Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus adapted to be coupled between a keyboard and a computer to enable a user to define desired keys as coded keys which are associated with MACROS defined by the user. The apparatus includes a microcontroller and an electrically erasable, programmable read only memory (EEPROM) which monitors codes transmitted from the keyboard and is placed in a programming mode when a predetermined program code is received from the keyboard. Once in the program mode, the next key depressed by the user is denoted as a coded key and the following keys depressed by the user are designated as a user programmed MACRO associated with the coded key. The apparatus stores this information in the EEPROM and thereafter when the coded key is depressed by the user the associated MACRO is generated and transmitted to the computer. The apparatus forms a very compact, relatively inexpensive means for enabling conventional keyboards to function as programmable keyboards. In an alternative preferred embodiment, editing and creation of the MACROS can be accomplished by receiving information from the computer through the use of a software program which enables the user to more conveniently enter and exit the programming mode, as well as make necessary edits to previously stored MACROS.

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First Claim