DE19733689A1 - Internet file access system with optical reading of coded index marks - Google Patents

Abstract

The Internet file access system operates with Internet files that have a dedicated address, and have a graphical index mark provided to provide information representing the address. An optical reader is provided to read the index mark, which is processed to extract the address for the file. Bar codes provide a suitable index mark that is easily read and interpreted. A data terminal connected to the Internet is provided with an internal server to create an Internet site that is accessible to other terminals connected to the Internet. Files are held on this server with the files identified by an address structured according to the Internet address protocol.

Description

Background of the Invention Field of the Invention

The invention relates to improvements in data retrieval or data recovery.

starting point

Different readers and optical scanning or scanning systems systems were developed for reading printed advertisements or evidence or indicators such as. B. bar or line code symbols on a label, label or the waiter surface of an article or item appear and Information regarding the item such as B. the Provide price or the nature of the item. The Bar code symbol itself is an encoded pattern from In Dizien or display elements that z. B. from a series consist of strokes of different widths that are spaced from each other around spaces or open spaces to produce different widths, the Lines and open spaces reflect different light have characteristics. Readers are walking electro optically the graphic display elements in electrical Signals that are decoded into alpha numeric characters that are to serve the object or a Property of describing it. Such signs will be typically represented and displayed in digital form as an input signal for a data processing system used for applications at a point of sale processing (POS processing), inventory control and the like.

Known scanning or scanning systems have a light source to generate a beam of light on a stroke  Code symbol occurs and a light receiver for the emp capture of the reflected light and to decode the In formation contained in the bar code symbol. The Readers can use a scanning system of the "Flying spot" or the Show flight point types where the light beam is fast is scanned using a bar code symbol to be read or a laser system with a fixed field of view where that too reading bar code symbol is exposed as a whole and a CCD arrangement (charge storage element arrangement) is seen to detect that of the bar code symbol reflected light.

Known hand-held optical readers often have that Shape of a pistol with a handle part and one Running part. The reading window through which the light beam goes goes through generally at the front of the barrel partly arranged and the reader is focused on the one to be read Display elements or indications by the operator who the Handle that holds the button part, directed. A Trigger or deduction is in the area of transition between rule the handle part and the running part for actuation provided by the user to the optical reader actuate.

There are also portable handheld computers available Data collection and for dubbing or downloading the Data on a central or peripheral device. The downloaded data can be raw data or data in processed within the handheld computer be. The data collection can be carried out by Entering information into the handheld computer via a keyboard or by integrating an optical Reader in the computer z. B. for reading bar code sym bolen or by involving a reader to read a Magnetic stripe. If e.g. B. Information about below different products during an inventory Agile, these products can use bar code symbols or Have magnetic stripes or associated magnetic stripes  own cards by handheld computer to be read. The data collected can be obtained from the hand-held computer to a central or peripheral Device are transmitted and that known via Mit tel such as B. radio or radio frequency connections, cables connections, infrared connections or other known Transfer orders.

Often there is more than one data acquisition for an application system necessary. Making one to the customer system for a special application is expensive and difficult to modify if it is ge would like more data acquisition options than the original originally in the device adapted to the customer intended to be included or integrated. They also have traditional email or messages delivery services in conventional operating environments a simple letter is provided (BSD Unix, SCO Unix) box or mailbox scheme used in which each ver messages in a specific mailbox or Captures directory. Any machine or Host or each provider has its own copy of the Mail mail delivery services are running and therefore everyone receives User messages on a particular machine and therefore it is necessary that each machine has a local one Provides storage and there is often a lot of data wrinkles. To alleviate this problem, there is a proposed solution within a computer network with a static configuration, in it Provide network file systems that are uniform Storage space access mechanism over the network provides regardless of a specific one Machine. Because the relevant files on a single. That is kept in place or saved System users with equal access to the mailboxes and prevents data duplication on individual machines.  

With the appearance portable handheld computer directions with a central computer or a host have communicated over a wireless connection Problems arise. In general, the Vor communicates direction with an access point in direct connection with the host. If the device is physika is moved again with access points associate with the host during they are outside the range of an access point and moved to the area of another access point. The Problem is further exacerbated when the device of egg one basic service area is moved to another where in this case a permanent network mail system cannot be guaranteed physically or logically.

Known electronic mail delivery currently meet serve at least two independent "tasks" or tasks ben. Mail user agent and Mail transfer agent. Mail user agent sees an interface to the user Service before and mail transfer agent deals with receiving and storing messages in usen mailboxes. The tasks generally work un dependent on each other, with the mail user agent none Has knowledge of the status of the mail transfer agent and only access to information about mailbox details for every user. Although the scheme as above is appropriate if mailboxes are permanent placed or integrated in a file system and accessible through all machines in a network, so work the scheme is not reliable if a portable wireless handheld system located in the local area dials in richly and and rooms are of a basic ser vicarea (file or file system) to another Basic service area moves.

Typical examples of known mail delivery systems are e.g. B.  in the April 1994 Sunexpert Magazine article "Sendmail" spoken by Peter Collinson. A message is entered in the Mail user agent and by the Mail transfer agent processed. For large networks are different tasks at a node or network node carried out by a mail machine which the entire mail or mail of a network for ver work is sent. The system can be improved by introducing the possibility of expanding Mailing lists that let mail run through programs and an automatic transfer of the mail between be agreed users. A system becomes progressively more complex, if it is from local mail to mail on the internet through to mail moving between networks.

Further restrictions are imposed as a result of the be limited storage capacity of handheld computers (often as personal digital helpers personal digital assistance are known) which makes simple store-and-for ward, multi-user electronic message or messages systems are generally impractical.

To operate a wireless network, mobile Units (MUs) have a domain so that they can connect with the Access points (APs) in an access point group (APG) can connect. An APG is a group of one or more access points that work with the same Routers are connected to the same network. All closed Handle points in the same APG are identified by the same Do main identified. This allows the access points in an APG to communicate over the network without using other APGs on the same network men.

The disadvantage of known domain assignment or do The main mapping protocol is that some MUs are on more APGs and possibly on several networks  can be applied. The use of a mobile one on multiple APGs would make it necessary to to change the main MU to allow you to change the main MU suitable APG communicates at the appropriate time. The Use of a mobile unit in multiple networks it might also make it necessary to change the domain, because the APGs in the network are in a different domain could.

If a TCP / IP stack or data stack is also used (transmission control protocol / internet protocol), each network node must have a unique IP address for own the network. The set of TCP / IP protocols typically includes media access, Pa kettransport, meeting or. Session communications, file transfer, e-mail and terminal emulations. IP addresses for different networks do not have to be uniform or be unique. When multiple networks are connected are and nodes communicate across all networks, the nodes then need IP addresses that are available via the ex panded network are unique.

In summary, every access point in a network have a unique IP address for the network. Every mobile unit in a network must be independent of the domain it uses has a unique IP address own for the network. Mobile units can be in multiple networks can be used. Use in several networks generally makes it necessary that the IP address of the MU changes because the current IP address used by the MU by another MU could be used in the new network or it could be that the currently used IP address is not adapted to the IP address conventions in be used in the new network.

Accordingly, a system is required to assign Do  Mains and IP addresses on mobile units are different configurations and many different types covered by mobile units. In particular is a System, necessary that the assignment of domains and IP addresses allowed to mobile units in ways that are sufficiently flexible to accommodate installations in which MUs rely on special APGs in special Networks are established and installations where MUs between different APGs and possibly between move different networks such. B. the Spectrum One and Spectrum-24 (trademarks of Symbol Technolo gies Inc.) networks.

According to another aspect, it has been proposed Barcode scanner on a con troll machine is resident to implement the one so-called "COMPONENT OBJECT MODEL" (COM) object run leaves. It is desirable to determine the scope of such applications gene to increase with a wide range of Models are compatible and in particular one Introduce barcode scanner that is removed from the machine and is controlled via a wireless interface. Pending European Patent Application 485,996 shows among other things, a system for replacement or again Replenishment of used or expired inventory using a system in which the replacement invades The final pieces are coded with a bar code Destination indicating information are marked and packed in a container for shipping to one Reception / distribution center.

It is generally known to be a two-dimensional one Barcode symbol on the outside of a container to see what's inside det: see the article "New Dense Code Symbology Trans ports data file "in Material Handling Engineering, October about 1992.  

The internet computer network is gaining ever stronger Significance among other things in the field of science, Technology, information technology and trade.

The internet will be known to the professional reader, in a nutshell, however, it knows a practical worldwide network of computers based on that of everyone appropriately connected access point ago can be accessed to radio contained in the Internet pull out. There are differences on the Internet sub- or sub-networks, of which the most famous is the World Wide Web.

Information is usually found on the Internet in the Form of "Pages" or pages that are saved Have "homepage" or main page referring to one refer to general location or site, as well as access to provides the content of this site, the content of which is given in "sub-pa ges "or sub-pages. A site comprises ei ne unique internet protocol address or a university Verse Resource Locator (URL). So the site can be accessed from can be accessed from any access point on the Internet by entering the relevant address and by displaying the site held or located at this address. The user accesses the Internet via a Cli entcomputer z. B. a PC connected to the Internet is. The connection is typically made via a modem and over a phone line and a service provider or server that serves as an intermediary, the client accesses the Internet via the server. In addition he the server allows an Internet site to the user put. It should be noted that the server in general has a fixed station. Such an arrangement can lead to an unnecessary level of inflexibility. Ins special, it is often time consuming and unnecessarily complicated adorns that one accesses the fixed station of the server  in order to set up an Internet site or on a to access such.

Different developments with regard to the In ternet related systems have been used in US sponsors shown. E.g. US-A-5,550,984 relates to an Si Security system for connecting computer networks, US A-5,544,162 relates to a bridge for connection parallel processors with the external environment, US-A- 5,517,494 refers to a Prouting protocol for multiply sent messages over the Internet, US-A- 5,416,842 refers to messaging between firewall servers, US-A-5,410,754 relates to an interface or an interface between one Wire or cable line carrier and a remote host in a Local Area Network (LAN), US-A-5,400,335 an Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) LAN connection terminal, US-A-5,353,283 on packet or data packet transmission over a series of Modes in a network, US-A-5,351,237 refers to a network of LANs connected to an ISDN, which includes a variety of routers subrouters. USA- 5,309,437 relates to a bridge-like device for coupling segments in an extended LAN, US-A- 5,289,468 refers to a terminal adapter for Connect a LAN and a Wide Area Network (WAN) un ter using an Internet standard protocol, US-A- 5,276,789 refers to a graphical display com computer network topology, US-A-5,229,988 refers to a system for classifying duplicates Source address responses refer to US-A-5,185,860 a system for determining the nodes connected with a Com connected to the computer network and relates to US-A-5,166,931 a system for an inter-network that is used for ver simplification of the network addressing system is arranged. US-A-5,442,663 relates to a method of routing or routing a data packet between a mobile host  and a receiving host over a wireless connection between the mobile host and a base station. The Ba sisstation acts as the physical location of the mobile host and is connected to the network via a LAN subnet plant.

The mechanism of file name transfer via a ver shared network is e.g. B. from US-A-5,483,652 known or its German-language equivalent here by Be access is included.

A number of products were created by Spyglass Inc. developed that best the internet connectivity improving facilities. In particular, these are Products suitable for electronic products such. B. Mobile phones, cable television, set-top boxes, televisions, personal digital helpers and pagers with the World Wide To connect what the infrastructure, applications and web Services provides for these facilities the ability to give to browse or control through the Internet. A such product is obtained under the REMOTE MOSAIC brand Lich, the browsing in a client service operation converts to the lightweight "viewer" customer-specific be integrated into devices that work with egg Connect a "proxy browser" in a remote server. The proxy browser takes over the applications Processing or storage capabilities require how e.g. B. the chaching or buffering in a buffer and it connects the device to other servers.

In another aspect, there are numerous situations in which a current picture of a scene or an object of considerable usefulness and importance speed has z. B. in the documentation of insurance where it is important, so precise and complete document as possible the circumstances for which the Insurance claim is made. Conventional  details are either written or by taking pictures using a film camera documented. This information is then followed by all other information relating to Versi security claim relates, entered. Such a system is time consuming and prone to errors as a result of the subsequent re-entry of information and the transfer the photography of the relevant file or file. Similar problems arise e.g. B. in the news coverage of an incident, incident reports from the police zei, or other authorities, etc.

US-A-5,583,994 relates to multimedia information onsupply network system. A wide area transmitter carries the multimedia programs through a variety received by network servers for reuse or Forwarding to subsequent or downstream be sensitive network server or a user. The programs are cached in the network servers or cached in a buffer like it is by a scheduler or a control device is determined and for an efficient transfer or delivery of the Multimedia program to every user.

In another aspect, data terminals that connected to the internet, usually in the La ge, applications (applets) in a suitable Agent implementation language from a host down load what is a complex and slow process.

There are several different types of bar codes. A first type, a handheld reader 8 , includes an emitter 10 and a detector 12 , and the user manually moves the handheld reader over the bar code. The detector 12 senses the light which is reflected from a point which is scanned by the hand-held reader 8 via the bar code 2 and generates an electrical signal for the processor means 14 which represents the coded information. Hand readers were e.g. See, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 4,654,482; 4,907,264 and 4,937,853.

One document that is of particular importance is that U.S. Patent No. 4,471,218, which includes a handheld data reader and egg ne data source or a data memory shows, the This document or its German-language equivalent is incorporated here by references. According to the Be spelling is a handheld type data entry terminal completely self contained and wireless and includes one Reading and storage circuit or circuits. The termi nal also allows you to download the interface from Use an optically coupled connection. Preferential the stored data is used a pulsed beam from the reading beam light source spent. The output beam is through an intermediate detector detects and decodes in a suitable manner.

The disclosures of the above-mentioned documents or their German-language equivalents are described here by Be access added. The general characteristics of the on construction and operation of a handheld reader known to the expert.

According to another system described in the US application of the serial no. 0 / 691,263 of August 2, 1996 which the An has been assigned to the present application, is a hand-held optical read Terminal provided with an ergonomic design. According to The system includes a hand-held optical one Reader provided that fits into the hand of the user and includes a reading component and a download component. The Device can have a display screen for displaying Control messages or video images, a keyboard for Entry of control or tax data or other data and have a wireless communication link  to download the data read by the reader component to an external device. The system can also ne variety of interchangeable data collection modules sen, which are connectable to the main body, each Module a different function such as B. Image video recording and audio recording etc. fulfilled. As a result a simple multimedia module is provided.

However, it is desirable to be lightweight hand-held data reader with an even wider range rich of skills to come.

Given the relative simplicity, availability, and adaptability of information systems, including bar code symbol data storage capabilities, it is desirable to develop systems that are particularly suitable for customer applications. A handheld type optical reader that has many customer applications is shown in FIG . The arrangement, which is generally designated 680 , has a pen-shaped main body 681 , which has an optical scanning element light emitter and detector 682 at its writing end for reading a bar code symbol, which is shown schematically at 683 . The pen can also have actual writing ability, e.g. B. the writing tip has adjacent to the optical element 682 , or by having the writing element and the optical element 682 at opposite ends. It is desirable to increase the areas of application for such a product. The data processing capability or capabilities of such a system 680 are limited by its physical size and energy supply potential, which consequently limits the application areas of the arrangement. In addition, there are various problems with the actual operation of such a system, in particular when regulating the varying speeds at which a customer scans or sweeps over a predetermined bar code symbol 683 .

Conventional portable data terminals instruct data show data input means such. B. a keyboard, and egg data storage and processing equipment. A wide range of application is now at such terminals available including word processing, manufacturing V. Spread sheets, database applications, etc. A big one Part of the development work in known portable data Terminals are aimed at data storage and Increase processability or capacity. This has led to an increase in cost and size / weight (and the corresponding necessity of the subsequent minia turization of the components) together with increased complexi led to an increased potential for errors or collapse.

In another aspect, US-A-5,410,326 relates to a programmable remote control device to get together work with a variety of remote controlled devices exercises. The remote control device is so configured riert that it controls different devices and pictorial symbols that carry different functions for selection by the user. The Vorrich device is also configured for reception and display of advertising messages and for actuating different ones other functions such as B. e-mail and order from delivering food. However, the system is complex and based agile and has limited adaptability.

US-A-5,521,370 relates to a hand-held one portable data recording terminal for e.g. B. a department store environment, in an attachment device for one Terminal can be attached for data communication to a Host computer and / or to charge the battery. The Be writing is on a data interface between the terms nal and the terminal attachment device directed what  the collision of electrical contact elements or Has pillows. The terminal can only use the termi Communication device when communicating with it docked or inserted there. The terminal is wearing a processor and memory system that functions as a com Munkationsfunktion serves and it can be designed be that it serves as network control when he is is docked. A problem with such a system lies in the fact that considerable processing and storage capacity in the hand-held terminal and that the data will only be downloaded if the Terminal docked in the terminal attachment device is.

US-A-5,280,621 relates to a control system for egg personal computer. With conventional personal computers a system control processor is provided on one Interface or at an interface between the host processor and the peripherals such. B. a keyboard. The System performance was limited due to slow com Munkationsrate between the system control processor and the Keyboard and was further deteriorated when the Sy master control processor takes on additional control loads such as B. battery power management, external Busex expansion control, etc. According to US-A-5,280,621 struck to introduce microcontrollers to a commu application between respective peripheral devices and the system control processor to provide what the system control processor freed up to take on other tasks what overall system performance increased.

The question of performance management in portable devices gene has traditionally been used in different ways addressed. US-A-5,027,294 relates to monitoring voltage discharge of a battery power compar care at which warnings to the user at below different levels of deprivation are spent on what  allows a memory backup as well as excessive Prevention prevented. US-A-504,413 calls a battery la desystem including feedback or feedback input, which minimizes excessive voltage levels allowed and a connection of a charger to a peripheral device via a connector on the Loading device. US-A-5,487,181 relates to a Performance minimization by providing a main processor and a process that consumes less power sors, allowing the main processor "sleeps" when it is needed. One of them Processor consuming more power makes a difference subordinate functions, which allows becomes that the main processor sleeps or rests and that as far as possible while activated or woken up as soon as it is needed. US-A-5,511,205 on performance management in a portable, on a pen-based notebook computer. The system be sits a variety of independently tax achievable performance levels that selectively supply power can be used to ensure that a particular Task performed with minimal power consumption becomes. In addition, separate CPUs work synchronously in Be drawing to each other, which reduces processing time, that the main processor or main CPU on the performance management function must apply.

Summary of the invention Objects of the invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide an arrangement to provide a further improvement over the Provides state of the art.

Features of the present invention

In one aspect, a reader is provided with a housing can see and an information display at the top of the housing.

A keyboard can be provided on the top of the case hen what allows information that is identity of the operator, entered the operating mode, etc. can be. An acoustic modem can be used for unloading and / or downloading information read by the reader mation are provided and / or an interface or Interface connector can be used to connect the reader with a central computer for downloading or downloading of information and / or a radio or High-frequency transmitter can be provided for transmission information to a remote recipient and / or a radio or radio frequency receiver can be used Receive information from a remote transmit ter be provided.

In any case, information can be stored in a central memory device, which is a spatial Reduction allowed on the reader himself.

The reader assembly can be an optical scanner of the type "floating point" or an optical reader of the Be "field of view" type.

The reader can configu to connect to the Internet be. In particular, the reader can read and de encode a bar code symbol a network site address e.g. B. a World Wide Web URL represents. Access to such sites is therefore for simplifies the user.

According to the invention there is also a portable computer direction provided, which has the following: a main body and at least one data collection / communication mo  dul, which is connectable to the main body, the Main body an interface or an interface to Connection to the module includes a processor for ver work from information received from the module and egg ne communication link to exchange information or information with a host. As a result of the modular Arrangement can easily be arranged in different ways Applications can be customized without the need for expensive, to manufacture customized systems or such systems me to modify what turns out to be expensive and complicated would point out.

The main body can be a visual display e.g. Legs LCD display include. The main body can also be a keyboard exhibit. The modules can be an image capture module Be laser scanner module and / or a multimedia module. The Modules preferably include digital signal processing tion sub-systems that have a single structure and are programmable in a suitable manner. The modules can have preprocessors for preprocessing In formation before the transfer to the main body per to meet the requirement of the processor in the main body to reduce. The module can be moved on or relative to the main body and especially regarding the display be attached to the main body z. B. it can be articulated or pivotally or rotatably attached.

The device can connect to the Internet be figured.

According to the invention is also an e-mail delivery system provided that a server part and a client part has, the client part at least one user interface terminal or a user interface term nal, the client part being arranged in such a way that when a request is made by a special user or User examines the server part for messages that  through the user part to the special user were addressed. The system is therefore in system itself suitable where the client part physically between Basic service areas is moved.

The client part and the server part can be wired loose communication or connection with one another adorn. The client part can be one or more portable Have computer devices.

The client part can receive messages that entered by a special user and for communicating these messages to the server part be suitable for storage on the server part.

The client part can play a message and Determine whether a message is a visual message or an audio message and to play the Message arranged or configured. The system can form part of the internet or it can be used for Internet connection must be configured.

The server part and the client part are preferably on a local network provided that for communicating with other local networks including, a ser distributed and a client part via a server server communication is arranged or configured, wherein the Mail delivery system between local networks shares.

According to the invention, an operating method is also egg e-mail delivery system including a server part and a client part is provided, in which the client part and the server part are connected, one user zer or user submit a request to the client part there, the client part examined the server part the ser distribute any messages in the server part  are saved specifically for the user at the cli part transmits, and the client part transmits the message ten plays.

The user can send a message to the client part give for storage by the server part, the client part can transmit the message to the server part and the server part can save the message.

The client part can display user options for selection by the user, including the following options:
Saving a message retrieval or pulling out a message, selecting the way in which the options are displayed and selecting the way in which to play. The options can be pulled out of the server part by the client part, namely when the client part is initialized.

According to the invention is a communication system for egg NEN barcode or barcode scanner provided that fol has: a control host, a scan control object jekt that works in it and a remote client associated with the barcode scanner, the Scan control object communicates with the remote client to control the bar code scanner, and the scan con troll object is implemented as an OLE controller. Accordingly, a system is provided that is capable of seamless communication between the scan control and to provide the remote client.

The host and the scan object control can be controlled via Inter faces or interfaces communicate with each other or be integrated. The scan control object can be switched off separately Generate guide lines for control with the remote Client. The separate execution strands can fol Transaction commands include: send,  receive or receive and synchronize barcode scan ner.

The scan control object can be used to communicate with the remote client over an internet or intranet server binding and / or arranged via wireless communication or configured.

According to the invention, the following is also provided:

• 1. A method for reading a so-called high density ty bar code symbol that contains information that Data as well as data interpretation information sen, the procedure followed the following steps instructs: receive a signal that is in the Represents information contained in the bar code symbol, Identify the data and the data interpretati onsinformation, process the data interpretati Information and interpretation of the data according to the processed interpretation information.
• 2. A method according to claim 1, wherein the data inter pretationsinformation has a program script, the method comprising the step of processing the programmed scripts to generate a Interfaces or an interface for interpretation data.
• 3. An information retrieval or retrieval system stem which has the following: a "high density" Bar code symbol and a bar code symbol reader, wherein the bar code symbol contains information that Data and data interpretation information points, and wherein the reader has means for reading of the bar code symbol, means for identifying the Data interpretation information, means for processing prepare the data interpretation information and with  to interpret the data according to the processing interpretation information.
• 4. A communication system for a bar code scanner which includes: a tax or control host, a scan control object that works inside and a remote client with the barcode scanner is associated, the scan control ob communicates with the remote client to the To control barcode scanners, and being that Scan control object implemented as an OLE control is.
• 5. A system as in 4, in which the host and the Scan control object or the scan object control via Interfaces or interfaces with one another grace and integrate.
• 6. A system as in 4, in which the scan control object ject creates separate execution threads to the Control communication with the remote client.
• 7. System as in 6, in which the separate execution strands include the following transaction commands: send or send, receive or receive and synchronize Barcode scanner.
• 8. System as in 4, in which the scan control object is arranged or configured so that it over an internet or intranet connection and / or via wireless communication with the remote client communicates.

According to the present invention is a data terminal provided that is connectable to and removed from the Internet, the terminal having the following: ei to generate a data input and an internal server  an internet site that shows the input data, and has an Internet protocol address, the term nal also has a network connection with the Server works together to access the site for User or user who is somewhere else on the Internet to enable or provide. The system sees thus significant advantages in terms of speed Efficiency and access before.

The internet site can be a website. The data input can be one or more agents from the following group have: image or image recording means, sound or sound recording medium, or text recording medium. The network connection can be wireless Network connection be the one from the previous one lying group has: a radio frequency connection, a standard infrared IRDA connection, or a micro Wave connection over a private wireless local area Network (LAN) or a cellular phone network or a Cellular telephone network.

According to the present invention is a data terminal provided that is connectable with and that is removed from a data network, the terminal being the following comprises: a data input, means for generating a data site accessible to a user, which the A represents data and has a site address and egg ne network connection that arranged or configured is for receiving access requests from Verwen those who are elsewhere in the network and who the site is addressed and to provide access to the addressed site.

The network can be one of the following: the Internet, an intranet or a local area network (LAN), e.g. B. the network is the Internet and the Si address has an Internet protocol address. The  Site can have a website.

The data input can be an input or an input direction from the following group: Image recording means, sound or text recording media or something even a chemical smelling device that the present certain chemicals in the air (natural gas or other ge dangerous or flammable vapors) is detected. The dates Site creation and access means can be a server which is internal to the terminal. The network connection can be a wireless connection, the one Has connection from the following group: a high frequency connection, an infrared IRDA standard connection or a microwave link.

According to the invention, mobile imaging is one provided that can be connected to the Internet via a wireless connection comprising: image recording medium, a server, for generating an In ternetsite with an internet protocol address, and to Display the recorded image or the image and a wireless connection that is appropriate or configu is to provide access to the site, and to meet requests made to the site address are aimed.

The server can have respective sub-pages for recorded Generate images and images and it includes a menu that the sub-pages on a homepage at the site address provides or lists.

According to the invention is an Internet site creation and Access system provided that a mobile unit finally has a server that is suitable or is configured to record images on a given geographic location and to generate a Site that represents the image or image, specifically within  half of the terminal, the mobile unit with the In ternet communicates via a wireless connection, and where users on the site in the mobile Access the unit over the Internet.

According to the invention is a method for generating a Website provided where a mobile unit has data records that refer to its immediate surroundings hen, with a server within the mobile unit one Website page that represents the data and a Has Internet protocol address, and being Internet users or users to the website at the Internet Proto can access the coll address via a wire loose connection between the mobile unit and the In ternet.

According to the invention is an image capture and transfer Provided system that has the following: an ent distilled still image capture or recording device finally an encoder to encode the captured or captured image as an image data signal and egg NEN transmitter for transmitting the image data signal, where the system also has a base station for emp capture the image data signal and to provide access on the image data signal. As a result, it becomes swift or immediate access to the picture at the base station allowed.

The image recording device can be a digital camera have and may further comprise a bar code reader and / or a microphone and / or a user data input device and / or a printer which is preferably used for Print a bar code symbol and / or a so-called ten "hard copy" version or a printout of the drawn image is suitable or configured.

The image pickup device can be a visual display  umbrella and advantageously means for changing a Image displayed on the visual display screen is to provide.

The invention relates in a preferred form fer ner on the following:

• 9. A system that also has the ability of a global Positioning system (GPS).
• 10. A system in which the image pickup device ei comprises a body part and a user handle part, that protrudes from the body part.
• 11. A system like in 10, where a trigger or off Solver is provided which is associated with the handle part and is suitable for actuating the image acquisition or configured.
• 12. A system as in 10, in which a variable tax is provided, which is associated with the handle part to control the image zoom.
• 13. System as in 12, in which the variable control Has thumb wheel.
• 14. System in which the image pickup device further the hazard detector means includes for arrangement in egg ner danger zone.
• 15. System as in 14, in which the hazard detector means have at least one element from the following group sen: a smoke detector, a heat detector, one Steam or gas detector, a motion detector.
• 16. System as in 14, in which, when detected, ei image of the danger zone  and to assess the relevant hazards control body or authority is transferred.
• 17. A system in which the image data signal along a ner cost-optimized transmission route becomes.
• 18. System as in 17 in which the communication or Transmission route is determined so that it cheapest communication connections elects.
• 19. A data network that has: one he most transmission point or point, a second Receiving point or point a variety of dazwi local transfer points or points, Communication links with an associated co most factor, the respective pairs of points or Po connect ints, the transfer from the first Point is routed to the second point, namely via one or more transfer points that are such are selected that the cost of the associated Communication connections are minimized.
• 20. A data terminal that has a reader for Le machine-readable marks or indications en, whereby the reader is arranged or able Indicator, the machine-executable instructions to read code, the terminal also a Has data processor for decoding and off carry out the instructions arranged or able is.
• 21. Terminal as in 20, the one with a computer network is connected, via a network interface place or an interface.  
• 22. Terminal as in 20, where the machine readable A bar code symbol point.
• 23. Terminal as in 20 at which the machine-readable In structures in an agent implementation language are pressed.
• 24. Terminal as in 20, where the terminal is a term nalgehäuse and an Internet interface or a Interface, wherein the data processor and the Readers are provided in the terminal housing.
• 25. Data terminal as in 20, in which the reader has a physical connection connected to the terminal is.
• 26. Terminal as in 25, where the reader has an item from the following group: an optical Scanner of the "Flying Spot" type or type with floating point or an optical reader with egg nem "field of view".
• 27. Terminal as in 20, in which the terminal ent distant terminal that connects to a computer network via a wireless connection is arranged.

