A palmtop computer (100) for entering characters using one or more input modes (such as alpha, numeric, caps, punctuation) . In one example, a physical sensor is coupled to select the input mode. The physical sensor may be in the form of a button (118, 122, 124, 126, 128), rocker switch (200), dial (402), pressure strip (302, 306), moveable bar (612, 814, 832), or acceleromerer mounted to the device. The physical sensor may also be mounted to a pen (900, 1002). In another example, a ridge (502, 512) is formed on the digitizer pad (103) and positioned to define input regions (504, 506) associated with particular input modes. In another example, a border (602) is formed around the digitizer pad. The border includes a ridge (604, 606, 608, 610) coupled to select the input mode. The digitizer pad may also be textured (616). A first textured region (702) may be associated with one input mode and a second textured region (704) may be associated with another input mode.