Punching in text on a PDA is still one of the slowest data entry tasks you'll ever attempt to perform. This has opened the door for add-on vendors to develop PDA keyboard peripherals, such as Targus' Universal Wireless Keyboard. This accessory will work for most Palm OS and PocketPC PDAs and even cell phones with one of these mobile operating systems.

The keyboard connects to your device via the IR port, and its transmitter arm is easily adjusted so you can always find the right angle. This keyboard is full-sized, pretty similar to what you'd find on a large laptop. This makes typing much easier than with many PDA keyboards, although it isn't quite as comfortable as with our ergonomic desktop keyboard. There are four programmable shortcut keys along the right side for quick access to often-used applications, as well as an eight-way directional pad that can be used as a mouse.

There are a couple of design flaws with the layout. The space bar is split to aid in folding the keyboard, so we had to awkwardly place our thumb in order to avoid hitting the bar right at the split. In addition, the number keys are thinner than the rest of the keys, so you might have to pause and look before you peck a number.

The keyboard locks open, so you can use it on your lap easily without it folding together on you. It features holders for housing a PDA in either landscape or portrait mode, and you can place your PDA at multiple angles depending on how you want to view it while typing.

Since it is wireless, the Universal Wireless Keyboard gets its power from two internal lithium batteries, similar to the kind that power calculators or older cameras. They're not rechargeable, so you'll eventually have to replace them.

The Targus Universal Wireless Keyboard folds up neatly, but it does double the weight and bulk you'll have to carry around with your PDA. The device can be found for around $55, which is about what you'd expect for a wireless keyboard, and it really makes entering text into your PDA a much simpler task.

Pros: Wireless connection, full-sized keys.
Cons: Split space bar, not light.

Warranty
1 year limited