Abstract: A wireless keyboard and reader combination comprises a keyboard having a plurality of keys, an antenna, and a plurality of passive transponder circuits, employing backscatter transmission coded in the time domain using a reflected series of pulses, coupled to the antenna and associated with the keys. For example, SAW transponders may be employed. The passive transponder circuits are selectively coupled to the antenna and provide a coded response identifying a key in response to key activation. An associated reader includes a source of an interrogating field applied to the antenna of the keyboard and a decoder for determining the coded response from the passive transponder circuits.

Abstract: A system for detecting a key with key debounce including a circuit for detecting a key activation; a first counter coupled to the circuit and a clock for testing the key activation for a first predetermined number of clock cycles; a key debounce buffer for storing a key index identifying the activated key, if the key activation is valid for the first predetermined number of clock cycles; a second counter for testing the identified activated key for a first predetermined number of hardware key scan cycles; and a key event buffer for storing a key activation event, if the key activation is valid for the first predetermined number of hardware key scan cycles.

Abstract: A keyboard (32, 1230) for a handheld electronic device (100, 1100, 1200) comprising a row of keys (102) wherein each of said keys (102) represents at least two alphanumeric characters and the characters of each key (102) are positioned relative to the characters on adjacent keys (102) so as to form a QWERTY or DVORAK layout.

Abstract: A keyboard includes a key module comprising at least one key cell with an output end which is selectively connected to a first voltage or a second voltage, a detect circuit electrically connected to the output end of the key cell for generating a control signal whenever the voltage on the output end of the key cell becomes the second voltage or the first voltage, a parallel-to-serial register electrically connected to the output end of the key module, and a processor electrically connected to the parallel-to-serial register and the detect circuit for controlling the parallel-to-serial register according to the control signal.

Abstract: A method for differentiating keys includes setting a first layer application program and a second layer application program, detecting whether the second layer application program is executed to generate a detection result, and selectively utilizing the first layer application program or the second layer application program to determine an event corresponding to a scan code when receiving the scan code corresponds to a key.

Abstract: A key system includes a microcontroller and a plurality of keys. The first ends of the keys are coupled to a plurality of data input ports of the microcontroller respectively. The second ends of the keys are coupled to a key input port of the microcontroller. The key system utilizes the data signals inputted to the microcontroller as scan signals for the keys. The signal received by the key input port is detected to determine which key is triggered. Thus, only one key input port is sufficient to detect which of the plurality of keys is triggered.

Abstract: A method for detecting and processing key scan codes of a computer keyboard is disclosed. At least one scan code table is established for a computer device in advance and is stored in a scan code table memory that is accessible by a keyboard controller so that the keyboard controller, after initialization, may load the scan code table from the scan code table memory to a scan code table load-in area within the keyboard controller. The keyboard controller, upon detecting the actuation of any key of the keyboard, generates a interrupt request signal to the south bridge, which in turn retrieves the scan code; or alternatively, the keyboard controller generates an interrupt signal to the south bridge, which in turn retrieves and transmits the interrupt query number of the interrupt signal to the computer operating system, which in turn executes a preset target program corresponding to the interrupt query number.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, and computer-readable media for scanning a keyboard are disclosed. Actuation of each of the keys electrically couples one of a plurality of first lines and one of a plurality of second lines. A first signal is applied to a plurality of first lines. A second signal is applied to a plurality of second lines. Upon identifying at least one of the second lines as presenting a signal different from the second signal, a scan signal is applied to the identified second line. At least one first line is identified as presenting a signal indicating the at least one first line is contact with the identified second line applying the scan signal. At least one of the keys is identified as causing the identified second line and the least one identified first line to be coupled.

Abstract: A system, method, and computer-readable medium having instructions for determining a key press from a current keyboard state at a current time is described. The system stores signals indicative of a last key press, a last key press time, and a last keyboard state. The system determines released keys and pressed keys on the keyboard at the current time based on comparison with the last keyboard state. The system determines a key press at the current time if the first determination determines a single key press and if either of: (a) a match exists between the determined key press and the last key pressed and if the elapsed time between the current time and the last key press time is larger than a preset bounce time; and (b) a match does not exist between the determined key press and the last key press.