According to the invention is also a still image capture or recording device provided a digital Ka mera, an encoder for encoding the still picture as one Has image data signal and a transmitter, namely for transmitting the image data signal via a wireless Transmission to a remote base station.

According to the invention is also a method for catching or for recording and transferring or forwarding  an image is provided, the method following Steps: Capture or capture the image using a remote imaging device tion, encoding the captured image as an image data tensignal and transmitting the image data signal, the Encoder and the transmitter in the distant picture are provided and receiving the over transmitted image data signals in a base station for ver Share or forward the image. The captured or captured image can refer to a specific Incident communicates and the base station can the image received to an insurance database that relates to the incident.

The picture taken can affect the condition of goods refer to before delivery and the image received can who is transferred from the base station to a delivery point the, for comparison with the goods received.

The captured image may vary from state to state supplying goods, the image data signal can be as a barcode symbol encodes the goods to be delivered attached, and the bar code symbol can be attached to the Delivery point are decoded to compare the recorded image or image with the state of emp caught goods.

According to the invention is a product information retria Vel or recovery system intended for use in connection with the internet computer network, where at on product information that relates to a selected Product relates, can be accessed, to an egg an internet site with an internet protocol site address, where the site address is directly or indirectly is provided by machine-readable printed identification Chen or evidence, and being a held reader is provided for reading the license plates or indications,  to save the site address as shown and to download the site address to one Client processor to access the product information at the Si to access the address. The product can be a commercial Show product. The commercial product can be found in ge are displayed in a printed manner, the machine reading identifiable characteristics or indications in connection therewith are printed. Alternatively, the commercial product can a point of sale and the machines Readable marks or indications can be on the Pro product or product packaging must be printed.

The machine-readable printed evidence could be one Barcode symbol, the hand-held reader can a bar code reader z. B. an optical reader of Field of view type such as B. an optical reader of Have "handleser" type.

The bar code symbol can be selected in a format the possible set of formats, including UPC, EAN, be printed.

The data in the bar code symbol can be a site address represent, or they can just a product code represent that can be used to correspond appropriate site address in a table, and the site address can be converted to a URL at the client processor being transformed.

According to the invention is also a hand-held opti intended reader of the "handheld reader" type, the reader tel for reading printed license plates or evidence and Data storage means for storing the data printed by the data shown arranged, arranged are for reading the printed evidence that comes with a selected product are associated, with the reader fer ner a download connection for downloading the stored  stored data to a client processor, and to extract additional data that relates to the Obtain product.

In its preferred form, the invention further encompasses the following:

• 28. A reader who has a bar code reader.
• 29. A reader with whom the reader saved the stored data to an access point or point in the client processor down-loads.
• 30. A reader with whom the printed Indications presented data on a selected Obtain product, and the extracted data too additional information regarding the product point.
• 31. A reader where the access point is an interface or an interface to a personal computer having.
• 32. A reader as in 31, in which the access point ei NEN assigned down-load connection.
• 33. A reader with whom the stored data about a touch memory or touch memory interface or an interface are transferred.
• 34. A reader with the identification information via an optical interface, specifically via a IRDA standard connection is transmitted.
• 35. A reader where the reader storage means data save that be on the user of the reader pull, and being the information about the user  of the reader together with the saved data the client processor is transmitted.
• 36. A reader whose printed evidence is one Accompanying the presentation of a commercial product or include.

The client processor can connect to the internet computer network connected and the printed license plate or evidence can be a. Internet protocol site address included that corresponds to a site that has additional In contains information regarding the product. Accordingly the system no longer works as standard address protocols. The reader can have a bar code reader.

According to the invention is also a method for getting out pull from product information provided where the Product information in an internet computer network Site saved with an Internet Protocol site address and where the site address is in the form of a machine legible printed license plate is shown, wherein the method comprises the following steps: reading the printed license plate using a handheld readers, store the site address data through the the license plate are shown in the Spei means in the hand-held reader, download the Site address data from the handheld reader to one Client processor connected to the Internet and access the Internet site through the site address is identified.

The product can be a commercial product. The ge printed license plate can be a representation of the product in accompany a printing unit, or the product can be on a Point of sale must be set up, with the mark is printed on the product or its packaging.  

According to the invention is also a product information retrieval or recovery system for use in Connect to a closed computer network seen where on product information that relates to a selected product, can be accessed, at a site in the network with a site address, whereby the site address is identified by a printed identifier Character is shown with a hand-held reader is provided for reading the license plate, for saving the address data represented thereby and for downloading the address data to a client process sor on the network to access the product information on the To access the site address. The network can be on a LAN point. The network can have an intranet system. The client processor can have a network computer sen.

According to the invention is also a product information retrievial or playback system intended for use connection in connection with a computer network at the Product information related to a selected product relates, can be accessed, on a Network site with a site address, where the site address is shown as a printed label, with a handheld reader is provided for reading the Kenn character, to save the site address, which thereby represents and to download the site address data to a terminal connected to the network where at the terminal data input, data output and on has pointing means and the site address data to one Transfers or transmits host computer, and the host computer ter accesses the network site for input and display at the terminal.

The terminal can have a network computer. The Network can be the Internet, an intranet, or a LAN exhibit.  

According to the invention is also a method for out pulling product information provided on a Site in a computer network with a site address is stored, with the site address as a printed License plate is shown, the printed license plate is read by a hand-held reader who is there represented by site address data in the handheld A reader is saved and downloaded to a terminal connected to the computer network, where the terminal data input, output and display means and wherein the site address data from the termi nal are output to a host computer, and wherein the host computer to the appropriate network site grabs and enters these into the terminal, whereby the ter the product information contained in the website address on indicates.

The data terminal can display means, data input off have means of transmission and data transfer. The network werk can have an intranet network. The network can have a LAN.

According to the invention is also a method for getting out pulling data provided, the method following fol steps: Read identification information mation which are saved as printed marks below he use of a single or self-employed Reader, storing the identification information in a Data storage device provided in the reader transmission of the stored identification information tion from the data storage device to access Point or point of a data storage and retrieval system stem and extracting the stored data from the system stem identifi by the identification information are adorned.  

In the preferred embodiments, the Identi fiction information used to access an internet site access that relates to the product. In this Case has e.g. B. be a product in a magazine sliding bar code symbol, where the bar code symbol contains the Internet Protocol site address where white More information about the product can be found. The internet site can be a website. The user or User saves the site address and downloads it subsequent to a PC or other access point (access point) that allows the Internet site homepa ge or sub-page is called and on additional Pro product information is accessed. In addition, as in white Tere details described below, the Product can be bought or the user can be on in Be drawing products.

As a result, information can be stored if the user does not have access to the data storage and the retrieval system itself has. The stored data can be used as a flag or a request for the Ver serve users. A certain type is that the identification information mation refers to a product that is printed in a Scripture is shown, in which case more Details obtained below or whoever can, and in many cases a direct trans action performed, taking only one action with the data storage and retrieval system occurs.

The single reader can read one hand held laser. The printed license plate can be a Show barcode symbol and the single reader can have a handheld bar code laser. The identification information can refer to a Get the selected product and the extracted data may provide additional information regarding the product  tes. The access point or point can be an In interface or an interface to a personal computer ter or to an assigned download connection sen. The latter option allows use extension of the invention even if the user or User does not have access to a PC.

The identification information can be Interface or an interface are transmitted. The Data storage and retrieval system can the identificati Recognize onsinformation, the identification information mation may contain a website address and where the extracted data held on the website or ge stores can be. Alternatively, the data store and retrieval system a closed computer network have such. B. an intranet or a LAN. In this Case, the identification information is a suitable one Site or database location address that begin with matches the protocol of the intranet or LAN. The reader data storage device can store data that relate to the user of the reader, and the information about the user of the reader can together with the stored identification information transferred to the data storage and retrieval system the. This supports other transactions such as B. egg a purchase, and it allows a customer profile to be put together is posed.

In one aspect of the invention, the invention relates the following on a data processing system features: a portable terminal and a terminal mount supply or attachment device in which the attachment or attachment device a terminal interface or an interface and a processor capability or Kapa zity includes for processing data from the Ter minal are received and where the terminal is as follows has: a user or user interface or a  Interface, an attachment interface and a process ability or capacity that is only sufficient to User input or user input for processing transfer the attachment, as well as data from the attachment to the user interface or the user interface. Thus, an ultra thin or "ultra thin" client is on the Terminal provided, the attachment being the main part of the calculation or computer functions.

In another aspect, the invention relates on a data processing system that stand alone the or independent data terminal, docking device for Docking the terminal and having a host network whereby the terminal has a user entrance or a use rinput or an input from the user and a dock has the middle interface arranged or in the Able to transfer user input to the attachment, and where the attachment is a terminal interface and a Host interface includes the Arranged or in the La The user input is to be transferred to the host For processing. The invention further relates to a method of transferring data between one portable terminal and a base station, the ver drive has the following steps: Enter data in the terminal, transferring data to the base station tion, with minimal processing and processing the data at the base station. Optionally, the Most of the processing power is done in the host what thin or "thin" docking agent or a receptacle or allows a cradle.

Preferred features also have the following:

• 37. A process in which the terminal and the base station via wireless communication who communicate.  
• 38. A procedure in which the input of information or the input in the terminal inventory information points.
• 39. A process in which the information input into the Has terminal information associated with the sale is related.
• 40. A process in which the information input into the Terminal information that is associated with the stock exchange in Relationship.
• 41. a method which further includes the following step indicates: physically connecting the terminal with the base station at intervals to download from Data and / or to charge a battery.

In another aspect, the invention sees a pro duct information retrieval system, the following features: a portable terminal that is arranged or ge is suitable for receiving data from one or more Data output points or points in a product handle zone in which the terminal is arranged to a Image or image of a product that is accessed to map the, and in response to data the received from the data output point. Further sees the invention a method for extracting product information in which a portable terminal in a Product access zone is provided and data from one or several data output points or points, and where the terminal is a picture or image of the product tes to be accessed is displayed speaking on data received from a data output point were caught. The invention also sees a portable one Data terminal for operation in an operating zone, with egg nem or more physical objects belonging to predetermined positions are arranged in the zone before  wherein the data terminal is a communication receiver and / or transmitter and a display that is on orderly or able to characters that represent a representation are the physical object and / or for display its position in the operating zone. This character based system that allows a very user-friendly, efficient and human error learn free file or storage system is implemented.

Still other preferred features include the following:

• 42. A system in which the terminal data from a Da receive point or point via wireless information or a connection.
• 43. A system in which the image or image of the Pro ducts a product near the terminal speaks.
• 44. A system in which a variety of data output points is provided, and in which the image or the image of the product is selected from products which are in the vicinity of the data from which the terminal receives data finds.
• 45. A system in which the terminal has a positioning system stem includes, and in which the image of the Product a product in the vicinity of detek position of the terminal.
• 46. A system in which the terminal is arranged or in The location is a map or plan of the product access zone.
• 47. A system in which the terminal is further arranged or capable, the position of the terminal is up  the map or plan.
• 48. A system in which the access zone is a sale location.
• 49. A system in which the terminal is arranged or in the situation is an image or an image of an offer display the product.
• 50. A system in which a user of the Ter minals identification information in the system gives.
• 51. A system in which the terminal is arranged or in able to display an image of a product, that in relation to the user's preference stands, namely derived from the identification information of the user.
• 52. A system in which the terminal also has one or has several of the elements of the following group: an optical reader or a data pen.
• 53. A system in which the terminal also has audio speaker comprises.
• 54. A system in which the terminal also has a voice syntheziser includes to product information or other re to transmit or forward information.
• 55. A system in which the terminal has an area frame includes men who is arranged or able to activate when the terminal closes the product grip zone or a zone that as with the product access zone has been defined in relation to leaves.  
• 56. A product information retrieval system that further has a terminal docking point or point that arranged or suitable for receiving the terminal is, for charging the battery and / or Transmission or forwarding of the data.
• 57. A system in which the terminal is arranged or in is an image of a product to be converted tes together with the changeover information.
• 58. A system in which the product access zone is a La gerzone, and where a terminal in the Location is an image of a product to be converted together with the changeover information.
• 59. A method of extracting product information on where a portable terminal in one product access zone is provided and data from one or receives multiple data output points or points, and where the terminal is a picture or image of a Product to be accessed responsive to data from the data were received.
• 60. a portable terminal for operation in a Be drive zone with one or more physical Objects in predetermined positions in the Zone are arranged, the data terminal one Has communication receiver and an indicator, which is able to display characters or replacement characters show the physical object and / or display its position in the operating zone.
• 61. A data transfer device that has a portable Data terminal and has a base in the Location is to accommodate the terminal, being the base and the terminal have means for a common  me wireless communication or connection, where the terminal data entry and display means and minimal front-end processing capacity and the base is back-end processing processing capacity for processing data from the Terminal has.
• 62. A device in which the terminal is also a Element from the following group: one Broadcast receiver or a radio or Hochfre frequency receiver and a television receiver.
• 63. A device in which the terminal also has a optical reading part, the optical reading is detachably connected to the terminal.
• 64. A device in which the terminal also has a Movement orientation sensor and means for controlling the operation of the terminal depending on the felt movement / orientation.

According to another aspect, there is a terminal attachment or attachment device for attaching a portable Data terminals provided, the attachment in the Location is for wireless communication or connection with the data terminal, whereby the attachment is capable Display format information for one to be attached Terminal to receive or derive and data to con figures that are to be displayed on the terminal, according to the display format.

Further preferred features have the following:

• 65. An attachment where the attachment has data on Display configured, according to a pre agreed set of format options.  
• 66. An attachment that is capable of attaching data show adjust based on number of characters per horizontal line or line in the Data display format.
• 67. An attachment that is capable of displaying scale the size of the data to make it available adaptable display format.

According to a further aspect is a data communication system provided that a portable data communication pre direction and a device attachment or attachment has device that is capable of solvable ren recording of the device in which the device an bring a user or user identification information mation entrance and a device lock includes the device is capable of entering a ge approved user identification information ben, and is also a procedure for monitoring the Zu handles the portable data communication device provided in which the portable data communication prior direction detachable in a device attachment or an Bring device is included, a user or user a user identification information in the Inputting inputs, the attachment the device releases when the identification information is approved is, and simultaneously a timer or a timekeeper star tet, the timer is stopped when the terminal is reinserted, and being the identified user for the time period or between the release and reintroduction of the Device is billed. This application is particularly suitable for renting or lending to egg nem public space such. B. an airport or egg a point of sale ("self shopper" or self-service la the).  

Other preferred features include:

• 68. A system in which the portable data communication has a mobile phone.
• 69. A system in which when the device is released a timer or timekeeper is started, and the Time to reinstall the device persists for an invoice to the identified An to allow turner.
• 70. A system in which the attachment to carry out a status test of a device introduced there suitable or configured.
• 71. A procedure in which the device attachment performs a status check when the device is reintroduced.

The invention also relates to data communication cation device the wireless communication means for communicating with one or more Zu handle points of a local computer network, the device further comprising the following instructs: mobile phone means for conventional Telefonkommu nication if the device is out of range Local computer network access points or points is. A goods transportation tracking or tracking system which is a communication device for a transport vehicle Stuff that is capable of receiving and / or record the delivery of goods and have funds for wireless communication with a communication network and means for generating a data file or a file that is accessed via the communication network can be grasped to receive / delivery information see a goods transportation tracking or tracking network that is a physical network of transfer  points or points, the transport vehicles and Intermediate stations as well as a communication network assigns an interface the communication network is provided on each the transfer point or point, and at which the passage of goods is recorded at each transfer point what allows transport information in the communicati network can be accessed, a rechargeable bat series pack for an electric powered one Device capable of charging in one Battery charger to be added, taking the batte riepack predetermined charging requirements and a charging charging control circuit for controlling the charging operation sits to meet the predetermined requirements and a battery charger for recording and charging a rechargeable battery pack with predetermined charging requirements and that on charging control means on the Battery pack responds to control the charging operation, to meet the predetermined requirements.

The following is also provided:

• 72. A system in which the communication device has a communication base connected to a Vehicle is attached, as well as portable data device for wireless communication with the Base is suitable and has means for recording receipt and delivery of goods.
• 73. A system in which the receipt / delivery information one or more of the following: goods received, goods delivered, attempted delivery of the Were.
• 74. A system in which the data file or file is also Information regarding the current location of the Transport vehicle provides.  
• 75. A system in which the data file generating means have a server capable of Generate network file or a file.
• 76. A network in which a routing table in the Communication network is being developed for goods to be tracked or tracked.
• 77. A network in which each interface or each Interface a base station and a portable Data terminal has the in a common wireless connection or communication to each other stand.
• 78. A rechargeable battery pack in which the recharge requirement has the recharge rate.
• 79. A battery charger that supports a variety of Bat series pack holder and charging points.

The invention further provides the following:
a data device which is suitable for communicating with a communication network, the network having an adapter module interface and an adapter module in which the adapter module carries or has the network communication capacity and an adapter module for a data device which communicates with a communication network , wherein the adapter module carries the network communication ability or capacity for the device. As a result, transparent network file access is achieved.

Furthermore, the following features are preferred seen:

• 80. A device in which the adapter module an Adap  has card.
• 81. A device in which the network communicati ability at least one protocol stack and comprises at least one network file system client.
• 82. A device in which the protocol stack and the network file system client on a processor run in the adapter module.
• 83. A portable data communication device which has the following: Data acquisition or capture with tel, an adapter module interface and an adap term module, the adapter module having an internal Ser ver includes creating an internet site as well Means of communication for communicating with a Zu handle or point to the Internet.
• 84. A terminal, the adapter module being an adapter card has.
• 85. An adapter card for portable communication device, the adapter card being a device interface to generate an internal server gen a network file, for by the device captured data, and a network interface having.
• 86. An energy or service package or pack for Zu working with a device for energy Supply of the device, the energy package rechargeable cells, a charging circuit and one Connector for connection to an energy source, for charging the cells.
• 87. An energy pack or pack in which the charging switching one or more from the following group  pe has: an AC / DC converter or converter, ei ne charging electronics, a gas meter.
• 88. An energy package or pack in which the rechargeable Cells are interchangeable.
• 89. An adapter for a battery charging or charging system stem including a battery pack and one Charger, the adapter being a battery pack interface, a charger interface and includes a charge control circuit.
• 90. An adapter that also has a power input to has direct charging.
• 91. An adapter that also has one or more indicators to display the charging status.
• 92. A rechargeable energy pack or pack for one Device, wherein the energy package by an on charger is rechargeable and a charging circuit and comprises energy cells, the energy cells are interchangeable.

Brief description of the drawing

The foregoing objectives and advantages of the invention to the expert through the detailed description several preferred embodiments with reference surrendered to the drawing, with the same elements are identified by the same reference numerals across, the different views. In the drawing shows:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of the optical reader from above and behind.

. 2a which is suitable for connection to the Internet Fig one terminal of the present invention;

Fig. 2b is a block diagram of the connection system shown in Fig. 2a;

Fig. 2c shows an alternative configuration according to the vorlie invention;

Figure 2d is a flow chart illustrating the operation of the present invention;

FIG. 3a shows a perspective view of a data terminal according to the present invention;

FIG. 3b shows an implementation of the data terminal according to the present invention;

Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing components of the data terminal shown in Fig. 3a;

Fig. 5 is a hand-held data terminal;

Fig. 6 shows a detail of a data terminal according to the vorlie invention with highlighting capabilities;

Fig. 7 is a data terminal according to another aspect of the invention;

Fig. 8 shows an alternative configuration of the terminal shown in FIG. 5;

Fig. 9 is a portable computing device according to another aspect of the invention;

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an image capture module for the device according to FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a multimedia module for the device according to FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a variation of the device according to FIG. 9;

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the components, the components or Comp a distributed or distributed mail Lieferser vices according shows a further aspect of the invention;

Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of a client portion of the service shown in Fig. 13;

Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of a server part of the service shown in Fig. 13;

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of a conventional wireless communications system with a terminal Emulationspro program, which is installed in the mobile units;

Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing the operation of an access point when receiving a packet from a prior art mobile unit;

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of the interface or interface-reading application in accordance with another aspect of the invention;

FIG. 19 is the interface or the interface between specified scan controller and a control or a control source according to another aspect of the invention;

FIG. 20 shows several execution strands which are retained by the control according to FIG. 18;

Fig. 21 shows a pen type handheld optical reader;

Fig. 22 shows the main components of a pen type optical reader;

FIG. 23a the use of an optical reader of the pen type according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 23b, the use of an optical reader of the pen type according to an alternative exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Figure 24a shows an alternative version of the pen type optical reader;

Fig. 24b in greater detail the major components of the op tables reader of the pen type according to Fig. 24A;

FIG. 25a shows a further alternative of an optical reader of the pin type;

FIG. 25b shows a larger detail of the main components of the optical reader according to FIG. 25a;

Figure 25c is a view of the optical reader of the pen type according to Figure 25a from a different angle..;

FIG. 26a is a sectional view of an alternative optical reader of the pin type;

FIG. 26b is a perspective view of an optical reader according to FIG. 26a;

Figure 27a illustrates a method for downloading information from a pen type optical reader in accordance with the present invention;

Fig. 27b, an alternative method for down-loading of information from the optical reader of the pen type according to the present invention;

FIG. 28 is an associated down-load-port of the optical rule reader according to the present invention;

FIG. 29 is a sectional view of the down-load connection according to FIG. 28;

Fig. 30a an alternative configuration for an optical reader rule pin type;

Fig. 30b the reader shown in Fig 30a in operation.

Figure 30c is a partial cross-sectional view of a reader of the pin type of the type shown in Figure 30a and 30b..;

FIG. 31 is a terminal and a holder or cradle in accordance with the present invention;

Fig. 32a is a block diagram of a terminal / receiving arrangement;

Fig. 32b is a schematic diagram acquisition arrangement of a terminal / In;

Fig. 33 is a block diagram of a terminal / receptacle arrangement with a "thin"client;

FIG. 34a is a view of another embodiment of a terminal;

Fig. 34b is a plan view of an alternative terminal;

Fig. 34c is a side view of the terminal shown in FIG 34b.

Fig. 34d is a rear view of the terminal according to Figure 34b.

FIG. 34e is a further view of the terminal according to Figure 34b.

Fig. 34f is another side view of the terminal shown in FIG 34b.

FIG. 35 is a schematic illustration of a possible use of a terminal according to the present dung OF INVENTION;

FIG. 36 is a first image or character display of the termi nal;

Figure 37 is an alternative image or character display of the terminal.

Figure 38a shows a further alternative of an image or Zei chenanzeige the terminal to 99999 00070 552 001000280000000200012000285919988800040 0002019733689 00004 99880.

Fig. 38b is a flow chart illustrating the operation of the terminal;

FIG. 39 is a battery pack or package and a Batteriela degerät for the terminal;

FIG. 40 is a block diagram of an alternative figuration Terminalkon;

Fig. 41 minalkonfiguration a schematic view of an alternative Ter;

Fig. 42 is a schematic view of a further appli cation of the terminal of the present invention;

FIG. 43a is a schematic representation of yet ren wide application of the terminal of the present invention;

Fig. 43b is a terminal of the trailer or equivalent type;

FIG. 44 is a wireless network configuration;

FIG. 45 is a detail on a wireless Netzwerkkonfigurati;

Fig. 46 shows a further detail of a wireless figuration Netzwerkkon;

FIG. 47 is a block diagram of an alternative figuration Terminalkon;

FIG. 48 is a block diagram of an alternative recording or cradle configuration;

FIG. 49 is a block diagram of still another alternatively ven Aufnahmen- or weighing configuration;

Fig. 50 software data and control flow in the terminal;

FIG. 51 is software data and control flow in a receptacle or a cradle or a receiving device;

Fig. 52 is a block diagram showing components of an embedded memory device;

Fig. 53 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an alternative storage device;

FIG. 54 is a block diagram showing the configuration of still another storage device;

Fig. 55 is a block diagram showing the operation of a standard client device and a file access card;

Fig. 56 processing a hardware block diagram of a client and a file access Vorrich card system;

FIG. 57 is a software block diagram of the alternatives to handle the card system;

FIG. 58 is a hardware model for a Web enabled terminal;

FIG. 59 is an object structure for the arrangement of FIG. 58;

FIG. 60a a transparent web server;

Fig. 60b a transparent web server card;

Fig. 61a browsing or navigating with respect to the transparent web server;

Fig. 61b is another aspect of browsing or Navigie ren with respect to the transparent web server;

Figure 62 an alternative, according to the invention pack or packet.

FIG. 63a an improved battery pack assembly; and

Fig. 63b shows an alternative, improved battery pack to the battery pack shown in Fig. 63a, in a partially cut-away form.

Detailed description of the preferred embodiment games

The terms "front or front", "back or back", "top or top", "over", "bottom or bottom" and "under" are used throughout the description of the optical reader. FIG. 1 shows z. B. an optical reader a rear or a rear end 4 and a generally planar front end 5 , an upper side 2 a and opposite a bottom 2 b.

Referring to FIG. 1, the optical reader in greater A comprises zelheit an elongated generally rod or bar-shaped housing which is generally by the Be reference symbols indicated 1, having two opposing generally long, wide upper and lower surfaces 2 a, 2 b, two generally opposite rods narrow side surfaces 3 , a rear end 4 and a front end 5 .

A reading arrangement is attached within the housing. The reading arrangement can be a known conventional arrangement be, e.g. B. an optical scanner with a "flying spot "or" flying point "or an optical reader with a "field of view". In general, the arrangement a light source such as B. a laser diode, a Beam focusing or directional arrangement and a light temp have catching device. In the event that the arrangement is an optical scanner, a quick oscillation rendes scan component such. B. a mirror can be provided, around the light beam over characters to be read scans or clues. Alternatively, the laser diode itself can be oscillated. In the case where the reader an optical reader with a field of view can be a CCD-An order or photodetector arrangement may be provided to to detect the reflected light beam.

In order to actuate the reading arrangement, a scan trigger or a trigger device 9 is provided on the upper side 2 a of the housing 1 . The trigger device 9 is activated by pressing and is positioned along the housing 1 so that it can be actuated easily by the operator when the reader is held in the operator's hand. The trigger mechanism itself can be a known arrangement; For example, the trigger device may be spring biased and contacts sit which form a circuit with contacts within the housing when the trigger device for actuating the reading arrangement is pressed or depressed.

A scanning window 10 is positioned on the front 5 of the reader. Light generated by the reading arrangement passes through the window 10 and is reflected by a bar code symbol 11 and scattered back to the window 10 . Accordingly, the reader can be easily and accurately pointed at a bar code symbol 11 to be read.

A keyboard 14 and a display 15 are also provided on the top of the reader. The keyboard 14 can be used to initialize the reading arrangement so that identification information regarding the user is entered into the system. As an alternative, the keyboard 14 can be used to enter certain modes or information modes of the reader in front of certain codes or to perform deletion or manipulation operations on the information provided by the reader. The display 15 may display information related to the mode of operation of the reader or may display verification information related to the item bearing the bar code symbol read, together with background information such as e.g. B. the time, date and confirmation of operator identity. The display 15 is preferably a liquid crystal display (LCD).

The reading arrangement can process information derived from the bar code symbols directly, or it can send the raw data to an external processing device which then processes the information accordingly. In addition, information derived by the reader from bar code symbols can be transferred to a storage device so that an information database can be established, e.g. B. if the reader is used at a point of sale, Kaufmu ster can be saved and analyzed. If the reader is used alternatively for inventory purposes, then the inventory information can be saved. The optical reader can transmit information in different ways. Different transmission devices are provided in the exemplary embodiments shown; in practice, only one or more of these devices must be provided, depending on the particular use of the reader, for. B. the information can be transmitted via an acoustic modem 16 . In this case, information can be stored in a buffer memory within the reader, and then downloaded by the acoustic modem 16 at predetermined intervals. The display 15 could indicate when information should or should be downloaded. Alternatively, an interface or interface connector z. B. an RS41 connector identified by the reference numeral 6 and provided on the back of the reader. A suitable cable can be inserted into the connector 6 , for downloading information or, alternatively, for loading data into the reader, which is e.g. B., refer to the operating mode. The display 15 could again provide an indication of the functioning of the connector. The cable could be permanently connected to the reader since the connector 6 is provided on the rear of the reader and would therefore not come into conflict with the hand of the reader. Alternatively, the connector 6 could be connected to a cable for loading or downloading information if necessary, e.g. B. if this is indicated by the display 15 . In addition, a radio or radio frequency device 17 or other transmission device could be provided within the housing 1 to allow real-time data communication. An advantage of this arrangement is that the operator can use the reader in a "cordless" or "wireless" configuration, allowing increased mobility. The radio or the high-frequency device 17 could again have a transmitter 17 and a receiver, and a receiver, so that information can be sent to and from a remote processor. The radio or radio frequency link could be replaced by an infrared communication link or other wireless link of a known type. Since the reader has an ergonomic design, the information transfer is easily carried out while the reader is actually used if necessary.

