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Average user rating:
- My rating: 0 stars
Full user review
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1 out of 2 people found this review helpful
1.0 stars
"Returning tomorrow"
Pros: Works as a keyboard
Cons: Poor IR configuration, missed keystrokes, poorly written manual
Summary: If you are looking for a USB keyboard, this might work for you. However, if you are looking for an input device that can replace a universal remote, look elsewhere.
The installation is trivial, as this is a USB device. Even if you happen to connect the device before installing the software (which they have labels on the USB cable stating you shouldn't) the keyboard function works fine once you put the batteries into the keyboard.
I was looking for a keyboard that I could attach to my notebook, as I hate trying to type with the built int keyboard. I decided to purchase this keyboard based upon the additional IR features described on the box, which made me believe it would also replace my universal remote.
First off, the Comcast Motorola cable box would not be identified using the built in control codes. So I decided to try and manually program using the IR Learning feature. This did not work either.
This device suffers from a lack of a status indicator during the Learning IR process. At no time was I aware that the system had acknowledged my input steps. As well, the manual is poorly written, making me wonder if those who were writing it had anyone confirming the steps to take. Or if Belkin had any techs verify the document prior to publishing.
For instance, the steps on setting up the connection with the base unit and the removable keyboard describe pressing the synchronize button (located on the bottom "??" of the base unit), then you will see the "Connect" LED blink. Press the synchronize button again, you will see the light stop blinking. The diagram makes it appear that the "Connect" LED should stay lit - however this is not the case.
I could go on (for example, a non-standard auxiliary key layout where I have to relearn my key positions), but trying to type on this keyboard is painful. It is missing about 10% of my keystrokes, forcing me to backtrack.
Very disappointed in this Belkin product, and will be returning it tomorrow for a more basic USB keyboard. Perhaps if the Learning IR function worked correctly, and the 10% keystrokes were not missed, I might suffer with the $90 purchase.
Hope this review helps someone considering this keyboard.
