Eleksen demos smart fabric case, keyboard for UMPCs
updated 11:35 am EST, Wed December 6, 2006
Fabric UMPC Keyboard Case
Smart fabric manufacturer Eleksen says it has developed a keyboard that alleviates the common complaints of UMPC owners. As yet unnamed, the device weaves Eleksen's own smart fabric into a QWERTY keyboard on the outside of a carrying case large enough for UMPCs. This gives the handheld computers, which often use on-screen keyboards as their sole typing options, a much quicker way to enter data without adding to their travel weight. The keyboard can virtually double typing speed, according to a test performed by Carrypad.
The case and keyboard combination is currently in the prototype stage while Eleksen seeks a large-volume buyer, but is likely to go into production sometime next year. Pricing will be determined by the number of orders, Eleksen says.