As another option, the reader can connect to a telecommunications network or computer network e.g. B. the "Internet".

There is an example where the reader has a special one Owns use in relation to the World Wide Web. If it is desirable to access a website, it is necessary the address of the site that is considered the university versal Resource Locater (URL) is known to enter. Often these URL’s are long and complex and it’s time consuming nimble to enter and check them manually. Further the URL can still withstand many checks Errors. The problem becomes compute in the case inexperienced users or computer illiterates. The proposed way of how this problem can be overcome by encoding the URL address in a bar code symbol and by reading the bar code symbols with the reader for automatic access to  the corresponding website which is done quickly and accurately is, resulting in a much lower margin of error gives. The reader can be used to have a Combination with a terminal forms for entering the URL address or it could be used independently.

According to a further aspect, a data collection device is provided in FIG. 9 which has an improvement over known arrangements. The device has a portable hand-held computer for collecting data and for downloading the processed raw data to a central or peripheral device. The device which is generally designated 20 has a main body 21 and interchangeable data collection modules 22 a, 22 b, 22 c.

The main body 21 is provided on the inside with data processing means (not shown) and also has the following: a display screen 23 , e.g. B. an LCD display screen capable of displaying video images, a data collection module interface or an interface 24 , an optional information input keyboard 25 and a communication link or a link 26 which has high frequency or infrared transmission means or an interface or an interface to Download of information to a central or peripheral device via a physical cable. It should be noted that the LCD display 23 and the input keyboard 25 are optional features. Advantageously, however, they enable the user to quickly and quickly configure the operation of the device as a whole and to monitor the process. The main body is shown schematically in Fig. 9 Darge; in practice, it could take an ergonomic shape, as shown in FIG. 1, the appropriate interfaces etc. depending on the location, for. B. are positioned at respective ends of the module.

It should be noted that the device provides information on one Host can be transmitted via any electronic Data transfer scheme, e.g. B. the system could also on Use cell or cellular phone channels.

Alternatively, the device for connection to egg Nem telecommunications network or computer network z. B. the "Internet" must be configured.

The data collection modules are interchangeable and can e.g. B. based on CCD image, video and line Code symbol data, capture modules, audio transducers to Sam Gathering and recording sound information, laser image scanner or combined multimedia data collection modules.

An image capture module that uses a CCD det could be used to capture images of objects or objects for storage or for Use by a processor application by the Main body or a host is performed, whereby sol che pictures z. B. people, landscapes, houses and Vehicles for reference applications include. In addition the imaging device could be used for one-dimensional or two-dimensional bar code symbols for decoding the data capture or captured data An optical laser reader scan module and decoder would generally only for bar code data capture and used for decoding.

A multimedia module 22 is shown in FIG. 11 and will be described in more detail with reference to the figure. Such a module could have a circuit for image / video capture or recording audio capture or recording and playback as well as for a mobile phone sub-system. Such a module would be particularly useful in teleconferencing and life video communications over cellular networks from the portable unit.

The desired data collection module 22 a, 22 b, 22 c is connected to the main body 21 via an interface or an interface 24 on the main body which or which fits with an interface or an interface 27 on the module. All suitable known interface components can be used, but the components should be solid, relatively inflexible, durable and suitable for frequent loosening and reconnection.

The modules are powered by a power supply inside of the main body of the portable computing device Energy supplies and can be partial or complete controlled by software drivers within the main body be recognized. To meet the requirement of the central processor Unity of the main body can reduce certain or assigned signal processing electronics circuits be arranged within the modules to provide a pre-da processing. As a result, one common bus architecture to the main body through all Modules to be shared. As a result, the exchange availability improved.

A suitable architecture for an optical media capture or capture module 28 (e.g., containing a CCD, an imaging device, or a laser scanner) is shown in FIG. 10. Each module may have only the media capture or recording electronics circuitry without preprocessing capacity or capability, or as described above, each module may preferably include certain, assigned, or programmable analog components 32 and digital signal processing (DSP) components 33 for processing -Like to reduce the workload on the central processor unit of the main body 21 . The digital processing sub-system 32 , 33 in the module can be a single electronic design that is common to the different modules, and which is either programmed in the factory, or customized upon purchase, or by the user per is programmable to perform the functions in the processors if this is necessary for the particular media module. It is expected that the function programmability will mainly take place via software, since the module processing electronics are flexible and these software components can be loaded into the module at one time or dynamically, namely via the central processor unit of the main body. Accordingly, the range or range of components that must be manufactured is reduced, with suitable, specific assigned parts of the components being selectable for a specific use, or with part of the operating mode being carried or supported by software.

In operation, module 28 collects information via a CCD imaging device or laser scanner, in analog form, which is transmitted either serially or by converting to a parallel format. The analog signal is then processed by the digital signal processing sub-system 32 , 33 and forwarded to an interface bus from which the information is transmitted to a main body of the portable computer device. As noted above, the signal processing electronics preferably perform pre-data processing so that a common bus architecture to the portable computing device 21 can be achieved.

Referring to FIG. 11, the multimedia module 22 comprises a sound processing for image / video recording, audio recording, and to play Ab as well as a "cell phone" or mobile telephone sub-Sy stem.

The module is capable of receiving and transmitting video information independent of the main body of the portable computing device (although the portable computing device can also be accessed to monitor or check the information. Accordingly, a radio frequency antenna 41 in The module is provided for receiving and transmitting high-frequency information. A high-frequency front-end processor 52 and codec 53 work together to perform a digital to high-frequency / high-frequency to digital format conversion. Video information that is received via high-frequency is decompressed by an optional digital signal processing sub-system 44 to show where appropriate at the CPU of the main body 51 of the portable computing device. Another digital signal processing sub-system 45 is for other purposes (which are hereinafter referred to as larger) Detail be described) provided and preferably performs partial video processing with the CPU of the personal computing device completing the process of displaying the results. The second digital processing subsystem 44 may also be necessary for the interface or for the interface of the radio frequency codec 43 of the cellular subsystem. This depends on the processing size or quantity that is necessary for each function. Video information transmitted to the main body 21 of the portable computing device is displayed on the LCD 23 . The radio frequency reception, transmission and processing device 41 , 42 , 43 , 44 described above may optionally be present in a separate component, such as. B. a PCMCIA or another card of the plug-in or plug-in type, e.g. B. of the type manufactured by Symbol Technologies, Inc. Preferably, the circuit forms an integral part of the multimedia module to provide a fully wireless multimedia solution for the handheld computer system. It should be noted that the wireless connection can be adapted to any desired cellular standard (e.g. CDMA, GSM, AMPS) which is preferably selected to enable the broadest application of the invention.

The multimedia module 22 further includes a microphone / speaker component 50 which contains analog input information and to an analog to digital converter 51 , 54 which in advance transmits a voice band converter 51 which transmits the information either serially or in parallel to the digital signal processing subsystem wearing. Likewise, information can be transmitted in the opposite direction, e.g. B. digital information is converted from the main body of the portable computer device into an analog audio signal, converted into sounds in the transducers 45 , 51 and through the speaker part 50 . The digital basic bandwidth audio signal is processed by the digital signal processing sub-system, which can be reprogrammed in a suitable manner in order to carry out suitable audio codec processing. Voice band (VB) signals are converted by converter 45 , 51 as described above.

The video data captured by a CCD imager 52 is compressed by a digital signal processing subsystem 53 and passed on to the radio frequency codec. Again, the main body of the portable computing device need not be involved in this data transfer unless the user decides to monitor the transfer. In this case, a software controlled process can be initiated in which the video data is sent to the CPU of the main body 21 of the portable computing device for display prior to compression as well as to the radio frequency codec 43 prior to transmission, which enables the captured Image is viewed before it is broadcast.

The multimedia module 22 is preferably attached such that it is rotatable through at least 180 ° when connected to the main body of the portable computing device. This can be achieved by hinge or Ge attachable or pivotable or another arrangement of part of the main body or by arranging part of the module in the same way. This positioning allows the image or image of the user to be captured while the user can simultaneously look at the LCD screen display with regard to received video data or images. The rotation of the image capture part of the module allows images of objects in front of the user to be captured while the user is looking at the screen.

The microphone and speaker combination can be such arranged to be in a preferred standard configuration of the entire device to the user shows. The microphone can also be configured in this way be that it is from the main body of the portable computer device, and by the user of the device holds can be swung away or is foldable if the desired audio data from a different direction men.

A suitable arrangement including a pivotable module head 22 and a pivotable microphone boom 30 is shown in FIG . In the game Ausführungsbei an upper part 21 a of the main body 21 is hinged or hinged to the rest of the main body and rotatable about an axis A as shown by the arrow A 'ge. The multimedia module 22 is connected to the top and the top has been pivoted so that a CCD image capture device 29 faces the user. The pivotable microphone boom 30 also extends from the multimedia module 22 . It should be noted that a number of pivot orientation arrangements can be provided e.g. B. could be provided a hinge, hinge or a Schwenkvor direction within the structure of the module 22 , and the module could also be arranged so that it can rotate 180 ° across the axis A. Likewise, microphone boom 30 may be pivotally attached to module 22 in any manner.

Accordingly, it can be seen that the invention uses can be modular, programmable multimedia poss facilities in the hand-held form factor or form to be provided by portable computers devices such. B. handheld terminals or "portable digital helpers". The invention can be used are used for decoding on CCD barcode (in min at least one or two dimensions) by ind strategic and commercial users e.g. B. for a sale point processing or inventory; portable cellular video conferencing by traveling business people or user; and digital photography / imaging for Insurance agents or assessors, sales people, where These are just a few of the applications that are relevant to the subject be devoted. It should be noted that the above be written portable modules can be used at wireless scanner implementations or applications such. B. for applications at a point of sale (POS). Result it problems where such portable devices are not connected in any way since it it is possible that they will be lost out of business removed or otherwise unsuitable are injured or damaged.

To overcome this problem it is possible to monitor chung elements of a known type in the scanner build so that if the scanner is accidentally by one Customers are taken an alarm at the exit of the shop  would sound, just as it would occur would if another item or product the one such monitoring element has gotra from the store will.

Alternatively, the scanner could use some form of internal Have alarms that sound when the scanner has more as a predetermined distance from the base becomes. Where the scanner is based on a wireless Communication such as B. high frequency communication direction, the software prototype could coll that the radio frequency session monitors the distance Control voltage meter and alarm.

To locate portable scanners that have been misplaced an alarm or signal generator or "beeper" in the scanner be placed and signaled from the base be solved, the z. B. ge by a button at the base is controlled, which is pressed by the user. If the user could accordingly press a button Scanners can be located by listening to the sound of the Sound follows.

Another use for portable computing devices is e-mail box or mail delivery applications. Referring to FIGS. 13-15, the invention provides an improved architecture for an e-mail box system, comprising the portable computer devices. The improved system uses a distributed message delivery architecture based on cooperating devices. Within a network, a certain machine is designated as a server and its address is published on the local network. The server is responsible for delivering and receiving mail and also provides other machines on the local network with information regarding the user message status, e.g. B. if a message for an identified user was received, in which case the message can be forwarded to the user. The remaining machines on the network are de-signed as clients and they carry out a corresponding procedure or process, in particular they provide a user interface to the distributed mail delivery service. For example, the client part can provide different options for the user, e.g. B. the options to listen to audio messages or to view text or still images. The offered or shown options are of course based on the resources that are available on a particular machine such. B. depending on whether a sound card and / or graphics capacity are available.

According to particular Fig. 13 is a server 100 is provided and a plurality (2) of client 101 a, 101 b. The server 100 comprises an antenna 102 for communication with remote clients 101 a, 101 b (e.g. portable computer devices), a transmission and reception module 103 , a message coding and decoding device 104 (protocol stack) and a processing module 105 (request module ) for handling requests from clients 101 , e.g. B. regarding a particular user message status, access to any of these messages, etc. The information is accessed in a memory 106 , which may be a database memory module. The processor 105 also communicates with a mail user agent (MUA) module 107 that allows an interface with the server 100 . The server 100 is also in communication via the mail user agent 107 with a local and / or wide area network (LAN or WAN), which is generally designated as 108 .

The service or server can be part of a tele communication network or a computer network, e.g. B. of the "internet" or he can connect to it be configured.  

Each client 101 a, 101 b comprises different modules which it has in common with the server, with further modules which are specific to the requirements of the client. The client 101 comprises an antenna 109 for communication with the server and a transmission / reception module 110 which is connected to a message encoder and decoder 111 . Module 110 includes the hardware necessary to perform the transmission / reception steps, but it should be noted that at least some of the functions provided by the module can be provided as software. In fact, it should be noted that in general the reference to modules does not necessarily refer to assigned hardware, but rather to programmed or programmable software that is capable of emulating hardware performance. The message encoder and decoder 111 cooperate with the mail user agent 112 , which provides a user interface. In addition, the mail user agent 112 is available with a local data storage device 113 and with optional modules such. B. a display driver 114 and / or a sound driver 115 (see client 101 a) in connection.

The operation of the distributed mail delivery system is best understood with reference to FIGS . 14 and 15. Fig. 14 shows the steps of the "client process" performed by the user or users in a typical. At the start of operation, the client automatically configures itself based on the resources (e.g. sound or graphics) that are available on the machine [120]. The user logs in and enters a password [121] and a connection is established between the client and the server [122], at this stage the information that was entered during the log-in and the password process is sent to the server for confirmation or verification [123]. If the server is not ready for the connection or communication, the process is exited [124] and it must be started again in step 120 or step 121. After the user status has been queried [123], if the user or the password is known to the server, the process goes back to step [121] and the login and password process is started again. Otherwise, the options available to the user are extracted [125], namely in steps which are discussed below and with reference to FIG. 15, and these are displayed as so-called headers for the user [126]. The user then enters his selection [127] and the selection type is determined [128].

The client determines whether the user wants to see a message [129], and if so, the selected message is extracted from the server [130] in a series of steps, which are described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 15 is described. The client then determines the message type, e.g. B. audio or visual [131] and depending on the received message it displays the text [132] or plays the sound [133]. The client then returns to step [127] and waits for further selection by the user. If in step [129] the user indicates that it is not desired to display the message, then a message is generated [134], recorded [135], the data of the message are suitably packaged for transport [136], e.g. B. sent to the server by the protocol stack 111 in FIG. 13 and by the transmitter 110 and the antenna 109 [131]. Then the client returns to step [127] and awaits the next selection.

The client machine comprises suitable input means e.g. B. egg ne keyboard and display means z. B. an LCD display for entering the user selection, for message information and for displaying messages. In addition, a loudspeaker and a microphone can be provided for recording and playing audio messages. A portable computer messaging device, e.g. B. the one shown in FIG . B. can be used as the client 101 . In this case, the audio configuration of the client is partially dependent on the type of the module 22 out from the tervorrichtung into the main body 21 of the portable Compu is inserted 22nd

Referring to FIG. 15, the steps of a typical "server process" are shown. The server works as a continuous process, but to save system resources it is in a stand-by mode most of the time, in which it only listens to the local network. Accordingly, an open-ended connection is established in step [140] upon initiation and the server monitors the connection [141]. If any requests are received [142], the server proceeds to the following steps, otherwise it continues to monitor the connection [141]. Upon receiving a request, the server "wakes up", interpreting the request to determine which of the server's internal modules is designated [143] (e.g., database 106 or mail user agent 107 ) and if the request is valid if [144] the type of request is determined [145].

If in step [129] the user indicates that it is not desired to display the message, then a message is generated [134], recorded [135], the data of the message is suitably packaged [136] for transportation, e.g. B. sent by the protocol stack 111 shown in FIG. 13 and by the transmitter 110 and the antenna 109 to the server [137]. Then the client returns to step [127] and awaits the next selection.

The request may be a HEADER that is sent to the client to display message headers to the user (corresponding to steps [125] and [126] shown in FIG. 14); accordingly, when a request is made for a HEADER [146], the appropriate information is extracted [147], packaged for transport [148], for example in the modules 104 , 103 of the server and sent to the client [149]. The server then returns to monitoring mode [141], listening to the connection to the rest of the network.

If the request does not appear in step [146] HEADER information, then the server pulls all users news out [147] related to the identifi admitted user (for example on the Basis of the log-in or password information that is on the Client has been entered) and the data are packed and sent, as described above, in the Steps [148, 149]. The system then returns to the over watch mode back [141].

It should be noted that steps [142-147] are performed by the server's query element or engine 105, pulling out user message data from the server's storage device 106 .

If the request is not valid in step [144], then the user and the request are logged and it becomes returned an error message from the client [151]. The system then returns to the monitor mode back [141].

The system described above requires a much smaller one ren data storage on the client terminal / computer and is therefore particularly (although not only) suitable for hand  held computers with basic network capability. The system thus solves the problem of mailbox arrangements or or and it redeems the handheld host and the data storage device of retrieval responsibility by the Mail delivery service as two cooperating and independent Processors that communicate with each other are treated using simple network protocols.

The distributed mail delivery service actually uses the Contrary to conventional mail delivery service systems underlying network to actively request the Ser ver regarding the message status, which relates to a specific user rather than one Directory structure to use and focus on a dateisy to leave stem. Since all requests to a server multiple connections can be set up for one individual users are identified and rejected. The server is the only connection point to external ones Attachments that offer a more secure delivery system and that Server provides a view of the mail delivery service to the End user that is independent of the actual Item stored by the server.

In addition, the clients are released from responsibility loads to save any of the actual data or pull out directly. Messages are posted on a Request base delivered over the network, d. H. If you be requested by the user and the client part of the distributed mail delivery service only translates the To user requirements in a series of commands that to the server in the form of queries or queries be forwarded. When the requests are validated the server sends the necessary data to you Client back in response to requests. In the separation of tasks results in the Sy external designers the freedom to use system components independently  to modify each other. For example, on It is decided that the server will send messages save using a simple multi-box scheme could but if the capacity or speed or System efficiency subsequently needs to be improved due to an increased load on the system from a increasing number of users and messages Server to use a complete database management systems. Such a modification however remains hidden for the client part and the Client part effectively does not need any knowledge of that have basic server structures.

In the same way, the client part can, for example, modes and be different from a character based User interface to an interface of the graphic type be because of, in which case the server has no knowledge of must have the modifications, since the basic data request mechanism and exchange mechanism remains unchanged, and the Server has no knowledge of the way the data display on the client part.

Accordingly, a voicemail delivery system is implemented. The client part can be on a PC compatible platform run, although it is very easily attached to other platforms can be closed. The server can be on UNIX or DOS platforms are running. The client needs less than 256 kbytes of local storage space.

It should therefore be noted that the proposed delivery system offers several advantages over current mailbox scheme, by providing flexible and independent modules that easier to maintain and modify, and the offer a general mechanism through which data transfers can be implemented over data networks nen. Since it is a distributed system, it does not need one  Network file or file system and it relies on multiple local stores.

Especially since there is a server on every local network is provided to deal with clients within a local network and also to deal with to communicate with other servers on other local networks roaming or dialing capabilities of the system tems improved. The distribution of mail processing between The different local networks say in Contrary to the centralized system in conventional, Mail delivery systems and it allows a simplified and accelerated mail processing and transfer in Kombina tion with a portable computer with roaming.

Further aspects of the invention arise in connection with Symbol Technologies Inc. Spread Spectrum wireless networks: Spectrum One (works with a frequency range from 902 to 928 MHz) and Spectrum 24 (works with a frequency range from 2.4 to 2.5 GHz). The described However, exemplary embodiments are also in others wireless communication systems applicable.

Part 1 "Symbol" Terminal Emulator Program (STEP) and on a pen-based mobile unit ten / terminals

The "symbol" (brand) Terminal Emulator Program (STEP) is a tool or tool used to run applications for pen-based mobile devices, such as the mobile device 21 shown in FIG. 9 to format.

An example of the Spectrum 24 system is shown in Figure 16. The STEP is located in the mobile units 21 and operates with an Enabler or Freigabeent winding system 160 to a host computer 162 to execute before defined sets of commands that are sent stcomputer of the Ho 162nd Enabler development system 160 includes a release or enabler server 164 , a release or enabler application program interface 166, and a timer 168 . The enabler development system 160 receives an input from the spectrum-24 access point unit 170 . The host computer 162 is controlled by a terminal 172 to run host applications 174 .

The STEP provides the mobile units 21 with the (interface and logic functions which are necessary to communicate via the radio or high-frequency network and controls all input, output and display functions at the level of the mobile unit, including the keyboards, displays, Scanner and peripheral devices and printer support or support.

The STEP provides commands that allow the controller to a selection of data entry fields for the operator of the generate mobile unit. These commands could Allow operators, for example, to: (a) enter Keyboard data and bar code scanning; (b) sending multiple messages to the host in the same transaction; and (c) controlling the input Data type and confirming the entered data.

The STEP also allows control for display purposes the following: (a) the display of the data at any point le on the screen of the mobile unit; (b) the deletion of the entire screen or deleting a single one Line of mobile unit; (c) Save and re- creating the screen of the mobile unit; and (d) controlling the backlight property to to look at the screen in the dark.

The STEP serves as an energy manager to reduce battery requirements in the mobile units 21 , thereby allowing them to work longer between charges and increasing their overall life.

By installing the STEP on the mobile units 21 , shapes can be created and displayed on the display screen 23 (as shown in FIG. 9). Shapes can be messages, a prompt, prompting, and data entry fields. This allows an operator to call up a stored form for execution on the mobile unit 21 ; repeating execution of a saved form for one-line batch processing; and deleting all saved shapes and determining the date and time of the last shape definition.

The mobile units 21 with STEP enable the host computer 162 to do the following: read data files or files stored in the unit 21 ; actuating the alarm of the mobile unit 21 ; interrupting the input activities of the mobile unit 21 ; and the logout of the mobile unit 21 from the host computer 162 . This enables the operator to use the mobile unit 21 to collect data without being logged on to the host computer 162 ; the setting and saving of system parameters; downloading files from the host computer 162 to the memory of the mobile unit 21 ; and performing other maintenance tasks.

Fig. 17 illustrates a typical conventional Flußdia program of actions that are performed by the access point or Ac cess point 170 when it receives factory ket from the mobile unit 21 on the wireless network is a Datenpa. If the packet is a registration packet, which is determined in step 200, then the access point 170 processes the information contained in the packet in step 214. The type of association is determined by checking the IP address of the home access point of the mobile units 21 and this accordingly controls the message exchange in points 216 and 226 . If the package is not a registration package, which is determined in step 200, then the package is decapsulated or decrypted in step 202.

If the access point 170 short term address mapping tables (ST-AMT) has an entry for the MAC address of the packet source, which is determined in step 204, then the packet has an origin in the mobile unit 21 that of the stationary home data connection network (SDL) is removed, and the process proceeds to step 218. In step 218, the access point 170 encapsulates or encrypts the packet within a UDP packet, the IP destination address being set to the home access point or access point of the mobile unit 21 .

If the long term address mapping tables (LT-AMT) of the access point 170 has an entry for the destination MAC address of the packet, which is determined in step 206, then the packet is intended for a mobile device that is the is located outside of its home access point group (APG) and the process or the processing process goes to step 220. In step 220, the access point 170 encapsulates or encrypts the packet within a UDP packet, the IP destination address being the local access point of the certain mobile unit is set.

If the packet's destination MAC address is a Broad castadresse is what is determined in step 208 then in step 222 the packet is wired  and wireless interfaces headed. If the destination MAC address in the packet in the mobile host table (MHT) of the Access point appears, which is determined in step 210 is placed, then the package within a wireless sen connection layer packet (wireless link layer packet) encapsulated and passed on to the wireless interface in step 224. Otherwise the package is on the wired interface forwarded in step 212.

Part 2 Allocating domains and IP addresses to the pen-based mobile units 21

The following embodiments of the invention are concerned with assigning domains and IP addresses for the mobile units 21 to operate in a wireless LAN technology, such as the Spectrum One and Spectrum-24 systems described above.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the domains and IP addresses are hard or hard coded. The hard-coded embodiment includes setting the domain and IP address of the mobile unit 21 in the configuration files associated with the Spectrum-24 drivers and protocol stacks.

The hard-coded embodiment provides a relatively simple implementation of the domain and IP address assignment for Spectrum 24 network installations when only a few mobile units 21 are used which always use the same APG on the same network. In addition, a high degree of security is provided, since the ability to assign and detect domains and IP addresses is only available in the configuration area and not in the operating area.

The hard-coded configuration of each mobile unit 21 ensures that the domain and IP address information is fixed, ie not volatile. This ensures that no new configuration is necessary even when the mobile unit 21 is cold started. All access points 170 in the target APG can be configured to use the hard-coded domain. The server can be set so that it permanently (without any time delay) reserves the hard-coded IP addresses for use for each hard-coded mobile unit 21 .

Another embodiment of the present invention includes the application selection of domains and IP addresses. This embodiment is suitable for situations where a system administrator manually configures the mobile units 21 before being used by operators, by setting the domain and the IP address. In particular, if mobile units 21 are only nodes in the network, or if the system administrator sets the domains and IP addresses by referring to a master list contained in a network server, the application is Selection system advantageous.

For situations where the operator identifies the selection grace while moving between APGs or networks is a better or more sophisticated application provided to allow the system administrator to logi set up names for domains and IP addresses, so that the operator select the appropriate settings can by choosing a meaningful name, such as for example truck, warehouse, depot, etc.

The application selection process allows dynamic Setting the domain and IP addresses under application control, and that across APGs and networks.

Another embodiment of the present inven tion comprises the access point assignment of domains and the server assignment of IP addresses. This method is suitable if the manual assignment of domains and IP addresses is impractical due to too many mobile units 21 or due to the complexity of the network.

AP assignment of domains requires that the configuration of access points 170 permit automatic configuration. Using access point 170 access control lists (ACL) features or properties, security can be increased by giving access points 170 a list of the allowed MAC layer addresses of all mobile units 21 . This list may be greater than the number of mobile units 21 that are actually in operation at any given time, which enables the access point 170 capacity to be timeshared for a large set of mobile units 21 used alternately.

The server assignment or the server assignment of IP addresses require the existence of a mechanism inside half of the protocol stack, both by services (services) and providers (utilities) or customers in such a way probably supports the server as well as the mobile unit to dynamically assign IP addresses arbor. BOOTP and DHCP are two common mechanisms for a dynamic allocation or allocation.

BOOTP works by having a file for any mo lile unit 21 in the server, namely being selected by the unique MAC layer address of mobi len unit 21, which the IP address provides for the use of the mobile unit 21 shall be.

DHCP works by having a database in the server that records the IP addresses that are used (by MAC layer address) and the IP addresses that are available for dynamic mapping. When a mobile unit 21 requests an IP address, the database is searched for the MAC layer address. If an IP address is already assigned to this mobile unit 21 , then it is only routed back. If no IP address is assigned to this mobile unit 21 and one is available for dynamic assignment, this is assigned to the mobile unit 21 , recorded in the database and assigned to the MAC layer address of the mobile unit, and to the mobile unit 21 sent back. The DHCP server can withdraw the address after a time has elapsed if a dynamically assigned IP address has not been used for some time, and it can return it to the list of available addresses, or it can have the IP addresses permanently assigned as soon as they are assigned to a mobile unit 21 .

The domains and IP addresses can be stored in volatile memory, but they would have to be re-entered after a restart. However, the necessary address information can be stored on the memory or the quick memory of the mobile unit 21 or on the Spectrum 24 adapter card or a RAM diskette or a hard disk or PCMCIA memory cards.

The AP / server mapping techniques provide the ability to program ACL information through a personal computer connected to the same hardwired router as access point 170 . Furthermore, the AP / server mapping methods allow automatic mapping to match domain and IP addresses when necessary and allow mobility across APG's and networks.

Another aspect of the invention relates to the Problem of the need for a specialized pro  gramms for parsing (automatic syntax analysis) and that Interpret high-density data records that are embedded in the barcode label. According to the Erfin It is suggested not just the bar code data on a high density label or high density label, but also to distribute information that be writes like an interface is able to generate the data from the Da Read the record label.

The implementation of the invention is known to the person skilled in the art Operation of the Internet web browser to read the Bei play Hyper-Text-Markup-Language (HTML) files or file be known. These files are used to create a Interface to describe that through the web browser is to be built. In the present invention, the mo bile unit a reader or browser to scan one high-density bar code label that is a program script, such as HTML, a VB script, or one specifically contains compressed version of one of the two. The Script is parsed or automatically analyzed educated and interpreted by the browser, which is a user or user interface during runtime constructed and presented to the user. Of the User works with the interface by using the Scans data labels or labels and by using any one of the program controls that works with the User are presented to the data properly to process. In one aspect, a new data or interface level can be printed by the user is applied to the processed object. It be notices that as the bar code label densities increase hen, the ability he will give himself the actual Interface and data logging in one, Store barcode label.

