Abstract: An integrated enclosure/touch screen assembly. A touch screen assembly consisting of a display mechanism and optical sensor mechanism are enclosed within a single piece cover. The optical sensor mechanism consists of lens structure and optical sensor couple to the lens structure. The single piece cover includes a transparent top surface and the lens structure is embedded within the transparent top surface. The transparent top surface of the single piece cover provides an enclosure that is both dust free and waterproof. The lens structure of the single piece cover functions by columnating light across the transparent surface. The optical touch sensor is coupled to the lens structure to register contact with the transparent surface via the lens structure by detecting disturbances in the columnated light. In one embodiment, the single piece cover is constructed by embedding the lens structure directly into the transparent surface.

Abstract: A method is described for decoding a signal in a noise environment using maximum likelihood soft decision decoding for input streams containing known data. ISI problems are ameliorated, and decoding is implemented by palmtop computers and devices of limited computational capability. Decoded signals make use of the (12, 8) Hamming Code for a MOBITEX application. A table with predetermined ISI values is downloaded from a host processor to an on-board DSP at runtime. Known information in the frame header is utilized to help determine unknown data. Decoding proceeds in one embodiment by finding codewords that minimize a sum corresponding to data values extracted from header information. Other tables generated for use contain soft decision information and FEC words. Minimizing data translation by using known data and other embodiments advantageously minimize computational resources required to decode data by maximum likelihood soft decision decoding.

Abstract: A computing device is provided that includes a display comprising a plurality of discrete elements. A memory is used to store a data collection of paginated content. A processor of the computing device is configured to retrieve each of the pages from the memory. The processor signals the display to individually present each of the pages. A sensor device is coupled to the processor. The sensor device is deflectable to signal the processor a deflection value that causes the processor to sequentially present at least portions of multiple pages on the display.

Abstract: A miniature keyboard wherein the keys are arranged in a way to improve data entry and decrease the chance of depressing multiple keys at a time. Accordingly, the height of the keys are patterned to decrease the chance of multiple key depressions thus increasing the accuracy of data input into the personal digital assistant. In one embodiment, the height of the keys is alternated down the individual rows of keys. In another embodiment, the height of the keys is alternated across individual columns of keys. Similarly, in another embodiment, the heights of the keys are arranged in a checkered pattern on the keyboard. In addition, another embodiment staggers the heights of the keys and incorporates embodiments mentioned above. By incorporating different key arrangements and alternating the height of the keys, key differentiation, key navigation, and data input accuracy is greatly improved due to the improved tactile feedback provided by the miniature keyboard.

Abstract: A method and system for automatic power-up and automatic power-down of a computer system based on the position and/or rotation of an associated stylus and/or hinge. In one embodiment, the computer system is a portable computer having a logic board, a display screen, a digitizer and a receiving slot for an associated stylus. When the stylus is removed from the receiving slot, a switch automatically turns full power onto the computer system thereby allowing a user full use of the computer without requiring an on/off button to be pressed. When the stylus is inserted back into the receiving slot, the switch automatically returns the computer to a power reduction mode where one or all of the components of the computer are powered down. Again, the power reduction mode is entered without requiring the user to press the on/off button. The switch can be made of a single detector or a dual detector combination and can be of a mechanical, electromagnetic, optical or electrical nature.

Abstract: An electronic device is formed at least partially from a deflectable material that generates an electrical signal in response to contact. The first material is integrated with a display module to provide a shaped feature on the exterior surface of the display module. The shaped feature detects contact with an external object on one or more contact points, where contact with the contact points corresponds to a defined input for a processor of the electronic device.

Abstract: A cover for an electronic device made of a transparent material and having a form factor that protects function buttons of the device from inadvertent actuation. The cover has an opening of a size, shape and location to afford access to an interface device for multi-way navigation with the cover in place. Protrusions in tabs at the sides of the cover snap into cutouts located midway along the side of the electronic device and may be used to hold the cover in place. The cover may be stored on the back of the device while the device is in use. The transparent nature of the cover affords viewing of a display screen with the cover in place.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for indicating information to a user of a palmtop computer. Illuminatable hard buttons are disclosed that are operable for performing functions. The hard buttons are selectively illuminated to indicate information to a user that relates to the function performed when the bard button is pressed. The selective illumination of hard buttons to indicate information that relates to the function that is performed when the hard button is pressed conveys information to the user in a manner that is easily understood by the user. In one embodiment, whether or not the button is illuminated and the color of the illumination, convey information about the function that is to be performed when the button is pressed.

Abstract: A method and system for establishing a wireless connection between a portable computer system and a wireless network, particularly when the portable computer system goes out of coverage and a wireless connection needs to be re-established. The portable computer system has a main processor and a digital signal processor (DSP). The main processor is placed in a low power mode, conserving battery power. When the portable computer system goes out of coverage, broadcast channels used by the wireless network are scanned by the DSP instead of the main processor to identify channels that have sufficient signal strength for the wireless connection. Thus, the main processor remains in the low power mode. When the DSP identifies acceptable channels, it wakes up the main processor and identifies the channels having sufficient signal strength. The main processor then establishes a wireless connection using one of the channels identified by the DSP.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus enabling users to input/manipulate data for portable computer systems. In one embodiment, the present invention is comprised of a segmented keyboard adapted to be coupled with a portable computer system. In the present embodiment, the segmented keyboard is comprised of a first flippable portion and second flippable portion, both of which are hinged to the fixed portion of the segmented keyboard. A compliment of input keys are disposed within those portions. In the present embodiment, a first rotatable hinge is coupled with the segmented keyboard. A second rotatable hinge is coupled with the first rotatable hinge. In the present embodiment, an electrical connector is coupled with the second rotatable hinge. The electrical connector is adapted to provide a communicative link between the segmented keyboard and a coupled portable computer system. The present invention, when in a closed position, is of a size and shape approximate to a portable computer system.

