US6023147A — Hand held computerized data collection terminal w…

Claim 1

Independent Claim 323 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected with said user interface and with said computer processor for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery pack removably secured therewith and supplying operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said battery pack having an electrically conductive short-circuit element mounted thereon for enabling sensing of the presence of the battery pack, and said terminal having an element sensor switchable between a charging circuit enabling condition and a charging circuit disabling condition in dependence upon the presence of a battery pack with the element and the presence of a battery pack without such an element, respectively, said terminal having a battery compartment for removably receiving said battery pack, and said element sensor comprising a pair of conductive probes arranged to be conductively bridged by the electrically conductive short-circuit element as the battery pack is inserted into said battery compartment, said terminal comprising a bottom terminal part providing a bottom wall and side walls of said battery compartment, a battery compartment wall extending above the bottom wall to define an upper boundary of said battery compartment, and said probes being mounted at the battery compartment wall of said battery compartment, said bottom terminal part having a partition wall providing an inner boundary of said battery compartment, a battery supply connector being mounted at the side of said partition wall external to said battery compartment, and being connected with the battery pack in said battery compartment, and a host circuit carrying member having the computer processor thereon and extending within the terminal at a level just above the battery compartment wall and coupled with the battery supply connector so as to provide for the supply of battery power to the computer processor.

Claim 2

Dependent Claim 323 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected with said user interface and with said computer processor for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery pack removably secured therewith and supplying operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said battery pack having an electrically conductive short-circuit element mounted thereon for enabling sensing of the presence of the battery pack, and said terminal having an element sensor switchable between a charging circuit enabling condition and a charging circuit disabling condition in dependence upon the presence of a battery pack with the element and the presence of a battery pack without such an element, respectively, said terminal having a battery compartment for removably receiving said battery pack, and said element sensor comprising a pair of conductive probes arranged to be conductively bridged by the electrically conductive short-circuit element as the battery pack is inserted into said battery compartment, said terminal comprising a bottom terminal part providing a bottom wall and side walls of said battery compartment, a battery compartment wall extending above the bottom wall to define an upper boundary of said battery compartment, and said probes being mounted at the battery compartment wall of said battery compartment, said bottom terminal part having a partition wall providing an inner boundary of said battery compartment, a battery supply connector being mounted at the side of said partition wall external to said battery compartment, and being connected with the battery pack in said battery compartment, and a host circuit carrying member having the computer processor thereon and extending within the terminal at a level just above the battery compartment wall and coupled with the battery supply connector so as to provide for the supply of battery power to the computer processor.

Claim 3

Dependent Claim 84 words

In a data collection system according to claim 1, a peripheral device circuit carrying member disposed in said bottom terminal part on the opposite side of the partition wall from the battery compartment, said peripheral device circuit carrying member having a connector receptacle with a memory card therein, and said bottom terminal part having an opening at one end providing access to said battery compartment and having an insertion slot at an opposite end accommodating insertion of said memory card into said connector receptacle.

Claim 4

Dependent Claim 56 words

In a data collection system according to claim 2, said peripheral device circuit carrying member having a peripheral device coupling accessible through the opposite end of the bottom terminal part, and a removable cover covering the opposite end of the bottom terminal part and having a peripheral device connector releasably connected with said peripheral device coupling.

Claim 5

Dependent Claim 143 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected with said user interface and connected with said computer processor for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery pack removably secured therewith and supplying operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal having first and second circuit carrying members mounted therein, and having respective first and second sets of generally parallel spaced apart connector elements thereon, a resilient elongated member positioned between the first and second sets of connector elements and having a plurality of generally parallel conductive elements embedded therein in spaced apart relation and electrically connecting respective individual connector elements of the first and second sets.

Claim 6

Dependent Claim 143 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected with said user interface and connected with said computer processor for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery pack removably secured therewith and supplying operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal having first and second circuit carrying members mounted therein, and having respective first and second sets of generally parallel spaced apart connector elements thereon, a resilient elongated member positioned between the first and second sets of connector elements and having a plurality of generally parallel conductive elements embedded therein in spaced apart relation and electrically connecting respective individual connector elements of the first and second sets.

Claim 7

Dependent Claim 115 words

In a data collection system according to claim 4, said first circuit carrying member being a keypad printed circuit board and said second circuit carrying member being a display printed circuit board, an edge of the keypad printed circuit board having said first set of connector elements spaced there along, and an edge of the display printed circuit board being disposed in overlapping relation to the edge of the keypad printed circuit board and having the second set of connector elements spaced there along and respectively aligned with the connector elements of the first set and the respective conductive elements of the resilient elongated member, said resilient elongated member being compressed between the circuit boards.