Fig. 18 shows the system of the invention in greater detail. The system includes a browser 300 to which bar code information 301 is input. An interface 302 is set up during runtime and an interface controller 303 is provided. The browser 300 further includes a bar code gripping motor or device 304 , a parsing motor or analysis device 305 , a printing motor or device 306 with a printed data interface 307, and a communication motor or device 308 with a communication input / output (Input / output) interface 309 . The user works together with the interface, specifically via a wider interface 310 .

It should be noted that the manner in which the Infor tion in the bar code label is encoded, the expert will be known and that the software and hardware Expert will also be known.

This system is particularly advantageous for transportation and the identification of goods. The carrier of A program script label can distribute goods len that is read by the recipient's browser. The program script label that ships with the goods contains the information that is necessary in order to Allow browser to run an Inter face to generate the data for the shipped or read and process transported goods containers ten.

Logical systems have a big advantage through one such system because unidentified materials that are in circulation, quickly identified and processed through any entity that bro wser contains.

The administration of the hardware and the software, which in these systems is greatly reduced because  the browser included in the mobile unit (MU) is static remains. Only when new browser features the MU’s must be distributed, they must be distributed to the be brought up to date. All interfaces are distributed on high density (high density) barcode labels. This system makes an application program distribution the computer system into a general purpose system. An infinite The number of different interfaces can be determined by the Browsers can be read and executed. The users or Users are no longer on through the secondary storage their MU's for storing application programs borders or limits.

By using this new system, every Com computer system with a general-purpose interface reading application dung (browser) is equipped while working Generate interface that is capable of processing formation on the accompanying data recording labels or read labels.

Systems used on the go or in the field no longer need their application programs on the bring up to date when program changes file are necessary. It only needs the program script label be replaced. The number of different dates formats processed by a specific computer system can only be processed by the number of pro gram script labels or labels for the user or users are available.

Different users Systems can freely exchange information because the In formation interface, which is necessary to the data files or to process files, distributed on a label is, together with the data files or files themselves the user no longer needs a copy of the Spezia application program that was previously necessary  to read the data label.

According to another aspect of the invention is a dash code-Scan-OLE (Object Linking and Embedding) COM (Compo nente Object Model) Object for communication commands and Read barcode data over a wireless connection hen. As described in more detail below the object uses OLE automation so that it forms a "plug-in" development OLE tax extension. This turns it into an OLE Automa during processing object. The generated during processing OLE automation object controls a bar code scan device via a wireless connection on an ent distant client. The remote device actuates one Bar code reader and collects the bar code information, and leads the data over the wireless connection to the OLE automation object.

The main principles of the OLE architecture are the expert known. In the present embodiment, a The scan object implies as an OLE control. OLE controls are reusable software components that are designed so that they are in containers or Ele work that support OLE 2.0. OLE control gen are more powerful and flexible than previous ones Systems, such as VBX Custom Controls, in particular other than the VBX Custom Controls that they replace the OLE controls under a 32 bit environment base and not on Microsoft Visual Basic (trademark) are limited.

OLE controls are designed in such a way that they can be a container or element that OLE 2.0 works under that not only includes Visual Basic 4.0, but also also OLE-enabled container applications, such as Microsoft Office (brand). In addition ar work with OLE controllers in OLE approved applications  in third party development tools.

An OLE architecture enables different soft commodities to communicate with each other using of a binary interface mechanism. This allows that software objects are developed separately from each other and connected very late during the term can be. The software interface is a contract between the container or element and the control about how the two software objects come together work and share information.

Under the OLE architecture, the scan object can be placed and activated in any of a variety of containers or elements that the OLE container interface supports. Fig. 19 shows a general mechanism between a controller 401 and its container or element 402. As can be seen, the mechanism includes standard compound document interface 403 and additional control interfaces 404 , each having multiple interfaces.

In such a system it appears that the scan control forms a seamless part of the container environment. Through the exposed interface or interfaces the two objects communicate with each other and they inte outweigh each other.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 20, the scan controller 401 communicates with a remote computer client 411 via a wireless link 410 to control the bar code device 412 . The scan controller 401 sends commands over the wireless link 410, by a separate execution threads generated 413-413 d, send the bar code reader transactions via the wireless Ver bond, receive and synchronize. As shown in FIG. 20, the OLE container 402 and the controller 401 communicate via lines 414 a to 414 f. The OLE controller comprises a main control line 415 , which communicates with the OLE container 401 via lines 414 a, 414 b and with a first transaction line A 413 a via a line 416 . Each of the transaction lines 413 a to 413 d communicates with the OLE container or element 402 along a respective line 414 c to 414 f. Each of the strands also outputs something via a respective first line 417 a to 471 d to a transaction start processing function 418 and receives an input via a respective second line 419 a to 419 d from a transaction ended processing function 420 . The transaction start dispatcher 418 communicates with a transport layer 421 in the remote client 411 via a line 422 and a transaction completed dispatcher 420 receives input from the transport layer 421 via a line 422 . The remote client 411 includes a corresponding transport layer or layer 424 which outputs an output to a data arrival handler 426 via line 425 and which receives an input via line 427 from a command ended handling device 428 . The data arrival handler 426 outputs line 429 an output to a bar code device driver 430 , and the command ended handler receives an input 431 from the bar code device driver 430 . The bar code device driver 430 communicates with the scanning hardware, such as a bar code reader 412 , via a line 432 .

As a result, the user can use applications develop using OLE-supported Ent winding tools or tools, such as visual Basic 4.0. The user only gives a new scanner object in your project, sets the required properties writes the necessary code for an incident  notification and the scan control speaks or commu seamlessly with the barcode scanner of the remote client over the wireless link dung. To the application program, it appears as if the Scanning device would be present on the local hardware. The invention has a significant development on previous architectures that implement an tion of a local bar code scanner, which on of a machine that runs a COM object or lets run. In particular, the architecture allows the invention the control of the scanner over the wire loose interface.

The present invention additionally results the possibility to support subsequent versions, that about the distributed component object model architecture structure (DCOM) is distributed. The interfaces or inter faces between the control container and the control themselves are binary and can be considered by the operating system remote priority calls (RPC) be implemented. Accordingly, the OLE control in the be implemented as an active X control (Active-X control) to devices over an Internet or intra to control net connection or a link. This technology allows web authors and developers a new generation of interactive web pagers and applications such as game for Microsoft Internet Explorar 3.0 (brand) produce. This implementation has a special Advantage in proposed systems in which users or User barcode scanning options in their intra integrate net / internet-supported applications.

The intranet results from the use of the Internet technology to be an industrial strength for the user for application and mission critical applications half of an organization in an isolated LAN (Local Area Network) instead of an external connection  to the global internet. Individual functions handheld computer terminals can be built that connect to the LAN or click and go agreed to run applications to significantly reduce the cost per client when installing a network system to reduce. Missionkri remain in an Internet system tables or important applications on the Server, which eliminates the cost of using the application and reduces the cost of terminal configuration. The Collected data are transferred and on the server stored so that no local data storage in the handheld terminal is necessary. It is therefore too see that such a system is an ideal forum for the provides the OLE scan control object described above.

A conventional internet connection is shown in the schematic diagram according to FIG. 2a and the block diagram according to FIG. 2b and comprises a remote terminal data device 501 , which has, for example, a lap-top computer, a PC or a mobile unit, such as is described in greater detail below, which is connected to a server 502 via a suitable connection or link 503 , which can be a telephone connection which includes a suitable modem, a wireless connection or a cell phone or cellular telephone connection among other possibilities that arise to the expert. The server 502 is in turn connected to the Internet via a line 504 , as shown schematically at 505 . If the user wishes to access a web site, the web site address is entered in terminal 501 and server 502 fetches web site 506 at the specified address from internet 505 . Likewise, if the user wishes to create a site, the relevant information is entered into terminal 501 and the site is created via server 502 .

While the system shown in Fig. 2a enables centralized site access and generation, it should be noted that under certain circumstances the system is too complex, for example where it is desirable to create a site very quickly. In some circumstances, while a user only knows the information he is looking for and "browses" through the Internet to find a site that contains the information, in some circumstances the user is aware of the exact site to which he is located wants to access, regardless of the information contained in the site. In this case, the centralized system shown in Figure 2a can generate unnecessary delays.

An improved system according to the present invention is shown as a block diagram in Figure 2c. In short, the appropriate server software 502 is located within the client terminal 501 itself. Accordingly, the client is directly able to create an Internet site, the Internet site 506 being stored in the server, again directly at the terminal 501 . The client / server then accesses the Internet 505 via a line or a wireless connection or link 504 . As is known, the Internet can generally be accessed through access points or access points AP 1 to AP _N.

As a result, the invention enables an inter net site, such as a web site at the terminal is set up without the need for one assigned server access because a suitable server software is provided on the client terminal. When a Third party access to the site must be done in be able to get details about the client server address and so they can get on the internet access the client server.  

A certain implementation of the invention results from the relationship of the client / server that is in remote Mobile terminals are provided that are connected to the Internet communicate through an access point with which they are in a wireless connection. In this case Data entered in the mobile unit, which is in space generally refer to the physical environment in which the mobile unit is currently located, as for example play a picture of the surrounding scene. User, only those Cli who want to access the data ent / know server address. The address will be at the rele vanten entered access point to the Internet and the Site is built directly from the client / server or pulled out. It should be noted that the client / server is a Home page can actually include the user is pulled out or pulled up, the special Sub-pages on the site are accessible via the home page, so soon the home pages were accessed.

The system can use a data terminal of the type generally indicated at 510 in Figure 3a. The central elements of the data terminal 510 have a digital camera with a lens 512 and a wireless Internet connection 518 .

Digital cameras are known and the detailed structure results for the person skilled in the art, so that a detailed description is not necessary here. In short, however, the digital camera includes a lens system 512 for focusing an image on a charge coupled device (CCD) array. The image is then divided into pixels and encoded, for example as a so-called bit stream. The encoded signal is decoded and displayed on a visual display screen 514 or output as a hard copy. A "still" picture is obtained in the same way, but by taking a current picture. The main part of the components of the digital camera is not shown in Fig. 3a, for the purpose of simplification. A CCD camera is preferred over, for example, a laser camera, since images can be recorded over a greater distance.

The data terminal 510 also has a keyboard 516 . In order to record an image or image, the lens 512 of the data terminal 510 is directed onto the scene to be recorded. This is preferably displayed on the visual display screen 514 . When a desired image is isolated, a button or key is pressed on the keyboard 516, for example, and the still image is drawn to.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the data terminal 510 further comprises different optional and necessary components. A basic required component is a wireless signal transmitter 518 which , as will be described in more detail below, transmits the recorded image to a remote access point for distribution of that point. Optionally, the data terminal 510 further comprises a microphone 520 for recording, for example, a verbal description of the recorded scene, a bar code sensor 522 , which allows an alternative or complementary operation of the data terminal 510 , a physical interface or an interface 524 for downloading information stored in the data terminal 510 to a terminal to which it is connected by a cable or other connection and a printer output slot for outputting a hard copy or a printout of the image, additional information or, as follows is described in greater detail, a bar code symbol that is a representation of the stored image. As described above, the terminal further includes server software, which enables the creation of a web site at the terminal. The website can contain, for example, recorded images or images or sounds or noises from the surroundings of the terminal together with a text input or an input on the keyboard and / or the recorded verbal comment of the user. Another feature that can be included in the terminal is a global positioning system (GPS) of a known type. The GPS communicates with GPS satellites via a suitable antenna (not shown). As a result, the specific geographic arrangement of the mobile device can be immediately confirmed. This can be provided as additional information transmitted by the device and can also be used by a central tracking system to determine where each device is at a given time.

Again, the specialist is in the specific details the different individual components known and for the sake of simplicity these will not be repeated here get.

The network architecture is like this to minimize costs that they built the amount of data transfer across the Communication connections with the highest cost mini lubricated. This can be achieved, for example, by off choose a communication route that is the cheapest available lines used. Where this leads to a delay a priority system can be introduced the one that ensures that connections or communications where a delay is unimportant be sent on a cost-optimized basis, whereas such signals for which the transmission speed important is shipped on an importance basis will. Where, for example, wireless communication is high Cost as opposed to a physical interface comm communication, information with low priority  physically from the terminal to a weighing or Transfer device can be transferred or downloaded, around the performance and processing requirement and the reduce general costs.

An alternative terminal configuration can be found on the An regulations based in the U.S. filing with the serial No. 08/691 263 of August 2, 1996. The Be writing describes a terminal of the modular type interchangeable data collection modules, together with a de tailored description of connections or communica tion devices between mobile units and the In ternet.

The system can be used for messages or the Coverage of news. A journalist who did the termi nal can save pictures of a news event and record a report of the incident. A web Site can be created immediately on the terminal via the internal server which holds the report and the other data contains. Accordingly, a user who has something want to find out about the news, just about that Network access to the site. The address could be the Users may be known or they could be through a central Site will be available on the Internet that shows where different mobile units are located and their Provides site addresses. It should be noted that the Technolo gie can also include a pay-per-view article system te, in which the user automatically Invoice for access to the site is issued. It it should be noted that many other applications are possible. For example, a police report on the scene of a Incident or an insurance report on the spot instead of being prepared for a transfer a stand-alone server for creating a website leaves at this level.  

According to the embodiment, any suitable one Form of wireless communication between the Cli ent / server and the Internet can be used. Such sys Temes are for "roaming" or moving units knows where access points to Internet that are suitable for receiving messages or communications from mobile units to below different geographical points are arranged. Be Known algorithms can be used for the Aus choose which access point is the most suitable. The The message or communication itself can be or radio frequency waves or an optical connection, such as an IRDA standard protocol. It it should be noted that there is another advantage of the system is that the site is stored in the terminal and only on request over the wireless connection transferred or downloaded, was the cost reduced that with a continuous data transfer would occur. Data that can never be requested at a later date via a cost-effective re connection are transmitted.

A flow chart of the operation of terminal 501 is shown in Figure 2d. In step 5110, the desired data, for example an image or an audio recording, is captured or recorded. The data is then encoded in a suitable format as a web page in step 5112, for example by generating a bit map. In step 5114, the encoded data is processed to generate a suitable web page, in accordance with the desired format as determined by the server software and any other input. The process can then branch to step 5116 where the page is stored in the terminal. When a page access request is received at 5118 from a remote user who has accessed the known address for the terminal, the page is displayed on the terminal website. According to an improved system, the process branches at 5114, which also allows a specific page address to be generated for the particular data stored in the given process at step 5120. The address and details of the page, stored at the address is displayed in a home page in step 5122. This allows a menu to be created for the terminal so that more than one page is available. Accordingly, when the site is accessed at 5124 by a remote user, the remote user has the option to select the relevant sub-page that is displayed in the home page in step 5126, which is to display any desired page enabled, using the address generated in step 5120. The system thus allows quick and easy operation without programming being necessary and in particular without the need for HTML. A current web page can be set up using the server software, the image to be displayed being saved simply by the terminal pointing to it and by "clicking". The system can again be built with a cost optimization in mind, which ensures that a minimal size of the data transfer via communication links takes place at high costs.

A possible implementation of an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 3b. For example, where the police or other authorities or an insurance agent wants to record details of a scene generally shown at 530 , the image is displayed as a digital still image by the data terminal 510 captured, in the manner described above. The stored image is encoded, for example, as a bit stream, and the bit stream is transmitted or relayed via transmitter 518 to a remote point.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the image information is forwarded from the transmitter 518 to an intermediate booster or amplification transmitter 532 . This can either be a transmitter of a network, which is distributed over an area, or it can be carried, for example, in the vehicle, the user of the data terminal or a carrying case. The use of a booster transmitter 532 reduces the boardcast or transmit power requirements of the data terminal 510 , which allows more space for the data storage / processing means or accessories to be allocated and increases the life of the battery. However, it should be noted that the booster transmitter is optional and is not necessary in many cases. The transmission can take place via a wireless radio frequency connection, a microwave connection or any other suitable wireless communication method. In cases where the vehicle is part of a larger GPS-monitored tracking system, the arrangement of the present invention can be a module that is built into this system.

Either the transmitter 518 in the data terminal 510 or the booster transmitter 532 transmits the image information to an access point or access point 534 which has a receiver for receiving the transmitted information signal. The received signal is input to a processor / data storage / decoder device 536 . The image can then be transferred to any desired device, for example a central data storage device, so that the user can access it when it returns to its place (e.g. an intranet or LAN) or it can be sent to a message or information network such as for example, the Internet will be transmitted when it is desirable to send the image, or it can be transferred to a police or other authority information database when it is convenient to record and document the image. The transmitted signal from the data terminal 510 may also include other information such as the desired destination of the image, additional information related to the circumstances, encoded information directed to a representation of verbal message recordings or sound message recordings which further explain the circumstances as recorded by the microphone 520 . Information regarding the circumstances or the destination of the image can be entered via the keyboard 516 .

Where to use the web page on site at the terminal an internal server is generated, the transfer system in the same way for access by a third party th person on the web page.

A block diagram showing the components of the data terminal 510 is shown in FIG. 4. The data terminal comprises different inputs which have suitable converters for converting the input signals into electronic signals. The inputs include the digital camera input 544 including a CCD array transducer or transducer, an audio signal input 546 including a microphone transducer or transducer, and a bar code symbol signal input including, for example, a CCD array. Each of these signals is input to a respective encoding or digitizing sub-processor 550 , 552 , 554 and the processed signal from each sub-processor is transferred to a data storage and processing device 556 . The data is stored, processed and forwarded to different outputs in a suitable manner.

The data relating to the image captured by digital camera 544 and, if appropriate, bar code data or audio data are transmitted to a transmitter module 558 and, as described above, transmitted at output 560 . A hard copy or a printout of the still image or, as will be described below, a bar code symbol representation thereof is output via the printer driver module 562 and the output 564 . Where it is expedient to download the stored information via a physical interface or an interface, this is carried out at output 566 . In addition, data storage / processor 556 receives information input or input to keyboard 516 via line 568 and sends the image from digital camera input 544 to visual display screen 514 , via line 570 . The system is supplied with a total of a power supply or energy supply 572, for example a battery. Where the terminal is configured to create a web page on site, a server may be included in hardware (or software or a combination of hardware and software), as shown at 557 .

Accordingly, it can be seen that in one aspect the image da automatically captured and shared ten basis can be transferred to which by authori sied users can be accessed. The pictures can be transported and / or it could be drawn towards them be accessed, via video servers, collaborative work group software and distributed multimedia and through desk top video teleconferencing will be implemented. A ver Processing of the image can be done on the raw data once it has been transferred to the main network what a further reduction in processing requirements changes and thus the energy and space requirements changes for the data terminal itself.  

A particular advantage of using a digital Ka mera is that the image with high to medium resolution Can be saved and electronically with a mini mum of intermediate processing can be transferred.

It should be noted that a wide range of applications is available, especially in relation on industries that generally occur regularly Location photographic (digital) pictures taken or be shot. An alternative to the one discussed above insurance claims documentation application, in which offers / estimates are involved, if the item to which the offer / estimate relates relation, is provided, for example for documents the required work, the object recorded on which the offer or estimate ba sated. In the same way, in cases where a re repair work or improvement work an estimate to be drawn which the stored images are considered. This system could be used as a general documentation help for objects or circumstances. How Described above, the system could be used in the judiciary be set. For example, the scene of a verb saved or forwarded in an accident or accident or it could be used. In fact, suspects or perpetrators could be photographed and the image could be saved with a suitable database sis are compared, for identification purposes using known comparison techniques. The sy stem could also serve as a temporary aid to a white ongoing documentation of circumstances, such as use for proofing and / or test images or test prints be det. The data is preferably forwarded as determined by a network architecture that is constructed in such a way that it reduces transmission costs adorned by minimizing the transmissions via communica  tion connections with high costs.

As can be seen, the system has all of the above mentioned possible applications as well as all other applications special and significant advantages, in particular especially the provision of immediate access to images for third parties, the users of the image distribution network are simul, the provision of access for all users tan, if desired, a reduction in the processing time processing time (as a result of immediate access), verbes increased accuracy and / or efficiency as a result of the ver Availability of more accurate information, especially with Imple High resolution mentions, and associated costs savings that resulted in particular from the reduced Processing time and improved accuracy ben.

Yet another possible implementation of the arrangement would be a remote fire alarm or smoke detector. A Terminal that has the basic advantages of a digital camera or other imaging means and the possibility for connection to a network, perma nent or removable in a zone where it is desirable, the environment in terms of fire, Smoke, toxic gases or any other such Monitor dangers. The terminal also includes one Hazard detector of any suitable type, such as Example a smoke detector, a heat detector, one Toxic substance detector or other detector gate. Such detectors are all known to the person skilled in the art and therefore no further description is necessary here dig. For example, in the case of a fire alarm ter minals a heat detector detects that the ambient temperature has risen above a predetermined limit then the terminal is activated to take a still picture or capture a moving picture of the scene. For at the same time the terminal notifies the relevant Authorities such as the fire department and the picture  becomes one in the manner described above Access 99999 00070 552 001000280000000200012000285919988800040 0002019733689 00004 99880 point at the fire station. Demge According to the scene can be viewed and it can be fixed whether there is a real fire risk or whether the activity that led to the rise in temperature has to be detected, such as cooking. In As a result, false alarms can largely be avoided be avoided. It should be noted that a similar approach can be used for other hazard detectors where transfer an image of the scene to appropriate authorities is detected when a potential risk is first detected was, and for further evaluation before a full constant mobilization (of the security forces) takes place.

Another improvement, for which the system of the present invention would be particularly suitable according to a further aspect and which would benefit from the advantages described above, arises in the field of goods transfer, for example package delivery. If a damaged package is received, there is no way to immediately determine the condition of the package in which it was shipped. However, the system of the present invention would be capable of capturing the image and transmitting it to a remote location or generating an appropriate web page on site. The image could then be accessed in the receiving depot and compared to the packet actually received to determine if its state has changed in any way. An alternative option would be to print the image information in a bar code format, where the bar code itself is attached to the package. The bar code symbol could be decoded at the receiving depot to compare the image with the received packet. Obviously, a high resolution bar code symbol would be needed, for example, under the PDF 417 protocol . The reader shown in FIG. 3a includes the capability for such an arrangement, including a printer and a printer slot 526 .

It should be noted that the above embodiments relate to specific, real implementations of the invention and that the invention encompasses a number of alternatives. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the data terminal 510 is configured for ergonomic considerations by comfortably fitting in the user's palm. As a result, the data terminal 510 can be quickly and accurately focused on an image to be captured using the visual display screen to ensure that the image is as desired. At the same time, the keyboard can be conveniently manipulated using the other hand of the user to capture the image, enter additional information, etc. Alternatively, the terminal can take the form of a conventional camera, video camera, or any other suitable configuration have the image recording and preferably also ei ne data entry.

The digital camera preferably comprises autofocus and a manual zoom capability with a separa th button / shutter button to zoom, the button / shutter button can form part of the keyboard or it can be separate be provided. The manual zoom feature is supported the taking of close-ups of the counter to be taken befitting. As noted above, for example, a printer with low density, low quality in the data term nal can be provided, or it can be used as an additional element be provided so that a hard copy or a deduction of the Image is available on site. As described above, te the image for subsequent decoding in one PDF 417 format to be printed.

Fig. 8 shows an alternative configuration for a data terminal. Terminal 510 generally contains all of the components discussed in relation to the other embodiments. However, the terminal 510 is configured in a "aim and shoot" design and includes a handle portion 5120 and a barrel portion 5122 . The handle part is configured such that it sits comfortably and easily with an optimal balance in the hand of the user and it also carries a trigger or trigger 5124 and a thumbwheel 5126 . A display 5128 and an optional keyboard 5130 are provided on the top of the barrel 5122 to allow easy viewing and entry for the user. The camera lens or other imaging means are provided on the front of the barrel 5122 (not shown), which allows the user to simply aim the terminal 510 in the direction in which he wants to shoot. When the desired scene is shown on a display 5128 , the scene is captured or activated by activating the trigger 5124 . The zoom can be controlled by the thumb wheel 5126 , which is preferably arranged for an optimal use by the thumb of the user or user when the handle part 5120 is held by the user.

The processing speed and the storage capacities of the components of the data terminal can of course be determined according to the cost of the system, for example a slower and therefore cheaper microprocessor could be installed. For better high-end applications, the data terminal could also have an SRAM card for storing the still images. In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, the visual display screen 514 could include LCD capabilities. Accordingly, using an appropriate pen 100, the image may be altered, for example, by intervening in or otherwise highlighting areas of interest, the changes being shown on the LCD display as 5102 in FIG. 6. The changes can be deleted or additionally changed using the keyboard, as required.

The range of implementations and the speed and system efficiency can also be improved by barcode reading capabilities in the data terminal or be provided in connection with it. The structure and the uses of bar code readers are the subject known and therefore a detail is unnecessary here lated description. In short, has a barcode symbol, however, one or more rows of bright and dark regions, typically in the form of Rectangles, and in the case of two-dimensional codes in the form of a two-dimensional arrangement of bright and dark rooms. The dimensions of the dark and hel Regions show the coded information to be read on. A barcode reader exposes the symbol under Ver use of reading beam generating means and he feels it Light reflected off the coded regions using reading beam detection means to detect the Detect dimensions of the coded regions. A Decoder decodes the detected encoded information. Known symbols include, for example, UPC / EAN, Coder 128, Codabar and Interleaved 2 of 5.

A known type of bar code reader has a Da handheld reader as described in U.S. Patent 4,471,218 ben is, the or its German-language equivalent is incorporated herein by reference.

FIG. 7 shows a data terminal 510 of the type described above, which further comprises an optical reader 5110 which is accommodated in the data terminal 510 . The reader 5110 includes read beam generation and detection means and the data terminal 510 includes processing means for decoding the detected encoded information. The reader 5110 can either have a "floating point" type laser scanner including means for scanning the reading beam or an "field of view" type optical reader including a CCD array as a detector. Both types of readers are known to the expert and a full description of the construction parts and their operation is therefore not provided here.

It should be noted that a wide range of implementations are possible for the data terminal shown in FIG. 7. In particular, it can be useful in many circumstances to be able to read the information contained in Strichco's to provide or derive additional information, in addition to the information extracted from the external environment by the data terminal.

A particularly advantageous exemplary embodiment is shown in FIG. 7. In particular, a book or other publication 5114 is provided that can be carried by the user and that has printed bar codes 5116 that can be read by reader 5110 and the information contained therein can then be used by data terminal 510 . As will be described in more detail below, the data terminal 510 actually has an Internet server that is capable of creating a web site on the data terminal that contains, for example, information regarding the external environment around the data terminal. for access by users who are somewhere else on the Internet. In such circumstances, the terminal may traditionally wish to download executable code from a host machine using an agent implementation language such as Java (trademark). This system can be complicated and time-consuming in terms of the level of communication required between the client and the host. The present invention solves this problem by storing the executable code (applets) in the form of two-dimensional high-density bar codes 5116 in book 5114 . Each bar code symbol 5116 is identified by a suitable short title or other identification information in the book. When it is necessary to access an applet, the user only needs to read the two-dimensional bar code using the bar code reader 5110 and the executable code is immediately downloaded to the data terminal 510 for proper use by the data terminal 510 .

The invention allows the user a conventional one Book, for example with five hundred pages of 2-D Wear applet codes. Such a book is not complicated or inconvenient and it would actually be for many users attractive. The system allowed that accelerated strongly Download applets in as little as 15 Seconds. Conventional download systems would work in this Time frame was still on a connection to the host ten.

It should be noted that any suitable executable code in a desired language could be stored in the two-dimensional bar codes 5116 . A wide range of different applets could of course be stored according to this system and appropriately indexed. Of course, the system could be used for fixed or dedicated clients as well as the remote mobile client data terminal shown in FIG. 7.

It can be seen that the data terminal is suitable for everyone can communicate th data network, namely for the play through an access point to the Internet or to a closed assigned system that is based on the An  user or for which the user is involved whose users have a subscription. The communication can be via a radio frequency connection or if this is ge is an infrared or microwave connection or any other suitable wireless communication ons procedure.

It should be noted that each of the features that are related was described for an exemplary embodiment in geeig in any other embodiment can be used without the teachings of the present to deviate from the description.

The term "license plate" or "evidence" as used in the ver description and in the following claims is used not only includes symbolism in the broader sense ster that with alternative lines and free spaces with different widths, typically as a dash code symbols are referred to, are constructed, but also on other one- or two-dimensional graphic Patterns and alphanumeric characters. Generally can the term "license plate" or "evidence" refers to ir relate to a type of pattern or information, that can be recognized or identified, by scanning a light beam and detecting the right scattered scattered light as a representation of Variations in light reflectivity at different Points of the pattern or information. A bar code For example, symbol is a "mark" that precedes the can scan lying invention.

