Portable electronic instrument with field-replaceable battery/input/output module
First Claim
1. A processing unit for an electronic instrument comprising:
- a signal/data processor;
an exposed external electrical contact for receiving electric power input;
an exposed external electrical contact for receiving an electric signal input;
an exposed external electrical contact for transmitting an electrical signal output; and
a housing comprising mechanical retention features for securely attaching a battery/input/output module.
1 Assignment
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A portable electronic instrument comprising a processing unit and a combined power and input/output module. The module includes a plurality of electrical contacts for mating to complementary contacts on a processing unit. The mating surfaces of the processing unit and module are shaped to provide a seal for the contacts when the module is attached to the instrument. The plurality of electrical contacts are connected to external ports that are accessible when the module is attached to the instrument. These ports may include DC power, AC power, and electric signal inputs and outputs. The module also includes mechanical features that enable it to be secured in the mated position with respect to the processing unit. These features may include interlocking tabs or holes for accepting screws. The module houses an energy storage device that may be a battery or a capacitor for providing power to the processing unit.
12 Citations
20 Claims
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1. A processing unit for an electronic instrument comprising:
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a signal/data processor;
an exposed external electrical contact for receiving electric power input;
an exposed external electrical contact for receiving an electric signal input;
an exposed external electrical contact for transmitting an electrical signal output; and
a housing comprising mechanical retention features for securely attaching a battery/input/output module. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
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8. A battery/input/output module for an electronic instrument comprising:
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a storage device for electric energy;
an exposed external electrical contact for transmitting electric power;
an exposed external electrical contact for receiving an electric signal input;
an exposed external electrical contact for transmitting an electrical signal output;
a housing comprising mechanical retention features for securely attaching a processing unit. - View Dependent Claims (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14)
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- 15. A portable electronic instrument comprising a processing unit coupled to a battery/input/output module.
Specification