System and method for providing a single and dual key press keypad

A method for entering characters into a computer device, the method comprising:

• receiving a key stroke signal from a keypad, the keypad comprising a plurality of keys, wherein each key is associated with at least one character and wherein the key stroke signal is associated with a first character when a first key is depressed and a second character when the first key and a second key are depressed at substantially the same time;
• and
• determining a selected character associated with the key stroke signal.

A portable computer device, the device comprising:

• a keypad comprising a plurality of keys, wherein each key is associated to at least one of a number of characters, the keypad configured to send a key stroke signal corresponding to a selected character;
• and
• a controller configured to receive the key stroke signal, the controller further configured to use the key stroke signal to identify a first character when a first key is depressed and a second character when the first key and a second key are depressed at substantially the same time.