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Anyone ever try one of these cheap BT keyboards from ebay?
http://cgi.ebay.com/Mini-Wireless-B...cessories&hash=item20b9fefac8#ht_10638wt_1139
There's tons of them.
It appears to be smaller than the phone in the picture. I cannot see what advantage it would provide.
SirhanSirhan said:
It appears to be smaller than the phone in the picture. I cannot see what advantage it would provide.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That thing in the background is actually the front of a laptop, I think. But here's another one, with a hand in the pic for size reference:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Wireless-Mini-B...Trackballs&hash=item2c5d194867#ht_6608wt_1139
But as to what advantage it would provide:
1st of all, I type MUCH faster on a tactile keyboard (as most people do in reality).
2nd- tablet can be propped up on a stand and still enter test comfortably (I've found it difficult to type on a vertical screen, and placing it horizontally on my lap for a long message can negatively effect the viewing angle)
3rd- can be used remotely or when hands are dirty (think- kitchen / cooking / recipe tablet).
4th- console gaming. Nothing beats buttons for emulators.
I like that it is so portable, otherwise a full sized case + KB sort of approaches the size of a netbook which almost defeats the purpose of having this.
What I really wanted to know if these are just poor build quality or really uncomfortable to type on (I LOVED my touch pro 2 keypad, which this reminds me of, but not all kbs are created equal).
Additionally, there are other shapes and sizes, all around the same price on ebay. Seem to come from similar sellers, probably manufactured in one plant. Here's something more full sized:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Wireless-Blueto...ccessories&hash=item2311642184#ht_3553wt_1139
I can't really offer any insight to answer your question, as I have no experience with these one way or another... but I am quite interested in the answer. If you end up going this route and trying it, please post back here with the results... I'd be interested in a product like this, but build quality would also be a primary concern for me.
I ordered this keyboard from Amazon about a month ago, works great with both my GTab running Vegan 5.1.1 and my rooted EVO.
I apparently can't post links because I'm new, but search amazon for this:
Handheld Mini Bluetooth HID Wireless Chicklet Keyboard with Mouse Control Combo for Media Center PC, Windows 7/Vista/XP, Apple iPad & Sony PS3
It's like $35 and well worth it, I wrote a whole 5 page paper with it, pretty slick
toreyjh said:
I ordered this keyboard from Amazon about a month ago, works great with both my GTab running Vegan 5.1.1 and my rooted EVO.
I apparently can't post links because I'm new, but search amazon for this:
Handheld Mini Bluetooth HID Wireless Chicklet Keyboard with Mouse Control Combo for Media Center PC, Windows 7/Vista/XP, Apple iPad & Sony PS3
It's like $35 and well worth it, I wrote a whole 5 page paper with it, pretty slick
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here you are.
How comfy is it being used as a desktop keyboard not as a thumb keyboard ?
Thanks
update: looks too small for touch typing (as noted in amazon reviews). So I like the caps lock led (not available on any other slim BT keyboard I have checked)
Also note that Android does not support the Bluetooth HID profile (looks like the underlying stack supports it since 2.1 or 2.2 but there's nothing in the ROM).
There's a free apk that might work "bluetooth easyconnect".
I've been edging around a semi expensive ~20USD apk that definitely works with my iGo BT keyboard, but they lock to phone ID and, on the gtab, that changes when you change ROMs...
toreyjh said:
I ordered this keyboard from Amazon about a month ago, works great with both my GTab running Vegan 5.1.1 and my rooted EVO.
I apparently can't post links because I'm new, but search amazon for this:
Handheld Mini Bluetooth HID Wireless Chicklet Keyboard with Mouse Control Combo for Media Center PC, Windows 7/Vista/XP, Apple iPad & Sony PS3
It's like $35 and well worth it, I wrote a whole 5 page paper with it, pretty slick
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought the bt keyboard that aasoror linked to. I got it to pair but it never connected, I even downloaded bluetooth keyboard easy connect but it would not let me pick the keyboard in the drop down menu. What is supposed to be the pin to help me get this working with my g-tab?
I am using Vegan GE 7.0. Thanks for any help you or anyone else can provide.
Oh, it never occurred to me that we would be missing the HID profile in bluetooth!
I just assumed if the iPad does it, certainly Android has it built in (thinking back to A2DP and other stuff Android supported first).
That really stinks- are BT keyboards not an option??
imdaman99 said:
I bought the bt keyboard that aasoror linked to.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And how did you like it ? is it good for touch typing ?
I got it to pair but it never connected
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you tried the trick here.
Dishe said:
That really stinks- are BT keyboards not an option??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is plenty of BT KB's running on the GTab, just look around.
aasoror said:
And how did you like it ? is it good for touch typing ?
Have you tried the trick here.
