Abstract: An improved bar code scanner is equipped with a releasable-attachable base for mounting said bar code scanner to a countertop without modifying said countertop. The releasable-attachable base is provided in the form of a suction-cup apparatus. If the suction-cup apparatus is mounted to the countertop, the bar code scanner becomes fixed to the countertop, alleviating the need for a permanent base, which would require modification to the countertop and irreversible damage to the countertop if the permanent base was ever removed due to an equipment upgrade or a change in operational requirements.