Abstract: A versatile and mobile keyboard and a highly energy efficient keyboard scanning method are provided. The keyboard may be used with a variety of mobile devices such as PDAs, cellular phones, and tablet PCs, through various interfaces such as an IR, USB, or Bluetooth™ interface. In particular, an IR head assembly is provided that includes an IR head, a movable arm on which the IR head is mounted, and a connector for attaching to a docking structure. The docking structure may be attached to a keypad, which is electrically coupled to the IR head for transmitting keystroke data through the IR head. When a mobile device is docked on the docking structure, the arm in the IR assembly may be moved to an optimal distance from the IR port of the mobile device to ensure high communication performance between the keyboard and the mobile device. An energy efficient keyboard scanning method utilizes higher-valued pull-up resistors for energy conservation.

Abstract: Various embodiments are disclosed relating to a self-scan programmable keypad interface. In an example embodiment, an apparatus is provided that includes a processor, and a keypad interface circuit. The keypad interface circuit may include a detection circuit to detect when one or more keys of a keypad have been pressed, a scan circuit adapted to generate signals for keypad scan to identify one or more keys that have been pressed, a debounce circuit to debounce signals, and a key status register adapted to store a status of one or more keys of the keypad obtained during keypad scan. The processor is adapted to read contents of the key status register to identify one or more pressed keys upon receiving a signal from the keypad interface circuit.

Abstract: An input device is provided. An input device includes a plurality of input keys; a voltage setting unit; a switching unit; a detecting unit; and a control unit. When the switching unit selects one of the input keys, the control unit controls the detecting unit to detect voltages at least two times for a selection holding time where the selection of the input key is held. When the detected voltages do not vary or in a switching state where the variation is within a predetermined range, the control unit controls the switching unit to select the next input key after the selection holding time of the input key has elapsed. When the voltages detected at least two times vary or when the variation is beyond the predetermined range, the control unit sets the selection holding time of the input key to be longer than the switching state.

Abstract: Disclosed is a key operation device for detecting an open/close state of key switches using row and column signal lines. The key switches include: 1st to 4th key switches each corresponding to a key for inputting a direction; and ten-key switches correspond one-to-one to keys of a ten-key pad. The 1st and 2nd key switches are both coupled to one of the row signal lines and each to a different one of two of the column signal lines. The 3rd and 4th key switches are both coupled to another one of the row signal lines and each coupled to a different one of the two column signal lines to which the t and 2nd key switches are respectively coupled. None of the ten-key switches is coupled to either of the two row signal lines to which the 1st and 2nd or 3rd and 4th key switches are coupled.

Abstract: A keypad device having a circuit of electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection is disclosed. The circuit has n and m numbers of column conductive lines and row conductive lines formed on the print circuit board wherein at least one column or row conductive line is connected to the ground and the others are, respectively, connected to the data input terminals and data output terminals of the keypad encoder. The intersections between the column (row) line which is grounded and the row (column) lines are designed for those keys, which are readily attacked by ESD such as the side keys.

Abstract: A method for inputting characters in a mobile terminal is provided. The method involves the steps of detecting any key pressing event on a key input unit, storing the detected key pressing event and performing an operation corresponding to the key pressing event, determining whether a predetermined multi-click key is pressed after the previous key pressing event, and when the multi-click key is pressed, performing the operation corresponding to said key pressing event occurring repeatedly a predetermined number of times.

Abstract: A keyboard system which includes a keyboard assembly and an embedded controller. The keyboard assembly includes a keyboard matrix and a keyscan controller coupled to the keyscan matrix. The keyscan controller receives position information from a pressed key of the keyboard matrix and generates basic keyscan information. The embedded controller receives the basic keyscan information and generates keycodes based upon the basic keyscan information.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods, systems, and computer program products for receiving input from a multi-function momentary switch by providing feedback from a user interface for each function associated with the switch. According to one method, alphanumeric input values are associated with a momentary switch. Each of the alphanumeric input values is associated with a different active time duration for the switch and at least two of the alphanumeric input values are associated with a same alphanumeric text entry mode. A duration of time the switch is in the active state is monitored. At least one of tactile and audible feedback is provided each time the duration of time matches a duration associated with an alphanumeric input value. The alphanumeric input value associated with the alphanumeric text entry mode and duration for the last feedback provided is selected as input from the switch.

