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View Full Version : Snap-N-Type Keyboard for iPAQ 3800 Series


Jason Dunn
05-22-2002, 10:23 PM
<a href="http://www.mobilefanatic.com/detail.asp?PRODUCT_ID=TT302&amp;REFERER=84348">http://www.mobilefanatic.com/detail.asp?PRODUCT_ID=TT302&amp;REFERER=84348</a><br /><br />A few weeks ago, Mike from Mobile Fanatic.com sent me the new SnapNType keyboard for the 3800 series iPAQs. I haven't had a chance to check it out until now, but it's a pretty cool keyboard. On a naked iPAQ, there's a little more play than I'd like - I wouldn't call it "wiggling room", but there's slight movement. Putting my iPAQ in a Silver Slider made it nice and solid. From what I can tell, it should work in any iPAQ sleeve, even the gigantic dual-PCMCIA slot sleeve. &lt;!><br /><br />As far as the input on the keyboard goes, there's a learning curve but it's not difficult. The lack of an Enter key in the bottom right was a little disconcerting at first, but I got used to. Using a keyboard like this sure beats tapping that on-screen keyboard! It doesn't use any batteries, so the weight is low. A simple driver is all you need to get it working, and you're off. It was cool that they have replacement iPAQ buttons for the ones that are covered by the keyboard - you don't know how much you miss those buttons until they're gone. There's also a hot key for symbols &amp; smilies - nice touch for those of us punching out email messages on it.<br /><br />Looking for more? Pocket Now.com has <a href="http://reviews.pocketnow.com/content.cgi?db=reviews&id=251">a detailed review.</a><br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/snapntype2.jpg" /><br /><br />"Using the SnapNType keyboard, you can write e-mails, notes and enter data into your iPAQ anytime anywhere! It is small, light and compact allowing you to put it in your pocket. You can use it anywhere you go; whether it be on the street, on a train, in a meeting, at a conference or lecture. The SnapNType is a truly portable keyboard for mobile professionals and students. With its flexible and compact design, no longer you need to find a flat surface before you type!"<br /><br />- Snaps on quickly and easily <br />- Fits your iPAQ handheld with or without expansion sleeves <br />- Feature buttons with tactile feedback and sized for quick thumb typing <br />- DC jack to charge your iPAQ while keyboard is connected <br />- Auto enable/disable ensuring maximum software compatibility <br />- Includes primary application and unique FaceBoard button <br />- No batteries required <br /><br />You can pick one up from <a href="http://www.mobilefanatic.com/detail.asp?PRODUCT_ID=TT302&REFERER=84348">Mobile Fanatic for $39.95</a> (affiliate link).

Tari Akpodiete
05-22-2002, 11:50 PM
seems a reasonable price for this sort of added functionality...

Brad Adrian
05-23-2002, 12:37 AM
I've been using the Compaq thumbpad and there's one thing about it that's really annoying: the shift and fn keys aren't "sticky." On most thumbpads, all you have to do is press the shift key, release it, and the next key pressed will automatically be "shifted." That makes it a lot easier to use when there are not two shift keys.

Does the SnapNType have "stickiness?"

Jason Dunn
05-23-2002, 12:41 AM
Does the SnapNType have "stickiness?"

Yes, for a single character - there's a little icon that shows up on the screen so you know you're in "shift" mode. Pretty cool.

Brad Adrian
05-23-2002, 01:03 AM
Yes, for a single character - there's a little icon that shows up on the screen so you know you're in "shift" mode. Pretty cool.

Um...Wanna trade?

the_rapture
05-23-2002, 01:04 AM
I was wondering if you could use it with a case? Like the Vaja cases and the Sliver Slider?

Thank you,

Jason Dunn
05-23-2002, 03:32 AM
I was wondering if you could use it with a case? Like the Vaja cases and the Sliver Slider?


No - you'd need a specially designed case. It sticks out a fair bit on the bottom.

Jason Dunn
05-23-2002, 03:34 AM
Um...Wanna trade?

We'll talk. 8)

the_rapture
05-23-2002, 04:45 AM
Thanks for the info... I wish manufactures would look at what people have and make things fit as much as possible. The money I spent on cases... I just don't want to have to take it out just to use the keyboard. Oh well, I'm glad I didn't buy one, Thank you for the info.

Denny

Unreal32
10-22-2002, 05:34 AM
Will this work with the 3900 series? I bought a Compaq-branded thumbboard, and to my dismay, I cannot get it to work with the 3950. So... two questions:

1. does this SnapNType work with the 3900 series?
2. does anyone have any ideas on making this Compaq thumb board work with my 3950?

RickP in AZ
10-22-2002, 05:08 PM
Yes the SnapNType for the 38xx works on the 39xx iPAQs. Just be sure to go to the manufacturer's website for the latest driver just to be sure.