Abstract: A defibrillator having infrared communication capability is provided. The wireless communications capability is implemented using infrared light or RF communications and standardized communications protocols such as the IrDA protocol to allow for ready communication between defibrillators such as during handoffs of patient along the Chain of Survival. The wireless communications network also allows for communications between a defibrillator and a host computer such as a palmtop for incident report generation after each handoff. Another embodiment of the present invention provides for a defibrillator having an infrared mode switch to allow for restricted access to advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) features of the defibrillator. A further embodiment of the present invention provides for a defibrillator having a remote training mode that is implemented via wireless communications.

Abstract: An input keyboard arrangement is provided for microcomputers, computer terminals, and other devices for processing alphanumeric information. The keyboard arrangement facilitates entry of information by non-typists, increases keying accuracy, enables use of the three strongest fingers for depressing keys, and minimizes the time needed to master the keyboard. The keyboard is arranged in a vertical layout with a pair of enter keys, and elongate shift and space bars located around the perimeter of the key arrangement. Each letter of the alphabet is represented by an individidual key and the alphabetic keys are arranged in alphabetical order in nine rows with three keys per row so as to facilitate human information processing. Specifically, the keys of the first row are arranged, sinistrally, as c-b-a or, dextrally, as a-b-c, the second row f-e-d or d-e-f, and so on, with the pattern continuing to the ninth row which contains the keys "z-y" or "y-z.