An example of an optical reader that can be used in connection with the present invention is shown in FIG . Although a pen-type optical reader (often known as a "handheld data reader") is shown, it should be noted that any other handheld configuration would be suitable for use in connection with the present invention. Although specific design details are also described in greater detail below, it should be noted that the data storage / processing elements and optical reader elements of a known type can replace the specific components described in a manner known to those skilled in the art are. A description of pen-like readers can be found in the applicant's publication US-A-5 506 392, the German-language equivalent of which is incorporated herein by reference.

The pen type optical reader (hereinafter referred to as a "handheld reader") is generally designated 690 in FIG. 22. It should be noted that the precise shape of the handheld reader, as shown at 690 , may be exaggerated, for example, in width, to more clearly show each of the major components and their cooperation or interaction. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the handheld reader 690 has a ballpoint pen 691 , 692 together with the optical reader 693 itself. The handheld reader need not have an actual writing ability or it can be in the form of any suitable writing utensil such as a pencil, a fountain pen, a marker, etc. In fact, the optical reader subsystem, described in more detail below, could have a modular form that can be inserted into a suitably configured writing instrument housing of any desired type.

The writing element of the handheld reader 690 is shown schematically as a ballpoint pen cartridge 691 along with a push-out / retraction mechanism, generally seen at 692 , and of any suitable type. Of course, it is desirable to reduce the size of these elements 691 , 692 as much as possible in order to allow a maximum space for the reading module.

The reading module is generally designated 693 . The components and the structure of the module 693 are generally known to the person skilled in the art and are only described briefly below for the purpose of completeness. The reading module 693 comprises a light source 694 , for example a laser or an LED and a reflector 695 . A reading beam generated by the light source 694 is reflected by the reflector 695 from the reading window 696 . The reading beam is reflected by a bar code symbol, generally designated 697, again passes through the reading window 696 and is received by a detector 698 . Preferably, the reading module 693 is a field of view reader, in which case the mirror 695 is a fixed mirror and the detector 698 has a CCD arrangement. Of course, a scanning system can be used in certain applications, in which case the reflector 695 is driven by a motor, shown schematically at 699, for the scanning motion. The light source 694 , the detector 695 and, if appropriate, the motor 699 are connected to a processor, control and data storage element 6100 in conjunction with a power source 6101 . The processor element 6100 controls the operation of the different components and also acts as a data memory and a processing device for Strichco deinformation, which is read by the module 693 . As will be described in more detail below, it is desirable to later download the information stored in processor element 6100 to an external device. Accordingly, a data output connection or port 6103 is provided, which is fed via the line 6102 , to be precise adjacent to or together with or in connection with the reading window 696 . In one exemplary embodiment, the handheld reader 690 can also be used as a laser pointing device, the outgoing reading beam being used to highlight desired elements during a display.

A particular application that is proposed for handheld reader 690 in accordance with the present invention occurs in relation to customer information access, as shown in FIG. 23a. For example, if a customer 6120 carries a handheld reader 690 and is in a retail store that sells products 6121 , each of these products may have a bar code symbol 6122 in, for example, UPC format. Customer 6120 may be interested in purchasing product 6121 , but does not want to commit before further information is available. There is therefore a risk that the customer will forget the product or, as was the case previously, it may be necessary to rely on a customer 6120 to happen to know something about the product or the additional information provided obtains the product, knows it, and accordingly searches its memory.

However, according to the present invention, customer 6120 can read bar code symbol 6122 using handheld reader 690 . The bar code information is stored in processing element 6100 and processed to a desired extent. In particular, information regarding the product 6121 contained in the bar code symbol 6122 is stored. As a result, the customer has an automatic reminder of the product that he wants to buy and information related to the product. Of course, if the customer 6120 sees more than one interesting product, the relevant information can also be stored, the storage capacity of the handheld reader 690 being limited only by the storage space in the processor element 6100 .

A particular implementation of the present invention subsequently allows the customer to download the information stored in the handheld reader 690 in a manner that is described in greater detail below. In particular, the information can be downloaded to a personal computer or another access point to a computer or data network. The downloaded information can then be used in different ways. For example, the product can be ordered or additional information related to the product can be accessed. A particular implementation proposed by the present invention is that the bar code symbol accompanying the product contains sufficient information for the personal computer or the access point to the computer network to access a site at the address (or a comparable data storage system). This site may contain additional product information, related product information, pricing information, cross-references to other related sites, and the ability to order and pay for the product. This greatly simplifies the buying process, for example it allows a price check and it also ensures that the customer does not forget any product that has caught their attention.

In addition, further information can be obtained according to the present invention. For example, the popularity of the product can be evaluated for future marketing purposes. The hand-held reader 690 preferably has an assigned user and it carries user identification information, such as a credit card number or other identification, which is supported or carried under a suitable or approved system. As a result, details of the transaction can be based on this information during the purchase of the products. In addition, a customer profile can be built based on the customer's purchase patterns.

The access point can be located within the retail store, which allows customer 6120 to access the information on site and make a purchase decision before leaving the retail store. Suitable te access points are described in greater detail below. It can be seen that the bar code symbol can be placed on the product itself or, as at 6122, on the display adjacent to the product. Alternatively, the products could be graphically displayed on a table and the bar code symbol could be shown adjacent to the product on the map.

It should be noted that the system is based on other applications can be expanded. Where, for example, a summary a text together with a bar code symbol could be printed, the bar code symbol information included, which, when downloaded, gives access to can provide additional or related text. If you accept a resolution that is high enough, you can the barcode symbol even from a VDU or another visual display system in a closed system to be read for additional information in the Access the internet. The bar code symbol can be anything follow a suitable protocol, for example UPC or EAN and it's in the Internet Universal Resource Locator (URL) translatable.

Another application of the system is described with reference to Figure 23b. A catalog 6278 shows a product 6294 and also includes various data relating to part number 6282 , quantity 6282 , color - 6286 , size 6288 and other information 6290 . In addition, bar-coded shipping or transport information is stored at 6292 and a payment method at 6293 . Such a catalog can be used or useful, for example, in home shopping applications or when ordering from home. The catalog can also carry a bar code that identifies the caller at 6280 , which information can be used to identify customers when purchasing. The particular implementation according to the present invention requires that suitable downloadable product information be stored in the bar code symbols. In particular, part number 6282 may actually take the form of a suitable computer network site address. Alternatively, the computer network site address can be stored in field 6290 for other information. The remaining bar code symbols are not absolutely necessary since the information can be stored at the site address, but the exemplary embodiment shown allows alternative implementations depending on the hardware that is available to the user.

The user scans the handheld reader via the site address field and, if necessary, via the user identity field 6280 and then the stored information is downloaded to an Internet access point (or that of another computer network). The remaining product information is available on the website and options such as quantity, color, shape, shipping method and payment method can be entered at this stage. Accordingly, a simple catalog-based home shopping or ordering system can be set up. It should be noted that such a system can be implemented in different environments, for example, when a passenger is on an airplane, a suitable catalog can be seen. Again, the system allows the customer to carefully consider which product to buy based on all available information and also provides a useful prompt or reminder about the products that the customer is looking at have fallen, and which the customer has not yet committed to.

Where the bar code symbol for use in conjunction with the Internet or a parallel system indicates the information contained in the bar code symbol is included, effectively an address. If this In formation is downloaded to a personal computer, the personal computer communicates with an assigned one Server that contains the address and user identification receives information and the personal computer at one relevant product information site redirects to the play a web site for information retrieval or Extraction of information and delivery to the Personal computer of the customer. Accordingly, the downge loaded information enable the PC to go directly to a relevant home page or a relevant sub-page go. A resolution server on the system could be used det for information from all users or users to collect, and not just for information purposes, but also for billing and routing purposes.

It should be noted that alternative systems to the Internet and alternative access methods can be considered. For example, the internet could be through an intranet or a Local Area Network (LAN) to which a limited te number of users can be accessed who ent neither geographically nor through any type of access autho are limited. Instead of a PC, on the down of the site address information processed, the authorized site calls and product information shows alternative access points in Considered. For example, following a system, such as downloading the Citrix (brand) system only at an access point or terminal with minimal Processability itself. The terminal transfers the site address information to a hostcom  puter that does the basic conversion to a url carries out, accesses the website and the information transmits back to the terminal for display. In this case, the terminal serves little more than one Display and input / output or input / output device tung. It is therefore contemplated that the system include a new generation of "network computers" or could support who work on this principle. Of the Effect of such a system is a significant change tion of the architecture of the system, which reduced costs at the customer who only has one terminal on one low level to connect to a host computer must buy, which is connected to the main network. As As a result, the proposed invention is still desirable more valuable and more accessible for the customer.

Different alternative handheld reader configurations are shown in Figs. 24-26. According to Fig. 24a and 24b 6130 comprises a hand-held reader, a pin assembly 6132 including a pen cartridge that is sold at the time a game is under the brand name Zebra F-refill, and an operating mechanism 6134, herauszu drive and to retract a known type, which is rotatable about the ballpoint pen cartridge . The hand-held reader 6139 comprises fer ner a trigger or trigger 6136 which is manually betae tigbar to a scan or a scan union to made, with a cooperating internal switch 6138, under, for example, the code ITT KSC 421st The handheld reader 6130 includes a reading tip 6140 for reading a bar code symbol.

A data output point or point is also seen at 6137 . The system is powered by a battery 6142 of a suitable compact type. There is also a beeper or signaling device 6144 or other audio device that can sound to indicate to the user that the bar code symbol has been successfully read, that the battery power is low, that there is little storage space, etc. Among different audio tones or sequences Different warning signals can be emitted from audio tones. In addition, the handheld reader 6130 may have a screen (not shown) that shows information such as the status of the handheld reader and any instructions for its use.

Figs. 25a to 25c show a slight variant in which where it was appropriate, the entire reference numerals as in Fig. 24 uses were. It can be seen that the exit window for the reader (which is shown here as a laser scanner at 6131) has an inclined end face with respect to the longitudinal axis of the hand-held reader 6130 , which results in improved ergonomics when reading a bar code symbol. The reader also includes a handle 6133 , which is made of leather, for example, and which extends part of the length of the reader, which provides the user with a better grip and increased comfort.

Figs. 26a and 26b show a further alternative figuration Kon, which is illustrated schematically, again the same reference numerals as in FIGS. 24 and 25 were used where this was suitable. Different procedures for downloading the information are considered. Two approaches are shown in Figures 27a and 27b. In a preferred configuration shown in FIG. 27a, a portable computer of the portable type is shown at 6150 , although a stand or fixed PC would of course also be sufficient. Personal computer 6150 includes keyboard 6152 and screen 6154 and is generally of the conventional type. The personal computer 6150 includes a data input port 6156 , which is arranged for communication with the handheld data output port or port 6103 . In the exemplary embodiment shown, the output connection 6103 of the handheld reader 690 is brought into contact with the data input connection 6158 of the personal computer 6150 . Touching the input connection 6156 first starts the download sequence and, secondly, allows rapid and precise communication between the handheld reader 690 and the personal computer 6150 . The interface or interface between the output port or port 6103 of the handheld reader 690 and the data input terminal 6156 can be, for example, of the "memory button" or "touch memory" type as sold by Dallas Semicon ductors. The actual interface is of a known type and, in fact, the information stored in the handheld reader 690 is transferred to a memory button 6103 provided at a suitable point on the handheld reader 690 . The information is converted into a suitable form for transmission to the memory button 6103 , and the transmission is activated upon contact with the data input connection 6156 of the personal computer 6150 . The data input port 6156 is configured to receive the information transmitted from the memory button 6103 and convert it to an appropriate form. In particular, the information can be converted into the form of a series of electronic pulses representing bits. Such a system results in a simple and essentially error-free interface, which enables a user to quickly and accurately download the information stored in a handheld reader 690 to a personal computer 6150 .

It should be noted that various other down-load methods are contemplated within the scope of the present invention. For example, as shown in Fig. 27b, a fixed personal computer 6160 is provided which has a keyboard 6162 and a display screen 6163 , and a mouse 6164 includes a microphone 6166 which receives an audio signal from a corresponding speaker data output 6168 a handheld reader 690 receives. A button (not shown) or other switch may be provided on the handheld reader 690 to activate transmission through the speaker 6168 . The information stored in the handheld reader 690 is converted into a high frequency audio signal on the speaker 6168 which is received and decoded by the microphone 6166 . Of course, the transmitter can transmit other forms of radiation, for example an optical or a microwave transmitter with a suitable receiver or receiver can be provided on the personal computer.

Where the transmitter is an optical transmitter, it can IRDA (infrared) standard communication implementations use that are known to the expert and currently are available on many "laptop" computers. The op table transmission can on the "Blink" (retry) Frequency of the pen illumination source.

Yet another download system is shown in FIG. 28. An associated data download port or port 6170 includes a metering opening 6172 for receiving a handheld reader 690 . Port 6170 transmits information that is downloaded from the handheld reader over line 6714 . According to the sectional view in FIG. 29, it can be seen that the connection 6170 has a data reception interface 6174 of any type described above, which communicates with the hand-held reader 690 , for downloading information. The download can be activated by contact between the handheld reader 690 and the interface 6174 or it can be activated by pressing a button or another switch (not shown) on the handheld reader. The interface 6174 communicates with a processor 6176 to convert the downloaded information, if necessary, into a format suitable for a computer network, and the information is passed over line 6173 to the computer network.

It should be noted that line 6173 may include a wireless connection, link, or telephone line, in which case a suitable modem may form part of port 6170 .

It can be seen that all of these methods have a reader-friendly system for downloading scanned information from a handheld reader. The use of a data well type connector shown in Figs. 28 and 29 is particularly suitable where it is not convenient to rely on the customer having a PC or other home access owns a suitable computer network. The connection can, for example, be provided at a sales shop or another sales point. It should be noted that the handheld reader can also be written via the data port, a personal computer or other means (even a bar code symbol itself) to enter user information of the type described above. This would enable the short-term use of a handheld reader, thereby allowing a particular user to enter temporary information for the duration of the use of the handheld reader by that user.

In an alternative ergonomic embodiment, the reader comprises the components generally described above, but has a somewhat different configuration. According to Fig. 30a and 30b having the size of about 6200 reader of a conventional pen, but in cross step to its longitudinal axis it is in wesentli chen square. In addition, a scanning window 6202 is provided substantially at the top of one of the side surfaces rather than at the end itself. According to Figure 30b can be seen., So that an alternative Lesekonfigu ration is achieved in which the reader 6200 is held in wesentli surfaces parallel to rather than substantially perpendicular to ei ner to be read side 6104th In this exemplary embodiment, a display window 6206 and an on / off trigger or trigger 6208 are preferably provided on the upper side of the opposite side surface. As a result, the trigger 6208 can be controlled, for example, by the user's thumb, with optimum ease for ergonomic reading. Similarly, display 6206 can be easily read by the user. Of course, a more complex keyboard and / or a different display layout can be provided if this is appropriate.

Fig. 30c shows in partial cross-section of internal details of a reader such as the reader shown in Fig. 30a and 30b. It should be noted that the arrangement shown in FIG. 31 includes a rounded front end. In practice, this arrangement may actually have a circular cross section or a square cross section, as shown in FIGS. 30a and 30b. It should be noted that the arrangement shown is not necessarily to scale. At the rear end 6210 of the reader 6200 one or more energy cells 6212 is provided and is held in place by suitable means, such as a threaded cap 6214 for example . The main reader components including a laser diode 6218 and a reading mirror 6220 are attached to a plate 6216 to simplify assembly. The reading mirror can be scanned by a scanner driver 6222 , the driver being controlled by a suitable circuit 6264 , which is also mounted on the plate. Alternatively, the system can of course be designed as a static field of view reading device. A sheet of transparent material 6226 of any suitable type is preferably attached over the scanning window 6202 . On the Scannfen ster 6202 a photodetector 6228 is also provided, which receives the light beam which is reflected by the printed characteristics or indicia. The reflector 6228 is connected to suitable processing circuitry at 6224 that is capable of decoding the information.

In yet another embodiment, a hand can reader or a reader of the pen type of the general Type described above in the detection of false money can be used. Devices are known which Counterfeit money based on different parameters, such as color, print quality, etc. It is proposed that such a device in the ge showed orders to incorporate what was yet another op tion allowed for operation. There are currently beats, barcodes on notes with high value to be provided, in which case the reader is used could, both for reading the bar code and also to detect whether the scanned bill is counterfeit is. In countries where there are restrictions regarding the Currency there, the bills can be included in the distribution can be scanned and the information could be in the reader being held. When downloading the reader, play when using a data well or a da Information about the circulation of the Grades are obtained, which is still further protection from Counterfeit money allowed.

The application areas of the system as a whole are open obviously very wide. For example, a customer could use the Use handheld readers while on an airplane or located in other areas where access to the Internet or a suitable computer network is immediately available. In addition to the ones described above In applications, the system could be used for  Store and access information that is on Relate objects in many other applications to Example in warehouse storage systems.

It can be seen that the above teaching relates to any one Scanner type that is suitable for hand-held Scanning and which is essentially portable, which in the Is able to infor a bar code symbol or similar Read mation-bearing symbol. The information can down-loaded from memory in the handheld scanner to be via any suitable interface a personal computer or other access point or computer network and there may be appropriate informa tion from a web site or equivalent memory location can be called up.

The Fig. 31, 32a and 32b show the basic components of the Sy stems according to the invention. A portable terminal 710, for example a handheld computer of the personal digital assistant type, which optionally has a scan / bar code reading option, is suitable for forming an interface with a cradle or receptacle 712 , specifically via a physical connection. For example, the terminal 710 is inserted into a suitable recess 714 in the cradle or receptacle 712 . The receptacle 712 itself is connected to a host system 715 , which can be a stand-alone computer or part of an Internet / LAN or the Internet / WAN.

The main components of the terminal 710 , the receptacle 712 and the host 715 are standard and interconnected in standard ways using known interfaces and communication protocols, unless otherwise stated below. Accordingly, the hardware details of the components are not described in detail here, since they are known to the person skilled in the art. However, a brief description of the different components and their uses or applications and interconnections is given below.

As shown in FIG. 32a, the terminal conventionally has a user input or operator input 716 , an "other input" or input for third parties (third input) 718 , a display driver 729 , a remote connection or a remote link 722 , a processor 724 , a memory 726 and a recording interface or interface 728 .

For example, the operator input 716 can have a keyboard, via which the operator can enter information into the terminal. The operator input or the input signal is forwarded to the processor and further processed as described below.

The "other input" 718 may include, for example, a bar code scanner or other reader, a video camera input, an audio input, or any other suitable data input. Figure 31 shows a terminal 710 including a pivotally attached bar code reader 718 . The input information is transmitted to the processor 724 for further processing purposes, as will be described below.

Terminal 710 preferably includes a display 719 for displaying information to the operator. For example, the display may represent the input data for testing purposes, or it may display instructions or error messages for the operator or user, or it may itself display communication messages transmitted from distant points. The display driver drives the display and receives display instructions from the processor.

The terminal can display a television of the cathode ray tube type, a flat display of the LCD type or any have another suitable ad. The advantage of flat ads is of course the low volume complementary to the compactness of the terminal as a whole.

A remote connection 722 is provided, thereby allowing communication between the terminal 720 and the receptacle 712 (or any other access point as defined by the operating parameters of the system) via remote, wireless communication or connection, such as infrared IRDA, microwave, radio frequency or any other suitable method. Data for and from the remote connection is processed by processor 724 .

Processor 724 may include any standard processing system, such as a CPU. The processor allows centralized control of the other components, as described above and below, together with the general operating conditions of the terminal, such as data and energy checks, compatibility checks, etc., depending on the suitability.

A memory 726 is shown separately from processor 724 , although it may be provided in the same unit as processor 724 . The memory 726 allows long-term or short-term data storage, for example for data received at the operator input or the input for third parties 716 , 718 via the remote connection 722 or, as will be described in more detail below, via the recording interface. Memory control, management, and transfer can be controlled by processor 724 .

The recording interface 728 permits the downloading of data stored in the terminal 710 for the recording 712 and the transmission of control data or other data from the recording 712 to the terminal 710 . Information for and from the recording interface 728 is processed by the processor 724 in a suitable manner. As will be described in greater detail, the receptacle / terminal interface has a physical interface that works during insertion or during the inserted state and is made possible or released by inserting the terminal 710 into the recess 714 of the receptacle 712 .

The receptacle 712 also includes different components, shown in block form in Fig. 32a, both of which are able to cooperate with the controller and to communicate with the terminal 710 as well as with the host and other peripheral functions or elements.

The receptacle 712 includes a processor 730 for controlling the remaining components, as will be described below, as well as the operating conditions or conditions of the receptacle 712 and the general communication requirements between the receptacle 712 and the terminal 710 , between the receptacle 712 and the host 715 and where the recording works transparently, between the terminal 710 and the host 715 .

The receptacle also has an internal memory 732 and an external memory 734 . Both are intended to store information received from host 715 and / or terminal 710 for transfer between the two, as controlled by processor 730 . The internal memory may include part of the processor unit 730 , for example. External memory 734 preferably uses external memory devices, such as floppy disks or other devices.

The receptacle 712 communicates with the terminal 710 via a terminal interface 736 , which communicates with the receptacle interface 729 . The terminal and recording interfaces are preferably physical interfaces, as described above. Information for and from the terminal 710 can be controlled via a processor 730 . The receptacle 712 also has a host interface 738 for communication with the host 715 . The interface can be a wired interface or a wireless interface of a known type, depending on the suitability. A communication controller 740 can also be additionally provided to control the different communication protocols between the terminal 710 , the receptacle 712 and the host 715 .

A remote connection 742 is provided in the receptacle 712 for communication with the remote connection 722 in the terminal 710 . The communication can, as described above, have any wireless communication means such as infrared IRDA, radio frequency or microwave.

The receptacle 712 can also have different peripheral devices of the standard type that are generally found in computers, such as a printer 744 or another component, such as an enlarged display, a modem connection or a link to one remote host, additional storage and processing capacity, etc.

The receptacle 712 communicates with the host 715 via the host interface 738 . The host 715 can be a stand-alone computer or part of a Local Area Network (LAN), such as the intranet. The intranet can itself be part of the Internet or another wide area network (WAN) and, if this is appropriate, suitable security means, such as a "firewall", can be installed.

Numerous applications and advantages are provided by the system shown in Figures 31, 32a and 32b. In particular, all the advantages of a hand-held terminal are available, such as portability, ease of use and suitability for mobile applications. In particular, the applications include an inventory, the monitoring of transported goods, a point of sale application, stock exchange information or formulations or applications, auctions, etc. Since the recording has a data interface information input for the terminal, a keyboard input or a bar code input can be briefly, for example stored in the terminal and transmitted to the recording at regular intervals when they are entered into the recording. As soon as the information has been downloaded, the memory in the terminal can be deleted. At the same time, control or application data can be transferred from the recording to the terminal so that the terminal applications can be changed or brought up to date if appropriate. The receptacle preferably further comprises a battery charging module which is connected to the terminal when it is received in the receptacle, in order to simultaneously enable battery charging. This option is described in more detail below.

The recording then directs the downloaded information to the host and allows communication from Upda te / application information from the host to the terminal.

Accordingly, the system allows a quick update bring the host database up to date with Infor  mation from the terminal, while a reduced Spei capacity in the terminal is necessary. At the same Time allows you to record significant time efficiency share by both involving the operator or User data transfer reduced to a minimum and by using the operator as well or user rest period for downloading information is allowed. The remote connection also allows one immediate update capability or the ability to immediately update the produce the latest state of the art where necessary this ability or capacity at the same time is kept to a minimum (through regular download Sessions), which leads to a corresponding re reduction of energy loss leads.

As will be described in more detail below, certain advantages of the invention reside in a system in which the basic system described in accordance with FIGS. 31, 32a and 32b is improved and in the memory / computer or accounting tasks or requirements are distributed to allow maximum flexibility and minimum requirement at the terminal 710 . Known hand-held computers are continuously updated and rebuilt to enable maximum storage capacity, data storage and application availability. Generally, this involves an increase in system cost and complexity, and an increase in weight and volume, which is of course not desirable in a portable system. In addition, the so-called overheads or in addition to the purchase price of the system, the costs are very high - updating the computer or updating it is expensive and must be carried out on an individual basis, namely based on added peripherals or software, which is a entails considerable cost burdens. This tendency towards increased internal capacity and ability leads to a greater risk of a defect or fault and the associated disadvantages. Such systems are currently known by the term "fat cli ents".

On the other hand, the present invention enables an "ultra-thin client". In principle, this is achieved by reducing the computer or calculation and storage requirements in the terminal to the greatest possible extent and by integrating these tasks within the receptacle or cradle or, if possible, in the host itself. This also allows that the recording 712 works as a "thin client". As a result, the terminal includes the minimum capacity for an operator interface including the display capacity, the operator or third party input capacity, a minimum memory processing capacity and the communication capacity described above. The recording / host thus operate as the actual computer, which includes a majority of the processing and storage capacity, including floppy drives, a communication interface, etc. Since the recording operates as a thin client, its simplicity and adaptability can be maintained by it is ensured that as much processor performance or processor activity as possible is carried out on the host.

A basic architecture that allows an ultra-thin client is shown in FIG. 33. The same reference numerals are used to denote the same features across the description, and a description of the different features is not repeated in detail except where appropriate.

It can be seen that the terminal 710 still has different basic capabilities, to the same extent as the version shown in FIG. 31, in particular the operator and third party inputs 716 , 718 and the recording interface and remote link 728 , 722 retain many of its properties so that terminal 710 can adequately perform the basic front-end functions. However, the processor, memory and display drivers are all consolidated into a single unit with a lower specification, which in turn is sufficient to adequately drive or perform the required front-end functions. The management of the transferred functions is therefore controlled by the host and / or host. For example, the processing of the data input or the data input of the terminal can be carried out by the recording after the information has been downloaded, so that the terminal only has to carry and store the raw data, which requires less storage space and processing power. The recording also works as a client with regard to external data storage and peripheral applications, such as printing and display. The receptacle 712 then communicates with the host 714 . However, it is important that the host itself provide application support as described in more detail below. In addition, the host can perform one or more of the recording functions, where appropriate, when it is desirable to reduce the specifications of the recording, as long as the recording maintains the basic download and intermediary functions.

If we go back to the traditional fat clients, then there are applications that are running on the terminal such as business applications for evaluation objects, databases, files, mail, printing and di rectory service and other associated functions in the Terminal provided itself. This requires a considerable amount Chen memory and processing capacity, which increased Complexity and a larger volume required, as well as the  Need for a regular update or to the bring up to date and most likely the war ten.

However, the present invention works according to an un different system, in which the above described Applications, such as databases, the mail delivery ung, or other alternatives, such as Inven tar systems, price / coding systems, the generation of Spread sheet and word processing or word processing applications neither in the terminal nor in the reception, but are stored in the host to which the recording was made has access. These applications are supported by a central server or distributed server on the host network provided and held in the factory, depending on the suitability what a central control of the update or on bring the latest status and enable maintenance. In addition, there are no multiple copies of the application software for permanent storage on a large Number of independent terminals necessary, what more would result in additional software license costs, as well as Schwie maintenance and updates.

If it is desirable to run a particular application, that application can be invoked at the ingestion and put into the buffer memory or cache for dynamic use and deleted when it is no longer needed. As a result, the amount of memory that is necessary is significantly reduced. For example, where it is necessary to process the data input to the terminal as part of a specified application, the application can be called by the host and processed on the record 712 and the results are stored in the internal and external memory. printed out, displayed in a suitable display or downloaded to the host for further processing. In a further alternative, the data can be transmitted from the terminal, from the host to the host, as raw data, along with instructions regarding the processing means and processing performed on the host, which increases the memory and processing load on the Terminal and the recording reduced even further.

As described above, there are numerous applications for the system of the present invention, for example in Transport and logistics, in department stores, with public security, with sales and with everyone other companies that focus on quick and efficient leaves data flow and portable data collection and Transmission required. As in more detail after The following describes a possible recording implementation in a vehicle wireless recording or cradle or cradle on that communicate with access points or access points adorned, and that via wireless communication. This he leaves a use based in the vehicle that still is more suitable for transportation in courier services, ver care companies, organizations for public Si security, sales and service on site as well as everyone else mobile activities.

A possible embodiment of the terminal according to the present invention is shown in greater detail in Fig. 34a. The terminal 710 is preferably shaped with regard to ergonomic weight points, which enables easy operation, easy carrying and easy storage for the operator or user. A key feature of the terminal is the 750 display. This can be, for example, an LCD or video display. It preferably has a high resolution which is sufficient to show detailed characters and preferably detailed video images, as will be described in greater detail below. The terminal 710 has functions that are suitable for laser scanning and / or for data collection based on a pen. For example, terminal 710 may include a reading device 752 that is integral as shown or that is modular. The reader 752 is suitable for laser scanning of graphical characters such as bar codes and includes the basic component features of a reader, namely reading beam emitting means such as a laser diode, detection means for a reflected reading beam and means for scanning the Beam, if appropriate, for example an oscillating mirror (in the case of an optical scanner with a "floating point"). If the scanner is a "field of view" scanner, on the other hand, no scanning means are necessary and the detector has a CCD arrangement. Data collected by reader 752 is treated as "other input" as shown in block 718 in FIGS . 32a and 33 regarding the terminal, and the data is processed accordingly.