Claim 8

Dependent Claim 256 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a longitudinal axis and having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected with said user interface and with said computer processor for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a rechargeable battery removably received therewith and supplying operating power to said terminal, and said control circuitry including detection circuitry actuatable to detect the presence of said rechargeable battery, said rechargeable battery comprising an arrangement of a plurality of rechargeable battery cells forming a battery pack with longitudinal axes of the battery cells extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the terminal, the terminal having a battery receiving chamber into which the battery pack is longitudinally inserted, and the battery receiving chamber and the battery pack having cross sections with three rounded corners and one somewhat squared corner so that the battery pack can only be inserted into the battery receiving chamber with a correct longitudinal end of the battery pack first and with a correct side of the battery pack facing one wall of the battery receiving chamber, the battery pack having an electrically conductive short circuit element only at the correct side of the battery pack, and being operative when the battery pack is inserted with its correct longitudinal end first and with the electrically conductive short circuit element facing said one wall of the battery receiving chamber to actuate said detection circuitry.

Claim 9

Dependent Claim 256 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a longitudinal axis and having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected with said user interface and with said computer processor for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a rechargeable battery removably received therewith and supplying operating power to said terminal, and said control circuitry including detection circuitry actuatable to detect the presence of said rechargeable battery, said rechargeable battery comprising an arrangement of a plurality of rechargeable battery cells forming a battery pack with longitudinal axes of the battery cells extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the terminal, the terminal having a battery receiving chamber into which the battery pack is longitudinally inserted, and the battery receiving chamber and the battery pack having cross sections with three rounded corners and one somewhat squared corner so that the battery pack can only be inserted into the battery receiving chamber with a correct longitudinal end of the battery pack first and with a correct side of the battery pack facing one wall of the battery receiving chamber, the battery pack having an electrically conductive short circuit element only at the correct side of the battery pack, and being operative when the battery pack is inserted with its correct longitudinal end first and with the electrically conductive short circuit element facing said one wall of the battery receiving chamber to actuate said detection circuitry.

Claim 10

Dependent Claim 74 words

In a data collection system according to claim 6, said control circuitry including battery charging control circuitry controlling supply of battery charging current to a rechargeable battery received by the terminal, said detection circuitry serving to enable said battery charging control circuitry when the presence of the rechargeable battery is detected and serving to disable said battery charging control circuitry when a non-rechargeable battery is received by said terminal for supplying operating power thereto.

Claim 11

Dependent Claim 88 words

In a data collection system according to claim 6, said one wall defining a boundary of the battery receiving chamber receiving said battery, and said detection circuitry comprising a pair of spaced electrically conductive probe elements disposed upon said one wall of said battery receiving chamber, said pair of probe elements being differentially responsive to insertion of the rechargeable battery and the non-rechargeable battery into said battery receiving chamber by virtue of only said battery pack having said electrically conductive short-circuit element for electrically bridging said probe elements.

Claim 12

Dependent Claim 154 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing having a housing end portion with peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector and protectively enclosed by said cover, said peripheral device circuit having a peripheral device electrical connector fitting accessible at the exterior of the cover and coupled with said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit for providing data communication with a peripheral device.

Claim 13

Dependent Claim 154 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing having a housing end portion with peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector and protectively enclosed by said cover, said peripheral device circuit having a peripheral device electrical connector fitting accessible at the exterior of the cover and coupled with said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit for providing data communication with a peripheral device.

Claim 14

Dependent Claim 52 words

In a data collection system according to claim 9, said terminal having external conductive metal pads at an end thereof remote from said cover and coupled with said computer processor for the transmission of data at a substantially higher rate than the data communication provided via said peripheral device electrical connector fitting.

Claim 15

Dependent Claim 36 words

In a data collection system according to claim 10, a communication circuit coupled between said computer processor and said external conductive pads and providing for two-way transmission at a rate of about 500,000 bits per second.

Claim 16

Dependent Claim 40 words

In a data collection system according to claim 10, a circuit coupled between said computer processor and said peripheral device electrical connector fitting and providing for data communication at a rate of not more than about 19,200 bits per second.

Claim 17

Dependent Claim 169 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing having a housing end portion with a peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector and protectively enclosed by said cover, said peripheral device circuit comprising a peripheral device electrical connector fitting at the exterior of the cover, said terminal housing containing a peripheral device circuit carrying member mounting said peripheral device electrical connector for automatic engagement with the peripheral device circuit as the cover is applied to said housing end portion.

