Abstract: To avoid cost and errors associated with manual data re-entry, methods are provided for transferring data between different business systems (e.g., computer programs). After data for a purchase order is entered using a first purchase order generating program, a data file is prepared including the input data correlated with field identifiers identifying the individual information category of particular data elements. Field identifiers may typically be a sequence of numbers or merely a pre-selected sequence of the data fields. The data file is encoded into a 2-D image code which can be printed out with the purchase order. On decoding of the 2-D image code by a recipient, the data file is recovered. The field identifiers then enable identification of particular categories of information for mapping into the second business system, such as an order acceptance/invoice generating program.

Abstract: A portable data collection system is disclosed. The system includes a dataform reader module having a board camera electrically coupled to a control and decoder board in an open loop feedback configuration. The control and decoder board includes fuzzy logic image control circuitry which analyzes a captured frame of a video image including a dataform produced by the board camera. Based on the analysis of the captured frame, the fuzzy logic image control circuitry generates control signals to adjust operating parameters of the board camera such that an image suitable for decoding is produced.