Abstract: Devices and methods for communicating information through a capacitive touch sensor based on patterns. In one example, a device for communicating a plurality of distinct patterns through a conductive element includes: a conductive element adapted to conduct a first pattern and a second pattern, wherein the first conducted pattern and the second conducted pattern each provide a uniquely identifiable parasitic capacitance effect on a capacitive touch sensor; and a selector for selecting between conducting the first pattern and the second pattern. A method of communicating through a capacitive touch sensor, includes the steps of: providing a device for communicating a plurality of distinct patterns through a conductive element; placing the conductive element in contact with a capacitive touch sensor; and interpreting the parasitic capacitance effect on the capacitive touch sensor to determine whether the device is communicating the first pattern or the second pattern.