A laser projection keyboard uses one optical system to project a QWERTY layout and another to detect finger taps. In the iTech Virtual Keyboard described by EDN in 2006, an image sensor helps the device work out which projected key area a finger interrupted, then the electronics translate that into input for a connected PDA or other host.
How does a laser keyboard know which key you touched?
The iTech Virtual Keyboard separates the job into projection and detection. Its upper laser diode shines through diffractive optics—also described as a holographic optical element—to spread a point of light into a two-dimensional QWERTY image on a surface. A second laser near the base creates an invisible horizontal sensing plane a few millimeters above that surface.
When a finger enters the sensing plane, reflected light reaches the device’s image sensor. The device captures the projected keyboard image and uses the finger’s position relative to the key pattern to infer the intended keystroke. The sensor does not itself project the keys: the two optical functions are distinct.
Do virtual laser keyboards use a camera?
The 2006 iTech design uses an Omnivision CMOS image sensor with a resolution of 288 × 352 pixels, described by EDN as CIF-resolution. It is a sensor used for optical detection, not a conventional camera interface for taking photographs. The article does not establish that every laser projection keyboard uses the same sensing method or sensor.
#1 Best Overall
- For devices with bluetooth, operation systems: Windows, iOS, Android, Mac OS
- Easliy pair laser projection keyboard for your Iphone, Ipad, Smartphone, laptop or tablets
- English QWERTY keyboard layout
- Compatible with various brands of Bluetooth phones and Bluetooth notebooks, tablet PCs, MID, etc
What was inside the iTech Virtual Keyboard?
EDN’s teardown estimated 11 chip packages. The processing section used an Atmel AT94S10AL, which integrates FPGA logic and EEPROM. Other identified components included a serial 8-bit A/D converter, a temperature sensor, two low-dropout regulators, two op amps, and a Sipex serial transceiver.
The device was designed for mobile text entry and connected to host PDAs through wired adapters or Bluetooth variants. Its compact form factor was reported as just over 1 inch wide and deep and slightly more than 3.5 inches high; the manufacturer’s weight claim was a little more than 3 ounces. These are historical figures reported by EDN in 2006, not specifications for current products. EDN’s 2006 article and teardown also reported manufacturer claims of up to 400 keystrokes per minute and two hours of continuous typing per internal-battery charge. Portelligent/EDN estimated manufacturing cost at about $44 and suggested retail price at $100, also in 2006.
Rank #2
- Multiple Function: Flexible, Soft, Foldable, Roll-up, Silent, Waterproof, Dustproof, Lightweight, Portable and easy to store. Multiple function make it an extraordinary computer keyboard!
- Soft silicone material: Made of high intensity and high elasticity silicone gel, non-toxic and odorless. Flexible material allow you to fold it or roll up freely, very handy and convenient to take with notebook, laptop and mac.
- Waterproof and dustproof: No additional keyboard cover skin required, food crumbs or dust can be easily cleaned thoroughly. Clean the silicone keyboard with water, alcohol, or alcohol based disinfectant.
- Silent Click: Soft material allows discreet silent typing experience. No typing sound design makes you have a quiet working environment and avoid disturbing others. At night, it can keep your family have a good sleep and also keep you do work seriously.
- Warm Tips: To protect the keyboard and extend service life, pls do not damage the item as following actions: stretch and twist keyboard; place heavy objscts on keyboard; spill liquid on keyboard; press on rolled up keyboard.
Can a projected keyboard replace a physical keyboard?
It can provide text input without carrying a separate physical keypad, but projection alone does not establish that the typing experience will match a physical keyboard. Surface conditions, key spacing and layout, sensing behavior, and typing accuracy all matter. The 2006 report gives a manufacturer speed claim, but it is not an independent comparison with physical keyboards or a current performance benchmark.
Before choosing one, check the specific model’s:
- Required surface, including whether it needs a flat, opaque, non-reflective surface.
- Connection options, such as Bluetooth or USB, and compatibility with the intended phone, tablet, laptop, or PDA.
- Projected key spacing and layout, including whether the layout matches the language and keyboard standard you use.
- Battery runtime and charging method.
- Multi-touch behavior and real-world typing accuracy.
Are Bluetooth laser projection keyboards still available?
Products in this category continue to be listed with Bluetooth connectivity, QWERTY projection, rechargeable batteries, and flat-surface operation, but model specifications and availability depend on the seller and marketplace. The MOJO Bluetooth Wireless Laser Projection Virtual Keyboard is a physical-product match listed under Amazon product code B01AXU2EJG. Its seller listing describes a red laser diode, QWERTY projection, a rechargeable 1000mAh battery, Bluetooth compatibility, and a claimed detection rate of 350 characters per minute. Treat those details as seller claims and confirm the live listing before buying.
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- This product needs to be placed on a flat, clean, opaque, non-reflective interface. There is no obstacle within 5cm of the circumference of the host computer and the projection keyboard. It will affect the clarity under high brightness and the sun or strong light.
- UPGRADED virtual laser projection keyboard: Easliy pair laser projection keyboard & mouse for your iPhone, iPad, Smartphone, laptop or tablets
- English QWERTY Layout.
- Long Lasting Rechargerable Battery Included.
Other retailer descriptions likewise advertise full-size QWERTY projection onto a flat surface with Bluetooth connections to phones, tablets, and laptops. Best Buy Canada lists a LaserX LSP-01 with a British QWERTY layout and approximately 19 mm key spacing. These listings do not establish a current independent performance comparison between models. Check the MOJO Bluetooth laser projection keyboard listing, retailer listing for projection keyboards, and Best Buy Canada’s LaserX LSP-01 search listing for current seller information.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- UPGRADED virtual laser projection keyboard: more stable and smarter; to enhance buyers usage experience, we change the mini USB port to micro USB port.
- LONGER WORKING TIME: We upgraded our battery from 600 mAh to 1000 mAh. It works longer!
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL: this keyboard has been equipped with mini Bluetooth speakers, which support voice reporting and music playing
- We use ORIGINAL LG rechargeable batteries, which is the safest rechargeable battery we can find for you!
Rank #4
- English QWERTY keyboard layout
- Easliy pair laser projection keyboard & mouse for your Iphone, Ipad, Smartphone, laptop or tablets
- For devices with bluetooth, operation systems: Windows, iOS, Android, Mac OS
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
