Computer keyboards with few keys designating hundreds of functions

A computer keyboard system provides for fast entry of all numeric data, yet with only a small number of keys, such as the minimum number of twelve, is able to make hundreds of computer functions available for access from the keyboard. Typically a sixteen key keyboard will make available 266 different functions from a modern computer chip, surprisingly without sacrifice of more complex programming procedures and with significant advantage in providing finger room for error free operation of pocket-size computers, for example. A charted catalog of functions and corresponding keystroke selections is graphically displayed adjacent the keyboard keys so that reference to an instruction manual is minimized. Also by appropriate abbreviated notation a more diverse selection of functions is available to the keyboard as designated functions. This simplification of keyboards to be able to provide access to the many built-in programs, subroutines and functions available on modern day computer chips is made feasible by operating a live keyboard in a data input mode and shifting the mode by an execute key to a function selection mode requiring a sequence of two (or more) keystrokes. Thereby for X keys on a keyboard X.sup.n functions become accessible where n is the number of keystrokes in the function selection sequence.

TECHNICAL FIELD 
This invention relates to computer keyboards and more particularly it 
relates to providing access to more computer functions with fewer keys. 
BACKGROUND ART 
The trend in keyboards is to add keys to match the need for access to more 
of the computer functions made available with modern computer chips. Hand 
held computers regularly employ 40 keys and desk top computers often have 
well over 100 as standard. Even so, keyboards have not kept pace with the 
proliferation of computer chip functions available in the art, literally 
numbering in thousands for a single standard chip. Thus as computers 
become more powerful and compact, keyboards are becoming more bulky and 
confusing. This trend, in ergonomic terms, is hardly to be considered a 
good one, since in order to have computers used with ease by more people 
it is imperative that the user/computer interface be simplified both in 
structure and in logic. 
Keyboard U.S. Pat. No. 3,892,958--July 1, 1975 to C. C. Tung is exemplary 
of the trend by some manufacturers in the keyboards they offer. The 
objective is to reduce the number of computer keyboard keys, yet 35 keys 
are still used. Prefix keys (gold--f and blue--g) are added for use in 
activating the keyboard in alternative computer selection modes to permit 
the keyboard to select three different functions per key. This extends the 
range of a 39 key keyboard available in a Hewlett Packard Model 15C 
computer, for example, to make accessible more of the computer chip 
built-in operating functions and program modes, namely 96, but at a cost 
of additional keys. Still 96 functions are undoubtedly far less than the 
several hundred available on computer chips in the present state of the 
art. Thus, access to full capacities of the chips is not feasible with the 
prior art keyboards, and a relatively large number of keys is still 
required to significantly extend the keyboard capacity to select more 
functions available on the chip. 
Furthermore, with the 39 keys (or more as required to process more powerful 
chips) in a hand held pocket-sized computer, the keys have to be placed so 
close together that it is difficult to make choices manually without 
fingering a wrong key. Also a sequence of reasoned selections must be made 
on prior art keyboards that interrupts the mental process and thereby 
introduces many opportunities for potential error into the key selection 
process. 
This potential for error in manual selection of computer functions is even 
more pronounced whenever there are routines performed which are not 
indicated visibly on the keyboard in easy to identify and follow notation. 
Prior art keyboards have not resolved the problem of how to indicate two 
or more successive keystrokes necessary to complete some of the selectable 
functions or programs except for the aforesaid example which color codes a 
prefix key with a code abbreviation of the functions made accessible 
thereby. If complex key stroke sequences for various functions need be 
memorized or intermediate reference made to an instruction manual, the 
propensity for error is increased by the further interposition of 
unrelated thought processes. Thus, it has not been possible to provide 
access directly adjacent the keyboard keys of the necessary information 
for using a computer to perform several functions in many modes of 
operation. This is particularly true for pocket-sized computers where 
keyboard space is necessarily limited. Even desk-top computers which have 
to be programmed by mathematics and engineering oriented persons who are 
not expert typists are difficult for some users as they must "hunt and 
peck" among the more than one hundred keys which are usual on such 
keyboards. 
