Patent ID: 6370282
Filing Date: 2002-04-09
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
A method for implementing an efficient alphanumeric text entry interface for a portable digital imaging device, the method comprising the steps of:a) generating a first entry area and a second entry area on a display built into a digital imaging device, the first entry area and the second entry area for displaying alphanumeric characters; b) generating a cursor for selecting alphanumeric characters displayed in the first area and the second area, wherein the cursor is operable to highlight a currently selected alphanumeric character such that the currently selected alphanumeric character is visible to the user; c) controlling the movement of the cursor with a four way controller built into the digital imaging device, the four way controller adapted for manipulation by a user, wherein the four way controller is operable to move the cursor between the first area and the second area, the four way controller also operable to move the cursor among alphanumeric characters within the first area or the second area; d) generating a persistent selection highlight for an alphanumeric character previously selected by the cursor, such that as the cursor is moved between the first area the second area, the previously selected alphanumeric character remains visible to the user; and e) processing the currently selected alphanumeric character or the previously selected alphanumeric character in accordance with the user actuating of an input control built into the digital imaging device.