The Silkyboard is a self adhesive "keyboard" for the Palm that covers
the Graffiti area, and uses NONE of your screen space (unlike the pop
up keyboard that uses about 1/3 of the screen). It promises to allow
text entry at 45 words per minute and to automatically switch between
Graffiti and Keyboard entry. It retails for 39.95 at
http://www.silkyboard.com
The Keyboard
The self-adhesive QWERTY "keyboard" installs quickly and
flawlessly with the enclosed instructions and tool. The high contrast keys are easy to
tap with the stylus, and show no visible wear after 6 weeks of daily use
(6 replacement keyboards are shipped with the Silkyboard software).
Use of the keyboard is simple and intuitive, and I have been able to achieve text entry
rates of 25 words per minute, which is nearly equal to my desktop typing
speed! Switching between Graffiti and the Silkyboard is
transparent
Compatability
The thousands of Palm programs available make compatibility an
important issue, particularly for something that is always active such as
the Silkyboard. Silkyboard works without difficulty with the built in
Palm utilities, HackMaster, HanDbase, ePocrates qRx, @Hand Reader, and
Launcher III. No problems occurred as a result of Silkyboard over the 6
week evaluation period.
Summary
For $39.95, the Silkyboard is a simple and easy to use data entry
solution for the Palm that is compatible with many major applications used
by medical professionals. It is an excellent addition to the Palm that allows
for fast data entry for the Graffiti-impaired without using any
valuable screen space.
Score Sheet
- Installation: A
- Ease of Use: A
- Compatability: A *
* Of course, not tested with everything.
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