Abstract: A fiber optic multiplexer/demultiplexer includes a serial transmitter encoder for encoding an 8-bit parallel byte into a serial data stream applied to a fiber optic coupler. A pair of 4-bit latches are alternately clocked to sample four parallel format digital signals to form a byte for loading into the encoder. The serial receiver decoder receives a serial data stream from another fiber optic coupler and converts the data stream to a parallel 8-bit byte. A 4-bit multiplexer is provided for demultiplexing the byte one nibble at a time down to form parallel format digital signals. An alternate embodiment calls for the omission of the 4-bit latches and multiplexer such that 8 signals may be multiplexed.

Abstract: There is disclosed a hand held labeler apparatus (40) utilizing an X-Y plotter apparatus (71) for printing on label material (60) rotatably supported as a label supply roll (58). The labeler apparatus (40) includes a keyboard (62) for entering label information to be printed on the label, such as alpha/numeric characters and special symbols and operational information for control of the labeler apparatus. Further, a liquid crystal display (66) is provided facing generally toward the user when the labeler apparatus (40) is hand held such that the liquid crystal display (66) is readily observable as the label information is entered at the keyboard (62).