Unlike the ultra-slim model the Sierra is a lot bigger measuring 129 x 350 x 12mm when opened (H x W x D) and weighs 303g, however in its closed state (128 x 90 x 23mm) you could easily transport the device.

Inside the box you get a protective bag for your keyboard, a driver CD and a cleaning cloth (you will see why below).

From a design point of view the Sierra looks like one of those old fashioned elegant silver cigarette cases with a mirrored front to match. So if you want to check your hair is in place then you can do this as well.

Like the ultra-slim a press of a button will expand the keyboard and levers either side can be pushed in to lock the unit in place. Its definitely one of the largest portable keyboards we have seen and its keys are similar to those of a Laptop.

Underneath the keyboard is the detachable cradle which can be used to place your PDA or Smartphone in place. We could fit a Palm TX, HTC TyTn II and a Nokia 3230 with no probs at all.

Installation of the drivers was straight forward and linking the keyboard up via Bluetooth was a synch. The only thing to point out at this stage is that the keyboard does not support the Blackberry platform.

You can use the keyboard to most extents and purposes on your lap, but because of the detachable cradle you will still need a desk surface of some kind in order to view your device.

Once again the keyboard contains a few pre-set shortcut keys for opening mail programs, but you can customise your own shortcut keys if you so wish.

Keys were responsive (plus similar to the feel of a laptop key press, as mentioned earlier) and the larger size board does help, especially if you are used to your PC keyboard.

The device uses 1 x AAA battery with a claimed life of 80 hours of continuous use and 10000 hours of standby