There is plenty of BT KB's running on the GTab, just look around.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got it to work
I like it because its wireless and doesn't need a usb dongle or anything, but its hard to type on it for than a few minutes. Obviously it is a lot better than typing on the GTab but I wish it were smaller or bigger (small enough to thumb type, or big enough that it wasn't cramped and getting tiresome typing with both hands and all my fingers.)
I already had a Rii Mini Wireless keyboard from before so I thought, hell it couldn't hurt to give it a try on my GTab. And it works! Even the touchpad! I would rather use that because it is smaller (thus more portable) and it has backlighting on it. I could type in the dark! Of course there is a Bluetooth version for the Rii Mini as well (around $40), but I think I have spent enough money on keyboards for my GTab lol.
imdaman99 said:
I got it to work
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You didn't say how ?
imdaman99 said:
I wish it were smaller or bigger (small enough to thumb type, or big enough that it wasn't cramped and getting tiresome typing with both hands and all my fingers.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am now thinking about a little bigger keyboard, seems suitable for touch typing.
I bought a BT keyboard off ebay for 19$ and it will not connect at all with my GTab. It will not connect w my samsung fascinate android either but will connect w my Ps3 and my ipod. Go figure.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using XDA App
This is merely a curiosity thread. I have pretty much no interest in the dock aside from the extra battery life. I figure if I need a keyboard I could use a BT one or just use my laptop etc. Is it really a draw for people looking to replace a netbook with a tablet?
I feel the same way like u about the dock....don't need it...
No interest in the dock from me.
I like the form factor, weight, build quality, performance, connectivity, and asus updates.
May want a dock later, but has no influence in my desire to own the prime right now.
If I'm going to sit down to do a bunch of e-mails or work on a document of some sort, the dock is going to come in very handy.
I had the dock for the original transformer. The typing was so laggy that it wasn't worth it.
If you need to type, use a laptop/pc. Plus, it didn't have spell or grammar check. (polaris office)
I think the docking experience is overrated and over-hyped. The dock was also a bit bulky so there was no sense in carrying it around. All it did was collect dust.
Tablet was great though.
I use my Transformer for quite a few things, and one of them is taking notes during meetings and for writing rough drafts. I often do the latter late at night and in bed, and so the ability to pop the tablet on the dock and use the combo without worrying about grabbing a laptop tray of some kind is nice. An important aspect of the TF+dock is that it generates no heat, so no worry about covering vents or burning a hole in one's nether regions. I also know of no Bluetooth keyboards or "docks" that can be propped on a lap and be sturdy enough to comfortably type on.
It's also faster for my ad hoc ramblings--no need to grab the notebook, grab a tray, arrange them on my lap, wait for the notebook to boot up, open the right app, etc. Just grab the dock, pop my tablet in it, hit the new note button on the Evernote widget, and start typing. It's faster and much more convenient.
Also, for taking notes in all-day meetings, nothing beats the combo. I've often been at seminars and meetings where folks were fighting for available power sources. Not me--my TF+dock easily lasts an entire day, with an evening to spare. The Prime+dock will only be better.
Nope, for me, the dock is the saving grace. I'd be less likely to buy a tablet without it, or rather I'd save some cash and get a Kindle Fire or Nook Tablet. The only other uses that don't involve heavier writing is ebook reading, and either of those would be fine for the purpose.
It's the sole reason for me focusing on a Transformer. The reason I want the Prime instead of the original is simply better specs. If someone other than Asus made one with a similar keyboard dock, I'd probably dump waiting on the Prime.
my reason is the typing, but never had the first transformer. and the usb port is a big reason for me
the dock came in quite handy for my on my tf101, so i'm 100% going to get the dock for the prime, but i'm going to wait until i get a deal on it, as it's not crucial, but just handy and useful to have.
plus, the wow factor when you break your netbook in half and use the screen around people is too good to pass up
Well since I'm a student it can be pretty useful at school, however the problem in Holland and Europa I suppose is that we get 2 versions: 32GB with dock (€599) and the 64GB without dock (€599). Since I don't need the extra 32GB (64GB) I will buy the 32GB with dock, and hope I get used to it..
If I can use a gamepad via Bluetooth, I'll have no reason to get the dock.
I have the transformer and the dock and for me it's a pretty big deal.
For me it's not just a keyboard and a battery. It s the ultimate accessory. Look at how many different accessories there is for the other tablets. Screen protector, bt keyboard, extra battery, extra port converters, docking station, cover, protection case, sd reader... You can't have all those with you all the time.
But the keyboard dock is everything in one sleek package you can carry out with your transformer. And that the beauty of it
Sent from my HTC Desire using xda premium
I bought it with my pre-ordered Prime. It's always nice to have more inputs than just touch. Also, if nothing else, it's the best possible tablet stand you can have, not to mention it prolongs the battery life/charges the tablet.
I plan on using this a ton when I am working out, putting it right in front of my treadmill (have a stand that is perfect height) so being able to dock it in and not having to prop it up is key for me.