Abstract: This invention discloses a sequential two-key system to input letters of the English alphabet and of many world languages, numbers, punctuation marks, page-control characters, line-control characters, cursor-control characters and many other symbols on keypads with few buttons. Character repeating, shifting and control access are feasible. Brief and easy to understand notations are displayed on the keypads. The system is easy to learn and the keypads may be used on portable devices such as PDA, hand-held computers, hand-held text-messaging devices and telephones.

Abstract: A hand-held electronic device has a keyboard with a plurality of keys, each key having a substantially flat contact surface extending to the sides of each key. One of the sides of the key is beveled.

Abstract: A computer and a method for processing keyboard input thereof is disclosed. The method includes the steps of receiving an interrupt request; reading a scan code stored in a scan code buffer; determining whether the scan code is a predetermined scan code representing an Fn key; reading an event code stored in an event code buffer if the scan code is the predetermined scan code; and executing a corresponding service program or function according to the event code.

Abstract: A handheld electronic device includes a reduced QWERTY keyboard and is enabled with disambiguation software. An enhanced word frequency learning feature is provided. The device provides output in the form of a default output and a number of variants. The output is based largely upon the frequency, i.e., the likelihood that a user intended a particular output, but various features of the device provide additional variants that are not based solely on frequency and rather are provided by various logic structures resident on the device. The device enables editing during text entry and also provides a learning function that allows the disambiguation function to adapt to provide a customized experience for the user. The disambiguation function can be selectively disabled and an alternate keystroke interpretation system provided.

Abstract: An input device includes an input circuit including a plurality of key switches connected in parallel to one another, and a control circuit including a key input terminal to which a first terminal of the input circuit is connected, and an interrupt terminal to which a second terminal of the input circuit is connected. When a key switch is turned ON, an interrupt signal is input from the second terminal of the input circuit to the interrupt terminal, whereby the control circuit transitions from a power saving mode to a normal mode. Then, the control circuit determines which one of the key switches is turned ON based on a value of a voltage applied from the first terminal of the input circuit to the key input terminal. Thus, it is possible to realize a power saving mode without having to provide a comparator.

Abstract: A remote control unit, an electronic device and a method for controlling an electronic device using the same are provided. The remote control unit includes: a key input part including a menu key for allowing an electronic device to enter a setup mode, a numeric key rotatably provided to display different numerals depending on degree of rotation, and a confirm key for transmitting a control signal corresponding to the numeral of the numeric key; a memory for storing a control code for controlling the electronic device; a microcomputer for reading out and transmitting the control code stored in the memory depending on a signal inputted from the key input part; and an infrared transmitter for transmitting the control code in a form of an infrared signal depending on a control of the microcomputer.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for using a general purpose input-output (GPIO) interface to test a user input device such as a wireless keyboard or mouse. Operation of key-scan logic can be tested by the GPIO interface by temporarily disconnecting the outputs of the various rows and columns and substituting signals generated by a test algorithm into the input terminals of the key-scan logic. The test signal is processed by the key scan circuitry and a key-scan output signal is generated. This key-scan output signal is then compared to a known reference output signal to determine if the key-scan logic and associated circuitry is operating properly. Other embodiments of the GPIO testing system can be used to test other user devices such as a computer mouse/scrolling device.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for decoding a key press. The apparatus includes an interface that performs conversion between parallel data and serial data and generates an interrupt when a key is pressed. The interface includes an output port, an input port, and a register. The apparatus also includes a key input unit, including a plurality of keys, that connects the output port to the input port, and a controller that determines which of the plurality of keys is pressed by receiving an interrupt signal from the interface via an interrupt pin, accessing the register via a plurality of address pins, and receiving serial data from the interface via a data pin.

