3com Corporation

Matt Martin

Brent Delbert Madsen

Michael Collins

A case for a handheld computer system is described. In an embodiment, the handheld computer system comprises a personal digital assistant. The case has multi-functional capability. The case provides a protective housing for the personal digital assistant and includes a communication module which is integrated into the case for protection against damage, whereas the communication module transmits and receives data for the personal digital assistant. In an embodiment, the communication module comprises a radio frequency (RF) wireless communication device. In an embodiment, the front cover of the case includes an inner front cover and an outer front cover. Moreover, the outer front cover includes an opening or window. A metal plate is coupled to the opening. The metal plate has a thickness that is smaller than the thickness of the outer front cover. In an embodiment, the communication module is positioned between the metal plate and the inner front cover, whereas the metal plate protects the communication module from damage and reduces the stack thickness of the combination of the outer front cover, metal plate, communication module, and inner front cover. Additionally, the metal plate is a passive radiator. The communication module includes an antenna for radiating energy, whereas the antenna is positioned under the passive radiator. The performance of the antenna system formed by the antenna and the passive radiator is optimized by the appropriate selection of the length and width of the passive radiator.

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Pleasant Grove, UT, United States of America

Matt Martin