OWC introduces Cropmark Bluetooth numeric keypad
updated 07:20 pm EST, Fri January 21, 2011
Includes page up/down and forward-delete key, more
Apple's inexplicable decision not to offer a wireless keyboard with the numeric keypad and other functionality has created a business opportunity for several companies to fill that gap, with the latest being Other World Computing and their new Cropmark LMP Bluetooth Keypad, which not only features the "missing" numeric data-entry keys but other functionality not found on Apple's wireless keyboard, including page up/down keys, a forward-delete key, arrow up/down keys and the extra function keys F13-F17.
The Cropmark features a matching design to that of Apple's brushed-aluminum wireless keyboard, and can be used either as a standalone device positionable wherever is best for the user, or attached to the wireless bluetooth keyboard through the use of a matching linkage bar. The keys are scissor-type membrane keys designed to reduce typing fatigue.
The layout of OWC's Cropmark does not precisely match that of the "mission portion" of the extended keyboard, due in part to Apple decision to move the arrow keys over under the right shift key on the wireless model. However the numeric keypad portion is identical to the relevant part of the extended (wired) Mac keyboard, ensuring fast, accurate numeric input. The keypad also has its own power switch as well as a pairing button and a power-on bar compatible with the Apple Bluetooth Keyboard.
Numeric keypads are popular with users who do a lot of numeric data entry, such as small business owners, accountants, spreadsheets users or those with highly-numeric passwords, among others. Being able to enter numbers in the standard numeric format with one hand is considerably more efficient than it would otherwise be with Apple's wireless keyboards, which are now standard on all Mac models except the Mac Pro. Apple sells the wired extended keyboard separately, but many prefer the convenience of Bluetooth.
The OWC Cropmark Numeric Keypad retails for $46, though it is currently discounted to $40 as an introductory special. It is compatible with any Bluetooth-enabled Mac running OS X 10.5 or higher, and comes with a pair of rechargeable AA batteries. OWC notes that this product is not compatible with the iPad or with Windows.
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Does not come with a pair of rechargeable AA batte
In the article, you said, 'comes with a pair of rechargeable AA batteries."
The information at the product's page says "2 pcs. AA batteries."
It would be great if this keypad comes with rechargeable batteries. But, based on the description given by OWC in the information at the product's page, this only comes with two (non-rechargeable) AA batteries.