Abstract: An electronic device comprising a first pusher located in a first position on the electronic device, wherein actuation of the first pusher causes initiation of a first operational sequence; a second pusher located in a second position on the electronic device, wherein actuation of the second pusher causes initiation of a second operational sequence; an integrated circuit, operatively coupled to the first and second pushers, for selectively carrying out the first and second operational sequences; switching means for switching the operational sequences initiated by the first and second pushers such that subsequent to actuation of the switching means, the first pusher causes initiation of the second operational sequence and the second pusher causes initiation of the first operational sequence; whereby the first operational sequence is different from the second operational sequence.

Abstract: A keyboard without ghost keys has a circuit which includes a microprocessor in which a plurality of I/O lines form a keyboard scanning matrix. Two of the I/O lines on the matrix cross to define a plurality of signal switches. The microprocessor is electrically connected to a primary level resistance and a reference potential to determine the ON condition of the signal switches. Each signal switch further is electrically connected to at least one secondary level switch which is electrically connected to the primary level switch in a serial manner. When a user depresses any three signal switches on the rectangular angles of the keyboard scanning matrix, the connecting primary level resistance and the secondary level resistance form a new level resistance. The new level resistance and the current flowing to the keyboard scanning matrix are processed to get a potential smaller than the reference potential, thereby to eliminate the phenomenon of ghost keys.

Abstract: A key switch matrix circuit includes key switches arranged in rows and columns, each row having a scan line, each column having a sense line. Each key switch is operable to couple a scan line to a sense line. A scan signal delivery circuit supplies scan signals to the scan lines, the scan signals delivering a scan pulse to each row of the key switch matrix circuit in turn. A key switch detection circuit outputs a first signal if a key switch is operated and a scan pulse detection circuit outputs a second signal if a scan pulse is coupled to a sense line. The scan signal delivery circuit begins supplying scan signals in response to the first signal and stops supplying scan signals in response to the second signal. In one embodiment, a processor reads the sense lines in response to the second signal.

Abstract: A user programmable input apparatus with a keyboard comprises several keys with one or more special keys thereof on the keyboard for input operations, a microprocessor to receive inputs from the keys when they are pressed, a nonvolatile memory programmable by operating the keys for users themselves to program or define key definitions or functions for the keyboard or to store data or microinstructions or other programs thereto, and a transmission arrangement connected to the microprocessor to output data to the computer system or other peripheral connected with the input apparatus.

Abstract: Method for decreasing the existence of externally detectable revealing signals, so-called {umlaut over (R)}Ö{umlaut over (S)}, from keyboards (1), e.g. for computers, where the keyboard is fed with signals, so-called matrix signals, which are detected for detection of activity regarding the keys (2) of the keyboard, whereby said matrix signals are generated by means of signal devices. The method is especially characterized in that the matrix signals are high-frequency filtered before they are fed to the keyboard.

Abstract: In a key input device, a control section is configured to receives a key return signal as an interrupt signal in a standby mode, to set a normal mode in response to the interrupt signal, and to perform a key scan operation in the normal mode to determine an operated key. A key matrix section having a plurality of keys and configured to supply the key return signal to the control section in response to an operation to the operated key of the plurality of keys.

Abstract: A system for controlling a keyboard is provided. The present invention adopts a structure integrating a scanning unit into a keyboard device. After scanning the keyboard, a key matrix position of a pressed key is sent to a control device. By looking up a programmable matrix table stored in the control device, a corresponding scan code is found out. Therefore, a circuit disposed between the keyboard device and the control device is simplified and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

Abstract: The present invention provides an electronic device and its keyboard system that includes a plurality of keys, a keyboard matrix and a program. The keys include a plurality of first type keys and a plurality of second type keys; the keyboard matrix includes a plurality of keyboard positions. By scanning the keyboard positions, a character or a command typed by a user can be obtained; the program includes a first program code for setting the keyboard matrix to cause a portion of the matrix positions to correspond to the plurality of first type keys, wherein each matrix position corresponding to one first type key, and a second program code for setting another portion of the matrix positions corresponding to the plurality of second type keys, wherein each matrix position corresponding to more than one second type keys.

