Abstract: A keypad encoder is used with a keypad having an array of keys arranged in columns and rows. Depressing any key on the keypad closes a corresponding switch, coupling one of the columns to one of the rows. The keypad encoder includes a resettable logic circuit that generates a control signal having first and second states that control the mode of operation of the keypad encoder. A scanning circuit asserts a scanning signal on the columns of the keypad in a predefined sequence when the control signal is in the first state and asserts the scanning signal on all of the columns of the keypad simultaneously when the control signal is in the second state. An encoder circuit identifies which row, if any, has a closed switch in any of the keypad columns on which the scanning circuit has asserted the scanning signal.