The i.Tech Bluetooth Virtual Keyboard has been on my list of must-try items ever since I first heard about it – which if I remember correctly was in 2003!
The first time I saw pictures of a keyboard which worked by beaming a red laser display on any flat surface, my inner geek did a happy dance! This is a product that looks like came straight out of a Philip K. Dick novel, out of a Star Trek episode, out of a…you get the picture. 😉
Like many new technologies, the VKB had a few false-starts and took longer to appear than I had hoped. I’ve read the horror stories from its early days (2004 – 2005)- of typing without tactile feedback, of not having the proper driver for the necessary device, of needing to get the angle “just so” for the keyboard sensors to pick up correctly, and worse – that the product would only work in optimal lighting.
Well, there was only one way to find out if this keyboard was the hotness, or just a cranky diva in disguise – I would need to try one for myself!
Recently Golan Technology, the US distributor of the VKB, offered me the chance to try out this futuristic keyboard. A full review is scheduled for January 15th.
The first thing inside the box is a standard insert, instructing the user to contact Golan Technology support with any questions or warranty issues.
Under the support information is the package containing the device drivers and a quick start guide. The user’s guide depends upon the OS the device is paired with, so there is a full list of compatible devices with drivers and user’s manuals online.
There are just three components in the bottom of the box…
…the AC charger, the VKB, and a black travel pouch.
The VKB measures 3.7″ tall x 1.4″ wide x 1.1″ thick, and it weighs 3.1 ounces.
There is an LED status light on the top; on the left side are the power button and under a rubber flap – the charging port. Under the protective plastic covering on the front of the device are the keyboard projection window (red area near the top)…
…and the keyboard sensing receiver window towards the bottom (in the area covered by the plastic that says “Refer to PAIRING” in the User Manual).
The right side has a reset button covered by a rubber flap.
On the back is a sticker with a list of VKB Shortcuts.
I am looking forward to putting the VKB through its paces over the next month, and I am pleased to say that thanks to the generosity of Golan Tech, there will be a give-away for this keyboard once the review has been posted. I have yet to determine the method, but I’ll get the info posted later this week. 🙂
The VKB is compatible with PCs running Windows 2000 and up, and with just about every BT enabled mobile device imaginable. A full device compatibility list with drivers may be found here.
Specifications:
Bluetooth – BT v1.1 class 2
Bluetooth Profiles Supported – HID & SPP
Battery Capacity – >2 hours continuous typing
The user’s guide may be seen here.
As I type it is charging…I haven’t even turned it on yet. 😛
Updated: It’s charged, and I’ve turned it on. I haven’t yet loaded any PC or device drivers, but I can report that the “keys” make a satisfying “click” then you “press” them. More later, but in the meantime…
[eminimall]