Abstract: An electronic device is provided that includes a user-interface feature, a detection mechanism and one or more internal components. The user-interface feature is configurable to have a selected orientation about one or more axes. The detection mechanism can detect orientation information about the electronic device. The one or more components may select the orientation of the user-interface feature based on the detected orientation information.

Abstract: A method and system thereof for managing a computer system memory, where the memory is structured as contiguous memory chunks, each chunk having a header. A chunk header includes a first offset value, a sign bit associated with the first offset value, and a number of bits having values that are added to a second offset value that is determined from the first offset value. The second offset value is then used for determining an actual offset value that is applied to a base address to provide a memory location of the memory chunk. In one such embodiment, the first offset value includes 23 bits (plus the sign bit), the number of bits added to the second offset value is two, and the actual offset value includes 27 bits (plus the sign bit). As such, up to 128 MB of memory can be addressed.

Abstract: A connector assembly is provided for use with a handheld computing system. The connector assembly includes a first connector including a plurality of contact elements. The first connector is adapted to reside on a handheld computer. A first coupling structure resides on the handheld computer and includes a first aperture. A second connector includes a second plurality of contact elements. The second connector is configured to reside on a cradle for a portable computer and is matable to the first connector. A latch member is configured to extend from the cradle into the first aperture to couple the cradle to the handheld computer. The latch member may bias to engage the first aperture. The latch member is positioned relative to the first connector and the second connector to create a moment that directs at least a portion of the handheld computer towards remaining on the cradle.

Abstract: A connector assembly is provided for use with a handheld computing system. The connector assembly includes a first connector including a plurality of contact elements. The first connector is adapted to reside on a handheld computer. A first coupling structure resides on the handheld computer and includes a first aperture. A second connector includes a second plurality of contact elements. The second connector is configured to reside on a cradle for a portable computer and is matable to the first connector. A latch member is configured to extend from the cradle into the first aperture to couple the cradle to the handheld computer. The latch member may bias to engage the first aperture. The latch member is positioned relative to the first connector and the second connector to create a moment that directs at least a portion of the handheld computer towards remaining on the cradle.

Abstract: An electronically-enabled encasement for a handheld computer is provided. The encasement includes an encasement portion configured to cover at least a portion of the handheld computer, including a front surface of the handheld computer providing access to a display; a spine engageable with an accessory slot of the handheld computer to detachably couple the encasement with the handheld computer; a connector to electronically connect the encasement to the handheld computer; and at least one electronic component embedded in the encasement portion. The encasement may also include a wireless communication port such a radio frequency transmitter or an IR transceiver.

Abstract: The present invention is a compact personal digital assistant (PDA) and cellular telephone with foldable dual-sided display. By utilizing flexible display technology, both a PDA and a cellular telephone are incorporated into one device. In a closed state, in one embodiment, the present invention corresponds to the form used for typical cellular telephone use (e.g., candy bar size). In an open state, in one embodiment, the present invention corresponds to the form used for typical PDA use by providing an enlarged viewing area. The present invention provides the benefit of two distinct devices in one device by allowing for common operations and functionality without compromising the respective form factor of either device.

Abstract: A device for protecting peripheral component cards used in portable computers. The user may use a protective sheath over the extended portion of a peripheral card (e.g., Secure digital cards, Secure digital I/O, camera card or the like) which protrude out of the protective casing of a portable computer to protect the peripheral components from accidental damages. The protective sheath is designed to act as a cushion and to absorb forces applied to the peripheral card in case of an accidental drop or when coming into a contact with an external object. The user may carry a plurality of protective sheath, which are adopted to fit a plurality of peripheral component cards.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method for controlling software in an electronic system having a plurality of applications and an insertable peripheral device. In one embodiment of the present invention, an indication is received from a headphone jack regarding the insertion state of an audio plug. In response to the indication, a software application resident on said electronic system is automatically notified of the insertion state. In response to the notifying, the execution state of the software application is automatically changed. In one example, the application suspends when the plug is removed and automatically resumes when the plug is reinserted.

Abstract: A method for transmitting verified notification messages from a service provider to a PID (personal information device) user. The method includes the step of registering a plurality of users and providing each of the users with respective public and private encryption keys. A message is then received from a first user of the plurality of users. The received message is signed with the first user's private encryption key. A signature of the message is verified by using the first user's public encryption key. The authority of the first user to transmit notification messages is then verified. The message is then resigned with the second user's private encryption key and transmitted to at least a second user of the plurality of users, wherein the second user verifies the signature by using the second user's public encryption key.

Abstract: A cover for an opening in the housing of a portable electronic device that provides a function in addition to that of protecting the opening from dirt. The cover can be coupled to the housing so that it can move between a closed position within the housing's surface recess and an open position that allows access to the opening in the housing. In the closed position, the cover becomes part of the housing and the form factor of the device is generally unchanged. The cover can function as an antenna for wireless communication between the device and a network or access point, and it can contain circuitry for devices such as transmitter/receivers. The cover can also function as a display device, a speaker, or an alarm. Thus an existing cover that occupies space within the volume of a handheld device can be utilized for expanding the functionality of the device while generally retaining the current form factor of the device.