Abstract: An input pad that is integrated with a touch pad is disclosed. In one embodiment, a portable computer includes an input pad cover slidable from a first position approximately adjacent to the touch pad to a second position over the touch pad. In the first position the touch pad is operable as a pointing device; relative movement actuated on the pad causes a pointer on a screen of the computer to correspondingly move. In the second position the touch pad is operable as an input pad, preferably a numeric input pad; actuation of an absolute position within a given region on the pad registers the depression of a key corresponding to the region with the computer.

Abstract: A portable computer system having a shutter for protecting a display screen. The shutter device is disposed integrally within the bezel of a portable computer. The shutter device can be disposed proximate the two sides of a display within the bezel. In addition, the shutter device is disposed above the display screen. The device may be fabricated from paper, paper with a plastic coating, plastic, and similarly substantially rigid materials. Alternatively, other non-rigid materials can be used in conjunction with a support member for the shutter. The shutter device has a variety of forms including an accordion type structure, a fan structure. Alternatively, the shutter device comprises a plurality of panels which are hingedly coupled with support panels. The shutter device also can be in the form of a shade which coils around a coiling rod. A fastener is provided with the shutter device to maintain the device in an open and/or closed position.

Abstract: An interactively illuminating computer input device for a computer is disclosed. In one embodiment the device is a keyboard. The keyboard has a bi-directional communication link between the keyboard and the computer. The keyboard also has one or more keys, each capable of illumination. The keyboard also has a keyboard controller, operably coupled to the bi-directional communication link and the keys. The keyboard controller detects depression of a key on the keyboard by the user of the computer. The keyboard controller also controls the illumination of a key on the keyboard by the computer. In one embodiment, the keyboard controller receives from the computer a unique command for each key to illuminate the key. In a further embodiment, the keyboard controller receives from the computer a unique command for each key to dim the key.