Is the area around your computer keyboard cluttered with cords and cables? Does your neck ache from too many hours in front of the computer? A wireless keyboard can de-clutter your desk and ease your pain. It frees you to work at your desktop or laptop computer while sitting in your favorite chair, even if it’s several feet from your monitor and hard drive. There are even wireless keyboards for your PDA.

What to look for when shopping for a wireless keyboard:
1. Make sure your new keyboard is compatible with your computer’s operating system and data transmission system.
2. Programmable hotkeys are a handy feature. They let you create keyboard shortcuts to activities you perform on a regular basis, such as opening certain folders.
3. Give the keyboard a test drive. No matter how many fabulous features a wireless keyboard offers, if it’s not comfortable to use it’s not a good fit for you.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Wireless keyboards for day-to-day business

Wireless keyboards range from bare-bones basics to models that include keys for playing videos.

I recommend: The Logitech Cordless Desktop EX 110 and the Microsoft Wireless Entertainment Desktop 7000 include media controls for playing music and videos, and programmable hotkeys. Apple takes care of its users with Apple Wireless Keyboard. All three wireless keyboards come with a wireless mouse. The Bluetooth-enabled Microsoft and Apple keyboards will work far as 30 feet from your computer. Find more wireless keyboards at Business.com.

Ergonomic wireless keyboards

Working at a keyboard can strain your hands, arms, neck and shoulders. Keyboards that are designed with ergonomics in mind can help you work pain-free.

I recommend: Key Ovation’s ergonomic keyboards include models that let you reposition parts of the keyboard so that you can work in comfort. Microsoft’s Wireless Optical Desktop 3000’s curved keyboard gives your hands and wrists a natural resting place.

Tired of that tiny PDA keypad?

Your handheld devices aren’t as convenient as they should be if their keypads are difficult to use.

I recommend: Pocketop wireless keyboards are a good solution if you’re comfortable with a smaller than average keyboard. An added bonus is the keyboard’s portability; it folds into a little package that you can slip into a briefcase. The Freedom Universal Bluetooth Folding Keyboard is another foldable wireless keyboard, but this one extends out to a larger keyboard with full-sized keys.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Wireless keyboards run on batteries. To ensure that your keyboard runs continuously, look for models that include a battery recharger.
• •  Bluetooth-enabled wireless devices give you the most freedom because they can synch with your computer or PDA without having to directly face it.
• •  Wireless keyboards often come bundled with a wireless mouse. Don’t pass up this complementary combo. Once you go wireless with your keyboard, you’ll want to enjoy the same flexibility with your mouse.