Abstract: An EMI shield, or module cage, mounts to a circuit board such that a first portion of the module cage extends above a first planar surface of the circuit board and a second portion of the module cage extends below a second planar surface of the circuit board. The module cage surrounds a corresponding transceiver module and allows airflow to travel across the transceiver module and through the module cage in a direction substantially perpendicular to a planar surface of the circuit board to cool the transceiver module. In one arrangement, multiple module cages attach to the circuit board in a modular configuration. Such a configuration allows attachment, to the circuit board, of the number of module cages corresponding to the number of transceiver modules required or utilized by the circuit board.

Abstract: A portable data collection system employing a portable data terminal having increased functionality is disclosed. The portable data terminal includes an integral magnetic stripe reader for reading information magnetically encoded on a magnetic stripe card, such as a credit card or the like. An interchangeable feature pod may be attachable to the data terminal and may include a selected data collection or communication device such as, for example, a data communication port, optical indicia reader or laser scanner to facilitate data entry and communication. The interchangeable feature pod may include a compact, ergonomically efficient actuator for activating the selected data collection or communication device. Interconnection of the portable data terminal to interchangeable feature apparatus such as an electrical power supply, peripheral devices, or data communication apparatus may be accomplished via separate line connection, a port replication apparatus or a vehicle docking apparatus.

Abstract: A circuit board assembly has (i) a circuit board including a section of circuit board material and a circuit board component mounted to the section of circuit board material, (ii) a support assembly that supports the circuit board, and (iii) a heatsink that cools the circuit board component mounted to the circuit board. The heatsink includes a receptacle that fastens to the support assembly, and an adjustable member that engages with the receptacle. The adjustable member is movable relative to the receptacle in order to control a distance between the adjustable member and the circuit board component. The adjustable member can be positioned properly (e.g., with the correct pressure) for proper heat transfer therethrough. Moreover, circuit board assembly can include multiple heatsinks for cooling multiple circuit board components with the adjustable member of each heatsink being individually adjusted to accommodate any tolerance differences between the circuit board components.

Abstract: A customizable hand-held data terminal system employs multiple housing bases able to accommodate different components allow the manufacture of hand-held data terminals with a variety of features based on a single design. Because the system according to the present invention does not require the external mounting of components, the ergonomics and basic footprint of the unit remains unaltered. The present system also alleviates problems with moisture resistance, shielding, and survivability under harsh treatment associated with terminals employing externally mounted end cap modules or pod. The present invention employs a plurality of different sized base units which can accommodate a variety of different components and configurations, and wherein the different base units are interchangeable with a single upper surface and user interface comprising a display screen and keypad.

Abstract: A universal recharging and data communication apparatus for electrically and communicatively connecting a hand-held or portable data terminal with a data terminal docking unit comprises mating modules for electrical coupling and data or signal communication. The design of data terminals and docking stations is simplified and the need for a specialized or customized arrangement for the electrical and data communication interface is eliminated by providing the necessary electrical and data links together. In a preferred embodiment, the data communication is provided by a plurality of pins and mating contacts whereby a moveable housing protects the pins when a data terminal is not in the data terminal dock.