Abstract: A portable data collection system includes a portable data collection terminal with a voice prompt circuit, a voice recognition circuit and optionally a bar code scanning device, such as a wand. The portable data collection terminal is similar in size and performs the same data collection functions as prior art portable data collection terminals but adds voice prompts for improved functionality, flexibility, and ease of use. When data is entered from either a keypad, or a bar code scanner, or when the operator needs to be prompted to take a particular action, a voice prompt circuit is activated to provide an oral message to the operator. The operator can respond with an oral phrase that is processed by the voice recognition circuit.

Abstract: A data collection system includes a portable data collection terminal with a voice prompt circuit, and optionally a bar code scanning device, such as a wand. The portable data collection terminal is similar in size and performs the same data collection functions as prior art portable data collection terminals but adds voice prompts for improved functionality, flexibility, and ease of use. When data is entered from either a keypad, or a bar code scanner, or when the operator needs to be prompted to take a particular action, a voice prompt circuit is activated to provide an oral message to the operator. The portable data collection terminal is connected to a host computer, which can provide real time instructions to the user, by utilizing the voice prompts from the portable data collection terminal. The host computer can be connected to the portable data collection terminal by either a wired or a wireless link.

Abstract: A circumferential switch has a flexible electrically conductive band positioned around and separated from an outer circumference of a tubular body so that an air gap is formed between the band and tubular body. The band is electrically connected to a circuit board, contained within the tubular body, by a lead that passes through a circular hole in the tubular body. The circuit board is in electrical contact with the tubular body, which is also electrically conductive. The switch is in a first state in its normal position, i.e., positioned around and separated from the outer circumference of the tubular body. The switch changes states only when any part of the band makes contact with the tubular body. Thus, when the band is depressed by being squeezed, i.e., deflected, the band makes electrical contact with the tubular body, and the switch is in a second state.

Abstract: A portable data collection system includes a portable data collection terminal with a voice prompt circuit having a recording capability, and optionally a bar code scanning device, such as a wand. The portable data collection terminal is similar in size and performs the same data collection functions as prior art portable data collection terminals but adds voice prompts for improved functionality, flexibility, and ease of use. When data is entered from either a keypad, or a bar code scanner, or when the operator needs to be prompted to take a particular action, a voice prompt circuit is activated to provide an oral message to the operator. A feature of the voice prompt circuit is simple recording by the user of oral messages used to generate voice prompts. This allows the user to customize voice prompts for a specific application.