HAND-HELD DATA CAPTURE SYSTEM WITH INTERCHANGEABLE MODULES

摘要

A hand held data terminal may selectively receive a variety of modules for adapting the terminal to existing peripheral devices such as an eighty-column printer, and also for enabling the terminal to operate with on-line wireless communication with other devices. The basic terminal may be mated with a module containing a CCD image reader or a deflected laser beam type reader. Preferably the modules have digital interfaces with the terminal. In this way a radio frequency transceiver module, for example, may be removed and replaced without requiring tuning or other adjustments. The terminal may be fully sealed and be completely free of the conventional pin and socket type electrical connector fittings at its exterior Electrostatic discharge protection is provided by circuit components connected to surface contact pads so that the sensitive electronic circuitry of the terminal is protected from electrostatic discharge transients without requiring metallic shielding of the surface contacts.