Two or more digital images of a same scene are captured with different exposure levels. The support plate and the ironing or clamping plates have openings formed through the thickness thereof. The actuators may be arranged about the exterior surface of the device, and may be selectively activated to provide protection at different points on the surface depending on the location of expected impact. If the sector containing the path under consideration supports supplemental channels, then the method determines the strength of the signal path relative to the weakest finger.