14 DAY TRIAL // It's true that most keyboards have that nifty little numpad on the right-hand side, but it's also true that very few people actually use it, unless they do a lot of accounting or other math calculus on a computer for a living.
Because of that, it has become increasingly popular for designers of peripherals to swap out the numpad for something else. Something not necessarily more useful, but unusual enough to warrant a second glance.
Sure, some keyboards come with the numpad detachable, and others lack it altogether, in favor of a lower price and a smaller size.
Still, we've seen keyboards with integrated LCDs touchscreens, and quite a bit more often, ones with built-in trackpads. You know, those touchpads that all laptops have, to allow you to use the mouse cursor even if you don't have an actual mouse.
Technically speaking, if you're going to own a keyboard, you're probably going to own a mouse too. Still, it can be useful not to have to lug both peripherals around when you're lounging on a couch.
Especially if you're browsing the web on a wall-sized huge television set. Playing films is easy enough with a wireless mouse, but that can't be said for typing web addresses or forum/messenger posts. However, it's not just home use that has to be covered. Field specialists need good toys too.
Thus, the new Bluetooth PC Keyboard from Small PC integrated a two-button touchpad, allowing you to use it and only it from the comfort of your couch, armchair or bed.
Obviously, this is a wireless peripheral, since the Bluetooth in the name is as big a giveaway as giveaways can get.
Perhaps even more important, though, is that the keyboard is waterproof, to the point where it rates at IP68. That means it can be safely submerged at up to 2 meters underwater (6-7 feet) for 30 minutes. The glove-fit, rigid silicon outer shell is to thank for that.
Other assets include soft-click touch, an anti-microbial coating, washability, quick select media keys, and two AAA batteries to provide power (their compartment is also waterproof).
Finally, the new keyboard is compatible with Windows operating systems (Windows 8, 7 and XP) and comes in wired USB versions that bring with them the benefit of adjustable backlights and separate numeric keypads.
Small PC expects the new products to make a name for themselves in factory floor, hospital, medical, marine and specialized vehicles. The price is $140, or €105 according to exchange rates. Which, of course, means the EU price will probably be closer to €140.
