Computer input device with interactively illuminating keys

Details Computer input device with interactively illuminating keys Computer input device with interactively illuminating keys

1996-08-01

1999-08-10

Horabik, Michael

Coded data generation or conversion

Bodily actuated code generator

Including keyboard or keypad

36470914, 36470915, 341 26, 200 5A, G09G 300

Patent

active

059365544

ABSTRACT:
An interactively illuminating computer input device for a computer is disclosed. In one embodiment the device is a keyboard. The keyboard has a bi-directional communication link between the keyboard and the computer. The keyboard also has one or more keys, each capable of illumination. The keyboard also has a keyboard controller, operably coupled to the bi-directional communication link and the keys. The keyboard controller detects depression of a key on the keyboard by the user of the computer. The keyboard controller also controls the illumination of a key on the keyboard by the computer. In one embodiment, the keyboard controller receives from the computer a unique command for each key to illuminate the key. In a further embodiment, the keyboard controller receives from the computer a unique command for each key to dim the key. In yet a further embodiment, the keyboard controller receives from the computer a unique command for each key to illuminate the key if the key is dim, and to dim the key if the key is illuminated.

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