Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

An interactive optical scanner system for use with a host computer or terminal comprising a central processor and a keyboard having a plurality of keyboard character and function keys to allow entry of keyboard character and function data to the central processor in accordance with predetermined keyboard codes. The system includes a camera enclosed in a camera housing suitable for hand-held use. The camera comprises an opto-electronic transducer array disposed within the housing for capturing successive images of characters on a medium surface and providing digital video signals representative of the images. The camera includes a plurality of tactilely-operated camera function keys disposed on the housing for providing respective camera function key token signals corresponding to each camera function key in dependence on the user manipulation thereof. The system includes user-programmable means responsive to the respective camera function key token signals for associating a particular key token signal with a programmable output value corresponding to one or more keyboard character or keyboard function keys or sequences or keys associated with the computer keyboard.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim