Entered CNET Catalog: 02/18/2005
SKU: BTVKB
Manufacturer: iTech Dynamic Limited
Product summary
The good: Compact and sleek form factor; cool concept.
The bad: Limited number of compatible PDAs; doesn't work with Windows Mobile 2003 Second Edition; expensive; poor user guide and tech support; lack of tactile keys might not be for everybody.
The bottom line: The VKB proves that image isn't everything. Despite looking cool, the keyboard takes some getting used to and needs better support options.
Editors' review
- Editors' Choice: No
- Reviewed on: 03/16/2005
We thought we saw some pretty sleek keyboards when we reviewed these PDA accessories last fall, but nothing compares to VKB's Bluetooth Virtual Keyboard (BTVKB). Sure to turn heads, this ultracool gadget projects a full-size "virtual" keyboard on your desk or any flat surface using lasers, one of which projects the keyboard image, while the other senses the touched keys. We garnered a number of oohs and aahs from passers-by as we used the keyboard while on the go throughout our test period. Sadly, looks and concept alone don't make a good product, and the BTVKB's lack of tactile keys may be a turnoff to some. The BTVKB costs about $150 and works with a handful of Bluetooth-enabled Pocket PCs and Palm devices, as well as some smart phones, PCs, and notebooks (you can check for compatibility here).
One of the advantages of the BTVKB, if not its biggest benefit, is the gadget's compact size. At 3.5 by 1.3 by 0.9 inches and 2.8 ounces, it's about the size of a large pack of gum and easily slips into your bag or even pocket. VKB even includes a protective carrying case so that you don't scratch the keyboard's projection and receiver window on the front. With the exception of some silver trim and the small red projection window in the front, the device is cloaked in black, and there aren't any distinguishing features to clue you into its functionality. The power button is located on the left along with the charging socket that's protected by an attached rubber cover; a Reset button is located on the right side, along with a protective cover. On top of the BTVKB is an LED that blinks blue when it's ready for pairing and red when the battery is low. There is also a microswitch on the bottom that must be depressed in order for the keyboard to work; therefore, if you pick up the device or if it tips over, the keyboard turns off. This is a good thing since it prevents any unnecessary battery drain.
Unfortunately, our admiration for the BTVKB ended during setup. Originally, we tried to pair the keyboard with the HP iPaq hx4700 (listed as a compatible device), and we had no problem getting the software driver on our test machine. The trouble came when trying to pair the two devices. Using the Bluetooth Manager on our iPaq, we were able to discover the BTVKB and add it to our list of paired devices. As instructed by the quick-start guide, we went to the VKB app under the Programs menu, went to the Connection tab, chose Bluetooth (which is set to Serial as default), and followed the rest of the directions. While trying to connect, we got the following message: "The device does not offer any usable services. Please enable any desired services on that device or choose another one." The sparse quick-start guide and CD-based user guide didn't provide much in the way of troubleshooting tips, and if you think you're going to find help from the company's Web site, try again. We finally got a technician on the phone, and even though he walked us through the process, we still weren't able to connect, and he couldn't offer any solutions--we were left out in the cold.
We were then sent a new keyboard and an updated driver. We gave it another go on the hx4700, but this time, the Bluetooth manager couldn't even discover the device during pairing. We went through the same process on the HP iPaq hx2750--no luck there either. Giving up on Windows Mobile 2003 Second Edition handhelds altogether, we opted for the HP iPaq H4150, and lo and behold, it connected with no problems. We also tested it with the PalmOne Zire 72 and didn't experience any of the setup problems we encountered with the Pocket PCs.
The projected keyboard is clear and bright, although it gets a little blurry around the bottom edges, more specifically, the Ctl (Control) and Del keys. Still, they're legible and work just fine. You get all the number and symbol keys, but the BTVKB doesn't exactly mimic a true keyboard; for example, the quotation mark/apostrophe key is located near the bottom to accommodate the arrow keys. Since the BTVKB isn't restricted by physical constraints, the projected keys are large and well spaced. However, some might have trouble adjusting to the lack of tactile buttons. A clicking sound lets you know that the device is registering your keystrokes, though. If you prefer to type in silence, you can turn this feature off under the VKB menu. You can also adjust the keys' sensitivity and projection intensity, as well as set time-out limits, enable autorepeat, and more through the VKB menu.
Indeed, we had problems getting used to the lack of physical keys, and on our first try, we produced a memo rife with typos. Accuracy improved the more we used it, but we never felt fully confident or comfortable when typing documents. On the upside, the keyboard was responsive to our touches and registered every keystroke. Battery life is rated for two hours of continuous use, and we found that to be accurate. Of course, you'll get more mileage out of the battery with casual use.
