IPad TyPad makes Typing easier; Ergonomic Mouse gets smaller

the scoop: tyPad, from appliance Workshop, around $ 100.

What it is: the tyPad is a combination of protective and Bluetooth keyboard for iPad. After the iPad in the present case, the keyboard folds out and lets you type on the iPad in landscape format (why is Bluetooth, you could use it in portrait mode, but doesn't get the bonus of having protected inside the case). The keyboard is qwerty-style tyPad, with keys, soft-touch tactile response offering decent. Keyboard battery is charged via a USB cable included.

because it is cool: IPad applications that require a lot of text input, using a keyboard as this will make you more productive using the on-screen keyboard. I was able to type notes and use applications like Quickoffice and TweetDeck more easily with tyPad.

The design is very nice, offering a nice case and stand for iPad when the keypad is not used. Extra keys on the top row of the tyPad include volume control (more silent), music keys (play/pause, forward/back), a dedicated search button (brings up the search bar iPad) and a dedicated home button (brings you back to the home page iPad instead of hitting the physical button on the iPad). There is also a button that will bring up the on-screen keyboard, iPad, which I'm assuming is when you might need a button/symbol really obscure.

Another nice touch: When connecting via Bluetooth, I had to type an actual access code instead of the normal "0000," adding a minimum level of Bluetooth security.

Some caveats: because tyPad can be only the width of the iPad, is smaller than a normal keyboard, making it harder to touch typing. Addition to my dismay was the location of the apostrophe key, located on the same line as the SPACEBAR instead of next to the comma. My pinky kept trying to use the apostrophe, and I ended up hitting the Enter key.

I'm also a little disappointed in the price--$ 99.99, is the same price Zaggmate keyboard, which includes a case robust and thin profile, apparently more premium compared to tyPad.

Simply odd: the keyboard includes similar to PC function keys (F1, F2, alt/option and command), which led me to think that perhaps this keyboard could be used with a PC, or perhaps other tablets along the way.

Grade: 3.5 stars (out of 5).

the scoop: Vortex Mini Notebook Laser Mouse, from Smartfish, about $ 50.

what it is: The Mini Vortex is a USB mouse travel-size designed for ergonomic comfort--the mouse is set atop a swivel based instead of a solid base. This allows users to move their wrist, left or right when resting or mouse, creating a feeling more comfortable than with a traditional mouse. The mouse is powered by two AAA batteries and includes a small USB receiver that can be stored inside the battery case when traveling.

because it is cool: Before I met the greatest Vortex Smartfish mouse last year during our holiday gift guide, and wished that they would cover a model that was smaller. The company has done just that, providing a very comfortable mouse and travel-worthy. In fact, the small size is best for my hands to larger mice, making it useful when not on the road as well. The laser mouse and was very responsive, included a very pleasant feeling for the scroll wheel. Laser technology makes more accurate on non-traditional surfaces, optical mouse and there is a choice of six cool colors as well.

Category: 5 stars

Shaw can be reached at kshaw@nww.com. Follow him on Twitter at http://twitter.com/shawkeith.

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