| VisionTek CandyBoard Bluetooth Wireless Keyboard |
| Reviews - Featured Reviews: Input Devices | |
| Written by Olin Coles | |
| Saturday, 15 January 2011 | |
VisionTek CandyBoard 900335 Bluetooth Keyboard ReviewWireless Bluetooth mini-keyboard delivers big performance in a small packageMy entertainment room doesn't have a lot of table space, so I try to limit the number of remote controls and media center keyboards used to managed the home theater. My Sony PlayStation 3 has a remote for when I play Blu-ray discs, and the HTPC uses a media center keyboard. While each of these peripherals serves its own purpose, I've always thought it would be nice to have something that combined them into one small device. As if someone knew exactly what I wanted, the VisionTek CandyBoard 900335 Bluetooth mini keyboard materialized into what might possibly be the perfect solution. In this article, Benchmark Reviews tests this Bluetooth mini-keyboard for range and performance on both PC and PS3 systems. My initial interest in the VisionTek CandyBoard came from its petite size, and its ability to transmit wirelessly over the Bluetooth network. Knowing that my Sony PlayStation 3 had its own built-in BT receiver, I wasn't expecting to use the included USB button receiver. Then it occurred to me that I could replace the large wireless media center keyboard on my nearby Home Theater PC (HTPC), and use the Bluetooth receiver there. It turned out to be the perfect solution for my needs: one device to control two (or more) platforms.
VisionTek CandyBoard 900335 (Actual Size)The VisionTek CANDYBOARD 900335 is a mini keyboard with an embedded USB Bluetooth dongle that looks just slightly bigger than a candy bar. Bluetooth connectivity makes the CANDYBOARD an ideal external keyboard for Apple Mac's and PC's as well as iPhones, iPads, and most other smart phones and tablet devices. It features 69 keys in QWERTY layout, offers a "capacitive-sensing" touch pad that's comparable to a real notebook touch pad, and has gaming-oriented navigation keys designed to be used as joystick controls. There are 26 LED's to use in low-light environments and Windows Media compatibility. EDITOR'S NOTE: VisionTek also offers a non-Bluetooth version of the CandyBoard, which operates over RF (radio frequency). The RF version suffers from shorter range, but it is very similar to this Bluetooth version. VT2012 SpecificationsSystem Requirements:
Mobile Requirements:
Dimensions:
Manufacturer: VisionTek, Inc. Full Disclosure: The product sample used in this article has been provided by VisionTek. Closer Look: VisionTek CandyBoardThe VisionTek CandyBoard 900335 Bluetooth mini keyboard is the answer to many different problems. If you have a tablet device, the VisionTek Candyboard wirelessly connects to offer added input functionality. Smartphone users can discover the Candyboard with little effort, and use the touchpad to make portable games more enjoyable. Even if you're looking to put the 'mini' back into your media center keyboard, the VisionTek CandyBoard delivers a diminutive QWERTY keypad with integrated mouse functionality.
Measuring only 5.8" wide by 2.25" tall and only 0.25" thick, the VisionTek CandyBoard is approximately the size as a modern smart phone (minus touchpad). Since the VisionTek 900335 model weighs only 3.67 ounces (104 grams), it's really a spot-on match in terms of comparison. The CandyBoard is comprised of five different features: keyboard, touchpad, laser pointer, gamepad, and media center remote control.
Featuring 62 keys and a standard QWERTY layout, the CandyBoard takes a miniature approach to full-size keyboards while managing to deliver added functionality for media centers or Bluetooth 2.0 connected devices. The standard letter, number, punctuation, and function keys are present, but the CandyBoard then adds media controls such as sound level and playback options. The touchpad can be used in horizontal or vertical position, and rotates by pressing 'Fn + Alt' keys.
The backside of the CandyBoard reveals the presence of a red laser pointer (left side of image above), and an embedded Bluetooth 2.0 USB button receiver (top-left in image above). In our next section we give this VisionTek mini-keyboard a detailed look and explain the features it delivers. VisionTek 900335 Detailed FeaturesOne particularly interesting feature on the VisionTek CandyBoard 900335 is the inclusion of a laser pointer. Since this mini Bluetooth keyboard works well with all computer systems: Linux, Apple Macintosh, and PC, the laser function allows the CandyBoard to become the ultimate all-in-one presentation device. By pressing the button located along the bottom of the keyboard, a red laser is displayed out of the left side (see image below).
The embedded laser pointer is visible for well over 100 feet, and is strong enough to be clearly seen in well lit rooms. While this feature may not be the main selling point for the VisionTek CandyBoard, it broadens the application range for this mini-keyboard beyond computers and smart phones.
Compatible with Bluetooth 2.0 and earlier, the VisionTek CandyBoard pairs directly to compatible devices or can be added onto non-Bluetooth devices by using the USB receiver stored in the underside of this mini keyboard. It was simple to pair the CandyBoard to Bluetooth-compatible mobile smart phones, computers, and game consoles (such as the Sony PS3). The process is very simple: search for Bluetooth device on your computer or mobile phone, press the 'Bluetooth Pairing' button on the CandyBoard (top left button), and type in the security code to confirm.
