A modular computer user interface system particularly adaptable for use
with portable computers and comprising the integration therewith of at
least one, but in certain specific embodiments, a plurality of auxiliary
modules, such as keypads, interfaced with the processor independent of
the conventional keyboard. The one or more auxiliary modules may be
permanently secured to the platform of the portable computer in spaced,
segregated relation to the keyboard and keys associated therewith.
Alternatively, one or more of the auxiliary modules may be removably
mounted on or detachably connected to the platform and keyboard, wherein
regardless of their fixed, removable or detached relation to the platform
of the computer, each of the auxiliary modules are independently operable
to effect data and signal communication with the central processor of the
computer, independent of operation of the conventional keyboard. The
plurality of auxiliary modules may each be independently structured to
perform various functions and therefore are independently operative as a
numerical keypad, a proprietary keypad for processing specialized
software and/or another type of user interface module.