The keyboard patent heretofore mentioned does provide a limited amount of 
flexibility to the use of keys on the keyboard as identified by visible 
keyboard legends. Thus the keyboard is usable in three different modes for 
function selection. To activate the two additional modes a manual 
selection of a color coded key is required such as gold (f) and blue (g) 
to correspond to color coded legends on the keyboard panel facing or key. 
While this substantially triples the number of functions available to the 
keyboard it requires more not fewer keys, and it requires a search of the 
desired function on one of three color coded legends over the keyboard 
face, a physical move to another part of the keyboard for the prefix 
keystroke for that color code and a return to the selected key for 
function selection. Clearly, the chances for error are great, and time 
taken in selection and operation is long. Furthermore, there is no way 
taught in the prior art for using substantially all the functions 
available from the computer chip with a simple keyboard having a few keys. 
Present day portable computers, which already have phenomenal computing 
capability, can have their capability expanded still further by the use of 
special purpose plug-in chips which are pre-programmed to solve problems 
peculiar to specialized disciplines such as navigation, mechanical 
engineering, electrical engineering, statistics, etc. 
When these "modules" are plugged in to the host computer the total 
computing power of even hand-held instruments is increased substantially. 
An already serious ergonomics problem is compounded, however, since the 
user is now required to remember the increased repertoire of his 
instrument or refer to the instruction book and then manipulate the 35 or 
so keys in a manner which is not self-evident from the appearance of the 
keyboard. Specially printed keyboard overlay cards are of some help, but 
being passive they do not alter the functioning of the keys which retain 
the identical functions whether or not the overlay card is in place. 
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION 
This invention provides a computer keyboard system with a set of a few (X) 
keyboard keys such as 12 for entering data and communicating with the 
computer chips to execute more than one hundred functions. Thus, 
surprisingly a few keys can execute a large number of functions, and yet 
the operating steps are not complex. Furthermore, there is a distinct 
advantage in spacing keys a greater distance apart, not only to reduce 
errors in fingering an unwanted key, but also to provide graphics room for 
charting the plurality of functions selectable by each of the keys. A 
keyboard having few keys is advantageous also because the keys may be 
placed within reach of the fingers of one hand without large hand 
movements thereby making possible use of a touch system in fingering the 
keys. I estimate that if a computer could be programmed using only 12 to 
16 keys by the touch system then programming time could be cut by a factor 
of 3. 
Ten decimal digit keys (0 to 9), a decimal point key and a function execute 
key (XQ) comprise a minimal number of keys (12) that can be used while 
retaining the important function of entering decimal digits with a single 
keystroke to form multi-digit numerical words by successive sequential 
keystrokes. Preferably, but not necessarily, the computer operates in 
Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) logic in which a simple arithmetic function 
proceeds in different sequence than the arithmetic convention. Thus, the 
arithmetic problem y+z=a proceeds in response to the successive keystrokes 
y, enter, z, plus, to display the answer a. 
The keyboard versatility is attained by employing a computer operating mode 
which changes from a first data entry mode with a live keyboard permitting 
single stroke entry of the decimal digits, and other key designated 
functions (decimal, and +, -, .div., .times., etc. if desired). Data may 
be entered by sequentially selecting digits of a first word (operand y) 
and signalling entry by shift into a different (y) register, preferably by 
using a second stroke of a decimal point key in the word (normally not 
used and inactive) as an entry signal. This saves a separate entry key. 
The second word (g) is then entered. In some cases, .sqroot.y for example, 
only one word (y) need be entered. After the single or double data word is 
entered, the execute button (XQ) is actuated to initiate a second computer 
mode activating the keyboard keys to execute a different set of designated 
functions in response to the sequential selection of n successive 
keystrokes, preferably two. However, the greater n is, the more functions 
can be connected for keyboard accessibility. Accordingly, in the second 
mode (12).sup.n key actuated selections are made available in addition to 
12 in the first mode. Thus, a very large number of functions in a modern 
computer chip may be made accessible. With a three stroke sequence in the 
second mode and 12 keys therefore 1728 functions are available for 
keyboard access in the second mode. 
