Abstract: A method for calibrating an electronic scale includes sampling the output of the scale a predetermined number of times to generate a number of average readings for the weight that is placed on the scale, comparing two successive average readings and selecting the average reading that is within a predetermined weight of the previous average reading, comparing the digital signals sampled representing the selected average reading with the setting of a plurality of settable switches in which each switch position will represent a binary bit and displaying on a display the switch settings which represents the selected average reading of the output of the scale. The operator in response to instructions displayed on the display will place a weighted object on the scale, set one of the switches of the settable switches in response to placing the weight on the scale and set the switches in response to the instructions displayed on the display to store the selected average reading in the settable switches.

Abstract: A method for utilizing a single display of a system having a terminal and both merchandise item scanning capability including a scanner and merchandise weighing capability including a scale to display both information derived from scanning a merchandise item and information derived from weighing a merchandise item is disclosed. The display has associated therewith a first light of a first color indicating a satisfactory scan or weighing and a second light of a different color for indicating an unsatisfactory scan or weighing. Controls are provided to prevent conflict in use of the display as between the scanner and the scale.

Abstract: A method for fast weighing on an electronic scale is disclosed. Periodic samples are taken of the weight of an object placed upon the scale, and succeeding samples are compared for similarity within a given tolerance. The overall range of the scale is divided into various regions based upon frequency of use and reliability of readings. Fewest readings are required for that scale region of most frequent use and greatest reliability, thereby minimizing the time required for completing the weighing of objects with weights falling within that region.

Abstract: A quick-cleaning, scanning/weighing apparatus. A scanning unit for use in scanning U.P.C. data on merchandise to be sold at a check-out counter and a weighing apparatus are combined in one apparatus. The weighing plate is mounted on projections on the load cells associated with the weighing beam assemblies used for weighing the merchandise at the apparatus.

Abstract: A method for recalibrating an electronic scale mounted within an enclosure which includes a display and a plurality of switches set to a position representing the calibrated digital output of the scale when the scale is placed in a first and second weighted condition includes the steps of displaying the weight of the weighed condition of the scale, sampling the scale to generate digital signals outputted by the scale when the scale is placed in the first and second weighted condition, comparing the sampled digital signals with the digital signals represented by the setting of the switches, removing the scale from the enclosure when the sampled digital signals are within a predetermined value of the digital signals set up in the switches and displaying the new settings of the switches which corresponds to the sampled digital signals enabling the operator to set the switches accordingly.

Abstract: A system and apparatus for compressing a binary data message generated by a digital input device is disclosed wherein a data message generated in a data terminal device as part of a merchandise transaction is examined on the basis of information content with all data relating to redundant information previously generated or known being deleted together with encoding of preselected portions of the non-redundant data results in the compression of the data to a minimum amount without losing the informational content of the original data thereby allowing the compressed data to be stored in a relatively small storage unit located in the data terminal device. A compressed data record is generated including an encoded start of record character which may signify, in addition to the start of the compressed data record, the type of merchandise transaction being processed.