In most definitions, a Bluetooth keyboard is one that uses the Bluetooth wireless protocol to connect the keyboard to a mobile device, such as a cell phone or a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA). Essentially, any standard QWERTY keyboard that makes use of Bluetooth could be considered a Bluetooth keyboard, but the most common definitions limit a Bluetooth keyboard to one that connects to a small, mobile device that doesn’t contain its own keyboard.
The cordless nature of the Bluetooth keyboard, which typically runs on AA or AAA batteries, makes it quite handy and usable nearly anywhere. In most cases, the Bluetooth keyboard, which may include a touch pad too, is actually one that can fold up when it isn’t in use. This makes it especially easy to carry along with a mobile device.
Keep in mind that most Bluetooth keyboards are not as large as the standard size you’ll see with a computer keyboard or even with a laptop computer. The small size of the keys can make them uncomfortable to use for some people. However, typically they are a better size than those devices that either don’t have a keyboard at all, or have one that is so small, use of it is inefficient.
Sometimes, a Bluetooth keyboard doesn’t involve a physical keyboard. For example, I-Tech makes the Virtual Laser Keyboard, which projects a virtual keyboard using laser light onto a table or desk. You then can “type” on the virtual keyboard, and the I-Tech system will record your keystrokes, measuring the location of your fingers as they penetrate the laser light to determine the virtual key you are striking. The I-Tech hardware is small enough to carry, and it connects to your cell phone or PDA through a Bluetooth wireless connection.
Some desktop computer manufacturers also connect their wireless keyboards to the computer using Bluetooth technology. This isn’t the standard definition of a Bluetooth keyboard because it’s used with a computer, rather than a mobile device. Still, it’s technically a keyboard that uses Bluetooth technology.
Bluetooth is a wireless communications protocol that allows sending of data over short distances. Bluetooth can work with multiple devices simultaneously, and connections between devices are simple to make and are usually performed automatically. You’ll commonly find Bluetooth in use with consumer electronics and mobile devices in close proximity. For example, Bluetooth is commonly used for connecting a wireless headset with your cell phone. It differs from Wi-Fi, which works with wireless broadband Internet connections at home and is designed to work over longer distances.