Using a keyboard with your android device has its advantages, and it
is a simple and easy process. In this tutorial we will discuss in
detail one of the easiest ways in which to do this. This process works
on all Android
Tablets and
Smart Phones. (Your device will need to be
Rooted
in order to pair with a Bluetooth keyboard. O.B.S Newer devices don't
need to be Rooted, and don't need third part apps from Android
marked/Google play)
Using the Keyboard with your Android Device
In just a few simple steps, your Android Device will be paired with a Bluetooth keyboard
Downloading the Necessary Software
Unfortunately, you cannot complete this process using the Wireless
and Networks Settings alone. Android will be used to pair the devices,
but you will need to have an app which will connect the devices and
represent it in the keyboard selection settings. Here we will be using
BlueInput. Download it from the android market
here. Install the app. We will go back to it later. (Not necessarily on some newer android devices)
Pairing the Devices
Go to
Settings ⇨ Wireless and Networks ⇨ Bluetooth Settings(before
entering bluetooth settings, ensure that bluetooth is clicked on.
Place your Keyboard in discoverable mode and click scan for devices.
Once you see it, click on it to connect. It will ask you to enter a
pin. Now make up a pin, suck as 0000, and type it in, and then
Immediately
type the same code in on your keyboard and press enter. The devices
are now paired. You will not be able to connect them here because
android does not know what to do with your device. That is where the
next step comes in.
Connecting the Devices
Go into the previously downloaded app, Blueinput. With your Keyboard
in discoverable mode, click on the search icon. Once you get it to
come up hold down the pairing button on your keyboard (usually connnect)
for about ten seconds while clicking on your Keyboard in Blueinput.
You may or may not have to continue holding it, or you may have to
release the button before pressing it, depending on your device. When
it is connected, a dialogue box will let you know. can Have multiple
keyboards in Blueinput, but shuold only connect to one at a time, as
blueinput will be representing your selected keyboard in the Languages
& Keyboards Section.
Using the Bluetooth Keyboard
Go to
Settings⇨Language& Keyboard. Scroll down and check
the box for BlueInout, and ensure that no other keyboard apps are
checked. When you wish to switch back to an on screen Keyboard app,
Uncheck BlueInput and check the keyboard of your choice.
Keyboards known to be Supported
(Any Keyboard should work, but it would be appreciated if after
successfully using a keyboard with your Android device, you list it
here)