Claim 18

Dependent Claim 169 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing having a housing end portion with a peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector and protectively enclosed by said cover, said peripheral device circuit comprising a peripheral device electrical connector fitting at the exterior of the cover, said terminal housing containing a peripheral device circuit carrying member mounting said peripheral device electrical connector for automatic engagement with the peripheral device circuit as the cover is applied to said housing end portion.

Claim 19

Dependent Claim 151 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing having a housing end portion with a peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector and protectively enclosed by said cover, said peripheral device circuit comprising a memory card removably inserted into the peripheral device electrical connector, and removable from the housing end portion upon disengagement of the cover from said housing end portion.

Claim 20

Dependent Claim 151 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing having a housing end portion with a peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector and protectively enclosed by said cover, said peripheral device circuit comprising a memory card removably inserted into the peripheral device electrical connector, and removable from the housing end portion upon disengagement of the cover from said housing end portion.

Claim 21

Dependent Claim 54 words

In a data collection system according to claim 14, said terminal housing containing a memory card controller board with said peripheral device electrical connector thereon and arranged to automatically electrically connect with an edge of the memory card as the memory card is inserted into the housing end portion with the cover disengaged therefrom.

Claim 22

Dependent Claim 201 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing having a housing end portion with a peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector and protectively enclosed by said cover, said housing end portion having an auxiliary battery for supplying backup operating power to the terminal along an electric current flow path and an insulating strip of electrical insulating material extending into said housing end portion from the vicinity of said cover for maintaining the electric current flow path in an open circuit condition until the insulating strip is manually pulled to a non current flow interrupting position by manual gripping of a portion of the insulating strip normally covered by the cover.

Claim 23

Dependent Claim 201 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing having a housing end portion with a peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector and protectively enclosed by said cover, said housing end portion having an auxiliary battery for supplying backup operating power to the terminal along an electric current flow path and an insulating strip of electrical insulating material extending into said housing end portion from the vicinity of said cover for maintaining the electric current flow path in an open circuit condition until the insulating strip is manually pulled to a non current flow interrupting position by manual gripping of a portion of the insulating strip normally covered by the cover.

Claim 24

Dependent Claim 68 words

In a data collection system according to claim 16, said auxiliary battery having an electrically conductive clip arranged for electrically contacting said auxiliary battery and having an end of said insulating strip interposed between the auxiliary battery and said clip for preventing the electrical contact between said clip and said auxiliary battery until such time as said insulating strip is pulled to a non current flow interrupting position.

Claim 25

Dependent Claim 189 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected with said user interface and with said computer processor for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a main battery for supplying operating power to said terminal, terminal memory normally supplied with operating power from said main battery, auxiliary stand-by battery for supplying electric power to said terminal memory as a back up to said main battery, said auxiliary stand-by battery having an auxiliary current flow path for supplying current to the terminal memory when needed, and an insulating strip of electrical insulating material inserted into the auxiliary current flow path to prevent depletion of the auxiliary stand-by battery prior to use of the terminal, said terminal comprising a terminal housing having an access opening accommodating manual removal of the insulating strip from the auxiliary current flow path, and a closure cap for removable attachment to said terminal housing and enclosing said access opening when attached to said terminal housing.

Claim 26

Dependent Claim 189 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected with said user interface and with said computer processor for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a main battery for supplying operating power to said terminal, terminal memory normally supplied with operating power from said main battery, auxiliary stand-by battery for supplying electric power to said terminal memory as a back up to said main battery, said auxiliary stand-by battery having an auxiliary current flow path for supplying current to the terminal memory when needed, and an insulating strip of electrical insulating material inserted into the auxiliary current flow path to prevent depletion of the auxiliary stand-by battery prior to use of the terminal, said terminal comprising a terminal housing having an access opening accommodating manual removal of the insulating strip from the auxiliary current flow path, and a closure cap for removable attachment to said terminal housing and enclosing said access opening when attached to said terminal housing.

Claim 27

Dependent Claim 61 words

In a data collection system according to claim 18, said terminal having an electrically conductive retaining clip overlying the auxiliary stand-by battery, and said insulating strip being disposed between the clip and the auxiliary stand-by battery for preventing current flow from the auxiliary stand-by battery until said insulating strip has been removed from between said clip and said auxiliary stand-by battery.

