Signature capture pad for point of sale system

Abstract

A signature capture pad (or signature capture/PIN pad) operative for gathering signature data associated with customer transactions includes a digitizer, microprocessor, and a plurality of serial ports, and may be connected to a point-of-sale (POS) terminal, such as an electronic cash register. The signature capture pad provides compressed or uncompressed signature signals in response to commands received from the POS terminal. Uncompressed signature data may be used to provide a facsimile signature on a display or printer at the POS terminal, whereby the signature may be approved by the operator. A signature capture cycle is terminated upon receipt of a command from the POS terminal, or upon the expiration of an optional timer. The maximum size of the compressed signature data is selectable by the POS terminal. Compressed signature data exceeding the prescribed size may be post-processed at a lower resolution. The signature capture pad includes a plurality of serial communications ports that allow the signature capture pad to be connected in series between POS terminal and a peripheral device. The terminal is operative to intercept and respond to serial data, or to reroute serial data between any of the serial ports. The terminal is especially suitable for use in a system wherein chargeback protection is to be afforded to certain transactions in the event that signature signals are combined with other transaction information and forwarded electronically to a transaction processor or guarantor.