Windows Phone Thoughts: The Universal Wireless Keyboard (IR 501) Reviewed

Product Category: Universal IR Keyboard
Manufacturer: Citipack
Where to Buy: SuntekStore.com also available on ebay through various resellers.
Price: Currently $38.99 USD with discount coupon available. Sells on ebay for anywhere between $18.00 and $50.00 USD.
System Requirements: Drivers available for Pocket PC 2000 and 2002. A WM2003 version ( the IR 502 ) is also available.
Specifications: Battery: 1X1.5V AAA (Included), Battery stand-by time: 2,000hrs( with Alkaline battery), Key numbers: 67 keys, Key lifetime: 10 million, Standard key pitch: 17mm, Dimension: Closed(142X96X9.2mm), Open(284X96X9.2mm)

Pros:

• Small size;
  
• Full five row keyboard;
  
• Easy set up;
  
• Can be used in both portrait and landscape mode.

Cons:

• Keys could be a little small for those of us with bigger fingers;
  
• Need to type firmly on keys.

Summary:
With the wide variety of different Pocket PC brands now available and the many different connector types used (even between models made by the same manufacturer) it is not surprising that Belkin, Targus, Pocketop and a host of other manufacturers have come to the market over the last year or so with IR keyboards. The Universal Wireless IR Keyboard is yet another entry to the market - how does it measure up in the usability stakes?

Read on for the full review!