Multi-purpose computer utility arrangement

Claim 1

A computer accessory for coupling to an associated computer system having an input device, and for receiving input signals in a print code from a separate source, comprising: a module having a computer input port, a source input port and an output port; circuit means for generating selectively an output signal in keyboard character code at said output port, said output signal corresponding to an input signal in print code received from the separate source at said source input port or corresponding alternatively to a computer input signal received from the input device; means for converting said input signal in print code to said output signal in keyboard code; coupling means for enabling connection of said module in a data transmission path between the input device and said associated computer system, the input device being coupled to said computer input port, said coupling means for enabling alternatively said computer input device to send computer input signals through said accessory via said path to said output port; said coupling means for enabling alternatively converted input signals to be sent via said path to said output port; memory means responsive to computer input signals from said computer input device for storing a copy of said computer input signals therein as said input signals are being supplied to said output port; and memory read-out means for supplying subsequently the stored copy of said computer input signals from said memory means via said data transmission path to said output port.