A handheld data terminal for industrial applications

Summary form only given, as follows. In the area of embedded computer systems there is often a need for a simple and rugged operator interface in order to allow the user to communicate with the system. This paper describes the design and manufacture of a hand-held data terminal capable of sending and receiving data from an embedded host computer using serial communications. The intended result of this project was to create a product with features that would make it attractive to customers in a competitive market. All aspects of the design will be discussed including hardware, software, testing, and production details. The final product is currently being sold successfully to many customers across the United States.