Adding a keyboard to a PDA can turn it from a pocket organizer into a tiny laptop replacement. You can type documents, write e-mails and perform other text-intensive operations as fast as you can with a laptop. There are a couple of snags when it comes to PDA keyboards, however. First, not every PDA has an add-on keyboard available. Also, keyboards tend to be designed for specific brands, or even specific models, so you usually have to buy a new keyboard when you upgrade.

Belkin's Wireless PDA Keyboard aims to solve both problems through the innovative use of the infrared port found on almost all PDAs. Instead of connecting via the synchronization port on the top of your handheld, the Wireless PDA Keyboard sends signals to the PDA via infrared. This has the added benefit of making it one of the few keyboards that works with Palm's $99 original model Zire, which doesn't feature a sync port.

A separate stand is included with a small mirror that reflects the infrared signal to the port on the top of your keyboard. Drivers are available for both Palm OS and Pocket PC handhelds. Of a half-dozen handhelds we tested, only Palm's new Zire 71 didn't work with this setup. Alas, the stand is a bit flimsy; we wouldn't expect it to stay put on a tray table during a turbulent flight.

You don't actually have to use the stand, a feature that's also handy if you're using a PDA with an IR port that doesn't lend itself to use on the stand, such as the Kyocera 6035 Smartphone. You can simply lay the PDA down in front of the keyboard with the PDA's IR port facing you. The driver software lets you rotate the screen on most Palm OS and Pocket PC handhelds, so you don't end up staring at upside-down text.

While Belkin's keyboard is superior to offerings from Targus (a keyboard that lacks crucial cursor keys) and Pocketop (a smallish keyboard with no number row), it's not perfect. The keys are somewhat small, and they have a rather stiff feel. You won't find yourself matching your laptop typing speed. But you also probably won't have to spend $60 to $100 on a new keyboard the next time you upgrade your PDA.


Pros:  Works with just about any Palm OS or Pocket PC handheld
Cons:  Unstable PDA stand, stiff keys, doesn't work on all PDAs

Warranty
1 year