User opinions
Select a User Opinion to view: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22out of 22 user reviews
Waste of money
Pros: Good idea compact.
Cons: Will not pair because of the pairing security requires specific pairing program not use in current computers or phones/PDA?s.
Researching I have found FAQ with results of pairing will only work with IBM Bluetooth software. Old Bluetooth technology and newer Bluetooth devices will not work with the older software. So it is your choice use VBK keyboard and only it or use other Bluetooth devices. A waste of money and ended up being a waste of time and effort trying to get it to work.
DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY UNLESS THE ONLY BLUETOOTH DEVICE YOU PLAN ON USING IS THE VBK KEYBOARD!!!
out of 22 user reviews
A good start.
Pros: Highly portable, accurate, very impressive to fellow-geeks.
Cons: Only a so-so battery life, getting it to sync was a chore, requires a flat and opaque surface with slightly dimmer-than-normal lighting.
It's still a bit pricey for another toy but if you have a large and heavy laptop you don't like toting around, you may want to consider getting this.
out of 22 user reviews
Once connected - a simple must for PDA users
Pros: Versatile, easy to carry, a real WOW factor
Cons: Took so long to get connected - no support
Since this took so long I haven't attempted to load any drivers yet so I can play with the adjustments and sensitivity factors but fear there aren't any for my PDA in the list anyway - closest is the Atom Exec but it doesn't like my Windows Vista OS on the laptop.
So perhaps those of you who have had similar problems, I suggest restarting your PDA with manufacturers default and try again - it could be as simple as a software conflict. Hope this helps someone else.
out of 22 user reviews
May require advanced setup skills
Pros: Lightweight and uber-cool
Cons: Works ONLY with the Microsoft Bluetooth stack
Sony, Panasonic, Dell and many others portables ship with Toshiba. If you order this device, be prepared to learn a LOT about bluetooth, as you will have to uninstall the software that shipped with your device and revert back to the MS BT Stack. This can be done, and there is plenty of info on the web on how to do it, but the procedure may render other BT devices such as stereo headphones unusable. And don't expect ANY support from the bendor. If you are unsure, check out their web site first and see the FAQs. It may also result in an unstable Operating System and require a complete wipe-n-reload of Windows.
I DO NOT recommend this device for novice or intermediate level geeks. This device and all the cool-toy points that go with it should be attempted only by those that still think pocket protectors are trendy.
Yes... mine works just fine and I love it.
out of 22 user reviews
Feel ripped off
Pros: Looks very cool
Cons: Doesn't work on most devices
Might make a good ornament though!!
out of 22 user reviews
Doesn't work with Sony Viao VGN-UX280P micro comuter
Pros: size, weight
Cons: operability
out of 22 user reviews
Really cool, works OK
Pros: coolness factor, diminutive size
Cons: strange key layout
out of 22 user reviews
Doesn't work; No Tech Support
Pros: Really cool Wow factor
Cons: Does not work with Sony VAIO UX 180P
Ripoff ALert!
out of 22 user reviews
it doesn't work well to me.
Pros: it doesn't work well to me.
Cons: it doesn't work well to me.
out of 22 user reviews
It works great!! Its awfully cool!
Pros: No finger strain typing on pda keyboard, works seamlessly once you get used to it
Cons: Software on the pda evasive, but blame MS for that
out of 22 user reviews
product of the year!
Pros: slick, sleek and does it with style
Cons: 2 hour battery life. Can't use it while driving a car.
It can’t drive every feature of the phone but you can navigate the menus, open a NOTES document and you can type - and type pretty fast and accurately at that. Another interesting thing, it’s very quiet and unobtrusive to use, just the sound of fingers drumming on the desk (and with no profile you are sure to get a few stares from onlookers). It really needs something stable like a desk as it has a switch underneath which turns the unit off, should it fall over. However, the sis driver is smart enough that the phone prompted me to reattach when I turned it back on. You could use it on a tray (on a plane or train) but you might want to have a glob of bluetack handy.
As a keyboard it delivered as promised but it’s not a full sized replacement and (on the A1000 at least) does not overcome some of the user interface shortcomings of Symbian. The killer app is probably entering minutes at those out of office meetings, which you can then email to everyone before you even hit the elevator on the way out.
Note: I nearly did not buy this after reading the first review here, perhaps it has exceeded my expectations so much that I’m now compelled to give it a 10 rating.
out of 22 user reviews
I think its great
Pros: endless possibilities
Cons: not a built in device
out of 22 user reviews
I think it is terrific!