Claim 28

Dependent Claim 87 words

In a data collection system according to claim 18, said terminal having a terminal housing with an end wall accessible to the user, said end wall having an opening therein, and said insulating strip having a free end extending through said opening to the exterior of said end wall so as to be accessible to a user for manually withdrawing said insulating strip from the auxiliary current flow path to place said auxiliary current flow path in condition for supplying current to the terminal memory when needed.

Claim 29

Dependent Claim 196 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal comprising: (a) a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation; (b) a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal; (c) a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry; (d) a terminal housing having a housing end portion at an end of said terminal housing; and (e) a cover releasably and selectively engaged with said end of said terminal housing for cooperation therewith, (f) said housing end portion having an exterior boundary wall defining the external cross sectional perimeter of the terminal at said end of said terminal housing, (g) said cover having an external wall with external perimeter for mating with the exterior boundary wall of the housing end portion to enclose the end of said terminal housing; and thereby protect the interior of the terminal, (h) the releasability of the cover providing for the selective assemblage within the interior of the housing of differently functioning components which serve to selectively change the functioning of the data collection terminal.

Claim 30

Dependent Claim 196 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal comprising: (a) a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation; (b) a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal; (c) a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry; (d) a terminal housing having a housing end portion at an end of said terminal housing; and (e) a cover releasably and selectively engaged with said end of said terminal housing for cooperation therewith, (f) said housing end portion having an exterior boundary wall defining the external cross sectional perimeter of the terminal at said end of said terminal housing, (g) said cover having an external wall with external perimeter for mating with the exterior boundary wall of the housing end portion to enclose the end of said terminal housing; and thereby protect the interior of the terminal, (h) the releasability of the cover providing for the selective assemblage within the interior of the housing of differently functioning components which serve to selectively change the functioning of the data collection terminal.

Claim 31

Dependent Claim 26 words

A data collection system as recited in claim 21, wherein a selected one of said covers comprises a cover for protectively enclosing said housing end portion.

Claim 32

Dependent Claim 38 words

A data collection system as recited in claim 21, wherein the releasability of said cover provides for the assemblage within the interior of said housing of a radio frequency communication module for communication with an external peripheral device.

Claim 33

Dependent Claim 37 words

A data collection system as recited in claim 21, wherein the releasability of said cover provides for the assemblage within the interior of said housing of a peripheral device circuit for communication with an external peripheral device.

Claim 34

Dependent Claim 26 words

A data collection system as recited in claim 21, wherein said computer processor includes a data processor for processing data from a plurality of data devices.

Claim 35

Dependent Claim 101 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal comprising: (a) a user interface proving for interaction with a user of, the terminal during data collection operation; (b) computer processor and control circuitry connected with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal; (c) a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and control circuitry; (d) a terminal housing having a housing end portion having an access opening; and (e) a cover releasably and connectively engaged with said housing end portion and containing a memory device for coupling to said computer processor and control circuitry.

Claim 36

Dependent Claim 101 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal comprising: (a) a user interface proving for interaction with a user of, the terminal during data collection operation; (b) computer processor and control circuitry connected with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal; (c) a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and control circuitry; (d) a terminal housing having a housing end portion having an access opening; and (e) a cover releasably and connectively engaged with said housing end portion and containing a memory device for coupling to said computer processor and control circuitry.

Claim 37

Dependent Claim 30 words

A data collection system as recited in claim 26, wherein said cover forms a cover for positively enclosing said access opening of said housing end portion and said memory device.

Claim 38

Dependent Claim 24 words

A data collection system as recited in claim 26, wherein said cover contains a radio frequency communication module for communication with an external device.

Claim 39

Dependent Claim 39 words

A data collection system as recited in claim 26, wherein said cover further comprises a peripheral device electrical connector therein accommodating electrical connection with said battery to accommodate coupling of said battery with a device external to said cover.

Claim 40

Dependent Claim 36 words

A data collection system as recited in claim 29, wherein said cover and accommodating electrical connector provide for coupling between said computer processor and control circuitry and a device external to the cover via a cable.

Claim 41

Dependent Claim 184 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing end portion with a peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector, said peripheral device electrical connector being coupled with said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said cover being removable from the housing end portion for operative access to said peripheral device electrical connector to enable a peripheral coupling to be received by said peripheral device electrical connector thereby to provide peripheral access to said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said cover being clear of any connector components.

Claim 42

Dependent Claim 184 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing end portion with a peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector, said peripheral device electrical connector being coupled with said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said cover being removable from the housing end portion for operative access to said peripheral device electrical connector to enable a peripheral coupling to be received by said peripheral device electrical connector thereby to provide peripheral access to said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said cover being clear of any connector components.

