Targus Jornada Folding Keyboard

Home
Up
PalmOS Matrix
News
Easter Eggs
FAQ
Links
Site Map

 

 

Review Home

March 23, 2002 Targus Stowaway Portable Keyboard for HPJornada Targus
Reviewer: Dave  Rating: (5 of 5)
Pros
small and light
full size once unfolded
plug for recharging
Cons
price ($99US)

I have already done a review for a Palm Stowaway keyboard, but the HP Jornada Stowaway has some differences. These details are worth the second look. The keyboard is the folding one you see almost everywhere, this is the one designed by Think Outside, Inc. 

First off lets give you the technical specifications: Folded it is only 3.6"x5.1"x0.8" and open 13.8"x5.1"x0.4". The unit weighs in at only 7.9oz. The key spacing is 19mm, this is the same as a desktop keyboard but I never actually measured this to confirm.

Typing on this keyboard does not take much to get used to, you do however need a flat surface to use it properly, in a pinch you could try a book or binder on your lap, if a desk is not handy at the time.

The keyboard has a place to plug your charger in so that you can charge your Jornada while you type. If you are going to be typing for hours or just need to top up the batteries this will be very handy. The software to run the keyboard is already installed in the Jornada 560 series units so you will not have to install any drivers, you will however have to enable keyboard support. With up to ten function keys to assign to run programs it's more likely you will forget what function key runs what program than not enough. You could even choose a specific data file to launch with the function keys if just running an application where not enough. These function keys are in addition to launching; Inbox, Contacts, Calendar, Tasks, Notes, Word, Excel and Money. The Today key to go to the Today Screen is also very handy.

The quality of the keyboard is very good, the hinges and all moving parts move with ease and the unit opens and closes very easily. The spring loaded tabs help to ensure that the sections stay where they are supposed to when you are typing or folding the keyboard and the little rubber feet will stop the keyboard from moving when typing.

At first I was slightly disappointed that there was not a case included. After a few days I was glad that I did not have to take the keyboard out of a case to use it. It does not need much protection anyways as the outer shell is primarily metal, only parts of the edges are plastic when the keyboard is closed. 

Final Words:
The Targus Stowaway™ Portable Keyboard for the HP Jornada is a quality product. If you enter lots of information on the road this keyboard is a must. I found myself entering data or even working on a spreadsheet or Word document in restaurants and coffee shops whenever I had an idea or thought. Portability and the ability to use it wherever you may be is what a personal organizer is all about. The keyboard just enhances that experience.

 


Send mail to webmaster@morepalm.com with questions or comments about this web site.
Copyright © 2001- 2004 MorePalm
Last modified: December 25, 2002