Protective case and keyboard system for a handheld computer

Abstract

A case for a PDA includes a keyboard, and a pass-through I/O port so that the PDA does not have to be removed from the case for docking. The case includes front and rear panels hinged in a clamshell configuration. The rear panel includes a docking port configured to mate with the PDA. The docking port includes an inner electrical connector configured to mate with an I/O connector on the PDA. The docking port further includes an outer electrical connector configured to mate with a docking connector on a docking cradle. The front panel includes a keyboard assembly and is movable between a closed position wherein the keyboard assembly overlies the PDA display screen and an open position wherein the keyboard is oriented for data entry and the rear panel is oriented at a viewing angle. The keyboard is segmented into a main section and first and second folding sections pivotally coupled to the main section. The main, first and second sections each include a plurality of keys respectively defining discrete portions of the keyboard assembly. The folding sections are movable between a closed position and an open position wherein the keyboard sections are joined together for operation thereof.