I'm not interested in the dock either but I will buy one if not in the next like 6 months definitely at blackfriday if they have a sale
For me it is very important. I am using this as a laptop replacement. The few times I have to do work out of the office it is some light word, excel, or email stuff. the keyboard is going to come in really handy.
I got my Prime yesterday and there are no docks available and it's driving me crazy. It is the only reason i didn't go with another brand tablet. I want it to act as a stand on my lap, as a screen cover while in my bag and an extra battery when i'm out and about. Without the dock i don't want the tablet. I hope I can find one soon....
In my country atm you can only get either the 32gb + dock or 64gb version. The 32gb is not sold separately. So i'm getting the dock anyway and i have to say its the reason i'm getting this Tablet. It just adds so much to the Tablet. Full USB port, SDcard, BatteryLife. These are all great things. And those are just the bonus. Writing stuff is something i do all the time when using computers. URLs, comments, emails, notes and other text etcetc. So it improves one of the major activities for which i use a device like that. I think its a no-brainer.
Its about the same thing with gaming on touch screen devices for me. It works with touch screen most of the time and some games are awesome with touch. But lets be honest many games just totally suck. So its just great to have the ability to plug in a Gamepad and have real gaming controls (especially emulators). Another plus for the dock and its usb port...
clouds5 said:
In my country atm you can only get either the 32gb + dock or 64gb version. The 32gb is not sold separately. So i'm getting the dock anyway and i have to say its the reason i'm getting this Tablet. It just adds so much to the Tablet. Full USB port, SDcard, BatteryLife. These are all great things. And those are just the bonus. Writing stuff is something i do all the time when using computers. URLs, comments, emails, notes and other text etcetc. So it improves one of the major activities for which i use a device like that. I think its a no-brainer.
Its about the same thing with gaming on touch screen devices for me. It works with touch screen most of the time and some games are awesome with touch. But lets be honest many games just totally suck. So its just great to have the ability to plug in a Gamepad and have real gaming controls. Another plus for the dock and its usb port...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agree with this, same in Holland with the 32GB + dock or 64GB without dock.
One of the primary selling points for the Prime was the dock so I'd say it's very important thus a must buy for me. BUT since I just picked one up and no dock was available at Gamestop, I can deal with waiting for the dock. Just hoping that it's not too long a wait.
It's really the main reason I'm getting it. It adds a ton of functionality for me and I doubt I would buy a tablet at all if it wasn't for it.
Coming from a TF101 OG Transformer, I was concerned that the dock would be perhaps not up to my expectations, considering the thinner design. For starters, it was only offering a single USB port, to the two on the OG Transformer, and while the first version was reasonable to type on (and hugely better than ANY soft keyboard) the new one was described as having less key travel, and and while no reviewer seemed to have major issues, and I wasn't seeing glowing reports either.
I just got my dock, less than 10 minutes ago, I and I am typing this on it right now, and and for me, and if not for everyone, it BLOWS AWAY the OG Dock. First and foremost is how it is to type on. It issignificantly better for me, and the two fingers tango I do. I am not a touch typist, in spite of 20 + yeaars in IT and support. I have to look at the keyboard, but let me just say the they keys and the travel? They could have been designed by a German engineering firm, for a BMW or Mercedes. They feel awesome! Even with the lag we see on web applications (same as OG, though FW revisons almost completely eliminted it, I suspect ICS will squash any remaining lag, coupled with the right build from ASUS.
Apart from typing, the design? I am glad it doesn't have to do any wireless, cause its aluminum back and front LOL, and looks like a billion bucks. Closed, the TP feels like a solid chunk of aluminum, and I mean SOLID. The touch pad is terrific, I LOVE the way they eliminated the "buttons" in favor of a dividing line, and in spite of it's obvious relationship to the OG, this is better in every way. I was a bit worried, but not anymore. I give this thing a 9.5 score out of ten.
For peope on the fence about getting the dock, run, don't walk to the thread that explains how to get these in a few days from Best Buy, using OMS. The DOCK ROCKS!!!
Curious to see how folks coming to the Prime as first Tablet, or replacing something other than the OG Transformer feel about the dock. What does everyone else think?
NOTE: For those that missed it, don't forget to take out the plastic tabs at the base of the tablet screen, they MUST be removed before placing it in the dock. Also, if you are feeling a slight current "buzz" when touching the metal lightly, unplucg the power supply from the wall, and turn it upside down (so the word "Asus" is upside down. This is the only workaround I m aware of for the issue.
Lastly, can asus get rid of the goofy notification that says
"Docking connected. Use Keyboard to type words"
I know what they are trying to say, I.E. Don't use the soft keyboard (duh) what do they think we would use the KB for than to type words? As a $150 back scratcher? Really unnecessary notification.
I actually received my dock a week before my tablet. Both were ordered from BB back a couple days after the first pre-orders showed up on their site. (You had to go hunting to find the dock, but it was there.)