Claim 43

Dependent Claim 29 words

In a data collection system according to claim 31, said peripheral device electrical connector having a cavity frontally thereof for accommodating a peripheral coupling, said cover overlying said cavity.

Claim 44

Dependent Claim 46 words

In a data collection system according to claim 31, said peripheral device electrical connector having an electrical conductor, and a peripheral device contact being insertable into engagement with the electrical conductor of said peripheral device electrical connector with the cover removed from said housing end portion.

Claim 45

Dependent Claim 196 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing end portion with a peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector, said peripheral device electrical connector being coupled with said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said cover being removable from the housing end portion for operative access to said peripheral device electrical connector to enable a peripheral coupling to be received by said peripheral device electrical connector thereby to provide peripheral access to said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said peripheral device electrical connector having a cavity frontally thereof for accommodating a peripheral coupling, said cover overlying said cavity.

Claim 46

Dependent Claim 196 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing end portion with a peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector, said peripheral device electrical connector being coupled with said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said cover being removable from the housing end portion for operative access to said peripheral device electrical connector to enable a peripheral coupling to be received by said peripheral device electrical connector thereby to provide peripheral access to said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said peripheral device electrical connector having a cavity frontally thereof for accommodating a peripheral coupling, said cover overlying said cavity.

Claim 47

Dependent Claim 15 words

In a data collection system according to claim 34, said cover protectively enclosing said cavity.

Claim 48

Dependent Claim 213 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing end portion with a peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector, said peripheral device electrical connector being coupled with said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said cover being removable from the housing end portion for operative access to said peripheral device electrical connector to enable a peripheral coupling to be received by said peripheral device electrical connector thereby to provide peripheral access to said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said peripheral device electrical connector having an electrical conductor, and a peripheral device contact being insertable into engagement with the electrical conductor of said peripheral device electrical connector with the cover removed from said housing end portion.

Claim 49

Dependent Claim 213 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing end portion with a peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector, said peripheral device electrical connector being coupled with said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said cover being removable from the housing end portion for operative access to said peripheral device electrical connector to enable a peripheral coupling to be received by said peripheral device electrical connector thereby to provide peripheral access to said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said peripheral device electrical connector having an electrical conductor, and a peripheral device contact being insertable into engagement with the electrical conductor of said peripheral device electrical connector with the cover removed from said housing end portion.

Claim 50

Dependent Claim 245 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing end portion with peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector, said peripheral device electrical connector being coupled with said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said cover being removable from the housing end portion for operative access to said peripheral device electrical connector to enable a peripheral coupling to be received by said peripheral device electrical connector thereby to provide peripheral access to said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said peripheral device electrical connector having an electrical conductor connecting with said peripheral device circuit, and having an access space providing access to said electrical conductor, and a peripheral device insertable into the access space when the cover is removed from said housing end portion and having a contact for coupling with said electrical conductor so as to provide for communication with the computer processor via said peripheral device circuit.

Claim 51

Dependent Claim 245 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal having a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation, said terminal having a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal, said terminal having a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry, said terminal comprising a terminal housing end portion with peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing end portion, a cover releasably engaged with said housing end portion, and a peripheral device circuit electrically coupled with the peripheral device electrical connector, said peripheral device electrical connector being coupled with said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said cover being removable from the housing end portion for operative access to said peripheral device electrical connector to enable a peripheral coupling to be received by said peripheral device electrical connector thereby to provide peripheral access to said computer processor via said peripheral device circuit, said peripheral device electrical connector having an electrical conductor connecting with said peripheral device circuit, and having an access space providing access to said electrical conductor, and a peripheral device insertable into the access space when the cover is removed from said housing end portion and having a contact for coupling with said electrical conductor so as to provide for communication with the computer processor via said peripheral device circuit.

Claim 52

Dependent Claim 177 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal comprising: (a) a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation; (b) a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal; (c) a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry; (d) a terminal housing having a housing open end portion which is open at an end of said terminal housing; (e) a cover releasably engaged with said end of said terminal housing for closing said housing open end portion; (f) said terminal having an interior space and having an interior electrical connector within said interior space and coupled with said computer processor; and (g) a cover release providing for connection with said interior electrical connector, while the cover is released from its closing relationship to said housing open end portion and said end of said terminal housing is open, of a peripheral device for enabling the terminal to perform a new function.