In addition, the terminal 710 may have a data pen or pen 754 . Such properties are known in the art. In particular, the data pen 754 can be used to write directly to the display 750 of the terminal 710 , either for data entry, for signature entry and confirmation, or for other suitable data collection or confirmation purposes. Terminal 710 also includes an audio speaker 756 that allows alarms and / or other audio messages, such as synthesized speech or human speech, to be output to the operator by the terminal, and an audio input, such as a microphone, for For example, for two-way voice communication.

The Fig. 34b to 34f show alternative Terminalimplemen tierungen 745th The terminal 745 comprises a display 746 , controls 747 a, 747 b and a loudspeaker 748 . The terminal is suitable for wireless communication with, for example, a local intranet network. Messages to terminal 745 are shown on display 746 . Simple messages can also be transmitted from the terminal 745, alternatively, the terminal 745 a basic information regarding the location and identification of the user or operator transferred. Preferably, display 746 is a character-based display where, for example, the operator is able to select messages to be transmitted to the network by switching between appropriate characters using control buttons 747 a, 747 b. and runs. Terminal 745 may also include audio capability by either giving a short beep when a message is received or, in more advanced versions, may include a voice synthesizer that can tell the operator that a message is received or he can even audition this message. Terminal 745 may include a microphone (not shown) that allows audio messages to be routed to the network via terminal 745 . For ease of use, the terminal preferably includes a clip 749 , which allows the terminal to be releasably attached to the operator's clothing.

The system preferably includes an energy management / distributed energy management to ensure that at least for the portable components, the energy supply is used as efficiently as possible, which ensures that the full life of the energy source is preserved. In particular, where the terminal is able to perform different tasks using different components, the energy consumption for each component is preferably distributed by individual adjustment with respect to each other component in order to optimize the energy requirement, the necessary energy or performance requirements to fulfill. A sales application of the invention is shown in FIG. 35. A customer 760 comes into a retail store, such as a supermarket (as shown) or any other suitable store that sells goods or products. The retail store automatically provides a plurality of portable terminals 710 that are included in their respective receptacles 712 at a well selected location. The customer 760 selects a terminal 710 from a receptacle 712 . As shown, the retail store sells different products, for example on shelves 762 or counters 764 . A variety of radio frequency transmitters or other suitable wireless transmitters or access points 66 are also provided in the retail store, in appropriate locations.

While the customer 760 is moving in the retail store, the access points 766 transmit to the terminal 710 . Terminal 710 uses known priority systems and / or algorithms to only accept signals from next access point 766 . The access point 766 transmits information regarding products that are available in the vicinity of the terminal 710 for display on the display 750 . Terminal 710 receives the signals over remote link 722 , as shown in Figure 32a.

The information transmitted by the access point 766 for the terminal 710 can take various forms, and in a preferred embodiment, the display shows graphical characters representing products that are available in the environment, as shown in FIG. 36. For example, if the customer is in the vicinity of the laundry section and the terminal 710 selects the transmission signal from the next access point 766 , products available in the laundry section may appear on the terminal display 750 , such as dishwasher detergent or normal dishwasher detergent 770 or 772 . Actual images of the products may appear for easy reference by the customer. Accompanying information such as price, location and any special offers can also be provided at 774 . Accordingly, the sales environment can be tailored for optimal efficiency.

Either an assigned access point 766 or each of the plurality of access points 766 can also provide, for example, a map of the sales shop and the products to be found, as shown in FIG. 37. Optionally, the map could have a marker 776 indicating the current location of the operator, which could be estimated by determining which access point is currently communicating with the terminal, or a simple geometric positioning system could be used. In fact, such a positioning system could also allow transmissions to the terminal depending on the position of the customer as determined by the positioning system, rather than the position being determined by the location of the next access point.

The terminal may have a provisional option screen, as shown in Fig. 38a, which is displayed to the customer when the terminal is first accessed. Different characters are shown, depending on the functions that the customer wants to use. The sign can be accessed and processed by the customer in a variety of ways, for example using an integral "mouse-like" ball on the scanner via a touch-sensitive screen, through a "digital stylus" that enables interaction with the screen or by using a keyboard on the terminal. The characters may include, for example, the following: personal identification information 780 , card 782 , product information 784 , current offerings 786 , operator environment 788 , terminal parameter 790 , local shelf 792 mapping, and help 794 . It should be noted that many other characters and functions can be included as will become apparent from the description below.

Operation of the initial screen and subsequent screens is illustrated by the flow chart shown in Figure 38b. In step 7100 , the terminal is removed from the recording, which automatically initiates the display of the option screen. The terminal then waits for a selection of a given option at 7102 . The system then moves to the sub-menu required for characters 780 to 794 .

When the character 780 is selected for the personal identification information entry, the terminal waits for the relevant information to be entered. This can be done, for example, by entering a credit card number or other identification number, by pulling a suitable magnetic card through a slot in the terminal, or by using bar code options at the terminal to read bar-coded personal ID information. This is generally shown at 7104 . Once the information is provided, automatic credit or billing can be initiated for items that are scanned and purchased by the customer, or additional information regarding the customer's purchase patterns and benefits can be used to help the customer To provide the selected product offers. The information can be transmitted from the terminal to the access points via wireless communication or message transmission. Alternatively, the operator identification information could be entered while the terminal is still in the receptacle, for example via a pull-through slot on the receptacle. This can actually be used to release and initiate the terminal, as an additional security measure. Once the information has been appropriately entered and processed in step 7106 , the system returns to the menu screen at 7102 .

If the map function is selected, then the operator's current location is optionally identified at 7110 and the map showing this information is displayed at 7112 . The customer then has the option to return to the initial menu at step 7108 .

Where product information is required at 784 , the required product can either be entered or selected using a series of menus with a limited scope - 7114 to 7116 . Once the product has been identified, the customer can be presented with various options regarding the information required - price, available brands, available offers, location, etc., at 7118 . The operator can also return to the main screen 7102 in step 7108 .

If the customer wishes to see the current offers at 786 , then the offers of interest at 7118 can be selected. For example, all current offers can bypass the operator, offers associated with purchases that the operator has already made can be displayed, offers related to a particular class of goods can be shown or can be Offers are shown in the area as selected by a suitable character or data entry. The operator can then return to the main screen 7102 in step 7120 .

When the operator desires to find out which products are available in the neighborhood of the operator, the position of the operator is set at 7122 and are received broadcast or transmission signals from the rele vant access point 766, and shows at 7124 attached. This option can be maintained if the operator does not make a selection to provide appropriate information to the customer while the customer is moving through the sales store. Again, the customer has the option to return to the main screen 7102 at step 7126 .

If the customer wishes to select the terminal parameters in step 790 , then the different available parameters are displayed in step 7128 . These parameters can include, for example, the display brightness, the display size, the language, the volume (in the case where a speech synthesizer is present), etc. The parameters are appropriately set in step 7130 and the operator can return to main menu 7102 in step 7126 .

In the case where the "local shelf" sign 792 is selected, the next shelf can be selected depending on the position of the customer and the shelf can be displayed. For example, if the customer tries to find a specific product, that product can be highlighted. This option can be used in conjunction with the card system to identify a particular shelf, as shown by the blinking character 7134 in FIG. 37. Alternatively, the shelf display may highlight products with offers or any other relevant information in step 7132 .

If the help sign 794 was selected, the customer may be asked to select the signs for which he needs further explanation, in step 7136 . The appropriate help message 7138 is then displayed accordingly. For each of the options, the customer has the option to return to the 7102 main screen.

It can be seen that the system is very user-friendly offers a layout that gives the customer identification of products enables what enables him find where the products are in relation to the customer and he can take advantage of certain offers, etc. In the case where customer identification information is saved, the customer can then use the brand ting / offer or advertising information are provided tailored to your specific saved preferences are. The system can be further improved by incorporating a speech synthesizer or audio message means in the terminal so that the terminal can "speak" to the customer for information ch different interesting products as well as hinsi any other relevant information admit.

The system can also have an application for inventory and store replenishment (or even for a warehouse, etc., although the following description is limited to the sales transaction described above). For example, where it is desirable to replenish the shelves, a shelf in its current form may be displayed on the screen and reordering could be accomplished by first pulling out and dropping relevant graphics or graphs to reflect the movement of the actual to show goods on the shelves. The physical movements could then follow. This could both give an indication of what the reordered shelves look like and it could also provide a helpful check to ensure that the people filling the shelf were able to compare their steps with those given were. Alternatively, for a given product or brand or class of products, by highlighting the presentation of the product on the screen, relevant data such as inventory data, deliveries, sales history, etc. could be presented to the operator. A similar system of characters and steps could be used as above with reference to Figures 38a and 38b. Associated terminals could provide these purposes in the sales business described above. Alternatively, the rack replenisher, inventory status, or some other relevant personnel could enter the operator identification information into the receptacle prior to the terminal being removed so that the terminal is initialized in a suitable manner. It should be noted that the same inventory or warehouse inventory or general product tracking system could be used using classic characters to represent the products and for quick, user-friendly access to the background, history, order or to allow the destination information.

It can be seen that different other peripheral Properties or characteristics for the system into consideration come. For example, the system can have a range alarm include so that when the terminal is out of business or outside the designated area within the Ge an alarm sounds. If the customer de, who carries the terminal, for example in an area  comes where no access points are available, or in an area that is generally only for staff the alarm can sound. The alarm is provided within the terminal and can for example on the basis of area or distance signals from the next access point to determine Check whether the area or distance has been exceeded in which case the alarm sounds.

The terminal can be used in conjunction with a "self-scanning" system used by the operator personally the purchased product scans what the need for Cashier staff eliminated and generally the purchase speed accelerates. In this case the terminal can Purchase details with operator identification information tion save where appropriate to the database regarding the specific marketing profile of the customer to bring it up to date. The scanner can also ver can be used to read codes directly from products, so that additional information is called at the terminal can be.

The system described above is particularly useful for "Ultra thin" clients in the form of portable termi nals. The basic ability that the terminal itself has zen are the display driver, minimal memory and Processing options and communication options as well as protocols for communication with both the Zu handle points as well as the recording. On information in terms of products, cards and other relevant Aspects can be accessed via the access points of one Host can be accessed. The stored data that the A customer's purchase patterns concern as well as inquiries and to Transactions can be carried out appropriately after each Use to download what the the down-loaded Storage requirements significantly reduced. In the same Way, the card functions necessary for the terminal  are necessary, for example customer use, the In vent use, reorganization use, etc., from the up be loaded as soon as the use identifi was adorned while the terminal was still in the recording. As a result, the memory processing performance at the terminal itself on a Mi nimum be kept, which simplifies and Redu cost reduction and simplification of the bringing applications, etc. up to date.

In an alternative arrangement, each terminal can be used communicate its respective recording when the Ge has a suitable size. Accordingly, one "Ultra-thin" client thin recording implementation be enough.

The system can still work in different ways be further improved. For example, the termi nal have a removable scanner part, so that the The scanner and / or the terminal are each autonomous and can be accessed independently. In some cases, only the skills of the termi nals itself or the scanner itself and the Load of other components would not be desirable. This would be the case, for example, where a portable digital Helper (portable digital assistant) would be needed.

Another option would be to adapt the An display format of the terminal. This would preferably be called added a software option in the recording, instead of burdening the terminal with this possibility. The display format - d. H. the number of characters in Hori zontal direction - could match the horizontal length of the Screen of the terminal. To the system like that to make it as user-friendly as possible Terminal preferably the display dimensions to the on took so that the server / the recording automatically  could format the display page so that it is on the screen or screen fits without the need a "wrap-around" or wrapping, d. H. a wanted one single line of text is divided into two or more lines divided up. As an alternative to automatic forma tion could also be based on a predetermined selection of available predefined format options and the appropriate option could be adopted the. An alternative method to wrap around Preventing lines of text would be to underscale the Text to produce a smaller print size, which allows a single line without wrap around is recorded.

In addition to its down-load / up-load initialization, Si security and storage capabilities or capacities another important function by recording is fulfilled, a battery charging function. Always then if the recording picks up a terminal, a Check the battery level, and if the Battery below full power or below one predetermined threshold power level is then charging occurs automatically during the rest period of the Terminals on. The terminal has suitable contacts which are arranged so that they with the charging contacts on the recording itself in a known way. The battery charge technology is known to the expert and is therefore used here not described in every detail.

A charging configuration is shown in FIG. 39. According to this configuration, the terminal 710 comprises a rechargeable battery pack 7010 which can be detachably inserted into the terminal and which comprises suitable output contacts 7012 , 7014 which cooperate with corresponding contacts in the terminal 710 . The Bat teriepack 7010 comprises a plurality of power cells 7016, which are either permanently included in the battery pack 7010, or which are replaceable, in order to prolong the lifetime of the battery pack as a whole. The battery pack 7010 is received in a charging device 7020 which has one or preferably a plurality of battery pack receiving slots 7022 , 7024 , 7026 . The charger 7020 is powered by a suitable energy source, shown schematically at 7028. This system allows multiple battery packs to be charged at the same time, so that a variety of terminals can operate with a fully charged battery pack while a spare battery pack is being charged. This reduces the idle time of the portable terminals to an extent that is only limited by the availability of battery packs and charging devices.

The charging device 7020 can be taken up in a receptacle or can be provided separately, depending on the suitability.

In such an arrangement, it is necessary to introduce an adapter circuit which determines the charging rate and other parameters, depending on the nature of the battery pack and the charging device. Conventionally, such an adapter circuit is provided in the charging device itself, which accordingly reduces the weight and complexity of the portable battery pack. However, according to one aspect of the present invention, the adapter circuit is included in the battery pack itself, for example on a bottom side, as shown schematically at 7030 . According to this system, the charging process and the structure of the charging device 7020 are greatly simplified. In particular, the Batte can riepack 7010 in the configured appropriately La degerät be introduced, and the adapter circuit 7030 that is provided on the battery pack 7010, adjusts the Be powered accordingly. The operator therefore does not have to spend time making sure that the correct charger 7020 has been selected. Further improvements to the terminal are discussed in the following paragraphs.

In a further modified variant, which is shown in FIG. 62, each battery pack 7600 is provided with an adapter 7602 , which accommodates all or part of the battery pack 7600 in a suitable recess, such as that shown at 7604 , for example. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the battery pack 7600 comprises a projecting or projecting connecting part 7606 , which is received in the recess 7604 of the adapter 7602 . The connecting part 7606 and the recess 7604 have complementary contacts, which are shown in general at 7608, namely for power supply, etc.

The adapter 7602 is accommodated in a base unit 7610 and provides a suitable interface between the battery pack 7600 and the base unit 7610 . The complementary contacts, which are generally shown at 7612 , are provided on the adapter 7602 and an adapter receptacle recess 7614 on the base unit 7610 , for energy transmission, etc.

The 7602 adapter carries all of the charging electronics with the exception of the power or power lines. Accordingly, the control of the charging process is sufficient, as described in greater detail above. The adapter 7602 may have indicators, such as LEDs, which are generally shown at 7616 to indicate the completion of the charging process, an error, an ongoing charging process, etc.

It can be seen that the base unit 7610 is a multi-slot unit that allows a plurality of battery packs to be charged via respective adapters, simultaneously. The base unit 7610 can operate with an internal energy source 618 or an external energy source 7620 , depending on the suitability.

If it is desirable to charge only a single battery pack, the adapter may further include an energy supply connector for direct connection to an energy source. As a result, the base unit 7610 is not necessary at all in these cases.

According to yet another variant, it is known to be intel ligente or "smart" batteries to provide a com have complex electronics, such as EEPROMS In put / output etc. These intelligent batteries communicate with the charger or another host to find out different parameters including the gas pressure, the Charging status, cycle number, etc. The in however, intelligent batteries significantly increase costs of a pack and at the end of the limited life cycle of the Cells (usually a couple of hundred cycles) have to entire "intelligent" battery pack can be thrown away.

This can be overcome by using a battery pack 7010 of the type shown in FIG. 39. In this case, the cells 7016 are replaceable and the intelligent electronics are held in the battery pack 7010 . For example, the cells can be accessed via a door or cover, depending on the suitability. As a result, the expensive electronics and the expensive battery pack case can be picked up and used again.

Figs. 63a and 63b show further variants of the battery pack / Aufladegerätanordnungen. In the known system, battery packs are charged by miniature chargers, which are either installed in the large plug-type outlet of a housing or in a plastic module which is attached externally to the battery pack. Both solutions require either cables or module parts outside the battery pack. In the arrangements shown in Figs. 63a, 63b, such an external battery charging device is eliminated by having a battery pack 7630 , as shown generally at 7632 in Fig. 63b, a charging device, such as an AC / DC converter, charging electronics, and a gas meter, all of which are recorded as permanent components. Two alternative types of battery pack 7630 are suggested in Figure 63a, the pack being disposable after the individual cells (not shown) reach the end of their life. In Fig. 63b, it can be seen that the battery pack 7630 has, for example, a hinged cover 7634 (to which the retractable connector 7636 is preferably attached), which allows the cells 7638 to be replaced after they end theirs Reach lifetime. It can be seen that the battery pack 7630 , as shown in FIG. 63b, includes suitable contacts 7640 to which the cells 7638 for the operation of the battery pack 6530 can be attached.

In one embodiment, it may be desirable to allow "renting" of terminals there, for example where the use of the terminal is an encore and optional is. The holder has a physical lock at the terminal and / or some form of energy / access interlocking so that the operator can do so without authorization Terminal cannot detach from the recording or the ter can not use the terminal. He can do the authorization are held by a suitable operator identification tion, for example by swiping a credit card or other operator identification means, by  the recording. With an authorization, the locks solved and the operator or user can the Ter Remove and use the terminal. At the same time, the Approval time stopped, so that the user received an invoice is provided for the rental period until the terminal to the Recording is brought back at this time the timer stops running. The invoice where it is suitable, it can automatically be used for the Credit card of the user. A skill that the terminal could include that of a portable one Phones or "cellphones" or cell phones, being in this Case the terminal / admission a marketing tool for that Mobile phone rentals can be for a period of time te. Regardless of your intended use by carrying out operational reviews through 99999 00070 552 001000280000000200012000285919988800040 0002019733689 00004 99880 when the terminal has been brought back to si make sure that it is operational and during the Rental period was not damaged. If damage has occurred, then the user is identified through the identification information and it can help him according to an invoice. In addition, In formation are stored so that the user in the Is not authorized to use the terminal in the future the or new at an increased rate.

In cases where the terminal is a cell phone is or contains this, an automatic poss the terminal / Te phone over a wireless LAN as a preferred option (with no conflicting selection) should work the terminal, however, is outside the area of the Zu handle point (as determined by a predetermined Ni level of communication reliability is defined) then the system uses the cellular phone as possible speed. Accordingly, the user can connect to the desired destination, even if it is is outside of the wireless LAN area where  the call network is transparent to the user, whose only concern is that garan established communications or connections the.

It is also appropriate to allow individual portable terminals form a network with each other. This Networking can be done using any suitable protocol, for example the Sy stem, which is described in the report "Routing in Adhoc Netwerks of Mobile Hosts "by David B. Johnson, 1995, IEEE Pages 158-163. In particular is a protocol necessary for the network of mobile host spec fish is that mobility is the host and the limited Considering transmission range. A source or Sourcehost finds a route to a target host via intermediate hosts by transmission or Broadcasting a request packet, which its route to the target host. The request package has one Request identification so that the intermediate ho sts all igno except for the first copy of the request package rieren. The total number of steps is limited. As a result, the shortest path can generally be with a minimum of excess communication can be found. Although the routes can be discovered this way, the route can also be maintained and it can Problems arise where one of the intermediate hosts in the selected route from the transmission area moves. To overcome this, route maintenance performed using a jump-by-jump (hop by hop) confirmation system so that when an over problem occurs, this to the original transmitter is returned and the route discovery system redesigned again.

It is also desirable in a mobile computer network worth making sure that the current location of the mobile  Terminals is known, and not just from the above reasons described regarding message routing. One method of doing this is to ensure that the current location of each mobile terminal periodically a network center is transmitted. As a result a dynamically updated map regarding the arrangement or location of all mobile terms nals are retained which will continue to be used can determine the routing of messages. Similar systems, for example, are related to cellular Known telephone networks and systems. A suitable one System is described for example in US-A-5 612 703 which relates to a cellular communication system where the position of a selected user unit can be determined by outputting a timing or Timing signal from a node that has a timing or Timing response signal analyzed by the user unit and determines the position of the user unit based on the transmission and reception time for the round trip. U.S. application with applicant's serial number 08/614 068 this registration, the or its German-speaking equi valent is incorporated herein by reference on a portable terminal that is connected to the data gear and a data display as well as a motion detector includes. When motion is detected, egg activates ne control relevant circuits or circuits. For example, if it is sensed that the terminal is in a first position orientation, a first function to be performed, whereas when starting is felt that he is in a second position ori a second function is performed becomes. It can be seen that this possibility in Ter minals of the present invention can be included. For example, it can be used to activate the Terminals and to deactivate the same when the off taken and reinserted.  

Yet another preferred variant of the invention is shown in FIG. 40. In this case, the terminal 710 is an ultra thin client that relies on the recording for the main part of the calculation and processing request. In fact, the terminal 710 can be represented by two basic components, a notepad property or component 7140 and a wireless communication component 7142 . The exact details of these components are not shown in detail since they are known to the person skilled in the art. The Notepad property allows the input of data to the terminal and the display of relevant information to the terminal. The processing load on the terminal is largely limited to this basic input / output capability together with the control of the wireless communication component 7142 . The wireless communication component communicates with a corresponding component or component 7144 on the receptacle 712 . As a result, the raw data input to the terminal 710 is transferred directly to the receptacle 712 without the need for processing (other than processing for communication purposes) in the terminal, resulting in an accompanying reduction in processing and storage capacities and thus the energy consumption of the terminal 710 leads. Instead, the majority of the computing capacity is held at the receptacle, including a data processor 7164 , which includes suitable storage space, including additional storage space in the form of, for example, floppy disks, including printer peripherals 7150 and Eternet communication options 7152 , which allows the recording to form part of a larger wireless network that is connected, for example, to a host that is itself part of an intranet or has access to the Internet. In fact, the portable terminal 710 is nothing more than an indication of a computer being held in the recording, with communications being made over the wireless communication link, using, for example, radio frequency or infrared protocols or any other suitable connection or a link. Instead of communicating directly with the recording, the terminal can communicate with one or more nearby access points, each of which communicates with the recording itself, which allows a larger area or a greater range for the terminal.

Such a system is particularly useful, for example for traders or brokers on the stock exchange or comparable implementations. The traders can use the transaction Perform using the handheld display ren, for example buying / selling shares on the keep up to date with their current status and all other suitable transactions, without the need for larger processing, storage or energy requirements in the terminal. If the termi nal is not needed, it can be used to download any further information that is necessary to update ner internal applications by recording and Bat charging can be returned. As a result a useful, lightweight and very mobile term nal with the background applications provided by ei a full personal computer or equivalent be tested.

Still other applications contemplated for the terminal include providing an AM / FM radio and / or a television receiver built into the terminal. As a result, the user can use the unit for entertainment purposes as well as for computer related tasks. Such a terminal is shown in Fig. 41. The terminal includes a display 7144 , which is suitable not only for displaying text and characters, but also for video images. The terminal also includes a keyboard, for example a full alphanumeric keyboard 7156 , which allows the terminal to operate either as a personal digital helper or in conjunction with the wireless connection as a low level personal computer. Terminal 710 also includes additional controls 7158 that allow selection and / or control of a television or radio characteristic, for example volume / brightness / channel, etc. As a result, a portable computer is provided which uses an additional function of its display functions by allowing a television receiver to be included, and optionally a radio property.

In an alternative configuration, as a verb remediation or adaptation of the above embodiments or used as a stand-alone product the portable terminal can use an internet "browser" exhibit. This allows operation in conjunction with the "ultra thin" client property. In fact, the Client in addition to the basic processing, display and communication properties of a browser software, which enables the user to use the wireless connection to search or record with the inclusion in the Internet browse for relevant applications and Information. Using this basic property can applications, or applications and / or data called and saved on command, in a short-term memory with a low level, and so long as these are needed. Because assigned software and applications at the terminal itself are not required storage and processing requirements accordingly reduced. One based on characters de display can be provided on the terminal what user-friendly access to the Internet or Internet access as one of different possible  Options in a selection menu. Such a sy For example, stem can be implemented on the basis the computer language Java (brand) and a support software available from Sun Microsystems (brand) is.

These points are now of particular relevance since Inter net web "pagers" differ from static structures that are under Using a browser, too have developed real applications or "applets". It systems were created on existing local networks wraps where the browser authenticity becomes more existing Hardware was fed to form a "web top". For many applications, this indicates the first step in Towards a true "thin client" - it is displayed take that conventional "thin client" in general are only necessary for certain applications that require a ho Use hes working volume. Introducing such bro wser allows the user to access the Internet via the intranet for downloading applications conditions and information together with corresponding transfers or corresponding boardcasting of information. In addition to browsing services, the system can do more Services or service, administration services or service etc. support, as it is already known.

As has already been described, the advantages include this system security, updates or to the latest Bring status during the term and monitoring regarding viruses / unauthorized access. Applications who The developed more quickly due to the level of application and thus the test they are exposed to. Since the An applications are stored on the server, the Admi nistration can be centralized and the user can get the latest update evenly across the system The system can support multimedia applications, which are essentially independent of the client platform  include - for example, a telephone-like system Lich an advertisement, personal digital helpers, set-top Boxes, points of sale equipment / stalls, Uner keeping characteristics etc.

Systems that include the terminal pick-up feature described above have advantages in, for example, mobile activities such as packaging or shipping, tracking systems and courier systems. Such a system is shown schematically in FIG. 42. User 7160 carries a portable terminal 710 , preferably with laser scanning and pen-based data capabilities, as described above. The terminal is rechargeable in a receptacle 712 that is mounted in the vehicle 7162 , and the terminal can also download information.

In the embodiment shown, the receptacle is installed on the dashboard, although it can also be installed on a seat or on the floor. On the 712 recording is connected to the vehicle battery 7164 or, if necessary, with an additional power supply. This connection provides the basic power or energy from the vehicle for the terminal to the battery and for communication functions. The battery charge starts automatically when the terminal is inserted in the holder. The receptacle preferably has an indicator that indicates when the battery is charging and when the battery is fully charged, and preferably includes a shutdown feature so that no further energy is drawn from the vehicle once the battery is fully charged . The terminal can of course use modular battery packs, which allows the use of a first battery pack while a second battery pack is being charged.

The receptacle includes or works with a wireless wide area network modem that is attached to the vehicle, allowing transmission to and from an access point 7166 , which in turn communicates with a host 7168 . Wireless two-way data transmission between remote operating sensors and mobile personnel on site is thus achieved via the host. For example, admission and delivery times, work orders, operations reports, transaction reports or records and all other relevant information can be quickly and efficiently communicated between user 7160 and host 7168 .

In particular, the user 7160 can enter information into the terminal 710 via the keyboard or via a scanner or pen reader or any other suitable input interface and download information every time the terminal 710 is placed in the receptacle 712 . Alternatively, the terminal 710 can communicate with the receptacle 712 via a wireless connection, for immediate data transmission at an appropriate level.

The system preferably includes an automatic possibility or property for the return of a requested confirmation or a receipt (return receipt requested) if the terminal 710 is an intranet server terminal. A server terminal of this type is described in greater detail in the associated US application with the serial no. . . . from March 28, 1997 by the applicant this application, which is incorporated herein by reference. The server terminal essentially comprises the server software within the terminal itself, which enables the direct generation of Internet files or files / "Web sites", without the need for complex communications with a remote server. In such an implementation, receptacle 7612 is provided in vehicle 7162 , as shown in FIG. 42, and user 7160 takes terminal 710 to the recipient of the package to sign for the package, recording the delivery time. Since the terminal / the recording is a server (in an alternative implementation), the server software can be included in the recording without loss of efficiency and with a reduction in processor performance or requirements in the terminal) and the server via a wide area network An interface to the Internet can be provided with the host or depot, which enables the sender of the package to determine at any time whether the package has already been delivered or to determine whether a delivery has been attempted but has not yet received the package has been. Accordingly, the delivery company can create an additional property to attract and satisfy customers by providing ongoing information on the Internet about the status of each delivery.

The detailed implementation for this can be found at different types are carried out. For example the sender of the package on the company's delivery web sites access and then the progress of the particular package track of interest, for example by delivering a code number was assigned at the time of the task de. At the same time, the progress of the package can go through the user or recipient or the delivery staff be logged by entering the delivery or the ver were looking for delivery times regarding the code. Of the For example, code can be read by a scanner the one that is provided in the terminal, by that Barcode provided on the package, namely where this is appropriate.

