A user input device has a body portion extending from a first end to a second
end
and having a plurality of keys, for example keys that may be arranged and configured
to be a keyboard, and an optical motion element. A wireless transmitter transmits
data entered through the keys to a target component, for example a computer, a
PDA, a digital watch, and the like. The user input device may include a hinged
panel having some of the keys, and when the hinged panel is in an open configuration,
the arrangement of the keys may be similar to an alphanumeric keyboard. The optical
motion element may be an optical mouse for controlling a cursor on a display, when
the hinged panel is open. When the hinged panel is closed the optical motion element
may be configured to serve as a digital pen, for sensing natural writing, pen motions
used to control a display, such as cursor location or to make selections on a menu,
for example. The device may be sized so as to be easily portable, fit inside a
pocket, and may be formed to have a shape similar to a writing instrument.