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Unplugging or re-connecting equipment to the serial COM or PS2 connector always gives problems if the PC is running. Even if you only need to swap a mouse or changeover from a graphics keyboard to a standard keyboard. The chances are that the connected equipment will not communicate with the PC, it will always be necessary to re-boot. If you are really unlucky you may have damaged the PC or the peripheral device. In order to switch equipment successfully it is necessary to follow a sequence. The clock and data lines need to be disconnected from the device before the power line is removed. And likewise the power line must be connected first to the new device before the clock and data lines are re-connected. This sequence is also used by the USB connector but achieved rather more simply by using different length pins in the connector. The circuit shown here in Figure 1 performs the switching sequence electronically. The clock and data lines from the PC are connected via the N.C. contacts...

            It is becoming increasingly difficult for users to interact with the slew of portable gadgets they carry, especially in the area of text entry. Although miniature displays and keyboards make some portable devices, such as cell phones and PDAs, amazingly small, users’ hands do not shrink accordingly.             To solve this problem, we proposed a Virtual Keyboard. This device will replace a physical keypad with a customizable keyboard printed on a standard A4 size paper whose “keystrokes” are read and translated to real input. This virtual keyboard can be placed on any flat surface, such as desktops, airplane tray tables, kitchen counters, etc. and can theoretically be interfaced with any computing device that requires text entry. This would eliminate the need to carry anything around and also prevent any chance of mechanical damage to the keypad in harsh environments if a simple lamin...

Looking for a unique gift? Here’s an antique typewriter which has been modified to function as a USB Keyboard for PC, Mac, or even iPad. That’s very cool, isn’t it? In the world of obsolescence, this USB typewriter is a groundbreaking innovation. It does not change the outward appearance of the typewriter and is easy to install since there is no messy wiring. The 3 components of the USB typewriter are the Sensor board, the USB switches, and the Reed Switches. It works like a regular typewriter with all letters, numerals, and punctuation marks as well as shift, space, and return carriage. It’s a better addition to your home office.