Abstract: An electric capacitance-type touch switch, capable of reducing malfunction in switching operations and improving the degree of freedom in the visual design of switch, includes a detection circuit that can detect an electric capacitance change occurring when a human body approaches or contacts to an electrode. A sputter layer (i.e., a metallic thin film formed by sputtering) is provided on a surface of an upper lens (i.e., insulating base resin layer). The sputter layer can provide a beautiful metallic glossy appearance similar to a mirror surface. The sputter layer can be used as a panel surface providing a glossy appearance with iridescent or dichromatic effects obtainable from the hue of the base resin layer transmitted via the metallic layer. Furthermore, the sputter layer can be used as an electric capacitance detection electrode.

Abstract: Keypad apparatus for registering signals corresponding to data that a user enters by pressure on keys of an array in a surface extending in two dimensions. The elements of first and second sets of impedance elements (R) are connected in series through respective interconnections and a signal processor applies first and second reference signals across the first and second sets of impedance elements respectively. User pressure on the keys makes or breaks connections through corresponding contact elements between a respective pair of the interconnections, one from the first set of impedance elements and one from the second set of impedance elements, so as to generate first and second output signals (PX1, PY1) that together are a corresponding combination of the first and second reference signals that is unique to the actuated key elements.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an input apparatus and input key capable of reducing the number of operations on the input key for input of symbols and permitting a user to designate a symbol to be inputted, by a simpler operation. An input key 10a to which a plurality of symbols or marks are assigned, has a key top 30a to be pushed, a sensor part 32 for detecting a push position on a surface of the key top 30 by a finger or the like used to push the key top 30a, a moving direction detector 34 for detecting a change of the push position of the finger or the like detected by the sensor part 32 and for detecting a moving direction of the finger or the like during movement thereof on the surface of the key top 30, and a switch 40a to change a state with a push on the key top 30, and has a converter 50 for converting a state of the switch 40a and the moving direction detected by the moving direction detector 34, into symbol information.

Abstract: A method and a device for reading out keys of a keyboard. The read-out is realised by randomly generating a scanning pattern comprising for each row and column a read-out value to be applied on the rows and columns. The scanning pattern is preferably changed after having been applied to the keys. After application of the randomly generated pattern, the verification routine is applied in order to identify the selected keys.

Abstract: A key constructing method for a keyboard has M scan lines*N return lines. The electrical interconnects of the M scan lines*N return lines can generate numerical electrical contacts of A1 to AM*N, while the numerical electrical contacts of {A1 to Am*N} are the electrical contact set {A}. The key constructing method for the keyboard comprises the following steps: selecting at least one or more electrical contacts from the electrical contact set {A} to create an electrical contact set {B}; creating the electrical contact set {C}, while the electrical contact set {C}=the electrical contact set {A}?the electrical contact set {B}; combining at least one electrical contact from the electrical contact set {C} with one of the electrical contacts from the electrical contact set {B} to generate an expanded key.

Abstract: A key expansion apparatus of an electronic device includes at least one basic key for connecting/disconnecting one of a plurality of first input ports and one of a plurality of second input ports in order to make key input, and at least one additional key for connecting three or more of the first input ports and the second input ports. Accordingly, the key expansion can be achieved using a small number of input ports without additional expense.

Abstract: A computer keyboard assembly includes a bottom module connected separably to a top module. The bottom module has a top wall formed with through holes registered respectively with key caps mounted movably on the top module, a wiring board provided with electrical contacts, an actuating unit disposed on the wiring board and having upright biasing members, each extending upwardly through a corresponding through hole and having an actuator contacting electrically a corresponding electrical contact as a result of movement of a corresponding key cap from a normal position to a depressed position, and a keyboard controller for interpreting a mode identification signal from a mode-determining unit of the top module so as to output an identification code corresponding to the mode identification signal.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a number pad section of a keyboard having a plurality of digit keys, a plurality of arithmetic operation keys, and a Tab key operational by the ring or little finger of the operator's hand.

Abstract: A switch arrangement comprises a photoconductor to be illuminated. The switch arrangement also comprises a conductor which is intended to further transmit light escaping from the photoconductor and directed to the conductor by a local contact, wherein the conductor and the photoconductor are further under the control of an external force, arranged to move in relation to each other and to cause the development, loss or change of the contact in such a way that a detectable change is caused in the light guided through it.