Pros: I like using the keyboard at night without having to put on lights
Cons: difficult to use in bright light
I am really happy with the keyboard and would recommend it to anyone who wants portability. I have found it to be instantaneous in connection and accurate in typing. The only difficulty is typing in bright light but that is easily overcome.
out of 22 user reviews
I wouldn't recommend this
Pros: a virtual keyboard
Cons: no cushioning, keystrokes are not read well
The second major problem is that it lacks any kind of cushioning like regular keyboards. Might be problematic if you type a great deal.
Third, if you are working on a very reflective surface, there may be some problems with the keyboard reading keystrokes.
It's a really great idea, but i wouldn't buy one especially if you anticipate doing a lot of typing. Better off getting one of those stowaway or cloth keyboards.
Hope this helps!
out of 22 user reviews
Very cool device, working well.
Pros: Easy to use, great for show off
Cons: a little bit to big for pocket.
out of 22 user reviews
@#$#$ing COOL!!!!!!!!!!!!
Pros: full size keyboard without the hassle
Cons: easy to make mistakes
The whole idea is endless
Virtual Me Baby!!
out of 22 user reviews
Cnet dummies? If they only knew BT from a hole in the ground...
Pros: It is small, works at 30 WPM after adjusting sensitivity.
Cons: It has typos every now and then.
Bluetooth sucks. Broadcomm will not support, or deal with, or sell new updates for their BT software.. Microsoft has not supported it too.
All the different BT stacks out there for PPC, (except for the one on the new MS 2005 Windows Mobile OS that has not been "officially" released and the new ROM for the MPX300 that came out in Feb AND the O2 XDAIIi AKA http://www.expansys-usa.com/product.asp?code=PDA2&asource=IMATE), do not support BT serial ports very well. They use a dynamic serial port. In order for any device like a printer or GPS to work right, it needs it's own serial port.
If the guys at cnet who wrote this used a newer stack or maybe even deleted all their BT devices and tried it again, they would get it to work... But to give such a bad report for such a good device based SOLELY upon their incompetence.. Well, that is just wrong.
Yes the device has typos, even after you fine tune it through the sensitivity settings, but, look at what you are getting in exchange.. A laser keyboard that fits into your pocket..
They may have gotten it to work on Palm.. But who cares. Palm sucks.
out of 22 user reviews
Not as bad as everyone said...
Pros: Accurate, stylish
Cons: Costly, difficult installation
out of 22 user reviews
Bad service & support from the time order to delivery...
Pros: Did not get what I ordered, to mention anything good.
Cons: Takes much longer than promised to deliver.
I ordered the Bluetooth version and got the serial one instead. When I contacted support through the chat service on there web site the person on the other end asked if I received my unit and I said yes I did but without bluetooth the support person says no problem we will send you another one immediately. It was as if he knew that they sent the wrong one and they were just playing for time. When I asked how long it will take to get the replacement he said roughly the same time it took to deliver the wrong one.
So, I just cancelled my order and asked them to refund the money which they promised to do. Let's see!.....
Any way the serial device did work with my IPAQ H5550. Not so accurate though. Maybe needs more adjustment and practice.
You need almost total darkness to see the project keyboard. You can not see the projected keyboard in a normally lit environment. I am not talking direct sun light or intense lighting, no, just normal neon light and it is almost impossible to view the projected keyboard.
Conclusion:
You need to pray & trust your luck when placing the order.
You need to learn typing all over again.
You need to work in almost total darkness.
You might need to re-think your entire life if you insist on using this product.
Regards
out of 22 user reviews
Only the arrow keys work
Pros: Size, visibility.
Cons: Usability, setup, support, troubleshooting
out of 22 user reviews
150 mmm to pricey
Pros: be the first to have something like that
Cons: Realize how much did you spend
out of 22 user reviews
Well folks, it is real, it is terrific, it is accurate, and it is Bluetooth!!
Pros: Bluetooth - Small, well designed - Clear virtual display - Easy connectivity - WOW factor!
Cons: Battery monitor could be better
There is no question that if you don't follow the instructions perfectly, it will not work. My experience is that it does work and it works well...of course, I did read the directions.
I have had the opportunity to work with a lot of different devices and accessories for them. By far, this one is about the "coolest" accessory that I have ever used with my iPAQ. Besides being very small, functional and clearly complementary to my iPAQ, it is just a real neat "toy" to have. Without the slightest hesitation, I continue to give the BTVKB my highest recommendation.
