Handheld mailing system

US6649849B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Pitney Bowes Inc. · US

Inventors

• Edward R. Bass · Trumbull, US
• Konstantin G. Kodonas · Norwalk, US
• Kimberly Chotkowski · West Chester, US
• Linda Lin · Shelton, US
• Jacques E. Hasbani · Easton, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 4, 2001
• Grant date: Nov 18, 2003
• Expiry date: Mar 5, 2022

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G07B2017/0062
• WIPO field: Control
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A handheld mailing system that is easily portable while still maintaining the functionality and security necessary for a complete mailing system is disclosed. A handheld device, such as, for example, a Personal Data Assistant (PDA), is provided with a rating engine and metering device functionality. The weight of an item to be mailed can be input manually, or provided via a communication link from a scale. The rating engine in the PDA will determine the necessary amount of postage, and the metering functionality will provide the authorization and funds for the necessary postage. A printer coupled to the PDA provides a printed label. A security device, such as, for example, a dongle, is provided to ensure security for the mail processing functionality.