Abstract: A combined microphone bar code sensor includes a hand-held housing and a microphone input mechanism provided in the housing for receiving voice signals and for generating electrical audio signals in response thereto. The microphone bar code sensor also includes a functional switch that is provided in the housing and is manually operable to control dictation functions, including record, play, stop, rewind and fast-forward. The microphone bar code sensor also includes a bar code sensor mechanism that is provided in said housing and is for optically sensing bar code indicia and generating electrical bar code signals representative thereof.

Abstract: Disclosed is a linear strip mask for controlling image plane light level distribution in line scan optical imaging systems. The mask is fabricated photographically on a strip of emulsion coated mylar. The photographic image which is recorded on the mylar strip is a pattern of alternating black and clear sections, the pattern of black sections chosen to modify the non-uniform light pattern output by the system's illumination source to obtain uniform image plane illumination. Also disclosed is a line scan optical imaging system utilizing strip masks to compensate for the non-uniform light output along the length of two fluorescent tubes which illuminate the document scan line and the cos.sup.4 drop-off of the imaging system's lens. Light reflected off the document scan line is transmitted via a four bounce folded mirror system and is received by the lens system.