The invention furthermore provides a graphic display panel charting 
adjacent the keys on the front panel of the keyboard a chart identifying 
the accessible functions by appropriate abbreviated legends together with 
the keystroke sequence for selecting each function. Thus, it seldom 
becomes necessary to consult an instruction manual, which can be larger 
than the computer, provided the basic operating sequences are understood.

THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
The computer keyboard system of FIG. 1 afforded by this invention is 
incorporated in a portable computer 15, with twelve keyboard keys 16 
bunched on the right hand side of the keyboard front panel. The temporary 
electronic display screen 17 is disposed along the length of the casing, 
thereby providing the space in the left hand side of the keyboard panel 
for disposing a graphic display panel chart 18 identifying the various 
computer functions, sub-routines and modes, etc. accessible to keyboard 
selection. Also, the chart indicates the necessary keyboard strokes for 
each function. 
In accordance with this invention therefore, the twelve keys 16 serve to 
select any of the 133 listed functions plus the original twelve functions 
shown in bold face legend on the keyboard keys plus miscellaneous further 
functions and other modes for a total capacity of about 150 functions 
selectable with only 12 keys. Note that the decimal (.) key is used for 
dual purposes in the first mode, thereby serving to reduce the number of 
keys necessary on the keyboard to make possible complete and convenient 
access to the various ones of the functions available. 
There are other optional differences within the framework of this 
invention. For example if the XQ key is used as a Clear key to void an 
incomplete selection of a function then the total functions accessible by 
the keyboard is: (X.times.(X-1).sup.n-1)+1. If the XQ key is not desired 
to be used as a Clear key as stated above, then the total number of 
functions accessible by a keyboard is X.sup.n. 
Where: 
X=Total keyboard keys. 
n=Number of keystrokes in sequence required for function selection. 
The following charts will serve to show that very large numbers of 
functions can be addressed with few keys depending upon the number (n) in 
the keystroke sequence used: 
______________________________________ 
(X .times. (X - 1).sup.n-1) + 1 
(Preferred) X.sup.n 
Using XQ as a clear 
Not using XQ as a clear 
for incomplete for incomplete function 
function selection 
selection 
FUNCTIONS ACCESSIBLE 
FUNCTIONS ACCESSIBLE 
______________________________________ 
X n X n 
12 1* 13 12 1 12 
12 2 133 12 2 144 
12 3 1,453 12 3 1,728 
12 4 15,973 12 4 20,736 
16 1 17 16 1 16 
16 2 241 16 2 256 
16 3 3,601 16 3 4,096 
16 4 54,001 16 4 65,536 
______________________________________ 
*in ADD MODE where provided 
The keyboard is live in a first data entry mode for entering decimal digits 
0 to 9 and the decimal point and also to shift the computer mode for a 
data processing or function selection mode with a single keystroke. The 
execute key (XQ) on its second successive stroke serves a clear function 
to correct (.rarw.COR) and clear the last entry. The decimal key (.) when 
actuated the second time within a numeric word serves as an enter key to 
enter the word into a y register as an operand. This is possible because a 
second decimal point is never found in a numeric word. 
These features aid the use of this minimum number of twelve keys on the 
keyboard without sacrificing the rapid data entry characteristic using a 
single keystroke to enter a decimal digit. Furthermore, keyboard 
accessibility is provided to more computer functions per key than before 
believed feasible. To achieve this, a second mode of operation is 
established by the execute key (XQ), namely the function selection mode, 
wherein the live keyboard used for data entry is converted to require two 
keystrokes per function selection, thereby producing 144 function 
selection possibilities. 
It will be noted that if the computer is put into the ADD mode by executing 
XQ8 then the stroking of the decimal point a second time directly adds the 
keyed in number to the previous total shown in the display. In the ADD 
mode then, the functions shown in the lower right hand corner of the keys 
may be accessed by a single stroke of the appropriate key following a 
stroke of the XQ key. 
