Hi there!
My first finding was this site that sells a rather unique (but much
more expensive) product...I believe it is as close as it comes to a
"wireless" (not the kind of wireless you had in mind) numberpad.
http://www.inventoryalliance.com/PalmQuest.htm
The picture is here:
http://www.inventoryalliance.com/pda%20out.jpg
This product includes a barcode scanner port as well.
Unfortunately, after searching and searching I could not find any
numeric keypads that are Bluetooth enabled. I was getting excited
when I saw the picture for the Belkin Numeric Keypad
http://64.95.118.51/images/feeds/cds/4E/F9/I161206.jpg which gave me
the impression that it was wireless..but alas, it is also connected
through cable.
Now for the regular numeric keypads. First I'll direct you to this
site:
http://www.nextag.com/serv/main/buyer/outpdir.jsp?doSearch=y&search=numeric+keypad
Of all the sites I have seen, it has the most complete listing of the
numeric keypads for sale.
You'll notice the products under the heading:
Best Product Matches for 'numeric keypad'
It also includes a "Targus Mini Mobile Keypad, 17-KEY, USB"
You can click on any of the products to see more information about the
keypad as well as the list of online stores (with ratings) selling
each product.
But this is what was unsettling in my mind..practically every one of
the keypads listed specifically restrict the compatibility to desktop
pc, mac or notebook computers. Furthermore, if you go the the Targus
website (http://www.targus.com) the numeric keypad is listed under
input/output device but not under PDA accessories (whereas the
foldable keyboards and such are listed under both categories). I was
under the impression that the USB "plug and play" ability would allow
these numeric keyboard to be used freely with USB compatible handhelds
as well.
After some further research, I came across this product that is not
listed above:
Soft-touch USB 10 key http://store.yahoo.com/twstore/tenkey.html
This appears to be the only product description that mentions
compatibility with handhelds.
"10-key numeric keypad for Windows-based USB compatible computers. 27
keys in all, includes Navigation and Help keys. Soft touch keys (like
handheld calculators) provide quiet operation. Excellent for Laptops
and USB capable handhelds. If you do alot of numeric data entry and
find that virtual numeric keypad on your laptop to be a pain, this
keypad will solve your problems. Uses native O/S USB support, so no
drivers are required. Requires USB Capable O/S. Win98, 98se, ME, 2000,
XP. 4ft USB cord USB A/Male."
I have sent out emails asking whether other plug and play USB keypads
are compatible with the Tungsten T. But overall, I see two choices.
One would be going with the soft-touch keypad. And the other, once
there's certainty about compatibility issue, is to go with your
preference, the Targus keypad. The best store to purchase the Targus
keypad is:
http://www.etechwarehouse.com/ProductInfo.asp?v=B8&idProduct=12581064
A five star reliable store with a good price of $43.
If you would like another alternative, I believe Belkin keypad is a
good choice. "The USB Numeric Keypad Is A Compact Keypad For The
Mobile Professional. Featuring A Lightweight, Ergonomic Design, The
Keypad Works Instantly With USB Plug-and-Play Technology. Works
Seamlessly With USB-Ready Notebook Computers, And Is Ideal For
Travel."
Recommended Store: http://www.pagecomputers.com/cgi-bin/page/M0495461.html
Reliable 4 star store with hundreds of ratings and a good price of
$20.
If you would like any clarification of any further questions, please
let me know. I will also post my findings on the compatibility issue
as soon as I receive a reply.
Cheers,
Tox-ga |
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