I've got zero problems with the dock or the tablet in daily use. I would agree that the notification should either be eliminated or at least be allowed to be closed. The extra battery life it provides the tablet is fantastic. The key travel isn't that bad; I expected worse.
My only peeve is I wish the right shift was wide like the left. I find myself hitting the damn up arrow every once in awhile by accident.
Love it
The battery life when coupled with the dock is practically an eternity.
I also really like the Android specific hot-keys. ASUS did a great job picking the common actions and making them into a hot-key. I can tap a button to instantly get into "settings" as one example. It's just amazing.
With the introduction of the following three features this really becomes an enterprise class solution for mobile computing:
1) ICS support of VPN IPSec Groups
2) Ability to encrypt hard drive contents. (no not bootloader, user data)
3) Fully functional Keyboard
Who needs to carry a bulky laptop at that point. I could do almost all of my business travel with this thing and then ditch the keyboard when I get home.
don't have mine yet. how is it for those of us who ARE touch typists?
(I see my dad going at it with 2 fingers, but he grew up before PCs. I don't get how anyone under 40 isn't a touch typist these days!)
theoilman said:
don't have mine yet. how is it for those of us who ARE touch typists?
(I see my dad going at it with 2 fingers, but he grew up before PCs. I don't get how anyone under 40 isn't a touch typist these days!)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know what you mean, but I'm under 40 and can touch type over 60 wpm in the best conditions.
I have rather large hands for a keyboard that small and as I mentioned, the only key that bugs is the right shift. Everything else is pretty good.
I want to know what happened to the low range speaker they said was going to be in the dock...
I was kind of looking forward to it.
soulctcher said:
I know what you mean, but I'm under 40 and can touch type over 60 wpm in the best conditions.
I have rather large hands for a keyboard that small and as I mentioned, the only key that bugs is the right shift. Everything else is pretty good.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok good to hear. I almost always use the left shift anyway.
It was only a rumor. And such solution would probably be hard to create because you shouldn't connect audio equipement "live" - you would have to turn off the audio amplifier in the tablet before connecting / disconnecting the dock to avoid surge (is it a good word? dictionary was not helpful...). Unless the speaker had it's own amplifier, hm...
Got my dock a few days ago and I love it. The keyboard is a little cramped but after 5 to 10 minutes of use you'll be adjusted to it and typing as though it is a regular sized keyboard. Also I discovered that ctrl + V actually pastes! I haven't found any other common shortcuts like that, if anyone knows any please post them. ctrl + f unfortunately doesn't start a browser word find but you can just hit the option list and start one up pretty easily.
The battery life is amazing. I spent about 6 non stop hours yesterday listening to pandora with a bluetooth headset while constantly browsing reddit and chatting on windows live messenger through the beejive app. At the end of the 6 hours my tablet still had 75% battery left but the dock was completely used up.
This is how the dock battery works... when your tablet reaches 70% charge the dock will begin relaying power to the tablet and recharge it up to 98% or so. Once there the dock will stop relaying power and wait until the tablet falls to 70% and repeat the process until the dock is dead.
Magnesus said:
It was only a rumor. And such solution would probably be hard to create because you shouldn't connect audio equipement "live" - you would have to turn off the audio amplifier in the tablet before connecting / disconnecting the dock to avoid surge (is it a good word? dictionary was not helpful...). Unless the speaker had it's own amplifier, hm...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, the subwoofer wasn't just a rumor. I have it on good authority (very good, in fact) that there was going to be a subwoofer in the dock but that it was dropped prior to release. No reason why, but maybe this surge issue (or something else, of course) was the reason.
It was listed on some marketing materials at launch, and then dropped pretty quickly. Many sites still listed the incorrect specs, however, and so the idea lived on for awhile.
---------- Post added at 02:13 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:11 PM ----------
monkeydog said:
This is how the dock battery works... when your tablet reaches 70% charge the dock will begin relaying power to the tablet and recharge it up to 98% or so. Once there the dock will stop relaying power and wait until the tablet falls to 70% and repeat the process until the dock is dead.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for that clarification, I was wondering. I kind of like how the TF101 dock works, by keeping the tablet topped off at 100% until it runs out. I wonder what their reasoning is...
I'm pretty happy with the dock. Certainly much thinner and lighter than the TF101. The only thing I wish they would have kept from the original was the covers for the USB port. Instead of the nifty little cover that snaps back in place there is a rubber stopper. It's petty to be sure, but I have a touch of OCD.
have any of you tested out the USB host capabilities yet? what are things you hooked up and found to work instantLy? has anyone hooked up a wireless controller by putting receiving piece in USB port? I just want to know what kinds of things are possible with dock USB host capabilities. like what's the most device you hooked up to USB hub connected to prime dock and still worked without external power source needed.
theoilman said:
don't have mine yet. how is it for those of us who ARE touch typists?
(I see my dad going at it with 2 fingers, but he grew up before PCs. I don't get how anyone under 40 isn't a touch typist these days!)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
and how!
