Abstract: The disclosure includes a fixed retail scanner including a data reader. The data reader includes illumination assemblies that include different LED sub-groups that are co-located within its respective assembly. These illumination assemblies may be identically constructed and installed at various positions within the data reader to provide active illumination for the camera modules. Illumination assemblies are activated together, but only with the first sub-groups from each of the illumination assemblies being activated together at a first time, and only with the second sub-groups from each of the illumination assemblies being activated together at a second time.

Abstract: An automated checkout system and method of operation for reading encoded data, such as barcode labels, on a bottom surface of an item using a data reader. The automated checkout system includes a leading and a trailing conveyor separated by a gap, where the leading conveyor may be vertically offset in relation to the trailing conveyor such that the item tilts or drops slightly as it moves between the conveyors. A data reader is positioned beneath the conveyors to read the encoded data through the gap as the item transitions from the leading conveyor onto the trailing conveyor. The automated checkout system may include a transition element, such as a transfer plate or guide rollers, to bridge the gap between the conveyors to provide a smooth transfer between the conveyors, prevent items from becoming lodged between the conveyors, and prevent debris from falling through and collecting on the data reader.

Abstract: A data reader and method for data reading, such as a barcode scanner, wherein the scan pattern generating optics and other features are optimized for different modes of operation. In a preferred embodiment, different patterns are projected from different apertures in the scanner housing, one scan pattern optimized for handheld operation and the other optimized for fixed operation. Other optimizable features include the presence or absence of an aiming beam, which may be generated from the same laser source as the scan pattern or from another source, and enabling or disabling decoding of the signal received signal during a portion of a facet wheel rotation. Decoding may be disabled while the scan line(s) for handheld use is generated unless a switch or trigger is actuated.