VisionTek specifies the CandyBoard to have an operational range of up to 10 meters (30 feet). However, when the USB button receiver was tested on a Windows 7 laptop computer it responded perfectly at a measured distance of 40 feet. Using the Sony PlayStation 3 game console's built-in Bluetooth receiver, the CandyBoard successfully controlled the system without issues up to 40 feet as well. While longer distances my be possible, most users won't be able to see the screen of any device beyond this length.
The VisionTek CandyBoard Bluetooth keyboard comes with its own built-in Lithium Ion battery, which operates at 3.3V/80mA. The CandyBoard is easily charged using the included USB cable to connect it to any USB port with 300mA or more DC power - which is nearly all USB 1.1 or later ports. The CandyBoard's battery light will illuminate red while charging, and will turn off when fully charged. There's a power On/Off switch located beside the USB port, allowing users to prolong the battery life whenever the CandyBoard is being transported, stored, or not in use. Bluetooth Keyboard Final ThoughtsWireless devices are a necessity in today's mobile world, and Bluetooth has helped to extend the functionality of these devices. For some users RF wireless is more than enough, but unfortunately this technology does not work with most mobile phones and always requires an add-on receiver. The included USB button receiver upgrades any computer (Linux, Windows, or Apple) to include Bluetooth functionality, while nearly all modern smart phones (Apple, Nokia, and Google Android) already offer Bluetooth pairing for headsets and related devices. Some game consoles, such as the Sony PlayStation 3, have a built in Bluetooth receiver and easily pair to new devices. The nearly-universal compatibility of Bluetooth devices allows the VisionTek CandyBoard to pair itself with several different platforms without additional hardware receivers. In my own personal scenario, the CandyBoard paired to the Windows 7 HTPC using the USB button receiver while connecting to the internal receivers on my Sony PS3 and Apple iPhone 4. Since I also have a Bluetooth-enabled notebook computer and digital projector, the VisionTek CandyBoard can pair to that device without using it's USB receiver as well. Given that this mini-keyboard has proven to deliver 40-feet or better range, the CandyBoard can easily serve double-duty for work and play.
VisionTek CandyBoard 900335 (Actual Size)For users interested in the CandyBoard as a PS3 Blu-ray remote control, it's not advisable. The VisionTek CandyBoard has media center playback controls, but these buttons (blue, above function keys) do not correspond to the PS3's playback control. Instead, the actual F1-F8 keys call the Sony PlayStation 3 playback menu. It's possible to use the CandyBoard as a PS3 BD remote, but only with some practice and key memorization. The CandyBoard is really best used for its keyboard functionality with the PS3, and remote control device second. VisionTek CandyBoard ConclusionIMPORTANT: Although the rating and final score mentioned in this conclusion are made to be as objective as possible, please be advised that every author perceives these factors differently at various points in time. While we each do our best to ensure that all aspects of the product are considered, there are often times unforeseen market conditions and manufacturer changes which occur after publication that could render our rating obsolete. Please do not base any purchase solely on our conclusion, as it represents our product rating specifically for the product tested which may differ from future versions. Benchmark Reviews begins our conclusion with a short summary for each of the areas that we rate. VisionTek's CandyBoard Bluetooth mini-keyboard is specified to work at ranges up to 30 feet, however our own testing proved it could easily transmit and receive Bluetooth signals up to 40 feet line of sight. Beyond this, the signal appeared to fade, however once the CandyBoard was returned within range all previous commands were executed from memory. The embedded laser point function works flawlessly up to and beyond 100 feet, and was clearly visible in a well-lit room. While the mini-keyboard isn't something you'll use to write a book, it's great for short messages and filling out forms. CandyBoard's touchpad worked very well, and finger taps were easily recognized as a double-click. In terms of appearance, the VisionTek CandyBoard looks like a high-tech miniature keyboard with lots of extra buttons. It's button layout is ergonomic enough for everyone to easily adapt to, and even the novice computer user can quickly make use of the added features. Construction is solid, as I managed to accidentally drop my CandyBoard onto tile flooring twice without damage. Since the hard plastic housing protects all of the sensitive electronics, it seems unlikely that failure will occur from drop damage. From my experience with the device, its only weakness is liquid spills (not tested). From the functionality perspective, the VisionTek CandyBoard has just replaced two different devices in my entertainment room: the wireless Windows Media Center HTPC keyboard, and the Sony PlayStation 3 remote control. If I choose, the CandyBoard can also make texting to friends much easier when I'm watching movies with my mobile phone nearby. Of course, the embedded red laser pointer makes intermissions more entertaining by annoying the family pets. All things considered, this little mini-keyboard delivers more functionality than most full-sized devices. The VisionTek CandyBoard VT2012 900335 Bluetooth mini keyboard is available for $64.50 at Amazon or $69.99 at Newegg. This is a fair price for such a feature-packed device, and while the cost is comparable to full-size devices most of them will lack Bluetooth functionality and a touchpad. If you're after a small-sized wireless keyboard for your home theater, presentation system, or mobile phone, I strongly recommend the VisionTek CandyBoard. Excellent range, battery life, and Bluetooth compatibility make this the perfect item for multiple platforms. Pros:
|
|
Comments