______________________________________ 
Example: Go to the ADD MODE: 
.circle.XQ 
.circle.XQ 
.circle.8 
ADD appears in the display. 
______________________________________ 
Then to add numbers 15.75+16.98+20.32 the keystrokes are as follows 
assuming the display has been cleared 
__________________________________________________________________________ 
.circle.XQ 
.circle.XQ 
.circle.6 
. 
DISPLAY: 000 
On the second stroke in 
this mode the decimal 
key becomes a + key, 
in the ADD MODE only. 
.circle.1 
.circle.5 
.circle.. 
.circle.7 
.circle.5 
.circle.. + 
DISPLAY: 15.75 
.circle.1 
.circle.6 
.circle.. 
.circle.9 
.circle.8 
.circle.. + 
DISPLAY: 32.73 
.circle.2 
.circle.0 
.circle.. 
.circle.3 
.circle.2 
.circle.. + 
DISPLAY: 53.05 
__________________________________________________________________________ 
Now if 3.58 is to be subtracted from the displayed total simply stroke: 
______________________________________ 
.circle.3 
.circle.. 
.circle.5 
.circle.8 
.circle.XQ 
.circle.0- 
DISPLAY: 
49.47 
______________________________________ 
If while in the ADD mode 15% of the displayed number is required simply 
stroke: 
______________________________________ 
.circle.1 
.circle.5 
.circle.XQ 
.circle.9 
DISPLAY: 7.4205 
______________________________________ 
In addition to the example shown there is another mode for use primarily by 
the touch system 12-key keyboard and that mode is the $/.cent. mode 
.circle.XQ .circle.XQ .circle.7 In the $/.cent. mode the computer 
"knows" where the decimal point has to be and therefore the first stroking 
of the decimal point key automatically adds the number and points off two 
places. For example, in the ADD mode and in the $/.cent. mode, to add a 
column of figures the operator need only enter the pennies, i.e. 2539 
($25.39) and on the first stroke of the decimal point key the number is 
added, this saves all stroking of the decimal key, as a decimal point, 
which has now become a plus key. 
Frequently used functions are located for quick and convenient reference 
and access by two successive strokes of the same key in the function 
selection mode, as indicated in the upper right hand cell of each cell 
block in chart 18. The bold arrow on the decimal key designates the enter 
function for its second stroke in the keyboard entry mode. The alphabetic 
characters on the lower left of the keys are available for designating 
programs in the program mode when labelling (LBL) is required and thus are 
accessible by three keystrokes. Note that eleven functions are selectable 
that require a first 7 key stroke in the upper left box of chart 18 
adajcent 7 in eleven different cells. (In this embodiment therefore the 
execute key (XQ) is not used as a second keystroke selection, and only 132 
function selections are illustrated in the various cell blocks as 
designated or accessible functions.) Thus, the second keystroke 8 will 
initiate the label (LBL) mode for selection of the alphabetic character to 
produce a set of 11 selections with a three successive keystroke sequence. 
Thus to provide an "A" label then, (when in the program mode) the key 
sequence 7-8-7 (the last 7 being the A since in the program mode the XQ is 
presupposed and therefore automatic). 
The graphic display chart 18 therefore identifies the available functions 
together with the keystroke sequence required to select any particular one 
of the functions, and the keyboard 16 having few keys can select hundreds 
of such functions. 
The hand-held computer 20, of FIG. 2, operates in a similar manner with 
sixteen keys so that the commonly used calculating functions .div., 
.times., -, + may be executed directly in the data entry mode without an 
intermediate "execute" keystroke. In this embodiment 224 functions are 
listed in the cells with fourteen functions accessible for each keyboard 
key. A maximum of sixteen functions can be used for each key with a 
sixteen key keyboard. This embodiment has the additional advantage that 
this invention provides of using few enough keys to be separated by a 
relatively large space on the keyboard for ready manual selection without 
interference with adjacent keys formerly required because many keys were 
necessary to process a large number of functions. Also this provides a 
format where each set of functions (fourteen) to be actuated by each key 
is located adjacent that particular key. Thus, key selection is made 
easier and less prone to mistake in the manual process. 