Claim 53

Dependent Claim 177 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal comprising: (a) a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation; (b) a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal; (c) a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry; (d) a terminal housing having a housing open end portion which is open at an end of said terminal housing; (e) a cover releasably engaged with said end of said terminal housing for closing said housing open end portion; (f) said terminal having an interior space and having an interior electrical connector within said interior space and coupled with said computer processor; and (g) a cover release providing for connection with said interior electrical connector, while the cover is released from its closing relationship to said housing open end portion and said end of said terminal housing is open, of a peripheral device for enabling the terminal to perform a new function.

Claim 54

Dependent Claim 52 words

In a data collection system according to claim 38, said cover being removable to provide for replacement by a different cover, peripheral circuitry for enabling the performance of a new function being connectable with said interior electrical connector prior to engagement of the different cover with said end of said terminal housing.

Claim 55

Dependent Claim 34 words

In a data collection system according to claim 38, said interior electrical connector comprising an electrical contact for supplying battery power from said battery to a peripheral device coupled with said interior electrical connector.

Claim 56

Dependent Claim 62 words

In a data collection system according to claim 38, said terminal with peripheral circuitry assembled therewith and inserted into coupling relation with said interior electrical connector further having a peripheral device associated with the peripheral circuitry for performing an additional function and for data communication with said computer processor, so as to perform the additional function under the control of said terminal.

Claim 57

Dependent Claim 25 words

In a data collection system according to claim 41, said battery supplying battery power to said peripheral device under the control of said computer processor.

Claim 58

Dependent Claim 39 words

In a data collection system according to claim 38, said cover being releasable to accommodate coupling a radio frequency communication transceiver with said computer processor via said interior electrical connector while said end of said terminal housing is uncovered.

Claim 59

Dependent Claim 35 words

In a data collection system according to claim 43, said interior electrical connector comprising an electrical contact for supplying battery power from said battery to a radio frequency communication transceiver when assembled with said terminal.

Claim 60

Dependent Claim 45 words

In a data collection system according to claim 38, said terminal with peripheral circuitry assembled therewith and inserted into coupling relation with said interior electrical connector further having a communication transceiver connected with said peripheral circuitry for enabling said terminal to perform a communication function.

Claim 61

Dependent Claim 32 words

In a data collection system according to claim 45, said communication transceiver comprising a radio frequency communication transceiver coupled with said computer processor via said peripheral circuitry and said interior electrical connector.

Claim 62

Dependent Claim 37 words

In a data collection system according to claim 38, said cover comprising a cover for protectively enclosing said housing open end portion, and said cover providing for coupling of an optical information reader with said computer processor.

Claim 63

Dependent Claim 29 words

In a data collection system according to claim 47, said computer processor including a data processor for processing data from an optical information reader and from a communication transceiver.

Claim 64

Dependent Claim 24 words

In a data collection system according to claim 48, said data processor controlling supply of battery power from said battery to a communication transceiver.

Claim 65

Dependent Claim 191 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal comprising: (a) a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation; (b) a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal; (c) a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry; (d) a terminal housing having a housing open end portion which is open at an end of said terminal housing; (e) a cover releasably engaged with said end of said terminal housing for closing said housing open end portion; (f) said housing open end portion having an exterior boundary wall defining the external cross sectional perimeter of the terminal at said end of said terminal housing; (g) said cover having an external wall with external perimeter for mating with the exterior boundary wall of the housing open end portion to enclose the end of said terminal housing, and thereby protect the interior of the terminal; and (h) a cover release providing for the selective assemblage at the housing open end portion of radio frequency communication components.

Claim 66

Dependent Claim 191 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal comprising: (a) a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation; (b) a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal; (c) a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry; (d) a terminal housing having a housing open end portion which is open at an end of said terminal housing; (e) a cover releasably engaged with said end of said terminal housing for closing said housing open end portion; (f) said housing open end portion having an exterior boundary wall defining the external cross sectional perimeter of the terminal at said end of said terminal housing; (g) said cover having an external wall with external perimeter for mating with the exterior boundary wall of the housing open end portion to enclose the end of said terminal housing, and thereby protect the interior of the terminal; and (h) a cover release providing for the selective assemblage at the housing open end portion of radio frequency communication components.

Claim 67

Dependent Claim 42 words

In a data collection system according to claim 50, said radio frequency communication components having a different cover protectively enclosing said housing open portion, said different cover having a radio frequency antenna extending therefrom and coupled with said radio frequency communication components.

Claim 68

Dependent Claim 37 words

In a data collection system according to claim 50, said radio frequency communication components being in the form of a radio frequency data transceiver module which can be removed and replaced without disassembly of said terminal housing.

