Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device and method for displaying content of a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. The device includes an RFID reader, an interface module, and a laser projection display (LPD). The RFID reader sends instructions to and receives data from an RFID tag. The interface module converts the received data into a format for display. The LPD displays information relating to the data received from the RFID tag. The LPD may display the information directly on an item to which the RFID tag is affixed, or it may display the information on a screen diffuser. The information that is displayed may be numerical data stored in the RFID tag, an iconographic representation of an item to which the RFID tag is affixed, a full resolution image of the item to which the RFID tag is affixed, or the like.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatuses for demodulation and decoding of backscattered 16-QAM RFID tag signals, represented by their in-phase and quadrature components at the output of the demodulator in the receiver portion of a reader interrogator. In a communication channel with fast changing parameters, a reader receiver adaptively and coherently corrects the in-phase and quadrature-phase components of a signal received from a tag by tracking the phase and amplitude of the signal based on a decision-feedback. A reference signal is used to correct the signal components, where the coordinates of the reference signal is updated by a tracking and an averaging algorithm. A simple implementation of the receiver in a digital signal processing environment is enabled.

Abstract: A method of securing the mails is described. Using a mail information retrieval system and a the use of data-rich, machine readable barcodes to make each mailing piece unique by including data that ‘lives’ with the mail piece or package allows mail to become traceable. Since traceable mail is less likely to become tainted, resources may be focused on mail that is not traceable.

Abstract: In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention a RFID tag for use in environments that cause antenna detuning is disclosed. The RFID tag comprises an antenna configured to receive radio frequency signals and an adjustable impedance adder coupled to the antenna. The impedance adder is configured to provide a needed amount of impedance to the antenna to compensate for detuning.

Abstract: Multi-tier system for digital radio communication. The multi-tier system has a first-tier base station with relatively long-range radio and has a second-tier base station with relatively short-range, low power and cheaper radios. The system can be more versatilely configured to meet demands of various applications. The application may include data capture using bar code readers, radio frequency readers and other automatic data capture devices. The system may also be used to control hotel door locks, individual room temperature control, remote video monitoring—all without having to wire and with much flexibility given the two types of radios employed.

Abstract: A two dimensional symbol is decoded by forming a sub-sampled image that is used to generate symbol margins for use in digitization. The sub-sampled image is based on local levels of contrast in the symbol. By using a sub-sampled image derived from local levels of contrast in the symbol to determine the symbol margins, margins can be located efficiently and in the presence of symbol contrast variation caused by irregularities in the marked surface or light source angles. Digitization proceeds based on the determined margins.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an adapter unit for a personal digital assistant. More specifically, this invention relates to an adapter unit that provides additional functionality, and improved ergonomics and increased ruggedness to the personal digital assistant. The additional functionality includes the ability to automatically change the function of one or more of the application buttons on the personal digital assistant upon the attachment of the adapter unit.

Abstract: A bar code reader indicator feature gives visible indication that a bar code function has been performed. The feature is integrally molded with the exit window to simplify the design and reduce cost. The feature can diffuse light from an existing indicator light within the reader or the scanning light beam can be directed to impinge upon an area of the exit window not normally in the beam path when the function has been performed to illuminate the feature.

Abstract: A power pack with human interface devices that includes a power pack housing, which is detachably interfaced to a portable device. The power pack includes a power source internal to the housing for providing power, a light source internal to the housing for producing a light signal associated with a status, which light signal is viewable external to the housing, and an audio source internal to the housing for producing an audio signal associated with the status. The power pack interfaces electrically to the portable device to provide power thereto, and receive therefrom control signals associated with the status, which control signals activate at least one of the light source and audio source according to the status.

Abstract: An arrangement includes a first connector coupled to a first device and a second connector coupled to a second device. A cable connects the first and second connectors. At least a portion of the cable forms a substantially oval-shaped coil. At least one of the first and second devices is a user-wearable device.

Abstract: A lightweight, compact image projection system, especially for mounting in a housing having a light-transmissive window, is operative for causing selected pixels in a raster pattern to be illuminated to produce an image of high resolution of VGA quality or higher in color. A shock-resistant arrangement protects at least one of the system components, for example, a green laser module with its associated thermo-electric cooler from shock damage during a drop event without sacrificing the capability of aggressively removing waste heat generated by such system components.

Abstract: Described is a system having a mobile station and an access point which connects the mobile station to a network. The mobile station has a first mode of operation and a second mode of operation. In the first mode of operation, the mobile station transmits a data packet intended for a further mobile station to the access point and the access point transmits the data packet to the further mobile station. In the second mode of operation, the mobile station transmits the data packet intended for the further mobile station directly to the further mobile station.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatuses for updating pointers in memory are described. A device can include pointer logic and a memory that stores a memory pointer. The pointer logic can increment or decrement the memory pointer according to Gray code. The device can increment or decrement the memory pointer in response to a pointer change command and can be configured to first verify a password associated with the command. The device can send an acknowledgement that the command has been received and/or executed. Multiple increments or decrements of the memory pointer can occur in response to a pointer change command configured as a single multiple-increment-or-decrement command or as multiple single-increment-or-decrement change commands. The device can determine an updated value for each of a first memory pointer portion and a second memory pointer portion of the memory pointer.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatuses for wireless communication using a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) protocol are described. The system includes a sensor for sensing a condition and converting it into electrical signals. The sensor is coupled to a near field transceiver. The near field transceiver formats the data collected by the sensor and transmits it wirelessly using an RFID protocol to a tag. A reader uses the RFID protocol to wirelessly read the data from the tag.

Abstract: A system is provided for selecting a particular barcode on an item that includes multiple barcodes. The system (1) acquires, via a barcode imager, an image of the item within the field of view of the barcode imager, (2) analyzes the acquired image to determine a set of potential barcode fields, (3) determines, using a predetermined criterion (e.g., distance from center of imaged area, type of bar code, etc.), a candidate barcode field from among the set of potential barcode fields, (4) displays a modified image derived from the acquired image, wherein the candidate barcode field is identified within the modified image, and (5) allows the user to initiate a decode session when the candidate barcode field includes the desired barcode.

Abstract: A laser projection device suitable for displaying full color images is disclosed. The LPD includes a variety of techniques for modulating laser beams produced by one or more lasers with image data to controllably produce the image using a modified raster scan.

Abstract: A portable electro-optical scanner for reading a target bar code having a plurality of bar code elements. The portable scanner includes: a housing supporting a scanning module and an optic system. The scanning module electro-optically scans the target bar code with a scanning beam and collects reflected light returning from the bar code. The scanning module includes a beam source emitting a scanning beam, beam directing apparatus causing the scanning beam to be repetitively scanned along a scanning plane intersecting the target bar code and photodetector circuitry receiving light from the target bar code. The optic system includes an exit window, a light collection lens and a reflective surface. The scanning beam passes through the exit window upon exiting the housing. The light collection lens receives reflected light from the target bar code and directing the reflected light toward a focal point. The focal point lying on the scanning plane of the scanning beam.

Abstract: A wavelength selector in an optical scanner is operative for selecting a first laser beam having a predetermined wavelength to produce a first scan pattern, and for selecting a second laser beam having a different wavelength to produce a second scan pattern. The scan patterns have a different number of scan lines. The selected scan pattern is scanned over indicia, e.g., a bar code symbol, to be read.

Abstract: An optical scanner for reading indicia having areas of different light reflectivity, such as bar code symbols includes a stationary, multi-surface, fold mirror having a first surface of a first aplanar profile and a second surface of a second, different aplanar profile.