Abstract: A portable signature capture pad operative for gathering signature data associated with customer transactions includes a digitizer, microprocessor, and a pad cradle that facilitates a wireless data link between the portable signature capture pad and a point-of-sale (POS) terminal, such as an electronic cash register. Subsequent to receiving a ready signal from the POS terminal, the portable signature capture pad is removed, temporarily disconnecting the pad from communication with the pad cradle and thus the POS terminal. A transaction receipt is printed at the POS terminal and placed on the portable signature capture pad. The portable signature capture pad and receipt are presented to a customer for signature capture. Data signals corresponding to the customer's signature are captured by the digitizer and stored in a memory in the pad. The pad is then returned to the cradle.