Claim 69

Dependent Claim 26 words

In a data collection system according to claim 50, said cover having a radio frequency antenna extending therefrom and coupled with said radio frequency communication components.

Claim 70

Dependent Claim 229 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal comprising: (a) a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation; (b) a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal; (c) a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry; (d) a terminal housing having a housing open end portion which is open at an end of said terminal housing; (e) a cover releasably engaged with said end of said terminal housing for closing said housing open end portion; (f) said terminal having an interior and having an interior electrical connector within said interior and coupled with said computer processor; (g) said housing end portion having an exterior boundary wall defining the external cross sectional perimeter of the terminal at said end of said terminal housing; (h) said cover having an external wall with external perimeter for mating with the exterior boundary wall of the housing open end portion to enclose the end of said terminal housing and thereby protect the interior of the terminal; and (i) said cover having radio frequency communication components protectively enclosed thereby, with said radio frequency communication components being releasably coupled with said interior electrical connector for the transmission of data from the terminal to an external peripheral device.

Claim 71

Dependent Claim 229 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal comprising: (a) a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation; (b) a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal; (c) a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry; (d) a terminal housing having a housing open end portion which is open at an end of said terminal housing; (e) a cover releasably engaged with said end of said terminal housing for closing said housing open end portion; (f) said terminal having an interior and having an interior electrical connector within said interior and coupled with said computer processor; (g) said housing end portion having an exterior boundary wall defining the external cross sectional perimeter of the terminal at said end of said terminal housing; (h) said cover having an external wall with external perimeter for mating with the exterior boundary wall of the housing open end portion to enclose the end of said terminal housing and thereby protect the interior of the terminal; and (i) said cover having radio frequency communication components protectively enclosed thereby, with said radio frequency communication components being releasably coupled with said interior electrical connector for the transmission of data from the terminal to an external peripheral device.

Claim 72

Dependent Claim 28 words

In a data collection system according to claim 54, said cover being releasable to provide for removal of the radio frequency components without disassembly of said terminal housing.

Claim 73

Dependent Claim 37 words

In a data collection system according to claim 55, said radio frequency communication components being in the form of a radio frequency data transceiver module which can be removed and replaced without disassembly of said terminal housing.

Claim 74

Dependent Claim 30 words

In a data collection system according to claim 54, said interior electrical connector comprising an electrical contact for supplying battery power from said battery to said radio frequency communication components.

Claim 75

Dependent Claim 27 words

In a data collection system according to claim 54, said battery supplying battery power to said radio frequency communication components under the control of said computer processor.

Claim 76

Dependent Claim 31 words

In a data collection system according to claim 58, said computer processor including a data processor for processing data from an optical information reader and from a radio frequency communication transceiver.

Claim 77

Dependent Claim 25 words

In a data collection system according to claim 58, said data processor controlling supply of battery power from said battery to an optical information reader.

Claim 78

Dependent Claim 31 words

In a data collection system according to claim 54, said cover being releasable to accommodate coupling a different radio frequency communication transceiver with said computer processor via said interior electrical connector.

Claim 79

Dependent Claim 29 words

In a data collection system according to claim 54, said cover having an optical information reader interface providing for coupling of an optical information reader with said computer processor.

Claim 80

Dependent Claim 193 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal comprising: (a) a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation; (b) a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal; (c) a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry; (d) a terminal housing having a housing open end portion which is open at an end of said terminal housing; (e) a cover releasably engaged with said end of said terminal housing for closing said housing open end portion; (f) said housing open end portion having a peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing open end portion when the cover is released from its closing relationship to said housing open end portion; and (g) a peripheral device circuit releasably electrically coupled with said peripheral device electrical connector and protectively enclosed by said cover, said peripheral device circuit being removable from coupling relationship with said peripheral device electrical connector after the cover is released from its closing relationship to said housing open end portion.

Claim 81

Dependent Claim 193 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal comprising: (a) a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation; (b) a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal; (c) a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry; (d) a terminal housing having a housing open end portion which is open at an end of said terminal housing; (e) a cover releasably engaged with said end of said terminal housing for closing said housing open end portion; (f) said housing open end portion having a peripheral device electrical connector therein accessible from the exterior of said housing open end portion when the cover is released from its closing relationship to said housing open end portion; and (g) a peripheral device circuit releasably electrically coupled with said peripheral device electrical connector and protectively enclosed by said cover, said peripheral device circuit being removable from coupling relationship with said peripheral device electrical connector after the cover is released from its closing relationship to said housing open end portion.

