Noise responsive data input apparatus and method

摘要

A data input device for use in an electrically noisy environment incorporates a plurality of conductive strips, arranged in rows and columns, mounted on a transparent body in front of a display device. Electrical noise is induced constantly in the conductive strips. When an operator places his finger in close association with one or more of the rows and columns, the amplitude of the electrical noise on such strips changes markedly. The change in noise level is detected and used to provide an output identifying the row and/or column in the vicinity of the operator's finger.