HP Wireless Calculator Keypad

HP Wireless Calculator Keypad

by Rick Castellini
February 2005

We first saw this little device at this year's CES in Las Vegas. HP provided us with a review unit. The wireless keypad is designed to give laptop users the functionality of the number keypad we use on our desktop keyboards. 

HP (via their manufacturer ORtek) provides not only a good external keypad, but adds two other well thought out features. One, it is cordless and two, it doubles as a calculator. 

The cordless feature uses a USB receiver similar to that of a portable USB mouse (see picture), and the USB receiver fits in the back of the unit for easy storage.

This small five ounce device also works as a stand alone calculator with memory ability and a tax calculator. If it is hooked up to a laptop it can send the result of a calculation to the computer wherever your cursor might be. This keypad is powered by a rechargeable AAA batter (can work on a regular AAA as well). The battery is charged through the USB port on your laptop with a retractable USB cable provided in the package. It has a built in sleep function to conserve the battery when it hasn't been used for two minutes.

Overall, this device performs extremely well, is well though out with solid, sticky rubber feet to prevent slippage on any surface and is light weight and easy to carry in a laptop bag.

Castellini on Computers Rating (1-5 mics)
Recommended Market:	Anyone who needs the functionality of a number keypad with their laptop.
Approximate cost:	$52
Company and Web Site:	Hewlett Packard