Patent ID: 7349723
Filing Date: 2008-03-25
Classification: H04M

Abstract:
1. A keypad and microphone arrangement for a communication device, said arrangement comprising: a key having a cap and a stem; a base layer attached to said stem, said base layer having a port extending from an upper surface of said base layer, through an interior of said base layer, to a lower surface of said base layer; a key circuit to recognize activation of said key; a microphone; a first printed circuit board (PCB) for mounting said key circuit thereon, said first PCB having a second opening from its top surface through its interior to its bottom surface; a second PCB for mounting said microphone thereon; a support member to support said key, said base layer and said first PCB, said support member having a first opening extending from its top surface, through its interior, to its bottom surface; and an air channel connecting said microphone to ambient air above said cap, said air channel comprising said port and said first and second openings, wherein said stem and said cap are located about said port such that said cap extends fully over said port.