Abstract: A noncontact scanner operating under microcomputer control provides on-line bar code verification. Synchronized or free-scanning operation of the scanner is controlled by the microcomputer responsive to user inputs provided through an input keyboard. Manual functions selection using the keyboard and output display using multi-function LEDs and LCD display for communication to the user, provides direct input and output from the microcomputer and a bidirectional communications interface allows data and instruction exchange between the microcomputer and a host processor for data designation, analysis and record keeping activities. A plurality of control outputs from the controller allows real time control of the process or system being monitored.

Abstract: Apparatus is described for use with a bar code scanner, to enable consistent bar code reflectance quality measurements. The apparatus includes a holder (60, FIG. 1 ) which holds a hand-held bar code scanner (20) at a predetermined distance (B) and angle (A) with respect to the surface of a sheet (12) that has been imprinted with a bar code. The holder has a lower end (66) for lying "flat" against the sheet, and has a plurality of switches (81-83, FIG. 3 ) at locations spaced around the lower end of the holder. Only when all switches are operated, is the lower end of the holder flat against the sheet, and only when all switches are simultaneously actuated is the bar code scanner operated to generate a display that indicates reflectance quality.

Abstract: A bar code reader is described which can accurately read bar codes with different minimum widths of dark and light elements. The reader includes a lens that forms an image of a portion of a bar code onto a detector assembly which includes a photocell. The photocell output is delivered to a detection circuit that detects the passage of images of light and dark elements across the photodetector. In one arrangement, the detector assembly defines a plurality of photocell devices have photosensitive regions of different areas, and a switch assembly connects a selected one of the photocell devices to the detector circuit. The detector assembly can include several independent cells (52-58, FIG. 4) of different diameters, with one at a time connected to the detection circuit. The detector assembly can instead include several closely adjacent photocells (82-88, FIG. 5), with selected groups connected in parallel to the detection circuit. In another arrangement, a mask is provided, with holes (142-148, FIG.

Abstract: A power supply particularly for use with a traffic control system has a voltage monitoring and control system which continually monitors the line voltage fed to the traffic control system and automatically turns off the power when the voltage drops below a predetermined minimum for a predetermined time period or provides a warning signal should the voltage drop below a higher second predetermined minimum for a predetermined time interval. In the event that the voltage returns to a predetermined acceptable value for a predetermined time period, the power is automatically restored and the warning signal discontinued. The monitoring system includes sensors operative in response to each of the control parameters which operate in conjunction with logical control circuitry to effect the desired controls.