Patent ID: 6865641
Filing Date: 2005-03-08
Classification: G09G,H04M,H04W,Y02D

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for visually displaying a non-volatile message for an electronic device, wherein the apparatus comprises: an integrated circuit having first circuitry; a package for the integrated circuit; and a display affixed to the integrated circuit package, wherein the first circuitry is coupled to the display and operable to be coupled to the electronic device by pins of the integrated circuit package and to write a non-volatile, visual image via the display responsive to receiving a message from the electronic device, wherein the display comprises an array having a number of segments, and writing the non-volatile, visual image comprises the first circuitry selectively driving at least one segment of the array, and wherein a thermally-sensitive label is held proximate to the at least one segment and the at least one segment generates heat responsive to the driving, the heat being effective for permanently changing an appearance of a portion of the label corresponding to the at least one segment.