Claim 82

Dependent Claim 28 words

In a data collection system according to claim 63, said peripheral device circuit comprising a circuitry carrying element which is releasably engageable with said peripheral device electrical connector.

Claim 83

Dependent Claim 18 words

In a data collection system according to claim 64, said circuitry carrying element being of generally planar configuration.

Claim 84

Dependent Claim 53 words

In a data collection system according to claim 63, said peripheral device circuit comprising a circuitry carrying element which is manually inserted into said housing open end portion to couple circuitry thereon with said peripheral device electrical connector while the cover is released from its closing relationship to said housing open end portion.

Claim 85

Dependent Claim 18 words

In a data collection system according to claim 66, said circuitry carrying element being of generally planar configuration.

Claim 86

Dependent Claim 204 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal comprising: (a) a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation; (b) a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal; (c) a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry; (d) a terminal housing having a housing end portion with an access opening and a cavity in said terminal housing accessible from exteriorly of said housing end portion via said access opening; (e) said terminal housing having a peripheral device electrical connector coupled with said computer processor and accessible from exteriorly of said housing end portion via said access opening and said cavity; (f) a removable circuitry carrying element in said cavity and releasably engaged with said peripheral device electrical connector and coupled via said electrical connector with said computer processor; and (g) a cover overlying said access opening and protectively enclosing said removable circuitry carrying element, said cover being releasably engaged with said housing end portion and being releasable to uncover said access opening and allow removal of the circuitry carrying element after the access opening is uncovered.

Claim 87

Dependent Claim 204 words

In a data collection system, a portable computerized data collection terminal comprising: (a) a user interface providing for interaction with a user of the terminal during data collection operation; (b) a computer processor and control circuitry connected therewith and with said user interface for controlling operation of said terminal; (c) a battery for supply of operating power to said computer processor and said control circuitry; (d) a terminal housing having a housing end portion with an access opening and a cavity in said terminal housing accessible from exteriorly of said housing end portion via said access opening; (e) said terminal housing having a peripheral device electrical connector coupled with said computer processor and accessible from exteriorly of said housing end portion via said access opening and said cavity; (f) a removable circuitry carrying element in said cavity and releasably engaged with said peripheral device electrical connector and coupled via said electrical connector with said computer processor; and (g) a cover overlying said access opening and protectively enclosing said removable circuitry carrying element, said cover being releasably engaged with said housing end portion and being releasable to uncover said access opening and allow removal of the circuitry carrying element after the access opening is uncovered.

Claim 88

Dependent Claim 47 words

A portable computer apparatus comprising: a housing; a cavity for receiving a removable circuitry carrying generally planar element therein, said cavity having an opening formed on said housing; an electrically conductive connector within said housing for engaging said generally planar element; and a cover overlying said cavity.

Claim 89

Dependent Claim 47 words

A portable computer apparatus comprising: a housing; a cavity for receiving a removable circuitry carrying generally planar element therein, said cavity having an opening formed on said housing; an electrically conductive connector within said housing for engaging said generally planar element; and a cover overlying said cavity.

Claim 90

Dependent Claim 16 words

A portable computer apparatus of claim 69, wherein said generally planar element comprises random access memory.

Claim 91

Dependent Claim 58 words

A portable computer apparatus, comprising: a housing; peripheral device control circuitry within said housing, said peripheral device control circuitry including an electrical connector; a cavity in said housing, said cavity receiving a removable circuitry carrying generally planar element therein, said generally planar element engaging said electrical connector of said peripheral device control circuitry; a cover overlying said cavity.

Claim 92

Dependent Claim 58 words

A portable computer apparatus, comprising: a housing; peripheral device control circuitry within said housing, said peripheral device control circuitry including an electrical connector; a cavity in said housing, said cavity receiving a removable circuitry carrying generally planar element therein, said generally planar element engaging said electrical connector of said peripheral device control circuitry; a cover overlying said cavity.

Claim 93

Dependent Claim 27 words

The portable computer apparatus of claim 71, wherein said generally planar element comprises random access memory, said random access memory controllable by said peripheral device control circuitry.

Annuity Stage	Window Opens	Payment Deadline	Surcharge Period Until	Estimated Fee	Status
3.5 Years (Year 4)	2003-02-07	2003-08-09	2004-02-08	$2000.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
7.5 Years (Year 8)	2007-02-07	2007-08-09	2008-02-08	$3760.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
11.5 Years (Year 12)	2011-02-07	2011-08-09	2012-02-08	$7700.00	Window Closed / Lapsed

Hand held computerized data collection terminal with rechargeable battery pack sensor and battery power conservation

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