January 14, 2004—iBIZ Technology Corporation, a manufacturer and distributor of accessories for personal digital assistants (PDAs) and hand-held devices, is now shipping its Virtual Laser Keyboard. The innovative device attaches to PDAs and projects the image of a full-size keyboard onto the surface of the desk where the PDA is placed, making it easy to input text without a physical keyboard.
The Virtual Laser Keyboard leverages the power of laser and infrared technology and projects a full-size QWERTY keyboard onto any flat surface, explains iBIZ. As the user types on the projection, it senses what is being typed by the coordinates of that location.
The virtual keyboard requires no special training. It employs a USB/serial cable connection to communicate with the PDA or PC. Future models will incorporate Bluetooth and/or IR Wireless Connections to a variety of devices. It also includes its own internal power supply—a self-contained, rechargeable lithium ion battery that lasts three to four hours The lightweight device weighs only two ounces.
iBIZ says the keyboard is ideal for well-lit offices, medical facilities with clean rooms, and any industry that requires a dirt-free environment. It also eliminates the cost of maintaining mechanical keyboards in such high-use locations as the classroom, and promises to help maintain a healthy environment there as well.
It is compatible with Palm, Pocket PCs, laptops, and desktop PCs. An upcoming version for cell phones will be available late in 2004. The Virtual Laser Keyboard will be available for $99.99 from major retailers, e-commerce sites, and iBIZ Technology’s own e-commerce site.
