Abstract: A bar code scanner includes a source of a scanning light beam which is intercepted by a beam splitter which divides the laser beam into two secondary light beams. Each secondary light beam is projected through a focusing lens which focuses each beam at a different focal point. Both of the secondary light beams are directed at a second beam splitter which combines the two secondary light beams forming a primary scanning light beam which is directed at a scanning area adjacent the scanner which will scan a coded bar code label at various distances from the scanner in accordance with the location of the two focal points.

Abstract: An optical scanning unit for scanning a bar code includes a plurality of rotatably mounted pattern forming mirrors which are rotated during a single revolution of a drive shaft to generate a plurality of successively larger scan patterns. Each of the mirrors includes a cam portion which is engaged by a roll member driven by a disk member which in turn is rotated by the drive shaft. Biasing members return the mirrors to their home position at the completion of one revolution of the drive member.