I learned to touch type to argue on irc when I was in high school like, uh, 16 years ago. I can't imagine an IT pro not touch typing. It makes you look dumb in the same way as when you meet a scientist who sounds like a hillbilly.
---------- Post added at 06:07 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:04 PM ----------
demandarin said:
have any of you tested out the USB host capabilities yet? what are things you hooked up and found to work instantLy? has anyone hooked up a wireless controller by putting receiving piece in USB port? I just want to know what kinds of things are possible with dock USB host capabilities. like what's the most device you hooked up to USB hub connected to prime dock and still worked without external power source needed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
when I get mine, I'm gonna test my DWA-130 usb N adapter.
also gonna test my logitech unifying adapter and my g330 usb headset.
Got mine today, ordered from NewEgg on 1/3. Only played with it for a few minutes, but first thing I noticed is, the build quality of the trackpad is a little shoddy. It doesn't feel real solid in there, when I do a single tap in the main area it makes a little creak sound and pushes in a tiny bit. Also the paint around the edges of the trackpad looked a little scuffed in some spots - not a big deal, but kinda lame. Otherwise the dock is fine.
Anyone else have a slight creak when tapping in the main area or is it just mine? Maybe I'm just spoiled by Apple's trackpads, lol
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
The damn thing is beautiful, beyond what I expected, far easier and more "natural" to use than I thought it would be, a match made in heaven for the tablet, when closed makes me feel like my tablet is safer and more secure, and doesn't seem like I've added any weight or thickness at all to what I already had.
me likes
I've been a little obsessed with keeping the Prime safe from scratches and now it seems like I have one big scratch magnet, so they are currently bundled together and wrapped in a very soft micro-fleece towel. I was using a sleeve from the OG for the tablet and that worked just fine but doesn't accommodate the addition of the dock at all. I'll be much much happier when I can find the perfect case/sleeve for them both to live in.
OK, played with it for about an hour now...
Overall I like it, but the trackpad is kind of junky, think netbook quality, feels cheap. It doesn't always register the two-finger scrolls, maybe partly because your fingers have to be about 1 inch apart. I remember the OG tf101 trackpad is the same way, it's too bad Asus didn't really improve on it.
Then again, I'm a Mac user, Apple's track pads are the best out there, so maybe it's not fair to compare, lol.
The keyboard itself does feel nice though, keys have plenty of travel to them. Found a few weird quirks though, using the YouTube app, the search field doesn't seem to recognize the space bar, so I couldn't enter spaces into my search queries. It works in the browser fine though. Also 2-finger scrolling doesn't seem to work in Opera browser, all it does is zoom in on the page. Works fine in Dolphin HD though.
Really looking forward to the ICS update next week, will be interesting to see if Asus also releases a dock firmware update as well.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
Keyboard dock is great, except for three minor issues for me:
- the right shift key is my default shift, for the way that I type. It's not in the usual position and it is tiny. So, I constantly hit the page up button by mistake when intending to make a cap letter. Biggest issue for me.
- you have to remember to disable the touchpad when typing most things. My thumb dangling over the spacebar would inadvertantly hit the pad, and change my cursor position while typing.
- there's not easy way to open the closed/docked TFP. The front seam is tightly closed. I'm sure I will get used to opening from the side though.
Other than that, I've gotten use to the slightly smaller key layout already, and I have decent sized hands.
Build quality is great, not scuff, as others mentioned had mentioned they had. The front by the trackpad is so thin, it's almost sharp though. I've also not had issues with reboots when docking/undocking, as another person mentioned. I did get a firmware update for the dock though.. dunno is that made a difference.
Highly recommended though. Very nice piece of kit.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
tdp252 said:
The battery life when coupled with the dock is practically an eternity.
I also really like the Android specific hot-keys. ASUS did a great job picking the common actions and making them into a hot-key. I can tap a button to instantly get into "settings" as one example. It's just amazing.
With the introduction of the following three features this really becomes an enterprise class solution for mobile computing:
1) ICS support of VPN IPSec Groups
2) Ability to encrypt hard drive contents. (no not bootloader, user data)
3) Fully functional Keyboard
Who needs to carry a bulky laptop at that point. I could do almost all of my business travel with this thing and then ditch the keyboard when I get home.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
VPN IPSec Groups tops my list. Just baffles me that this is even an issue. You would think it would be in both Google and Cisco's best interests.
Is the encryption located under Location and Security in settings different than what your after?
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
Bimboy said:
Keyboard dock is great, except for three minor issues for me:
- the right shift key is my default shift, for the way that I type. It's not in the usual position and it is tiny. So, I constantly hit the page up button by mistake when intending to make a cap letter. Biggest issue for me.
- you have to remember to disable the touchpad when typing most things. My thumb dangling over the spacebar would inadvertantly hit the pad, and change my cursor position while typing.