The logging of progress of the package can be further improved by Da  Collection or input of the transfer of the package to Zwi stages between the transmitter and the receiver Example at each level of the depot chain. The development a routing table is of particular importance in the general case in which the exact route taken by the package is hammered through the depot chain, not at the time the delivery is determined was abandoned. This can result in double checking visually enable the progress of the package. It is prefers that the route table details the concl finite delivery van because it is easier to track or find them as individual packages. The sender preferably pays a surcharge for the system of an immediately returned confirmation or Acknowledgment ("instantaneuous return receipt") so that the Burden of transferring the status of each pa kets is reduced, and not on a real-time basis is available unless paid for it.

Referring to FIGS. 43a and 43b is a particularly useful implementation of a portable terminal for use with the above-described delivery implementation shows ge. In such implementations, it is appropriate that the user has both hands free for the delivery of the packages. Accordingly, a "pendant" scanner 7170 is used which hangs around the neck of the user. The terminal includes a scan window 7172 that is angled so that it faces a package that is held at the waist by the user. Such a package is shown at 7174 . Terminal 7172 is thus able to scan the package and any barcodes on it with optimum ease. For ease of manipulation, the terminal further includes controls 7176 and a display 7178 on the upward facing surface so that the user can manipulate the controls and read the display without removing the counterpart exactly. The terminal 7170 can also communicate with the receptacle 712 or have an interface to it, in the manner described above.

As described above, all uses for the Terminal of the type described above is being considered including stockkeeping and all general arrangements or applications of the logistics type. The thin client system described above is special suitable for installation in existing infrastructures including the hardware "PC systems", networks and Data tools, and software databases, etc. that have been there before are available. This applies via the relevant market area across the board, for example sales, distribution or Shipping or manufacturing. Such a system included preferably a central server that is suitable nete database together with suitable clients for example wireless terminals of the one described above Types that have a graphical user interface for the Be include users. The system carries the advantages of Real time operation, which is the lead time at instruction reduced and she sees an optimal implementation tion for both the operating personnel and the hardware were given, at the same time allowing a Verification on an immediate, continuous basis is carried out. Inventory information can be in real time up to date, dated and processed. The levels can be tailored accordingly and opti be minimized / minimized. The user automatically knows where Objects are stored and able to do so immediately to locate. At the same time, the administrative Be burdens reduced. All of this is achieved without knockout most time-consuming further changes the best existing hardware infrastructure.

The use of user based on characters (icon) zerterminals means that the system is quick and only with  simple training can be introduced, but the sy stem can also be extended to more complex systems including wave planning, resource planning, product vity measurement and real-time evaluation and ordering or Abandonment of work. Because the inventory is constantly on is brought up to date, there are no training or Rest time for a physical inventory. Manage ment, data, inventory, stock or stock exchange and others relevant reports can be obtained at any time which again reduces the administrative burden.

A central server can run both types of client immediately to let. In addition to wireless terminals that have a Form of a radio frequency or radio network control, PC or other fixed terminals can also run with the System are wired, namely at the base station or at a remote station. Standard interface comm nication protocols can be used together with standard network architectures to be a reliable, interchangeable and customizable system to achieve that preferably connected to other business systems, where necessary.

Terminal / receiving arrangements of the type described above provide compact base stations that have a high speed data network activity at the same time as Allow battery charging for the terminals. The systems are suitable for transport and logistics companies, goods or warehouses, organizations for public security unit, sales and other suitable organizations. Before preferably the admission will be initiated switches and she performs a self-diagnosis to ensure proper system operation. The Battery charging preferably begins automatically when the terminal sits in the recording and displays, such as Example LEDs can be provided on the recording to indicate when the energy or power is on and  when the charging process starts. Data transfer can can be reached quickly and efficiently with one host, for Example via a modem, the standard communication prototype kolle used. Main or master recordings can be used for Example with a host PC or another recording chain connected. Standard are preferred face, such as RS232 and RS485 for use with various portable printers and peripherals provided.

The system can also, where appropriate, in one Vehicle attached, for example for transportation and Courier companies, utilities, organizations for public security, agent or mobile seller and service companies as well as other suitable be drives. The recording includes the ability for a batte charging in the vehicle and for a wireless two-way communication. You can, for example, on the fittings board, seat or floor of the vehicle must be installed and Take power from the vehicle battery. The system can two-way wireless data transmission between remote operations centers and mobile personnel on site allow what a fast transfer of recordings and Deliveries, work assignments, job reports and Transaction reports or records enabled.

In any case, it can be seen that the provision of an Ultra thin client the weight and performance requirements of the hand-held terminal, which reduces the terminal makes even more suitable for the contemplated trag usable uses.

Many of the components or parts that the above be form detailed exemplary embodiments described, are individually known to the expert and need them therefore no detailed description.  

It can be seen that it is very desirable to create clients that are "web-enabled," that is, configured to connect to the Internet. In many cases, it is desirable to remove previous operating system-based terminals that used DOS, for example, and to move to HTML (hypertext mark-up langua ge), for example. Referring to FIG. 58, the hardware and soft ware design is shown for a web-optimized terminal. The hardware model offers the main sub-systems. The software model describes how the radio or radio frequency and HTLM software coexist.

The digital part of the design is quite simple. The primary CPU 7400 can be, for example, a National 486 SXF or SXL (brand). This is a highly integrated CPU that includes different peripherals, including an LCD 7402 controller or controller, a DRAM 7404 controller or controller, timer or timers, serial ports, etc. It also has one on the chip code cache and extensive features for low performance operation. It executes 32 bit protected mode 386 instructions, but it cannot run DOS or Windows (brand).

There is a single 128KB 7406 flash memory chip that contains compressed object code. If the A starts standardize the code in the DRAM is mized dekompri 7404 and executed from there. The 128KB should contain approximately 256KB of an 86 object code. This code contains the radio frequency or radio firmware, setup routines and a sufficient web client code for downloading the actual runtime code from a server.

There is a single 1M × 16 DRAM 7404 on the unit which provides 2MB DRAM. This is able to work with low energy and refresh itself.

The scanner interface 7408 is, for example, the pre-programmed 8052 that is used on the currently available SE1222 decoder board or on the plate. The decoder boad or the plate itself is not used, only the components of it. The 486 communicates with it via its integrated serial port. A 7412 scanner, for example an SE1200, is also provided.

The interface to the 7414 radio is preferably a simple 8 bit parallel port or board, although a PCMCIA can be used. The radio module is a unit with pure radio capacity or a "dumb""kappa" unit (dumb kappa unit) that does not contain its own CPU fast memory (flash) RAM, etc.

There are two options for LCD support. The 486SXF 7400 processor supports a display up to 320 × 200. The use of the 486SSXF allows a "dumb" LCD unit without built-in control or without built-in controller. If the SXL version is used, the LCD unit must have its own controller.

The 7416 keyboard consists only of basic switches . The 486 7400 processor performs an imprestation.

The entire system runs on a single 5 volt source. The 7414 radio needs 5 volts and so does the 486 7400 processor 5 volts. This costs some energy, but it eliminates the need for a separate 3.3 V supply, which reduces the associated costs.

The most cost effective model is a two-platter setup, the motherboard and the "Kappa" radio module. On one side of the motherboard are the "keys" 7416 , LCD 7402 and all parts that can be arranged on them. On the other side is the 7414 radio module (attached directly to the motherboard) and the rest of the parts. The whole thing can be 1/2 '' to 3/4 '' high, about 2 1/4 '' wide and 4-6 '' long. The 7402 scanner is also attached to it. The goal is to eliminate all flexible cables, which further reduces costs.

The software in the design shown in Fig. 58 is built around a small, non-preemptive, multi-key core that currently runs on known radio cards, such as the Spektrum 24 card (brand) (available from the applicant's radio card) There are tasks for handling the user interface, Crux or Cetus 418 , sending and receiving and raoming or dialing in. These communicate via common variables and message forwarding. There is an idle task, which is the task with the lowest priority, and it can be explained This task forms the basis for a single poled loop structure, in which the protocol stack and the HTLM exit temporarily.

In this model there is a task that runs or works at the "task" level. It performs a series of tests that can cause processing to occur. Interrupts are generally possible at the time of the destination. The structure is shown in Fig. 59.

It should be noted that the tasks or tasks are quite complex could be. For example, the test could check if a packet was received at the RF interface. If this  the case is, the packet becomes a network protocol passed on stack that processes it.

This software model has been successfully used in well known Sy systems for pagers and modems, for example for the Spectrum-24 pager and the modem from Symbol Technologies used. Accordingly, further details are not here necessary. The pager version includes the radio firmware, UDP / IP protocol stack, pager protocol interpreter and Pager user interface, all on a single 80188 CPU running. The HTLM runtime code was developed to fit into the single-tasking polling model.

Known recordings have different basic requirements:
Full hardware signal compatibility at the connection between the receptacle and the host, so that the host does not require any modification, and full hardware signal compatibility with a serial port that is present at the terminal.

A low insertion force connection between the Terminal and recording, which is common and preferred unlimited removal and reinsertion light.

Full hardware register compatibility within the term nals with existing communication software for example IBM PC compatible communication software.

A support for "Aneinanderket ten "of multiple recordings to a serial port of a single host. In one embodiment a "master" recording for connection to the host is provided see and this supports a large number of "slave" Recordings. Two access modes must be supported  a single access mode and a multiple access mode. In single access mode, one terminal receives one Exclusive control and serial timing He receives connection of the host and all other terminals results equivalent to "no cable attached" or no connection. In multiple access mode, everyone Terminals receive access to the serial port given by the host, but the transfer right is only ei handed over to a terminal at a time. Both fashions should support standard application software without Mo dification, despite the multiplexing.

The terminal / reception should be in a vehicle confi guration can be implemented, as described above.

It is suggested IrDA (Infrared Data Association) compatible optics for the interface with one insert force zero to use the term nals with quickly available (not assigned) with IrDA working peripherals and host computers arbor.

Solutions to the different points are given below described.

Solution 1

Each terminal has two pairs of optics (two trans middle and two receivers), just like every recording me. Accordingly, two full duplex data paths are read hen. Each recording contains a microprocessor plus two Pairs of optics per slot (to accommodate a term nals). With this four-slot design, one handles Microprocessor every four slots. The primary opti cal channel between the recording and a terminal the data part of a full IBM PC compatible 9-wire serial interface for example TXD, RXD and  Sg. The additional optical channel between the recording and a terminal carries control information (DTR and RTS), starts information (DSR, DCD, CTS, RI) of a complete IBM-compatible 9-wire serial interface and bus information (BREQ and BACK).

The data interface is between the optics and the RS-232 gated through the pickup. The tax or con Troll and status information is provided via the additional optical channel transmitted or communicated. Within of the terminal itself are the control, status and Bus information is used to create the effects of a Single or multiple access mode, depending on the need maneuverability.

Several 4-slot receptacles could be chained together (up to 4 physical images, for 16 slots). The Bus signals (BREQ and BACK) are called "tokens" by one Transfer recording to the next to multiplex between inter-cradle multiplexing hen.

The handheld computer's BIOS implements this Recording protocol and sees both IBM PC compatible se rial BIOS services as well as protected or private extended serial BIOS service sets. Because, if any, only a few IBM PC compatible serial Communication programs one of the sets of BIOS services used (instead of going directly to the hardware) communications via recording no standard comm support communication applications. Since this is also for the physical serial port, this is not particularly bad. A single slot version of this Recordings has the same functionality as that 4-slot versions with the exception that they are not linked support. Since there is only one slot and the chaining logic is not necessary, is the hard  goods design a little easier. The two optical channels are handled identically and the terminal BIOS code is the same.

An alternative single slot configuration is combined folds and does not have the linkability or an opti interface. A modular connector of the (phone jack) or telephone socket handle can be used to ent neither wired serial communications (over a Adapter cable) or it can be used as the inclusion "docking" connector, which is a wirge provide a bound path for the two data channels that are usually optical paths.

To improve the IBM PC compatibility, an al alternative approach can be used to make the IBM PC serial emulate the communication interface. This includes that "Bridging" or bridging the control and status formation (which are appropriately conditioned, based on the bus information between the additional Chen optical channel and the "emulated" UART registers. This bridging is done using egg special "Super-State" module of the Chips and Technolo pour F8680olologies F8680 microprocessor in the termi nal. Since all the software in this device is in one running in real mode or in a real time mode "well-behaved" IBM-PC compatible serial communication cation programs can be used.

A solution to reduce the cost of multiple jobs Installation is the elimination of the microprocess sors in all recordings except one (the "master") of the recordings, in each "chain" of up to for example 60 shots.

To meet all the usual requirements for the recordings filling, especially chaining, is a process  to synchronize access to the recording bus from multiple handheld computers without a processor in it every recording necessary. The mechanism can vary ante of a CSMA / CD (Carrier Sense Multiple Access / Collision detection). In this case, manage the Processors in the handheld computer itself in Zu cooperation with the individual processor in the "master" Recording the entire required bus control or con trolls.

In contrast to the above variants, a single Data channel used, creating a UART on the terminal is freed and thus the number of optical pairs in a terminal + recording combination of 4 pairs on 3 Pairs (2 transmitters and one receiver in the recording and a transmitter and a receiver in the termi nal) is reduced. The third pair (a transmitter in reception and a recipient in the terminal) is necessary nimble for Carrier Sense and Colision Detection enable.

To chain together with different recordings To allow men, a switch on the "master" is open name used to support the emulation type to select. This feature allows a chain of Recordings at the end (farthest from the host remotely) from another free recording chain.

One approach is to provide IBM PC compatibility similar to the one used above to do that Emulate IBM PC serial communication interface. There no direct data channel is available (since there is only one single data channel), the data, control and status information run on the same channel. This makes it necessary for the "emulation" to be more complete is.  

The emulation is carried out using Hardware support in the ASIC Interface and the control. This includes the use of I / O regi fall to NMI (non-maskable interrupts or not markable interrupts) and to allow that the recording support software the results of Application access to the UART register is emulated. By using an open system based on the 486 processor, which is suitable for software with ge run protected mode, such as DOS extensions and Windows (brand) is the possible number of interactions with the recording support software effectively infinite.

Another approach to recording is a modular one (Telephone jacks) stem of a connector used for loading Fixing a serial adapter cable for fixing at the reception. However, the inclusion simply leaves the Si gnale through the serial connector of the receptacle walk through. Since the serial connection IBM PC compatible is the recording. Where the device and the inclusion of an internal battery charge not un support, the admission will be effective on you "Connector replicator" or an "extended cable" and egg stand reduced.

As a further development, IrDA Ka to fully utilize capacity, especially the use of IrDA for wireless communication and the use of the same IrDA optics as recording interface to avoid unnecessary avoid duplication of hardware.

Using an IrDA-9 wire emulation mode (which is called IrCOMM is known) for the standard protocol stack that designed for this type of application, that incorporating an IrDA + IRCOMM to RS-232 converter Is multiplexing. Multiplexing could be relatively simple  be (i.e. the "token" forwarding described above schema) and thus it can act as an ASIC in the hardware be implemented. Alternatively, multiplexing could be used be performed by the processor that needs to the IrDA protocol stack and the IrCOMM layer to let go.

Adding a processor to each shot can still be more efficient than attaching under different sets of optics on each hand-held Computer. Since the IrDA optics are half duplex optics, they cannot easily be taken in central constant schemes can be used. The use of the IrDA + IrCOMM standard protocol stack layers is the logical one Methods of using these optics. In the recording a processor is mandatory since these protocol layers are in RS-232 need to be converted.

The emulation of an IBM PC compatible serial connection is still necessary within the terminal. A similar approach to the approach described above can be used to wrap and "wrap" the IrDA and IrCOMM interfaces and to make them look like a standard COM port. Alternatively, to avoid the software interactions that are necessary for the emulation approach, it is possible to add another microprocessor (such as an 8031 ) to the handheld computer itself. This processor would then emulate the "hardware" interface of the UART and run the IrDA + IrCOMM layers. This approach would eliminate any possible software incompatibility.

It is also useful to have a subsystem for use in to develop a terminal, since both with an external a standard, such as IrDA and everyone its internally determined standard. The  Subsystem must be able to work with another inter A standard or IrDA equipped computer device to communicate with internal standards and / or IrDA and it must be suitable for use with the implementation of non-physical connection Recordings. These recordings must be able to take one Emulation of a full RS-232 serial port (with and without emulation chains). A suitable one System covers the functionality of the subsystem, the hard goods and software necessary for implementation of the subsystem (both at the terminal and at the reception share) and the design, the implementation, the inter face and the characteristics of the subsystem and it identifies the functional hardware and software requirements for the complete internal standard / IrDA Sub system (both the terminal and receiving parts).

. According to the Figure 44 is based up to 51 wireless communica tion strategy for the system to two fundamental phy sical communication technologies to eliminate IrDA (Infra-red Data Assocition) and an associated protected or private internal standard which is able pherkabel Peri . IrDA is an open system standard. The same communication protocols (IrAP, IrLMP, TinyTP and IrCOMM) are used for both to allow transparent intermediate operation between the two interfaces in a system that is equipped with both.

Both technologies can follow in one or all of them three modes of operation are used: Point-to-Multi point "air network" mode, point-to-point "serial an final emulation "mode and multi-point-to-point "Linkable recordings" mode. The system sees one or several of the configurations shown in Table 1:  

TABLE 1

A support for the combined technologies sees optimal connectivity and flexibility. IrDA sees connections or communications with quite high Bandwidth (115.2 K baud) in front of a line of sight, with short zero range (sub-meter), and low power ratio need before, plus compatibility with industry standard IrDA peripherals or peripheral devices. The internal one Standard sees connections or communications with egg lower bandwidth (19.2 K baud) in all directions gen, with medium range (3-6 meters) and higher Performance before. By providing a single integrated Solution that supports both technologies and them allows the system to be used interchangeably maximize the potential for wireless connectivity ren.

Figure 44 shows an IrDA "air" network which allows: an IrDA wireless combination between a terminal 7180 and an IrDA equipped server 7182 and an IrDA compatible printer 7184 , an IrDA communication between an IrDA equipped lap top or other portable computer 7186 and server 7182 and printer 7184, and IrDA communication between terminal 7180 and laptop 7186 . In Fig. 45, the serial port emulation for the IrDA and / or internal Standartechnologie is shown. A terminal 7180 communicates with a receptacle 7188 via IrLAP, IrLMP, TinyTP and IrCOMM and one of the following technologies. IrDA or internal standard. If IrDA technology is used, the adapter 7188 communicates with a host / server gate way 190 via an RS-232 C interface. Where the system uses the standard internal technology, the 7188 adapter communicates with a 7192 printer via an RS-232C interface.

The chained receptacle equipped with IrDA and / or internal standard technology, which is shown in FIG. 46, comprises communication between a plurality of terminals 7180 and respective receptacles 7188 , which either communicate with one another via IrDA or internal standard technologies, with IrLAP, the internal Sto the IrLMP, TinyTP and IrCOMM. The recordings communicate with each other via a recording bus and a "master" recording communicates with a host / server 7190 via an RS-232C interface.

In the hardware design in the terminal with IrDA and internal standard, which is shown in FIG. 47, a CPU 7194 communicates directly with a multiplexer 7196 and via a UART 7198 . The multiplexer 7196 communicates via IrDA driver 7200 with the IrDA optics 7202 and via a special internal standard unit 7204 with an antenna 7206 . The terminal as a whole is labeled 7208.

Referring to FIG. 48 includes a receptacle 7210, the serial port emulation hardware design with IrDA and the internal standard with a microprocessor with RAM memory 7121 and memory 7214 Memory ROM memory 7216 in the core together. The microprocessor 7212 communicates with the host (shown schematically at 7218 ) via UART 7220 , an RS 232 driver 7222 and an RS-232 connector of the 7224 . The microprocessor 7212 communicates with a multiplexer 7226 directly and via a UART 7228 . The multiplexer 7226 communicates with IrDA optics 7230 via IrDA driver 7232 . The multiplexer 7226 also communicates with an antenna 7234 via an internal standard unit 7236 .

Referring to FIG. 49, a recording verkettbares design with IrDA and internal standard technology of microprocessor-sors on which a RAM memory and a ROM memory 7240 Memory Memory 7242 includes or has. The microprocessor 7238 communicates with a decision or arbitration unit 7244 directly and via a UART 7246 . The decision unit decides between communicating with the next shot that is further from the host and communicating with the host or the next shot toward the host. The decision unit 7244 communicates in any case with an assigned RS-232C connector 7248 a, 7248 b via an assigned RS-232 driver 7250 a, 7250 b. The microprocessor also communicates directly with a 7252 multiplexer or via a UART 7254 . The multiplexer allows communication with an antenna 7256 via an internal standard unit 7258 . The multiplexer 7252 also communicates with IrDA optics 7260 via an IrDA driver 7262 . The recording is generally shown at 7264 .

The software data / control flow within the terminal is shown schematically in Fig. 50. The IrDA applications 7264 flow via TinylTP, IrLMP, IrLAP 7166 ; Real UART 7268 and the IrDA optics and drivers or the internal standard units in the antenna 7270 . Acquired or legacy applications 7272 flow over the emulated UART 7274 ; IrCOMM 7276 and then follow the same path as the IrDA applications.

Fig. 51 shows software data in a control flow within the shot. IrDA flows to the RS-232 bridge 7278 - RS-232C connector 7280 via UART 7282 and RS-232C driver 7284 . Data stream from IrDA to RS-232 bridge 7278 - IrDA driver and optics / internal standard unit and antenna 7286 is via IrCOMM 7288 ; TinyTPM, IrLMP, IrLAP 7290 and UART 7292 .

Many client devices are configured such that they take up an adapter card, which allows them perform a network access. The components of such Devices and adapter cards are known to the person skilled in the art and are not described in greater detail here. An example of a network adapter is the system that under the name SPECTRUM 24 from the applicant of the present Registration is sold.

In known systems, such as that shown in Fig. 55, it is often desirable for a client device to perform network file access using network file system clients (NFS) via network protocol stacks to network adapters. To accomplish this, the client device 7350 generally must use a PCMCIA slot to hold the 7352 adapter card. In addition, various software components, such as a PCMCIA card driver 7354 , a protocol stack 7356 , and a network file system client 7358 must be present and work on the client device.

For small, low-cost client devices, the Secondary storage that is necessary to use this software components to be large compared to the ge entire secondary storage capacity of the device. To In addition, the RAM that is necessary to use this soft Execute goods components, be quite large, in Ver equal to the total RAM capacity of the device. Finally, the processing or processor can which is necessary to use these software components to be large compared to the overall process  device performance.

Because many of these software components are used for the client The configuration can be direction-specific and the use of network file access on under different client devices can be difficult. Additional Lich the required secondary storage for holding the software components required the use of a two PCMCIA slot necessary, which is neither practical table may still be desirable, depending on the capabilities of the client device. Ultimately, can the configuration and maintenance or maintenance network can be very difficult and time consuming.

The client device and network adapter card interface via a 7362 PCMCIA interface. In the case of the existing adapter card 7352 , the software consists of an autonomous radio control program 7360 with an interface 7352 to the ODI or NDIS driver 7355 in the client device.

The invention, as shown in FIGS. 56 and 57, incorporates the functionality of the network adapter card 7370 into a system that also includes network protocol stack 7372 and the NFS client (s) 7374 . The entire system is then packaged in a PCMCIA card that emulates a standard PCMCIA ATA card. This allows any client device 7276 that is able to access a PCMCIA ATA card to transparently access files from a file server. Since the only interface between the client device and the system is the ATA / IDE interface 7378 , the client device need only have an ATA / IDE driver 7380 and not a network adapter driver, network protocol stack and NFS client (s).

The file access card 7370 consists of a processor, RAM, flash memory and a conventional radio 7388, for example of the type sold under the name SPECTRUM 24 by the applicant of the present invention. This has essentially the same structure as the existing adapter card.

The fundamental difference in the proposed solution is the software that runs on the 7382 processor. The interface to the ODI or NDIS driver of the client device is replaced by a direct interface to an ODI driver 7390 one or more protocol stacks 7372 and one or more NFS clients 7374 , all of which are located within the file access card 7370 itself. All of these software components then run on the processor 7382 in the file access card 7370 . The software necessary to emulate an IDE diskette drive is available to provide the interface with the client device.

The software also includes a radio control program 7394 , which is unchanged from standard radio control programs with the exception that instead of interfacing with an ODI driver in the client system via the PCMCIA interface 7378, the program interfaces directly with the ODI driver 7390 , which is in the same processor within the 7370 file access card. The protocol stack (s) 7372 and NFS client (s) 7374 load onto the ODI driver 7390 in the same manner as they would on a client device. The ATA / IDE control software 7396 must emulate the ATA / IDE interface 7378 and use the services of the NFS client (s) 7374 to access the files on the NFS server in response to client requests via the ATA / IDE Inter face 7378 to access the emulated disk.

In order to support multiple or multiple protocol stacks 7372 and NFS clients 7374 , the file access card 7370 must either have multiple protocol stacks and NFS clients with a mechanism for selecting which one to use or it must provide means for loading the desired protocol stack and NFS client.

The file access card 7370 also includes suitable radio hardware 7395 .

The conventional adapter card drivers make it necessary to specify certain parameters (such as Net ID). A mechanism must be provided to specify these parameters. In addition, the protocol stacks 7372 and NFS clients 7374 typically require setup parameters (such as IP addresses, login name, password, etc.). A mechanism for specifying this information is provided.

Numerous solutions to the problem of loading / updating or updating of protocol stacks 7372 and NFS clients 7374 and the setting of the parameter information can be developed. Such hardware implementation. Containing the fast memory 7386 , this is the obvious place to store these varying types of data. One method is to use a portion of the 7386 flash memory to emulate a floppy disk (in the same manner as that used with a normal ATA bottle card). This diskette contains the standard protocol stack 7372 and NFS client files 7374 as well as the configuration files (NET, CFG, PCTP-INI, etc.), which are used to configure the protocol stack and NFS clients. All these files are arranged in the root directory or in subdirectories of the ATA driver and all are physically stored in the quick memory or flash memory 7386 of the file access card 7370 . In order to reconfigure or reload the 7372 protocol stack and / or NFS 7374 client, the client device only has to edit or copy files within the fast memory via the ATA driver.

In order to allow access to both the local fast memory 7386 of the file access card 7370 and the files on the file server using the same interface, the file access cards ATA controller 7396 must insert or bring the files from the file server into the floppy disk that it is emulating . The simplest way to do this is to treat each file system that is attached via the NFS client 7374 as a subdirectory in the emulated drive. By emitting the file system names to eight characters, the name of the file system can also be the name of the subdirectory (the root of the emulated ATA drive) that is used to access the file or file system.

If the sectors containing the directory information for a file system are accessed, the ATA 7396 controller must receive the current directory information from the file system, via the corresponding NFS client 7374 , and the directory sectors should be built up accordingly make available for the client device (via the ATA interface 7378 ). When accessing data sectors referenced by the directory sectors, the ATA controller 7396 must receive the data for the accessed files via the NFS client 7374 to generate the data sectors and must make them available to the client device.

If the file access card 7370 has sufficient fast memory 7386 , it may be useful to cache sectors of the directory or data so that frequent accesses by the client device follow more quickly. This needs to be carefully balanced to find a compromise between fast access and accurate data. Since the files in the attached file system may be accessible to other clients, it is not guaranteed that they will remain valid once they are cached in the 7370 file access card. It would be necessary to allow the client device to control the behavior of the cache logic. This information can be stored in a configuration file together with other parameter setting information.

Security issues may arise due to the need to store login names, passwords, etc. within the 7386 fast memory of the 7370 file access card . If this information moves with the card that is portable, it can be a security hole and it is therefore possible to use different encryption techniques to secure the configuration file against unauthorized Broswen. The file access card 7370 must make a temporary unencrypted copy of this file for use by the protocol stack 7372 and the NFS client (s) 7374 while it is starting up. As soon as it is running, this temporary copy can be removed. As long as this temporary copy is not accessible to the client device, this does not represent a security gap.

Data integrity issues may arise due to the need for file access card 7370 performance cycles when used with portable client devices. In addition, the card loses power each time it is removed from the client device. The design of the 7396 ATA controller must ensure that a write operation is complete or not at all. This is a standard design limitation of ATA controllers based on fast storage or flash memory. File access card 7370 must take this precaution one step further. A write process cannot be considered complete until it has been successfully forwarded to the file server. Any local caching that is performed within the 7370 file access card must synchronize with all or no writing behavior.

The file access card 7370 must establish / restore connections and attach / reinstall file systems, automatically whenever energy or power is applied to the card. This can take a considerable amount of time, and access to the card may have to be delayed until this process is complete. This is already possible with ATA cards, where the time to "spin up or screw in" a hard drive can be considerable. The ATA / IDE 7378 interface provides the necessary mechanism to delay access to the card until it is ready. In addition, when accessing the card data requires NFS activity to fetch the data, individual accesses can be quite slow. The same mechanism described above can be used to retain the client device until the data is available.