Note that this keyboard, among other features, provides for alphabetic 
operation (alpha 7-8) in data processing with both upper and lower case 
(shift 8-9). The vowels, A for example, are made readily accessible by a 
double stroke of a single key (7-7), for fast access. Also it is 
convenient to find the desired functions when they are grouped according 
to relevance. Thus, alpha characters are used in connection with the upper 
keyboard. Fiscal data is grouped under the X key. Trigonometric functions 
are grouped under keys 2 and 3, and programming functions are found under 
keys 4 and 5, etc. 
In general, with the entry of a problem, the number of keystroke selections 
is not increased over other keyboards with many more keys. Consider, for 
example, the multiplication of 12.32 by 6.28. The required successive 
keystrokes are 1-2-.-3-2-.-6-.-2-8-x, of which the underlined two strokes 
only are for functional purposes (second decimal for enter operand 12.32 
and x for multiply) and the others are data entry strokes. With the 
conventional operation of RPN (Reverse Polish Notation) the answer 
automatically appears then on the temporary electronic display screen 21. 
If there is no decimal point needed in an operand such as 15 then the use 
of the second decimal point entry mode to save an additional (enter) key 
requires a double stroke for entry, namely -1-5.-.-, where the second 
decimal point enters 15 as the operand into a suitable register sometimes 
termed the "y" register. 
As may be seen on the electronic actuable display screen 21 a set of 
indicia is automatically shown to indicate the special computer 
conditions, primarily the current mode in which the computer has been 
placed. Thus, several additional modes of operation may be established 
supplementing the basic data entry and function selection modes. In 
addition to the ADD and $/.cent. modes already described some of the modes 
which activate the computer keys for special operation during a sequence 
of function selection steps thus are briefly described. 
To go into the alphanumeric mode, the "alpha" selection is made (XQ-7-8), 
and the corresponding alpha mode will be displayed on screen 21. In this 
mode either upper or lower case alpha characters may be selected by 
further execution of the "shift" function (8-9-In the alpha mode the 
.circle.XQ is not required since the computer already "knows" to expect 
an alpha selection and only a two keystroke sequence is required.) also 
shown on the display screen 21 to indicate the alpha case. If the lower 
case letters are to be locked in, then the "shift lock" function (SHFlok 
9, .div.) is selected. 
To enter statistical data, the "Stat" mode is selected (XQ, +, 1) and 
displayed on screen 21. In this and other modes a return to the mode 
setting function "Stat" will reverse the procedure and exit the previously 
selected mode. The statistical mode then permits use of arithmetic signs 
.circle.+ (.SIGMA.+) and .circle.- (.SIGMA.-) for entering data 
directly into the statistical registers without having to use the XQ key. 
In the user mode when selected .circle.XQ .circle.4 - .circle.1 the 
user is permitted to run one of his programs with a single stroke of the 
key corresponding to the program label. For example, if the user has 
stored in the computer a program labeled "H" he can enter the user mode by 
.circle.XQ .circle.4 - .circle.1 . In that mode he can repeatedly run 
program H by a single depression of the .circle.X .sup.(H) key following 
a stroke of the .circle.XQ key. 
In the program mode XQ - .circle.4 .circle.5 the SST function (single 
step through program lines) is accessed simply by stroking .circle.5 - 
.circle.5 . Upon release of the second stroke one line of the program will 
have been advanced. If the second stroke of the .circle.5 is held 
depressed, then after a small time delay, the computer will automatically 
step through the program one line at a time until the key is released, 
just like some other computers. Likewise in the program mode the back step 
BST ( .circle.5 .circle.4 ) function will operate in the same manner 
except that in this case the .circle.4 key is the last controlling key. 
