Abstract: A general-purpose data terminal (242), such as a personal computer, portable computer, notebook computer, personal intelligent communicator, portable wireless terminal and the like employs a radio frequency (RF) modem (408) and is programmed to function as a two-way acknowledge back pager. The general purpose data terminal (242) maintains a table listing (600) of caller identification information and presents this information to the device user upon receipt of a page (300) from an identifiable caller. The device user may respond to the page by selecting one of a plurality of user definable responses to be transmitted back to the caller. If no response is selected the caller will receive a message informing them of the paged party's unavailability.

Abstract: A backlighted liquid crystal display (LCD) assembly has a thin phosphorescent layer positioned between the display and the light source to provide an even distribution of light intensity across the viewing surface of the display. The phosphorescent layer includes a phosphor powder mixed into a resin. The mixture is molded into a thin sheet and then cut to size. The phosphorescent layer and an optional disiccant layer may be encapsulated between sheets of acrylic film. The phosphorescent layer may also include a phosphorescent coating that is applied to the rear surface of the LCD or to the front surface of the light source.