Yes, it's a review, and it's not for a book!
Previously, PalmOne had two different models of keyboard out there, both
descendents of the original Stowaway keyboard used on many different
models of PDA. The original Stowaway folded up into a wallet shape, and
was pocketable only if you like to carry around something about the size
of a laptop's power brick in your pocket. (It's wider than that, but once
you account for the cord, it's about the same size.)
The two previous models of keyboard were somewhat less than full-size to
allow for more portability. Palm had two--a wireless model which
sometimes needed to be reconnected to the PDA (it shuts off automatically
after 3 minutes) or a wired model that works with the old-style
"universal" connector. You know, the one that isn't so universal these
days.
The Stowaway was more popular than its descendents because it was a full
laptop-style keyboard. It had little things like number keys, and the
keys were physically the right size and spacing, even if they were little
chicklet mechanisms. You could not carry it in any normal sized pocket,
sure, but few people actually carry even the PDA in a pocket (I'm an
exception..) More likely you'd put it into a backpack, briefcase, laptop
bag, or what have you.
PalmOne seems to have learned its lesson in this regard. This new
keyboard, the PalmOne Universal Wireless, is not intended to be crammed
into a pocket. It is longer and wider than the original Stowaway because
the keyboard folds in half, rather than into quarters, but it is also much
thinner. It's powered by two (included, Duracell branded) AAA batteries,
and unlike the original PalmOne Wireless Keyboard, it has both a number
key row and an IR boom that ban be positioned on the right, top, or left.
(Users of the Tungsten T3, T5, and Lifedrive will appreciate this!)
Operation is simple: Put the batteries in the thing, look inside the
manual to figure out how to open the thing, install the driver on your
PDA, and make sure your beam receiver is turned on.
If you've tried a PDA keyboard before, you probably know that you need
your stylus now and then. Unfortunately, this keyboard lacks a stylus
well. But on the plus side, it does have a sturdy-enough cradle for you
to actually use the PDA's stylus while the device is sitting on the
keyboard. I find that I can set the stylus between the PDA and the edge
of the cradle without too much trouble, or, with certain models, leave the
stylus partially exposed in its silo.
No idea how long the batteries last yet. Also, while I have tested it
with several models of PalmOne PDA, it should work with any PalmOS 5
device. You might have trouble getting a Zodiac into the keyboard's
cradle (mine's on loan so I can't test it.) The manual promises that the
website will provide instructions for Symbian support, but I couldn't find
any. I also haven't tested the HP/Dell PDA support. ;)
The summary:
Pros: Full size keys, supports most current PDAs, supports screen
rotation, no reconnect annoyance
Cons: Larger than the previous keyboard, manual refers you to a website
(the main website!) for information that isn't readily available
MSRP: $69.99 US
If you've got a Palm and sometimes need a real keyboard, you will like
this keyboard. If you don't or if you have a non-Palm PDA, you might do
better with a product from a company that doesn't produce exclusively
PalmOS devices, save for this keyboard.
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