Patent ID: 6351225
Filing Date: 2002-02-26
Classification: G06F,G10H

Abstract:
A dual mode keyboard system for inputting MIDI data to a MIDI data processor and inputting alphanumeric data to an alphanumeric data processor, said keyboard system comprising:a) an extended keyboard unit with data input keys for inputting key stroke data, wherein the extended keyboard comprises a lower section and an upper section, the lower section comprising an alpha typing section, a numeric typing section and a control section, the upper section comprising a row of function keys and an added row of keys, wherein the row of function keys act as white piano keys when in MIDI data input mode and act as function keys when in alphanumeric data input mode, and the added row of keys act as black piano keys when in MIDI data input mode; b) a means for toggling said keyboard system between the alphanumeric data input mode and the MIDI data input mode; and c) a keyboard interface driver program for translating keystroke data into alphanumeric data with said keyboard system in said alphanumeric data input mode and translating said keystroke data into MIDI data with said keyboard system in said MIDI data input mode.