Software
Since there is no software CD included, we will have to go to COUGAR’s website to download the software for per the included user’s manual. Now mind you, the software is not required; the 700K works just fine with standard Windows input drivers. However if you want to experience the full functionality and customization of this keyboard, then you will definitely want to download the UIX software. Before we download the software, COUGAR advises us to download the latest firmware for the 700K.
After installing the latest firmware to the 700K keyboard, we then proceed to download and install the latest UIX software. Upon launching the UIX software, we are greeted to the “Performance” screen with many, many options to customize. Everything from profile settings, backlight settings, N-Key rollover, repeat delay, repeat rate acceleration, Polling Rate, Sleep Mode is available here to program and adjust to your preference.
What is really fantastic is that if you are using a UIX Fusion enabled mouse such as the 700M, then you can sync modes between both peripherals and switch on-the-fly with just one key press on the keyboard. Absolutely awesome!
The second tab in the software labeled “Key Assignment” allows the redefining of the keyboard keys as well as the programming of macros. Users have complete control here whether be it the customization of multiple commands, delays all with the simplicity of a drag-and-drop interface. All of these settings can be manipulated and saved to three separate profiles. Here you can also coordinate several functions between other compatible COUGAR peripherals.
The “Lighting Control” section of the software reveals the ability to customize the five “steps” of the light control key. Here you can also isolate specific keys to be backlit or not for your respective modes. Sweet if you ask me! The only downside, albeit a slight one, is that one cannot choose a different color for the backlight as we could on the 700M gaming mouse. Bummer.
Now that we have gone over the software and customization, we will move on to the finished looks and performance overview!
