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Brando Bluetooth Keyboard |
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Written by Gray Rentz
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Friday, 10 June 2005 |
Brando Bluetooth Keyboard shop
Brando Bluetooth Keyboard
shop.brando.com.hk Price: $99.95
The Brando keyboard comes in a nicely packed blister package. Include is: Keyboard Carry Case Batteries Driver CD Instructions
One feature that many will like about the Brando keyboard is that it has a
dedicated number row. Now this does come at a cost, unlike the Think Outside
keyboard that does not have a dedicated number row but does have full size
laptop sized keys, the Brando has shrunk down keys that are approximately half
the size of normal keys on a keyboard. This can be troublesome at times, but
once you get used to it, it is easy to use.

The Brando keyboard is a clamshell type keyboard so it closes to half its size.
It folds directly in the middle by a well made hinge. Once you open the
keyboard, half of the keys slide over inside the case to complete the full
keyboard, make it so there is no gap, and keep the keyboard from closing or
bending. Then, once the keyboard is opened, a small stand folds out of the side
and clips to the back of the keyboard. The stand can also be fully removed for
use with the keyboard on your lap, etc. All these actions are smooth and work
well. I had no problems repeatedly opening and closing the keyboard and stand.
Now on to the connection of the keyboard to your device, first you will need to
install the driver for your device from the CD. The installer goes smoothly and
adds a new program to your pocket pc. After running this program you can use the
keyboard with your PPC via Bluetooth. It all works pretty well but is a bit
cheapened down from the Think Outside quality of drivers in the way that it
looks. In use though, it keeps a good strong connection and is very responsive
to typing.
One last thing to note is that this is the same keyboard as the Chainpus
Bluetooth Keyboard also reviewed on our site. Both come with the name of Smart
Keyboard and are identical except the Chainpus comes in a Box and the Brando
comes in a Blister Pack.
The Brando keyboard works well in use, but it is a bit bigger then the Think
Outside keyboard and the smaller keys can be harder for people with bigger
fingers. But a dedicated number row can be a big seller to some people out
there.
Pros: Dedicated Number Row Solid Design Responsive and Good Connection with PPC
Cons: Smaller Keys Bigger then some other portable keyboards Drivers not as professional and easy to use and Think Outside
Thanks to Brando for the Review Sample!
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