<p>A data collecting system for collection of data and entry of data to a host computer (1) comprises a portable hand-held data collector for collecting data and for transmitting the data to the exterior. The data collector includes a case (37) of a size and shape to be held in the hand during use, a keyboard (38) for inputting data and having numeral and function keys, a display unit (36) for displaying data, a memory for storing data input by user and an interface (56) for transmitting data stored in the memory to the exterior. A stationary data relay (S) receives data from the data collector and transmits the data to the host computer. The data relay includes a case of a shape to receive the portable data collector thereon, a first interface (14) for receiving the data transmitted from the interface in the data collector and a second interface (13) for communicating bi-directionally to the host computer.</p>
