Portable signature capture pad

Abstract

A portable signature capture pad operative for gathering signature data associated with customer transactions includes a digitizer, microprocessor, and a pad cradle that facilitates a wireless data link between the portable signature capture pad and a point-of-sale (POS) terminal, such as an electronic cash register. Subsequent to receiving a ready signal from the POS terminal, the portable signature capture pad is removed, temporarily disconnecting the pad from communication with the pad cradle and thus the POS terminal. A transaction receipt is printed at the POS terminal and placed on the portable signature capture pad. The portable signature capture pad and receipt are presented to a customer for signature capture. Data signals corresponding to the customer's signature are captured by the digitizer and stored in a memory in the pad. The pad is then returned to the cradle. Through the wireless data link, the pad downloads the captured signature signals to the POS terminal in response to a download command received from the POS terminal. The pad also includes a power source that may be recharged using a novel routine disclosed herein. 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.