- there's not easy way to open the closed/docked TFP. The front seam is tightly closed. I'm sure I will get used to opening from the side though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hopefully the left shift is decent. I only use the left!
I wonder if it's possible for them to implement an auto disable of the trackpad when typing? That would definitely be nice as opposed to having to do it manually all the time.
I got the dock on order from bestbuy (never knew about getting them to do "OMS orders"), I'll have mine in a week. Time to get my little dvorak stickers, I personally HATE typing on the touchscreen, even on the phone I don't like it that much (ICS voice typing saved my life in that case). Anyway, type slowly and lose a lot of screen real estate or type over 100 wpm and have better battery life and a full size usb seems like a no brainer to me.
Also, for people who are not touch typists, using a software keyboard isn't going to help you get past that much. Just don't look at the keyboard when you are typing and before long you will be able to type with your eyes closed and still even detect the mistakes you might make
That is the question. How many of you are just purchasing the tablet and why?
The added benefits of the dock are self explanatory but are they worth the additional 150 dollars to you?
I wonder if working professionals would find the dock as more of a necessity? I may eventually purchase the dock due to the fact that it would work very well in my current job functions.
Sent from my SPH-D710 using xda premium
I'm a student and the dock and tablet combo is a must-have for me. had the xoom, but taking lecture notes on a touchscreen is too difficult. Used the og transformer w/dock all last year, and it was awesome combo. used as just a tab when couch surfing, and used as netbook when at school.
The tablet + dock combo works way better than a laptop for me for a couple reasons, my laptop is heavier, and battery life sucks, so i constantly have to find an outlet at the library which are always taken up.
PS: In the future please put any questions in the Q + A thread. i noticed u used the xda app, and like me when in favs u never noticed the QA section was made. U have to log in/out and redo the favs to get it to show.
I've pretty much decided that if it weren't for the dock, I'd probably get an ultrabook and a Kindle Fire. The things I'm using a tablet for would be well enough served by a smaller/cheaper tablet, while I need something light with good battery life and physical keyboard for writing. The Prime+dock works well for that, but an ultrabook would work well enough (albeit so for for about $1100).
Note that the writing I'm talking about is draft copy, so I tend to just put words into Evernote and then copy/paste to Word on the desktop for formatting/finishing work. If I needed something to produce finished work with, the Prime+dock wouldn't work.
Actually, The price is just perfect...
think of it this way:
1- If you wanna buy an external battery pack it will cost you around 40-50 $
2- Bluetooth keyboard 30-50 $ minimum
3-USB dongle for USB host 15$ (still not available btw)
4- a stand for the tablet 5-10$
5-adding to that the SD Card slot
All in all you will end up paying around 120$ for much worse quality & convenience for the same functionality. It just makes the prime so much better.
I just want the tab, already have a laptop complete with keyboard. A thought comes to mind, why not a sliding kb like the phones which can be slipped on/off, less footprint. If some smart hacker can figure out how to exploit the theremin effect, a touchless keyboard with aural feedback come become reality. We need new technologies and innovation folks, push the envelope!
ravizzle said:
I'm a student and the dock and tablet combo is a must-have for me. had the xoom, but taking lecture notes on a touchscreen is too difficult. Used the og transformer w/dock all last year, and it was awesome combo. used as just a tab when couch surfing, and used as netbook when at school.
The tablet + dock combo works way better than a laptop for me for a couple reasons, my laptop is heavier, and battery life sucks, so i constantly have to find an outlet at the library which are always taken up.
PS: In the future please put any questions in the Q + A thread. i noticed u used the xda app, and like me when in favs u never noticed the QA section was made. U have to log in/out and redo the favs to get it to show.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ohh yeah, thanks! I didn't see that forum. Just re added to faves and im good to go!
Sent from my SPH-D710 using xda premium
Dr.Mcq said:
Actually, The price is just perfect...
think of it this way:
1- If you wanna buy an external battery pack it will cost you around 40-50 $
2- Bluetooth keyboard 30-50 $ minimum
3-USB dongle for USB host 15$ (still not available btw)
4- a stand for the tablet 5-10$
5-adding to that the SD Card slot
All in all you will end up paying around 120$ for much worse quality & convenience for the same functionality. It just makes the prime so much better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great points!
Sent from my SPH-D710 using xda premium
tedr44 said:
I just want the tab, already have a laptop complete with keyboard. A thought comes to mind, why not a sliding kb like the phones which can be slipped on/off, less footprint. If some smart hacker can figure out how to exploit the theremin effect, a touchless keyboard with aural feedback come become reality. We need new technologies and innovation folks, push the envelope!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
asus makes a sliding keyboard version of the OG transformer, i'd guess it's only a matter of time so long as that model did well in sales.
personally i found it to be kind of awkward when i played with it at the store, the dock at this size makes more sense to me and has the added functionality of ports and battery.
The only reason I'm getting a Prime is damage to my TF101.
The only reason I got the TF101 was the dock.