Abstract: When an array of proximity sensors is used as a keyboard, it can provide an ambiguous output if a user's finger overlaps several keys or if liquid is spilled on the keyboard. This ambiguity is reduced by an iterative method that repeatedly measures a detected signal strength associated with each key, compares all the measured signal strengths to find a maximum, determines that the key having the maximum signal strength is the unique user-selected key and then suppresses or ignores signals from all other keys as long as the signal from the selected key remains above some nominal threshold value.

Abstract: A system and method for efficient Asian character text input into a reduced keypad machine such as a word processor, telephone, hand-held computer, or personal computer is provided. The system comprises a data entry keypad associated with a monitor, and a disambiguation process supporting multiple keycap depression timespan range definitions and interpretations to produce accurate messaging with a reduced keypad.

Abstract: A portable electronic device operable in a first mode and a second mode, comprising: input means having a first key and a second key, wherein, when the device is in the first mode, the device is not responsive to the individual actuation of the first key and, when the device is in the second mode, the device is responsive to the individual actuation of the first key; and disabling means, responsive when the device is in the first mode to the sequential actuation of the first key then the second key to at least partially disable the input means.

Abstract: A variable capacitance unit is formed between one portion of a human body and an opposed electrode facing it through a casing of a robot toy (electronic device) when the one portion of the human body such as a hand or a finger approaches the surface of the casing of the robot. Since the capacitance of the variable capacitance unit varies according to the facing area and the facing distance of the one portion of the human body and the opposed electrode, it is possible to detect the one portion of the human body approaching or touching the robot toy by detecting this change. Since the opposed electrode forming the touch sensor can be provided within the casing, the touch sensor cannot be seen directly from the outside of the robot toy.

Abstract: First and second resistors are given a common length L and arranged to have a constant equal resistance per unit length. A plurality of switch elements are made conductive between the resistors. A predetermined constant voltage V1 is applied to one terminal of the resistor through a wiring. The voltage value AD1 at the other terminal of the resistor is detected by a processing unit through a wiring. The voltage value AD2 at one terminal of the resistor is detected by the processing unit through a wiring. The other terminal of the resistor is connected with the ground through a wiring. On the basis of the voltage values AD1 and AD2 detected, the operating states of the individual switch elements are detected by the processing unit.

Abstract: A system for detecting a key with key debounce including a circuit for detecting a key activation; a first counter coupled to the circuit and a clock for testing the key activation for a first user definable number of clock cycles; a key debounce buffer for storing a key index identifying the activated key, if the key activation is valid for the first user definable number of clock cycles; a second counter for testing the identified activated key for a first user definable number of hardware key scan cycles; and a key event buffer for storing a key activation event, if the key activation is valid for the first user definable number of hardware key scan cycles.

Abstract: A method for providing debounce and jog control for a keyboard includes loading a first electronic storage register with a value indicative of a debounce period for the keyboard and loading a second electronic storage register with a value indicative of a jog period for the keyboard. The keyboard is scanned for a pressed key, and a signal indicative of the pressed key is debounced. The method further includes providing electronic signals for key status and jog and asserting an interrupt in accordance with the indicated debounce period and the indicated jog period while the debounced signal indicates the pressed key is down. Keys of the keyboard other than the pressed key are prevented from being scanned until the debounced signal indicates that the pressed key has come up.

Abstract: A depression-judgment apparatus which properly judges the ON/OFF of a key switch without being affected by chattering that occur when key switch is turned ON is provided. The depression-judgment apparatus of the present invention comprises a timer selector circuit capable of setting time from an outside, a depression-timer circuit for counting time by using the time set in the above-mentioned timer selector circuit as a cycle, a depression-memory section for inputting and memorizing information of whether the key switch is depressed or not when the above-mentioned depression-timer circuit is set for the predetermined value, and a depression-judgment circuit which judges that the above-mentioned key switch is depressed when the above-mentioned depression-memory section inputs the information n times (n is positive integer equal to or more than 2) or more in succession, that the above-mentioned key switch is depressed.