Abstract: An interface device, such as a mouse input device, is used to provide input to a computer system or alternatively to a telephone system. The motion of the mouse input device over a first surface is detected. Selections made by a user on a mouse selection key are also detected. Numeric entry is received from numeric entry keys on a top surface of the mouse input device. In the preferred embodiment, the numeric keys are arranged as a dialpad for a telephone.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
January 4, 1996
Date of Patent:
December 8, 1998
Assignee:
Siemens Business Communication Systems, Inc.
Inventors:
Richard K. Kornfeld, Gina M. Lombardi, John K. M. Lee, Daniel H. Weber, Ty Aberle, Steven A. Mergenthaler, Daniel Waldburger, Michael L. Aronson, Charles S. Curbbun, Lawrence Gach