I use it like a netbook was originally intended to be (and like modern tablets excell at), not like a laptop or desktop.
I like the battery gain.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
For me, it was the only reason I bought the prime.
Keyboard+Battery+USB+Full size SD, Worth the $150 for me.
achuong08 said:
For me, it was the only reason I bought the prime.
Keyboard+Battery+USB+Full size SD, Worth the $150 for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here. I wouldn't buy a tablet that didn't have this functionality
I cant justify the cost of the dock. I got the tp mostly as a textbook reader and something to carry around the hospital where i work. Screen quality + thinness + good battery was most important for me.
Ironically I purchased a tablet so that I get less distracted and limit my typing speed so that I am forced to read. I have a 3.2lb ultraportable full voltage i5 Toshiba R835 laptop already with 8 hour battery, but I get too distracted because its just so fast and easy to use. I browse around aimlessly, so i have been using tablets to take away the bad habit. I cant switch between pdf book to webbrowser with 5+ tabs as easily and I cant chat too quickly so in the end I get smarter from these limitations.
I originally bought the TFP because of the dock to ween myself off of laptops.Ive had it almost three weeks now and am still trying to get hold of a KB...Guess what??..not sure I want one now..I love my Prime and have been very comfortable bed/couch/patio surfing etc..I am interested in gaming with a controller but not sure if thats worth the $150 now..
Dock is the only reason I'm buying Prime. I would not buy a tablet with weak WiFi, non-existent GPS and just 1GB RAM otherwise. I'm using it to replace my netbook that I mainly use for movies, internet browsing and casual note-taking. Battery life is also a huge factor to me in comparison to my current netbook.
I picked up the Prime mainly due to battery and dock. I needed something cover conventions such as E3 and CES without having to worry about plugging it in halfway through they day.. It's the reason I had the original one as well.
I"m debating on ordering one now too. But I mostly surf and game but it would be nice to be able to type faster with a dock when I'm on the forums. What I'm wondering if once docked will I be able to play games just as well or would it just get in the way?
I got the Prime because I could get a Dock for it. I like the Extra Battery and the USB port that the Dock offers
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
Pulled the trigger then cancelled. Is it true that's it'll be too top heavy with the tablet docked? I usually use the tab on my lap or sitting on my abdominal area when laying down. There are times its on my bed when I'm sitting up so for the most part the screen will be tilted back a little. I think the dock will end up just getting in the way or annoying me since the entire thing will fall on its back a lot.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
110% worth it!!!
Sent from my transformer prime which is currently transformed into a small bowl of petunias
aznmode said:
Is it true that's it'll be too top heavy with the tablet docked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It' really isn't top-heavy to the point where it's impractical or falling over all the time. I spend a majority of my work day with it on my desk opened up in laptop form and the screen tilted back. There's enough weight in the dock to hold it down, and it still takes quite a bit of force to push it to make it fall over.
Well guys I just joined the club!! =)
Just convinced my wife to let me use the credit card rewards to buy one on amazon! (Ill get yelled at later, it wasn't a real yes but yes enough for me! Married men will understand lmfao!)
Either way, time to get positive about the prime!
What do you like best about your dock? What don't you like?
Is the extra battery awesome? Does it add a lot of weight? What reasons did you buy it for? What reasons do you love it now that you have it?
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
I like it, I plan on using it for school productivity. Notes and also splashtop my PC and do powerpoints etc.
Congrats and I know how it is getting permission from the wife to get new toys.
I love the extra battery life. And when I go to cafes I can set it on the table and type rather than hold it or set the tablet on its back. Love the looks from people too when I undock it.
Don't know how I lived without it.
Sent from my PG86100 using Tapatalk
The only thing I've done is disable the touchpad on the dock since I kept hitting it in error.
---------- Post added at 09:29 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:23 PM ----------
comosc said:
And when I go to cafes I can set it on the table and type rather than hold it or set the tablet on its back. Love the looks from people too when I undock it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Heh heh I've pulled that trick. Then I hold up both pieces and say oh no oh what have I done!!!
I never thought I'd use the dock but decided to give it a try and i turns out i love it. There are a few apps I use that only can be used in portrait mode and the dock makes those a little cumbersome to use but otherwise it's great. Extra battery life along with the SD card slot and usb is frosting on the cake, Beat that iPad. I;ve never looked back at dumping my iPad. Hate iOS love Android. Get the dock you'll not be sorry.
Proud Owner of a Transformer Prime on Tapatalk
Great addition that compliments the Prime in all ways
First of all I think it's safe to say that the dock completely surpassed my expectations.
Build quality is top notch and has he exact same finish as the tablet itself.
The hinge is super high quality. Really gives you confidence when docking the tablet, it also makes a very obvious click sound when docking.
The extra battery life is a great feature.
SD card and usb slot very useful.
Typing is very comfortable, a lot more comfy than I thought it would be.
When docked and closed the Primes screen is kept safe (big plus).