To exit the program mode .circle.4 .circle.5 is executed again. BST 
(back step), P/R (program run), LBL (label) and other modes as well as the 
various algebraic sub-programs, etc. usual in computing operations are 
shown as functions on the corresponding cells for ready recognition and 
reminder. It is clear therefore that when this graphic display chart 18' 
is afforded that a hand-held computer is more useful without the necessity 
of frequent reference to an instruction manual and thus can truly be a 
pocket computer that gives access to hundreds of functions selectable from 
few computer entry keys. 
One particular feature of this invention is the "execute lock" function 
(XQLOK-XQ, XQ, X) which is used, for example, in the Program mode (and may 
be automatically engaged in the Program mode) to permit writing programs 
in successive steps without requiring the XQ keystroke before each 
selection of a function. This significantly reduces program entry 
keystrokes, time and the chance for manual entry errors which increases 
with a larger number of manual manipulations. Similarly the "constant 
entry" (CONS, .circle.XQ , .circle.- ) in the program mode permits entry 
of numerics and the second stroke of the decimal point .circle.. signals 
that the entry is complete and the constant entry mode is automatically 
exited allowing programming to continue in the Program mode. 
This keyboard graphic display 18' in FIG. 2 has four separate sets of 
indicia to indicate the entire catalog of functions available. Thus, a 
primary key function is noted for the single keystroke data entry mode to 
which the computer returns after switching out of other modes by choice of 
keyboard functions or automatically after completing a calculation. This 
mode has as a minimum the decimal digit keys 0-9 and a decimal point key 
to enter serial digits of a numeric multi-digit word with successive 
single keystrokes. This is necessary to decrease chances of error, and to 
avoid unnecessary time consumption in data entry. 
A second set of indicia identifies groups of designated functions 
selectable in the second function entry mode by each first actuated group 
selection key. These groups are positioned immediately under the 
corresponding keys for ready recognition and manual execution without a 
mental and physical jump to another portion of the keyboard than that at 
which the desired function is visually spotted. This avoids the propensity 
for error introduced by the search for a function legend ending up at one 
position on the keyboard and then going to another position to execute a 
group selection key, as required in the aforementioned patent, for 
example. 
A third set of indicia comprises the selection key notation alongside each 
function cell. This identifies the second keystroke in the two-stroke 
selection process for each function that permits the access to as many as 
X.sup.2 functions where X is the total number of keyboard keys. Thus 23 
keys could process 529 functions, etc., in utilizing more of the built-in 
computer chip functions. In this embodiment a fourth indicia set is 
identified, namely the alpha characters A to R to the left of the keys, 
which are addressable in the program mode as program labels in the label 
select mode (LBL, XQ, 4, 7) by a single stroke of the key designating the 
desired label. 
Note that if a conventional arithmetic mode of calculation is used rather 
than RPN, then the decimal point key can rather be labeled as an = key 
(equivalent to the execute key to cause the entered function to be 
executed). 
The computer embodiment 30 of FIG. 3 represents a mode of operation that 
permits a keyboard of X keys to elect up to X.sup.3 functions from a 
computer chip. Thus, with the sixteen key keyboard any one of 4096 
functions may be selected. The graphic display chart accommodates only 
exemplary ones of these functions in 224 available function cells 31. This 
significant numerical increase of functions selectable per keyboard key is 
made posssible by converting the function entry mode to a three keystroke 
sequence. 
To illustrate this n=3 keystroke sequence therefore in a format similar to 
FIG. 2, the FIG. 3 embodiment has in the groupings under the keys a 
notation indicia 33 column therefore a designation of the next two 
successive keystrokes (-3, 02, etc.) for access to the correspondingly 
designated function in the cell block therealongside. This gives the 
capability to use the computer chip built-in capacity much more completely 
than keyboards heretofore available in the art. The typical functions more 
often used can appear in the cells shown on the graphic display chart 
adjacent the keys, and the remaining functions accessible by the keyboard 
could be available in accessory overlay charts or index for use when 
required for special purpose computations. Clearly the keyboard 
improvements of this invention have expanded the capabilities and 
usefulness of computers. Whereas this invention is particularly useful in 
small hand-held computers, it is nonetheless very valuable in the use and 
programming of desk-top computers, particularly those used by 
mathematicians and engineers and which in the prior art require commands 
to be typed in, sometimes using many keystrokes, to address a built-in 
function. In accordance with this invention, the many typed in keystrokes 
usually using the "hunt and peck" system are replaced by the stroking two 
or three of only a few keys, the positions of which are much more easily 
learned by rote. 
