Abstract: A portable platform system for connecting an external module having a module connector to a portable electronic platform having a flat panel display, a central processing unit and a system bus includes at least two docking bays disposed on a rear side of the flat panel display including at least first, second, and third rails and an electrical connector. An external module of a first width is slid in between the first and second adjacent rails to be secured to the rear side of the fiat panel display, and the module connector is connected to the electrical connector of the docking bay to electrically connect the module to the central processing unit via the system bus.

Abstract: An improved handle/prop is provided for a pen-based computer wherein the handle/prop is pivotally mounted to opposite side edges of the computer. The handle/prop can be pivoted and locked into a plurality of different positions. These positions are selected to facilitate carrying the computer, supporting the computer on a flat surface in one or more inclined positions for writing and/or viewing, and holding the computer during writing. In particular, to facilitate writing on the computer screen while holding the computer, the handle/prop is mounted so that it can be swung into a recessed position behind an overlapping portion of the front display surface. This will minimize the size of the computer and minimize interference with holding the computer and writing on its screen at the same time.

Abstract: An improved handle/prop is provided for a pen-based computer wherein the handle/prop is pivotally mounted to opposite side edges of the computer. The handle/prop can be pivoted and locked into a plurality of different positions These positions are selected to facilitate carrying the computer, supporting the computer on a flat surface in one or more inclined positions for writing and/or viewing, and holding the computer during writing. In particular, to facilitate writing on the computer screen while holding the computer, the handle/prop is mounted so that it can be swung into a recessed position behind an overlapping portion of the front display surface. This will minimize the size of the computer and minimize interference with holding the computer and writing on its screen at the same time.

Abstract: An improved handle/prop is provided for a pen-based computer wherein the handle/prop is pivotally mounted to opposite side edges of the computer. The handle/prop can be pivoted and locked into a plurality of different positions. In particular, these positions are selected to facilitate carrying the computer, supporting the computer on a flat surface in one or more inclined positions for writing and/or viewing, and holding the computer during writing. A ratchet locking mechanism is provided for locking the handle/prop into the plurality of different positions. This ratchet locking mechanism includes first and second release buttons located at points where the handle/prop pivotally connects at opposite side edges of the computer. In addition, the ratchet locking mechanism includes a handle-tie piece extending through the interior of the computer to spring bias the release button into a locked position.