Abstract: A keyboard-operated encoding device for use in translating an alphabetic word into an alpha-numeric code in which the word or name is divided into phonic sounds, and assigned a digital number in accordance with a pre-established pattern classifying the phonic sounds by the manner in which they are vocally pronounced. The obtained code is subsequently applied to a file envelope or wrapper in accordance with said pattern. The device is particularly suited for encoding names in accordance with the disclosure in U.S. Pat. No. 3,727,327, dated Apr. 17, 1973, but may also be used for general word encoding purposes. Means is provided to take into account and adjudge the several components of a name in order to take advantage of every available code position in a predetermined maximum number of code digits to reflect in the resultant code each component of a name, upon actuation of a comma key and space bar.