It is to be noted that in order to signify the spirit and nature of this 
invention and the features novel in the art, those routine details well 
known in the art and the complexities of computer chips making accessible 
thousands of built-in functions are not necessary in teaching those in the 
art how to practice the invention, and thus are not set forth herein. 
Reference of the present state of the art can be made to commercially 
available computers such as various models made by Hewlett-Packard 
Company. Specifically reference can be made to the "Hewlett-Packard Model 
15C" computer and corresponding instruction manual 00015-90001 entitled 
"HP-15C Owner's Handbook" printed March 1982 and issued by Hewlett Packard 
Corvallis Division, 1000 N. E. Circle Blvd., Corvallis, Oreg. 97330, which 
are incorporated herein by reference to indicate the state of the art and 
the nature of those techniques routinely adopted by those in the art at 
the present time. The above mentioned Model HP-15C is only one of many 
very small and powerful computers on the market today, all of which 
routinely incorporate so called "computer on a chip". The computer on a 
chip is often smaller than any one of the multiplicity of keys which are 
presently required to control its function. In view of this state of the 
art, where computer logic is routinely performed, keyboard keys are 
activated to operate in different modes, automatic subroutines are 
performed for shifting data to various registers, and keys are used for 
various switching and mode selection functions. The following block logic 
diagram of FIG. 4 together with the foregoing description will enable 
those skilled in the art to connect the interface between a keyboard and a 
modern computer chip for operation as set forth herein in accordance with 
the present invention. 
The twelve keys of keyboard 40 of FIG. 4 are set forth to generally 
indicate that minimal number of keys which can fully operate the computer 
in the manner hereinbefore described to interface with hundreds or 
thousands of functions available on a computer chip. As shown by previous 
examples, more keys can be used advantageously, but in general this 
invention permits access to more computer functions with fewer keys than 
the prior art keyboards. Basically the keyboard legend on the individual 
keys identifies the key data input entry under the live keyboard 
one-stroke data entry mode. 
Decoder 41 converts the keystroke information as required to operate the 
computer in its various modes of operation. For this invention, the 
keyboard-to-function select operation interface is of primary importance, 
and the block 42 signifying that function derives instructions decoded 
from keyboard 40, when in the execute or select function mode introduced 
by the execute key XQ. 
Further use of the execute key XQ for clearing the register is shown by 
logic block 43, which clears or voids the appropriate computer register as 
designated at block 44 if there is a yes decision Y at 43 that the signal 
comes from a second XQ keystroke. After clearance the computer is 
activated for next key entry 45. 
Also the program mode logic is typical, as illustrated by program mode 
logic selector 46. This serves when not in the program mode to use the 
single XQ keystroke to disable the data mode and to enable the function 
mode at block 47. After a function is selected at 42 from the two (or 
more) successive keystrokes at line 48, the function is automatically 
executed at block 49. Thereafter automatically the data input mode is 
restored at 50 for the next key operation 51. 
In the program mode (line 52), inquiry is made at 53 whether the XQLock 
mode is in effect, and if not a manual XQ keystroke is required 54 to 
operate the next key 55 for stepping the program at block 56. Alternately 
it may be desirable to have the XQ lock on whenever the computer is in the 
program mode. This choice is preferably made when the specific purpose of 
the computer has been decided upon. When the constant entry mode is sensed 
at logic choice box 57, then a numeric word is required to be manually 
entered at box 59 which when completed enables the computer operation to 
continue with the next key 58. 
In this typical manner the aforesaid computer operatin is diagrammed and 
put into effect by those skilled in the art. 
Having therefore improved the state of the art, those features of novelty 
believed descriptive of the spirit and nature of the invention are defined 
with particularity in the claims.