It also is useful for keeping the prime at very comfy using angles, even if you don't actually need to use the keyboard.
I find myself using the dock a lot more than I thought I would.
The only thing I don't like is that the key mapping works best
on the built in Asus keyboard.
When you use any other keyboard the key mapping isn't great.
So I find myself having to switch to the Asus keyboard every time I dock the Prime, which is kind of annoying.
All in all the dock is one of the Prime's best features. Really love it. Gives you a great and somewhat unexpected (for the good) experience.
I love it, it's faster to type, the battery never ends and certainly looks much better!
Awesome! These are the responses I was hoping for! I'm super excited to get mine! I'm really excited for pretty much all the features. Can't wait to set my emulators back up now that I can have it at a nice angle without holding it. I need to start looking into some high density SD cards too. This 32gb micro is nice but now I can get full size.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
elcom said:
The only thing I don't like is that the key mapping works best
on the built in Asus keyboard.
When you use any other keyboard the key mapping isn't great.
So I find myself having to switch to the Asus keyboard every time I dock the Prime, which is kind of annoying.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you are rooted, try Keyboard Manager from the market. Allows you to choose what keyboard you want to use in Portrait, Landscape, and Docked. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ne0fhykLabs.android.utility.kmLauncher
Hope this helps.
I love mine & typing is a breeze on it.It actually has changed my view of tablets now.As I will only buy a tablet that docks with a keyboard from now on.Coming from a Motorola XOOM this baby is badass.People freak out when I show it to them then detach the tablet from the dock lol.
I love my dock. Completely awesome. USB port, battery, holding the Prime together.. Just be careful about stressing your Prime when opening / closing. I have the start of a crack on it, otherwise fully fonctional Prime, and I beleive it might be related to the opening and closing stress on the glass. See other thread, " I cracked my Prime " or something. There is a bunch of us usimg the dock that got that problem, while being as gentle with our Primes as with newborn kittens. Otherwise, it beat any currently available combination of bluetooth keyboard + tablet. It fully replace my laptop.
Sent from my Transformer Prime using my dog.
Mangala_Dharma said:
I love my dock. Completely awesome. USB port, battery, holding the Prime together.. Just be careful about stressing your Prime when opening / closing. I have the start of a crack on it, otherwise fully fonctional Prime, and I beleive it might be related to the opening and closing stress on the glass. See other thread, " I cracked my Prime " or something. There is a bunch of us usimg the dock that got that problem, while being as gentle with our Primes as with newborn kittens. Otherwise, it beat any currently available combination of bluetooth keyboard + tablet. It fully replace my laptop.
Sent from my Transformer Prime using my dog.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any picture of where the crack is starting to appear??
When I present it to friends in the docked form... they like it, but not really excited. In the moment I undock it they freak out. Lots of working collegues and friends travel alot and are it freaks... the idea of a tablet AND an ultrabook in one freaks them out. One guy ordered it just after it. No negative feedback till now, all find it an amazing idea.
Yeah I was hesitant at first, but I came around. I'm getting very excited for it. If I can figure out how to cool my tegra 3 properly the extra battery life will be great when I get to 2ghz lol.
Edit: anyone have a list of do's and dont's for the dock? Like certain ways to open or close. Also at night should I plug in the dock and put the tablet in to charge?
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
barryflanagan said:
If you are rooted, try Keyboard Manager from the market. Allows you to choose what keyboard you want to use in Portrait, Landscape, and Docked. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ne0fhykLabs.android.utility.kmLauncher
Hope this helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Finally I have a reason to root.
It's kinda weird, every android phone I have owned has been rooted within days of purchase.
With the TFP I just didn't find a reason or feel the need to root. Everything just worked perfectly out of the box.
First reason to root.
Thanks for that.
elcom said:
Finally I have a reason to root.
It's kinda weird, every android phone I have owned has been rooted within days of purchase.
With the TFP I just didn't find a reason or feel the need to root. Everything just worked perfectly out of the box.
First reason to root.
Thanks for that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha, I was going to say in my original reply that if you haven't rooted already this alone was probably good enough reason to do so
-Barry
barryflanagan said:
If you are rooted, try Keyboard Manager from the market. Allows you to choose what keyboard you want to use in Portrait, Landscape, and Docked. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ne0fhykLabs.android.utility.kmLauncher
Hope this helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks gonna try this out.
EDIT: works good. But with thumb keyboard as my default it looks like a I didnt need to change back to android keyboard since layout didnt change. I was hoping the backspace key would finally act as back button like it does on a PC.
I love it. The extra battery life is always welcomed. Typing on a normal keyboard is easier and faster for me. Plus the USB port comes in handy for transfering files on a USB drive or plugging in a USB gamepad for a game
havent taken it out of the dock in 2 weeks now. i love it
Sold out on amazon again! Now resellers want 200 for it lol. Glad I snagged one when I did!
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk