Abstract: An automatic incremental focusing scanner system which optically reads a code pattern on an object. The system includes a scanner which directs a beam of radiation onto the object at one of a number of focal lengths. The system further includes a range determining unit for measuring the range of the object relative to the scanner, and a mechanism for alternating the focal length of the radiation beam to selectively focus it as commanded by a control module. The focal length of the beam is adjusted based on the measured range to enable accurate reading of the code pattern.