Keyboard throws Light on Inputting to Mobile Gadgets

The first projection keyboard capable of being integrated in production into existing models of smart phones, cell phones, PDAs and other mobile or wireless devices has appeared. The device, made by Canesta, uses a tiny laser pattern projector to project the image of a full-sized keyboard onto a convenient flat surface between the device and the user, such as a tabletop or the side of a briefcase.

The user then types on this image and electronic perception technology can instantly resolve the user's finger movements into ordinary serial keystroke data that is easily processed by the wireless or mobile device.

Canesta's usability lab has been conducting research on mobile and wireless device users and their interaction with their mobile and wireless devices. In addition to its own work, the lab collects secondary research to further its understanding of the mobile input problem and apply it to improving the mobile user input experience through the Canesta Keyboard.

The company says that current input solutions such as thumb keyboards or handwriting recognition, though popular, are limited in their ability to support typing-intensive applications such as document and memo creation and email composition.

An integrated projection keyboard means that the mobile or wireless device can now support applications that previously would have only been practical with a full-sized, mechanical keyboard, allowing you to 'leave your notebook PC at home'.

Associated Link: List of usability resources related to keyboards, etc on the Canesta site

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