE:SPA), now in its 115th year, is a provider of complex and sophisticated electromechanical devices with capabilities that include concept development, industrial design, design and manufacturing engineering, production, distribution, field service and refurbishment. The primary markets served are Medical Biotechnology, Military & Aerospace, and Industrial & Commercial. Headquartered in Schaumburg, IL, Sparton currently has nine manufacturing locations and four engineering design centers worldwide. Sparton's Web site may be accessed at www.sparton.com.





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