Since the 7370 file access card must contain essentially the same hardware and firmware as a standard adapter card, it could also be designed to operate as such an adapter card. This would of course make it necessary for the adapter card driver and protocol stacks to be present in the client device. This would allow the card to be used either interchangeably as a file access card or a standard adapter card (although this is not possible at the same time).

It is also possible for a customer communication layer to create the 7370 between the client device and the file access card that replaces the standard network layers that are normally present in the client device. Since the file access card 7370 contains the ODI driver 7390 and the protocol stack (s) 7372 , there is no need to duplicate these components in the client device. The application interface to the network can be implemented to use this customer communication layer instead of speaking directly to the protocol stack (s) 7372 . The end result is that client device applications can use network services without actual protocol stack 7372 execution in the client device. Suitable application interfaces are known to the person skilled in the art and they are not described further here. As an example, the interfaces that are available under the names BERKELEY SOCKETS or WINSOCK would be suitable.

When using the above approach, it is then possible to allow direct access to network services (for example via application interfaces), and simultaneously with access to file server files. Of course, this would require that the 7370 file access card have sufficient computing power to support emulation of the ATA / IDE interface 7278 and, at the same time, the customer communication layer.

The arrangement described above gives a number of Advantages in applications. For example, the inventor sees support for wireless Access to files in file servers from a client direction, such as a PCMCIA slot in front and it supports access to ATA cards. Client device-specific protocol stacks or NFS clien are not necessary. At the same time, a ver easy configuration for access to the NSF file or file system enabled. As soon as a card is configured was designed for use with a given set of It can stack protocols, NSF clients and file systems  moved freely from client device to client device without changing the required configuration tion. Since there are no protocol stacks or NFS clients in the Client device must be present, redu graced storage and secondary storage requirements for Client devices achieved what was even leaner or thinner other clients allowed. The protocol stacks and NFS clien ten run in the file access card processor instead that they run in the client device, which is uniform Performance across multiple client devices sees. There is also a possible reduction in the number of PCMCIA slots, which are necessary to be a agreed to support application. Since all software compo nents that are necessary to support the fileser access to the same card many client devices use additional Avoid PCMCIA memory cards. This can be client device with only one slot available to successfully access file server files.

In another aspect is an embedded memory Device for use in an embedded PC based system provided what a single Stan dard storage solution allows the directly executable memory production (for example BIOS) and secondary storage (for Example diskette) with on-site upgrade capability under supports that for use in all PC-based embedded computer systems is suitable. Below the embedded storage device is simply called that Device called and the embedded PC-based computer system is simply called the system.

An implementation of the invention is in relation to a "portable server", ie a mobile terminal that has server capacity, as is described in greater detail in the co-pending US application with serial no. . . . . dated March 28, 1997, which is incorporated herein by reference. As shown in FIGS . 60a, 60b, 61a and 61b, the web server capacity or property can be implemented in a plug-in card, for example a PCMCIA card. A mobile device 7500 , which may be any suitable mobile device, such as a terminal of the type described above, a personal digital helper, a digital camera, etc., having a card interface port, or port 7502 , for example a PCMCIA or a compact quick or flush slot can accommodate a 7504 card on the interface. The card 7504 has server capabilities or capacities, for example for the Internet or the world wide web, and the system thus works as a transparent web server. Un ter reference to Fig. 60b comprises the map 7504 is a PCMCIA or have other suitable interface for Verbin dung or communication with the mobile device 7500th The flash memory 7508 and an ATA (AT attachment) controller 7510 , which is used to implement the hard disk. Memory 7508 is used to store data generated by the mobile device and card 7504 further includes a CPU 7512 that accesses the data and operates as a web server software routine. The CPU 7512 is configured to run a suitable radio frequency or radio communication module 7514 , for example of the type available from the assignee of the present invention under the name "SPECTRUM 24 RADIO". The CPU 7512 is also configured to handle TCP / IP protocols. The mobile device 7500 , which has the card 7504 , is thus able to communicate with a suitable nearby access point and then with a client PC via an aerial connection or antenna 7516 .

As a result, the client PC can display a web page that is a representation of the data stored in the memory of the mobile device if so desired. The card 7504 can thus convert any device, as described above, into a server for the web. This is shown in greater detail in Figures 61a and 61b. The mobile device 7500 collects data at a data collection point 7518 , which may be, for example, a still, video or digital camera, a bar code reader, a microphone, or a data entry point with, for example, a keyboard. The data is stored, for example, in card 7504 using the ATA controller 7510 . Card 7504 works with device 7500 to operate as a transparent web server and transmits data from card 7504 via antenna 7516 . The transmission is received by an antenna 7520 at an access point 7522 , which is connected to the Etenet backbone 7524 . A Client PC 7526 is connected to the Backbone 7524 . Accordingly, if, for example, a worldwide web browser of a suitable type runs on the client PC 7526 and calls the "web page" on the mobile device by sending an HTTP request for the desired Universal Resource Locator (URL), then the request routed via the backbone 7524 and the access point 7522 to the transparent web server which is formed by the device 7500 and the card 7504 . The data collected on the mobile device is transmitted back to the access point in response to the request and the web page is routed to the client PC 7526 .

Now we are dealing with the physical requirements the device: the device is in one of two physical embodiments implemented: Mo dular and component.

The modular embodiment of the device exists from a single, self-contained circuit board  (or an equivalent) on a circuit board (or an equivalent) within the system can be. The subsystem that is made up by the component example is to be implemented with the rest of the system interfacen, via the set of Inter facesignalen, which are described below.

Interfacing modular embodiments of the device with the system via a standard connector th type. This connector sees the set of interface signals, which is described below. Additional Lich this connector is inexpensive, has a ge ring profile and is very immune to bumps and Vi brations. This connector is not meant to be used frequently guidance and distance are needed as we are here with embedded, non-removable applications sen.

All embodiments of the device interface with the system through the same set of interface signals. These signals represent a subset of the ISA-Bussig nale, of (the) additional signal (s) that are necessary to interface with a standard BIOS EPROM, plus Signals that are used for control fixture options. The set of needed Signals is listed below:

Energy or power signals, for example
+ 3.3 Vdc,
+ 5 Vdc,
+12 Vdc,
Earth or mass for different applications.

Control signals such as clock or clock, data transfer, valid address, valid data, zero wait status for the current bus cycle, oscillation of the clock signal, reset return to standard status and preparation for normal XIP and disk operation. If necessary, the device can drive this line to keep the system in the reset or reset state until its own reset is complete, I / O device read strobe or scan command,
I / O device write strobe or scan command, memory read strobe or scan command, memory write strobe or scan command signal to the system that the current I / O or EPROM memory cycle must be expanded. This signal must be used in accordance with the performance requirements described below, a signal to the system that a 16 bit EPROM memory cycle is necessary. This signal need not be used by the device unless the USEMEM 16 signal is present, indicating that the system is capable and ready to participate in 16 bit EPROM memory cycles. Indication to the system that a 16 bit I / O cycle is necessary. This signal need not be used by the device unless the USEIO16 signal is present, indicating that the system is capable and ready to participate in 16 bit I / O cycles.

EPROM control signals, for example:
Indicates that the system is accessing the XIP section of the device. This signal is generated by the address decoding logic in the system and is displayed or generated after the appropriate address lines are valid. Indicate to the system that the XIP section access has ended and that the XIP list is displayed or generated after the appropriate address lines are valid. Indicate to the system that the XIP section access has ended and that the XIP section data is available on the data lines. If this does not occur within a single cycle, the device must use the IOCHRDY signal to initiate extended wait cycles. Indicate to the system that the XIP section is ready for system access. This signal should be activated after the initialization process started by the RESET signal has ended. The system should not access the XIP section after the RESET until this signal is activated by the device.

Indicates that the system of the device has a permit file the content of the IPL subsection of the XIP section to bring it up to date. If this signal is not available, then the content of the IPL subab not be modified (even if suitable Commands sent to the device by the system will).

Option control or control signals of the device, which have the following:
Indicate that the system desires that the device enter its lowest performing or lowest power state as soon as possible. The power or energy consumption and timing requirements are described below. As soon as the standby, floating or suspend state is reached, the device need not support XIP or disk access until this signal is deactivated and the device has started operating again (indicated by deactivating the SUSPSTATE signal). Show the timely standby status of the device to the system. If the device is currently in the standby state, then this signal is active and otherwise it is inactive.

Indicates that the system of the device has permission granted, at their own will full performance or energy  to use. Operations at full power following be carried out at the will of the device (for example background operations) are only allowed if the This signal is active. The use of full power through the device is always allowed during one explicitly requested operation of the latest Completion of the XIP (XIP update) or a letter the diskette (Disk write), regardless of the State of this signal. Show the system that the pre direction full power currently used. This Si gnal only needs to be set if the previous one Signal that the device was allowed de to use full power in the background and when the device actually does this. This signal can also, but need not, be used to make a full Performance during an explicitly requested operation the XIP update or disk write.

Chip selection signal for IDE at addressees.

Driver active / slave present signal by a Slave or IDE device is used to control the Confirm master ICE device during initialization gene.

The signal is used by the system or by the external configuration of the fixture or light to indicate that the device can be reconfigured and that 5 and 12 volt supplies are available. The configuration of the device should not be changed (even if appropriate commands are sent to the device by the system) unless this signal is present.
Indicate that the system is capable of 16 bit I / O cycles and is ready to interact with the device using such cycles. The device decides whether 8 or 16 bit cycles are used and shows the system the selection of the suitable system.
Indicate that the system is capable of 16 bit EPROM memory cycles and that it is ready to interact with the device using these cycles. The device decides whether 8 and 16 bit cycles are used and shows the system the selection via the MEMCS16 signal.

Address signals z. B .:
For addressing the (up to 256K) XIP section of the device of the system.
If an implementation of the device is selected to extend the size of the XIP section beyond 256K, then additional address bits can be used to address the extra memory. The device can assume that all address bits are valid if the appropriate signal is present. The construction of a system that the device uses must therefore ensure that the appropriate signal generation takes into account the upper address bits. If a system generated this signal at any time when the lower address bits contained are the correct values, regardless of the upper address bits, then the device could access a memory as the designated XIP section.

Data signals e.g. B .:
If the appropriate signal indicates the need for an 8 bit memory cycle, then only a first area is used. If the signals indicate the need for a 16 bit memory cycle then a first area is used. If the signals indicate the need for a 16 bit memory cycle then the first area is used, but the latter area can only be used after the signals indicate the readiness of the upper data lines.

Interrupt or interrupt signals, e.g.:
An IRQ signal supported by the device. This is only used for IDE interface emulation. This signal can be connected to any available IRQ line on the system, but for compatibility reasons it is suggested that it be connected to the standard hard drive interrupt. All programming voltages necessary to access the memory within the device are generated within the device either from a single 3.3 volt or from a single 5 volt supply voltage. A system only needs to provide one of these supply voltages, but it can optionally provide both. The device must be able to maintain its normal operating performance from one of these supplies. The supply voltages are provided via the standard device interface described above. The device may restrict its operation to adapt to one of the three power or energy conditions determined by the two device option control signals described above. For example, the signal may indicate that the device is in its lowest power mode and is not responding to XIP or disk section accesses, or that the device is free to use all of the power as it chooses.

Without one of these signals, the device can do all Support access activities, but they must Activities with higher performance or higher Power consumption (such as delete) only during the Use the duration of an activity that is explicitly determined by the System is requested (e.g. XIP update or Diskette writing).

When the device supports background activities  (moving blocks, deleting etc.) it can be used during the Use background activities only at full power if the appropriate signal is present and it must Background activities stop when the signal is deactivated.

The device must be able to within Milliseconds from the time the signal changes to change the states. The device must report whether they are in a standby or suspend state is or not, via the appropriate signal.

The device must have full background usage Report performance on the appropriate signal.

Table 2 describes the relationship between the Power control and status signals as well as the Performance restrictions for each condition:

If the device has an IDE formatted section then it should have the standard idle and ATA specific command to control sleep Performance states of the IDE diskette controller support.

Since the device for embedded applications and in particular mobile embedded applications are provided size is an essential consideration. A System structure that must contain the device Balance capacity with available space. E.g. are multiple discrete sizes in each of the two Design examples (modular and component) standardized.

The functional requirements of the device are as follows:
Referring to FIG. 52 is a block diagram showing the logical structure of a typical implementation of the apparatus, the apparatus 7300 provides a support or a support for two memory sections: a XIP (embodiment on the ground; eXecute In Place) portion 7302 and a floppy disk or Drive section 7304 .

The XIP portion of device 2204 supports settings in the size range from OKB to 256 KB in 64KB increments.

Larger XIP sections (larger than 256KB) and / or smaller setting steps (smaller than 64KB) can are optionally supported, but they may not Prevent compatibility with the above applications.

The device contains two logical controllers 7306 a, 7306 b and two logical memory areas 7308 a, 7308 b. Although specific implementations of the device can combine these functions of the two controllers or memory areas, these terms are used here to describe the functionality required.

The XIP section 7302 of the device 7300 can be divided into two sub-sections: the IPL (Initial Program Loader) sub-section and the BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) sub-section. Each device is configured to use the required sub-sections for use in a specific system.

The IPÖ sub-section of the XIP section of the device owns when used by the system is configured, a size of 64KB and it acts as the first 64KB of the linear addressable area of the XIP section. If it's building a system the IPL sub-section with the BIOS sub-section is replaced then the system must Logic for setting the address line or lines to be provided to the device. It is not the one XIP-Ab cut re-mapping logic within the device is implemented.

IPL sub-section sizes that are larger or smaller than 64KB can be supported optionally, but they are allowed the compatibility with the above requirements is not prevent.

The BIOS sub-section of the XIP section of the device when configured for use by the system is an adjustable size in the range from 64KB to 256KB in 64KB increments. A BIOS size of 256KB is achieved by a device with a 256KB XIP section only allowed if the IPL section is not  is configured for use. If building a Systems remapped the areas of the BIOS required, then the system must have the logic for adjustment the address lines or lines that are sent to the device to be delivered. It is not necessary that XIP section re-mapping logic within the Device is implemented.

Larger BIOS sub-section sizes and / or smaller ones Steps can optionally be supported, they may but not compatibility with the above Prevent requests.

For modular embodiments of the device Division of the device into the XIP section and Floppy disk or drive section possible via a separate external configuration device or one Addition or an additional device with or with which Device via one described above Standard connector is connected.

For component embodiments of the device the division of the device into the XIP section and the floppy disk section possible within the Circuit or via an external Configuration device (if the disk of the system even with a standard device connector is equipped).

The actual configuration of the XIP section of the Device is achieved via the above Standard configuration interface.

It is possible that 5 volts for (radio or High frequency applications) or 12 volts Supply voltages are required (in addition to the Standard 3.3 volt or 5 volt operating voltages) and  only for configuration purposes. This Supply voltages must not be used there unless the appropriate signal is present. This Signal indicates that the Configuration supply voltages are valid, and that device configuration is allowed. At a Minimum would be the configuration supply voltages and the signal through the external Configuration supply device are provided through the standard device connector. The Configuration supply voltages and the signal are described above.

The configuration of the device must be as soon as it is performed, stored within the device be in a fixed d. H. not volatile Way. This can be the use of a separate one Require storage space configuration. Although it the device is possible in the case of a will reconfigure faulty configuration viewed this as a rare case. It is therefore possible to limit the number of new configurations (to use a limited space for to use the rewriting of the configuration). In each Fall, however, becomes a minimum of, for example, 100 Reconfigurations supported.

It is possible the skills or the capacities and to detect the configuration of the device. The Skills and capacities of the XIP section will be determined via the interface described below.

The disk section of the device corresponds to one of the following two formats: IDE or FTL. There is one Standard mechanism for determining which of the two Formats through implementation of the device is supported. It is possible to implement it  the device supports both formats. In one in such a case, an additional configuration option is required be provided to select the format that as the "Primary" or "Boot" format is used. The selection and detecting the disk section configuration not necessary to have read access to the XIP section allow access to the I / O interface of the XIP controllers overlap or mesh. As a result, the system cannot XIP section act while it is about the XIP section configured the XIP controller.

A disk section that supports the IDE format sees a full emulation of a IDE diskette driver and it is configurable to in work in any of the following modes: Primary IDE master, primary IDE slave, secondary IDE master, Secondary die slave. The selection of the operating mode is determined by setting the above suitable signals.

The management of the logical disk driver within of the diskette storage area is replaced by the Diskette controller within the device carried out. Access to the logical diskette driver is done via IDE commands by the IDE driver sent to the diskette controller within the BIOS will.

A floppy disk section that supports the IDE format is configurable to either 8 or 16 bit widths Operating modes. The data width is determined by the System selected, via the appropriate signal. Although this signal is dynamically controlled by the system it would normally be high or low determined and depending on the skills of the Systems. If the signal is there, then it will  appropriate signal used by the device to to show the system that 16 bit access is necessary.

A block diagram showing a possible implementation of the device with a disk section in IDE format is shown in FIG. 53.

The device implementation 7310 shown includes separate XIP-7312 and diskette-7314 controllers and separate XIP-7316 and diskette-7318 memory areas. The XIP controller 7312 handles the configuration and updating of the XIP's memory area and the diskette controller handles the emulation of the IDE driver using the diskette memory area.

A floppy disk section that supports FTL format is shown in block diagram form in Fig. 54 and provides a standard mechanism for accessing blocks for storage in the XIP memory area. This standard mechanism must be the same regardless of the technology used to implement the disk space within the device and is described below.

The device implementation shown includes a single controller 7320 that serves as both the XIP and diskette (FTL) controllers and a single memory area 7322 that serves as both the XIP and diskette memory areas. No IDE support is provided and the XIP and diskette controller functions share common logic.

The BIOS of each system that the device must use include both DIE and FTL drivers to ensure that all implementations of the Device can be used on all systems.  

The XIP section of the device emulates an 8 bit, byte-addressable, linear read-only memory (read-only linear memory) (e.g. equivalent to one in the same Wise sized EPROM). Address bits that are sufficient The system can address up to 256KB the device provided and they will depend on Need decoded within the device. The suitable signal is given by the system for the Device provided to identify that the XIP area is addressed. The addresses decode the is necessary to get the signal from a wider range generating address bits is the responsibility of the system.

Optionally, 16-bit EPROM emulation can be supported but it must not be compatible with the Prevent the above requirements. If the 16-bit EPROM emulation mode is supported, then it should over the System released via the appropriate signal or be operated. Although the signal is dynamic through the System can be controlled, it is usually on set high or low depending on the System capabilities. If the signal is there, and the device then supports 16-bit mode the appropriate signal is used to the system to indicate that 16-bit access is necessary.

The contents of the XIP section 10137 00070 552 001000280000000200012000285911002600040 0002019733689 00004 10018s of the device can if the section on using the system configured to be updated, namely in the circuit or within the circuit via standardized programming interface. The Device supports the standard XIP-Ab Sectional programming interface that is described below regardless of the specific technology that when implementing the XIP memory area of the  Device was used.

The IPL sub-section of the XIP section of the device if configured to use the system, independently of an update or a updated to be protected, namely via a signal that "protects" the IPL sub-section or "does not protect".

The disk section should be up to date can be brought, within the circuit, about the standard BIOS diskette driver and the standard BIOS IDE or FTL drivers, regardless of the specific one Technology used in the implementation of the Disk space was used.

The device's nominal storage capacity is called the Size of the disk section defined by the Device is supported when an XIP section of 256KB was configured. It should be for everyone Implementations a measure of the worst case provide.

Although it is possible for an implementation the size of the XIP area about the requirements of this To expand specification, this extra space should not to be viewed as the Unless the device's nominal storage capacity increases that it is included in the disk section when the XIP section is configured to a size of 256 KB.

The XIP section of the device sees sufficient Performance before to run a code directly to allow the emulated linear memory. Since the Device through the ISA bus has an interface can the maximum access speed where appropriate be limited by the speed of the 8 MHz ISA bus.  

The use of extended wait states of the ISA bus (by using the appropriate signal) is in the In case of delayed access to XIP data allowed, but the maximum number of wait states should not be more than 10 and the average number of Waiting states should not exceed 2.

Although the system optionally has the ability to BIOS or other system code from the XIP area for improved performance in the system's RAM To undergo "shadow processing" is this Option not necessary around the above To meet performance requirements.

The programming requirements of the devices are as follows:
A special I / O interface is provided by the IP controller within the device to determine the capabilities of the device. This includes, but is not limited to, the following information:

• - Setting grain or size of the XIP section (Grain or step size) which is specified as an integral number of KB;
• - maximum largest of the XIP section which specifies as an integral number of steps is, but which must be greater than or equal to 256KB;
• - Flag or flag for the IDE format of the Disk section;
• - Flag or flag for the FTL format of the Disk section;
• - Size of FTL delete blocks (if the FTL format is used),

which as an integral number of steps or Step sizes is specified.

It is not necessary for the device to have read accesses on the XIP section, which allows access to the  I / O interface of the XIP controller overlap or interlock. As a result, the system cannot act from the XIP section during the update or update or configure it the XIP section about the XIP controller.

The XIP controller creates a special interface provided within the device for Determination of the current configuration of the device. This includes the following information but is not on this limits:

• - Current IPL sub-section size which as an integral number of step sizes is specified;
• - Current BIOS sub-section size which as an integral number of step sizes is specified;
• - Select the DIE or FTL formatted driver as the "boot" device if both are present.

The device does not need read access to the Allow XIP section with one access to the I / O Interface of the XIP controller overlap or interlock. As a result, the system cannot act from the XIP section during the update or update or configure it the XIP section about the XIP controller.

A special I / O interface is provided by the XIP controller provided for within the device Selection of the desired configuration of the device. This includes the following information but is not on this limits:

• - Current IPL sub-section size which as an integral number of step sizes is specified;
• - Current BIOS sub-section size as one integral number of step sizes is specified;  
• - Selection of the IDE or FTL formatted driver as the "boot" device if both are present.

The device does not need read access to the Allow XIP section to be accessed with I / O Interface of the XIP controller overlap or interlock. As a result, the system cannot act from the XIP section during the update or update or configure it the XIP section about the XIP controller.

A special I / O interface is provided by the XIP controller provided within the device for on update the content of the XIP section. This includes the following functions but not limited to:

• - delete IPL;
• - write IPL;
• - clear BIOS;
• - Write BIOS.

The device does not need read access to the Allow XIP section with access to the I / O Interface of the XIP controller overlap or interlock. As a result, the system cannot act from the XIP section during the update or update or configure it the XIP section about the XIP controller.

If the disk section supports the IDE format then the standard IDE instruction set is supported. Of the The system's BIOS IDE driver is used for updating or update the IDE format of the Disk section.

If the disk section supports FTL format then a special interface is through the Disk controller provided within the device  to update or update the Contents of the disk section. This includes the The following functions are not limited to these:

• - delete block;
• - map block;
• - Write block.

The device allows read access to the XIP section which accesses the I / O interface of the FTL controllers overlap or mesh. As a result, the BIOS FTL driver can Negotiate the XIP section during the update or to the bring the floppy disk storage area up to date the FTL controller.

Without further analysis, the previous one shows Description of the essence of the present invention so that Third parties readily adopt the present invention can adapt to different applications without Omit features that from the standpoint of the state of the Technically very essential characteristics of the form general or specific aspects of the invention, and therefore it is wanted that such changes or Adjustments in the meaning and scope of present claims are included.

In summary, the invention provides:
Different problems arise when accessing the Internet. For example, Internet files have complete file addresses that are susceptible to being entered incorrectly by a user, which gives access to unwanted files. According to one aspect of the invention, this problem is solved by encoding the file address in a bar code symbol, decoding the bar code symbol and automatically accessing the relevant file.

Reference list

21 mobile unit (from FIG. (9))
160 enabler development system
162 host computers
164 enable or trigger server (enabler server)
166 enabler application program interface
168 timers
170 access point
172 terminal for 162
174 host applications
200 registration
202 capsules
204 source MAC
206 Destination MAC
208 Broadcast
210 Destination MAC
212 Forward
214 Home AP
216 generate entry
218 encapsulate
220 capsules
222 Forward
224 Forward
226 send

Claims (22)

1. An Internet file access system where one or several internet files each one assigned, have dedicated or dedicated file addresses, being a graphic character (Evidence) is provided that represents information that identifies the file address, and being an optical Reader is provided for reading the character or Identifier, for deriving the file address and for Access the corresponding internet file. 2. Method of accessing an internet file using a file address, the procedure being the following Steps comprises: presenting information that the File address identified, in a graphic Character or indicator, reading the character or Tag with an optical reader, deriving the File address from the identifying information and Access the corresponding internet file. 3. Computer network file retrieval system, the File has a network address, where information, which identifies the network address by graphic Character or mark is shown, and a Optical reader is provided for reading the characters Derive the file address that is represented by and to access the file on the network. 4. Data terminal that can be connected to and removed is from the Internet, which has the following: a Data input and an internal server to generate one Internet site that represents the input data and with an Internet protocol address, the terminal also has a network connection or a link, that works with the server to access to provide the site in order to provide users or  Users who are elsewhere on the Internet. 5. Data terminal connectable to remote from one Data network comprising: one Data input, means for generating one for users accessible data file that represents the input data and which has a network address, and one Network connection that is able Access requests from users or users too received that are elsewhere on the network and which is able to provide access to the file. 6. Terminal according to claim 5, wherein the data network is regulated by a network architecture that is used for Cost optimization is built up. 7. Terminal according to claim 6 wherein the Network architecture to minimize data transfer over high cost communication links is constructed. 8. A data system connecting to the Internet that includes: a data terminal inclusive an internet interface, a data processor and one Reader for reading machine-readable characters or Number plate, and a printed character or License plate display, the printed characters machine readable, encoded, Internet related have standing applications, with the reader reading the sign or label is suitable and the Data processor for decoding and executing the Applications. 9. Method of accessing one with the internet in Related application, being a data terminal is provided, including a reader for reading machine-readable characters or marks, one  Data processor and an Internet interface, one Variety of machine readable printed characters using encode applications related to the Internet, are provided, namely by printed material or a printed matter or document, one or several of these characters are read by the reader who Internet related application is decoded and executed by the data processor becomes, namely for the appropriate interface or Connect to the internet. 10. A data system that connects to the Internet includes: a data terminal inclusive an internet interface, a data processor and one Reader for reading machine-readable characters or License plate and a printed sign or License plate display or a display element, the printed characters machine-readable encoded with the Have Internet related applications, whereby the reader is able to read the characters and The data processor is able to handle the applications decode and execute. 11. Procedure for accessing one with the Internet in Related application being a data terminal is provided, including a reader for reading machine-readable characters or marks, one Data processor and an Internet interface, one Variety of machine readable printed characters using encode applications related to the Internet through printed material or a printed matter or a Document are provided, one or more the sign is read by the reader; Internet related application is decoded and executed by the data processor to in suitably interfaces or connect to the Internet.   12. A hand-held, especially stick-like Optical reader which has the following: reading means for Read a printed sign or label that Represents data, and data storage means for storage the data represented by the printed characters, wherein the reading means are suitable for reading the printed characters with a selected product are associated, the reader also having a Download port or port for downloading the stored data to a client processor for additional data pull out or refer to the product intercept, the client processor with a Computer network is connected, and the printed one Characters contain a file address the one Network file which corresponds to the additional Contains information related to the product. 13. Data processing system comprising: a portable terminal and a terminal attachment or attachment device wherein the attachment Terminal interface and processor capability or capacity has for processing data from the terminal were received, and being the terminal User interface, a mounting interface and Processor capability or capacity that is sufficient to attach the user to the attachment forward for processing and data from the Forwarding attachment to the user interface. 14. The system of claim 11 or 13, wherein the system further comprising a host processor, the attachment (Recording element) a host interface and Processor capability or capacity to Processing data from the host processor Forwarding to the terminal.   15. The system of claim 13 or 14 wherein the Terminal attachment caching or buffer storage for caching or buffering applications downloaded from the host through the host interface were. 16. System according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the Attachment / Terminal Interface a wireless connection having. 17. System according to any one of claims 13 to 16 wherein the Attachment of charging means for the performance or Has energy source of the terminal. 18. System according to any one of claims 13 to 17 wherein the Attachment of further computer peripheral or Has peripheral devices. 19. The system of claim 18 wherein the Computer peripherals one or more devices of the following group: one ad, one Printer, a floppy disk drive, a modem. 20. System according to one of claims 13 to 19 wherein the Attachment for provision on a vehicle is suitable. 21. Data processing system comprising a standalone data terminal, docking device for Docking the terminal and a host network, with the Terminal a user entrance and a dock has medium interface that is suitable for transmission or Forwarding of user input to the Attachment means and wherein the attachment means Have terminal interface and a host interface, the user input to the host is suitable forward, for processing.   22. Procedure for the transmission or forwarding of Data between a portable terminal and one Base station, the process following the steps comprises: entering data into the terminal, Forward the data to the base station with minimal Processing or minimal processing effort and Processing the data in the base station.