???? 1. Introduction: What You Need to Know
The Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 (Model B2M‑00006/12) is a classic split, curved ergonomic USB keyboard released in 2005. It’s renowned for its palm rest, zoom slider, multimedia hotkeys, and comfort-driven key layout Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 driver
While it works as a basic USB keyboard on any modern system, to unlock specialty keys (e.g. Zoom, My Favorites, media, and F‑key locking), you need Microsoft’s IntelliType or newer Mouse and Keyboard Center software meetion.com.
???? 2. Driver Evolution: IntelliType → Mouse & Keyboard Center
IntelliType (legacy driver): Older but still supports the 4000. Version 8.x for Windows / Mac, now deprecated .
Mouse and Keyboard Center: Microsoft's current software, combining IntelliType and IntelliPoint capabilities. It includes updates for Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 on Windows 10/11 answers.microsoft.com+15answers.microsoft.com+15en.wikipedia.org+15.
Note: Microsoft’s support has waned, but compatibility remains via downloadable installers from Microsoft’s official site .
???? 3. What the Software Unlocks
a. F‑Lock Key
This toggles between:
Standard F1–F12 functions (default)
Enhanced functions (media, Zoom, email, next/previous apps)
b. Multimedia & Favorites Keys
Five “My Favorites” keys — can launch apps, folders, or URLs.
Multimedia controls (Play/Pause, Volume, Mute).
Customization available through the software help.kogan.com+3meetion.com+3amazon.com+3.
???? 4. Installing & Customizing Features
Download driver:
Search “Microsoft Keyboard and Mouse Center” or “Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 driver” on Microsoft Support answers.microsoft.com+15answers.microsoft.com+15meetion.com+15.
Install and plug in keyboard. Software should detect it.
Launch app:
In legacy IntelliType, click the star icon to access mapping options answers.microsoft.com+1answers.microsoft.com+1en.wikipedia.org+1answers.microsoft.com+1.
In Mouse & Keyboard Center, each key appears with editable assignments.
Configure:
Assign favorite key shortcuts.
Adjust Zoom slider (e.g. set slider to simple magnification).
Set media keys to control Spotify, volume, etc.
Enable F-Lock if needed to toggle between standard and enhanced function modes.
???? 5. Compatibility: Windows & Mac
Fully supported on Windows 7/8/10/11 with the Mouse & Keyboard Center answers.microsoft.com+1manua.ls+1meetion.com+1amazon.com+1en.wikipedia.org+1manua.ls+1.
Mac support: IntelliType provides basic functionality on macOS versions up to Catalina (10.15), but specialty keys may remain limited .
⚠️ 6. Common Issues & Fixes
a. Special Keys Not Working
Ensure the Mouse & Keyboard Center is installed and updated .
Reinstall driver if media/zoom/favorites keys don’t respond.
b. Keyboard Not Recognized
Try another USB port and remove hubs or extenders .
Reboot after driver install.
c. Software Won’t Run
On Windows 11 & new PCs, Microsoft may flag it as outdated, but community confirms it still works en.wikipedia.org+12answers.microsoft.com+12answers.microsoft.com+12.
Use compatibility mode if needed.
d. F‑Lock Behavior
Default is F‑Lock ON (standard F‑keys). Toggle if your use-case needs media keys instead answers.microsoft.commeetion.com+2en.wikipedia.org+2manua.ls+2.
???? 7. Maintenance & Cleaning Tips
Palm rest lifts for cleaning dust under keys.
Use compressed air for debris between keys.
LEDs under spacebar indicate status: Caps, Num, Scroll Lock lights meetion.com+4manua.ls+4en.wikipedia.org+4.
Keep it upright to avoid liquid damage.
???? 8. When to Upgrade
The original 4000 series ended production in the late 2010s. Microsoft’s ergonomic keyboard arm is now licensed to Incase, but the 4000’s unique key layout keeps it irreplaceable amazon.com+1manua.ls+1.
Users debate whether to switch; many old-keyboard fans say the 4000’s feel wasn’t perfectly replicated .
✅ 9. Summary Table
| Feature | Basic USB Driver | Mouse & Keyboard Center |
|---|---|---|
| Typing & standard F1–F12 | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Multimedia keys | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Zoom slider | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Favorites key customization | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Software reprogramming | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Windows 10/11 support | ✅ Partial | ✅ Full |
| macOS support | ✅ Basic | ✅ Legacy only |
???? 10. Final Take
The Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 continues to be highly regarded thanks to its ergonomics and unique keys. To make full use of its capabilities—especially multimedia, Zoom, and customizable shortcuts—install the Mouse & Keyboard Center or legacy IntelliType software. Keep in mind compatibility nuances on newer OS versions, explore driver updates, and enjoy a comfortable, productive typing experience.