A system for collection of data and entry of the data to a host computer comprises a portable, hand held data collector for collecting data and a stationary data relay for receiving the data from the data collector and for transmitting the data to the host computer. The portable hand held data collector includes a case of a size and shape to be held by one hand during use, a keyboard for inputting the data, a display for displaying the data, memory means for storing the data and interface means for transmitting the data externally to the data collector. The data relay includes a case shaped to set the portable data collector thereon. First interface means are provided for receiving the data transmitted from the data collector and second interface means are provided for communicating bi-directionally to the host computer. PAT 10432-1
