Abstract: A portable item tracking unit includes a bar code reader for capturing a bar code related to an item, a microphone for capturing an audio identification from a recipient of an item, and a memory. The memory associatively electronically stores a digital signal related to the audio identification along with a digital representation of bar code data to provide audio proof of delivery of the item. A display and a speaker may respectively display the stored bar code related to the item and audibly broadcast the electronically stored audio identification for the item. A user input is preferably included for verifying that the input of the bar code and the audio identification is satisfactory. A transferring circuit transfers the electronically stored bar code and the electronically stored audio identification to a host computer.

Abstract: A data recognition apparatus of the invention preferably has a data communication apparatus and a portable data reader adapted to communicate therewith. The portable data reader is particularly adapted to substantially extend the time period required before replacing or recharging a portable power source connected thereto. The portable data reader preferably includes a data sensor, a central processor, a display, a user interface, a transceiver, a timer, a portable power source, and a power manager. The power manager is connected in electrical communication with the portable power source, the data sensor, the central processor, the display, the user interface, and the transceiver and the central processor is connected in electrical communication with the timer.

Abstract: An apparatus for making available to a calculator remote programs provided on memory chips and transferring the data stored in the chips into the calculator using only the power supply of the calculator. A connector extends between the calculator and the apparatus for supplying a chain of clock pulses from the calculator for controlling the transfer of data between the apparatus and the calculator. The EPROM chips are temporarily turned on with power generated by the power supply carried in the calculator transferring the data stored in the chip to a temporary storage device. Data is transferred from the temporary storage device to the calculator at a slower rate than the rate that the data is transferred into the temporary storage device from the chip. Power is cut off to the chip immediately after the data is transferred from the chip to the temporary storage device minimizing the power requirement for transferring data from the chip to the calculator.