Microsoft has some new gaming peripherals in their kitty for PC gamers and the new devices are not correlated to Xbox 360 gaming console. Under the SideWinder range, Microsoft has unveiled X5 Mouse and X6 Keyboard.

Featuring Cruise Control, the X6 keyboard assures continuous action without the need to hold down the key or keys assigned to the action. Interestingly, players can take advantage of Cruise Control with up to four keys simultaneously. On pressing the in-game macro record button, players can record any sequence of keystrokes.

As gamers are more comfortable in playing by using the WASD arrow keys, Microsoft has incorporated front-face lighting for these keys on the X6 that boasts to enhance visibility. Gamers can also make use of the Quick-Launch key that promises to provide one-touch access to Windows Vista Games Explorer and enables them to see the games in their computer’s game library quickly.

According to Kevin Flick, user researcher for Microsoft Hardware, “We know that consumers don’t want to pull out and set up a second keyboard for a gaming session, so we created a device that was perfect for both gaming and regular computer use. With the switchable key pad, gamers will have a fantastic, customizable experience whether they’re playing their favorite game or creating Microsoft Office PowerPoint presentations.”

Next is in line is the new X5 mouse, which offers a fast and powerful performance. The features that make the X5 a high-end gaming peripheral are adjustable sensitivity that switches up to 2,000 DPI, five customizable buttons, and a Quick-Launch button that instantaneously launches the Windows Vista Games Explorer.

The SideWinder X6 Keyboard is priced at $79.95 (approx. Rs. 3,477) and SideWinder X5 Mouse for $59.95 (approx. Rs. 2,607).