Abstract: A semiconductor device for imaging optical code symbols comprises no more than 1024 pixels, wherein each of the pixels has an aspect ratio that is greater than 2 to 1 with a short dimension not greater than 4 &mgr;m and not less than 2 &mgr;m, wherein preferably the pixels are arranged in a single row. The semiconductor may have a collection surface configured as a set of no less than 256 and no more than 1024 pixels. Also provided is a bar code reader including a sensor for imaging a field of view of the reader comprising a single semiconductor device as described above.

Abstract: A sales incentive system utilizing a portable handheld optical code reader for use by a consumer for scanning bar code symbols corresponding to product items to be purchased, including a memory for storing symbol data of items scanned by the reader a computer receives the stored data associated with the scanned items from the memory of the reader, and selectively generates coupon information based upon sales offers for specific products currently available based upon an analysis of the stored data by the computer. A printer may be coupled to the computer for printing at the consumer's location a set of coupons corresponding to the coupon information transferred from the computer to the consumer's location.

Abstract: A semiconductor detector device for detecting optical code symbols includes no more than 512 pixels. Each of the pixels has an aspect ratio that is greater than 2 to 1 with a short dimension not greater than 8 microns. In a bar code reader, a sensor for detecting the field of view of the reader includes a single semiconductor device having a collection of surfaces configured as a set of no less than 256 and no more than 512 pixels. Each of the pixels has an aspect ratio that is greater than 2 to 1, with a short dimension not less than 2 microns and not greater than 8 microns.

Abstract: A miniature imager for reading target images. The optical and electrical systems of the miniature imager are optimized to reduce one or more dimensions or the volume of the imager. In accordance with one embodiment the pixel pitch and focal length are decreased from that of a larger imager to maintain a comparable field of view for each pixel. The decreased pixel pitch allows the area of the aperture and the instantaneous field of view of the pixel to remain constant while decreasing the overall size of the imager. In other embodiments apparatus and techniques are provided which reduce and/or eliminate the need for illumination of a target by the imager thereby reducing the overall power consumed by the imager and/or its overall size. An imager with an increased working range is provided, as is a light emitting diode which produces a light with reduced line thickness.

Abstract: Holographic optical elements are configured and deployed in optical imagers and scanners to produce optical modification of output laser beams and light received and detected by the system. In some preferred embodiments electrically switchable holographic optical elements (ESHOEs) are employed for beam tilting, for varying spot size and shape for modifying system focal distance and field of view, for changing laser aiming patterns and/or for color imaging.