Abstract: Data reading systems and methods for operating data readers such as optical code readers and RFID readers. Certain preferred embodiments are directed to data readers having improved operation features for switching between various operation modes such as, for example, switching between handheld/portable mode and fixed mode using an on board inertial sensor such as an accelerometer or gyroscopic device capable of sensing various movements, motions, and/or orientations.

Abstract: Data reading systems and methods for operating data readers such as optical code readers and RFID readers. Certain preferred embodiments are directed to data readers having improved operation features for switching between various operation modes such as, for example, switching between handheld/portable mode and fixed mode using an on board inertial sensor such as an accelerometer or gyroscopic device capable of sensing various movements, motions, and/or orientations.

Abstract: Embodiments of methods, systems, and apparatus for integrating a bottom-of-basket (BOB) item detector with a data reader. In some embodiments, the BOB item detector may be integrated with a barcode scanner of a point-of-sale (POS) terminal without need for modification of the POS system software. Some embodiments may also include a visual and/or audible indication of the presence of a bottom-of-basket item.

Abstract: A system and method for reading multiple items bearing electronic tags, such as radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, disposed in a read zone wherein a correlation scheme/system, separate (e.g. non-RF) from the electronic reader, is provided for verifying that all the items in the read zone have been successfully read. Typically, the user/operator is then notified whether or not all the items detected by the verification system have been successfully read by the electronic reader.

Abstract: Methods of operation of a data reader and security tag deactivation system whereby a data reader such as a barcode scanner is equipped with EAS deactivation coils or modules disposed in the vicinity of the read volume or generally proximate thereto and the system is operable to permit reading of the ID tag (such as the barcode label) on an item, and upon a successful read, the deactivation unit is operable to (1) sense the presence of an EAS tag; (2) if presence of an EAS tag is sensed, energize the deactivation coil/module to deactivate the EAS tag; and (3) sense if the EAS tag is deactivated. If the EAS tag is sensed to have been deactivated, the system signals as such and a next item may be scanned. If the EAS tag is sensed to have not been deactivated, the system proceeds to alternate operational steps to handle the exception.

Abstract: A system and method for reading multiple items bearing electronic tags, such as radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, disposed in a read zone wherein a correlation scheme/system, separate (e.g. non-RF) from the electronic reader, is provided for verifying that all the items in the read zone have been successfully read. Typically, the user operator is then notified whether or not all the items that have detected verification system have been successfully read by the electronic reader.

Abstract: Methods of operation of a data reader and security tag deactivation system whereby a data reader such as a barcode scanner is equipped with EAS deactivation coils or modules disposed in the vicinity of the read volume or generally proximate thereto and the system is operable to permit reading of the ID tag (such as the barcode label) on an item, and upon a successful read, the deactivation unit is operable to (1) sense the presence of an EAS tag; (2) if presence of an EAS tag is sensed, energize the deactivation coil/module to deactivate the EAS tag; and (3) sense if the EAS tag is deactivated. If the EAS tag is sensed to have been deactivated, the system signals as such and a next item may be scanned. If the EAS tag is sensed to have not been deactivated, the system proceeds to alternate operational steps to handle the exception.

Abstract: Methods of operation of a data reader and security tag deactivation system whereby a data reader such as a barcode scanner is equipped with EAS deactivation coils or modules disposed in the vicinity of the read volume or generally proximate thereto and the system is operable to permit reading of the ID tag (such as the barcode label) on an item, and upon a successful read, the deactivation unit is operable to (1) sense the presence of an EAS tag; (2) if presence of an EAS tag is sensed, energize the deactivation coil/module to deactivate the EAS tag; and (3) sense if the EAS tag is deactivated. If the EAS tag is sensed to have been deactivated, the system signals as such and a next item may be scanned. If the EAS tag is sensed to have not been deactivated, the system proceeds to alternate operational steps to handle the exception.

Abstract: Methods of operation of a data reader and security tag deactivation system whereby a data reader such as a barcode scanner is equipped with EAS deactivation coils or modules disposed in the vicinity of the read volume or generally proximate thereto and the system is operable to permit reading of the ID tag (such as the barcode label) on an item, and upon a successful read, the deactivation unit is operable to (1) sense the presence of an EAS tag; (2) if presence of an EAS tag is sensed, energize the deactivation coil/module to deactivate the EAS tag; and (3) sense if the EAS tag is deactivated. If the EAS tag is sensed to have been deactivated, the system signals as such and a next item may be scanned. If the EAS tag is sensed to have not been deactivated, the system proceeds to alternate operational steps to handle the exception.

Abstract: A system and method for calibrating a scale portion of a scanner in a Point Of Sale (POS) system. In one method, a scanner-scale has its scale calibrated for a given target location by the steps of (a) performing an initial scale calibration during assembly; (b) providing the scanner-scale with a memory containing scale calibration data corresponding to a plurality locations; (c) selecting one or more programming labels containing data corresponding to the target location for the scanner-scale; (d) inputting the target location into the scanner-scale by scanning the one or more programming labels; (e) obtaining from the memory specific calibration data corresponding to the target location; and (f) calibrating the scale according to the specific calibration data obtained. Alternately, the system may use a GPS device to ascertain its location and then use that location information to provide for the auto-calibration.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for use with a laser scanner which projects a laser light beam in a scan pattern to facilitate finding a label on a package and reading the symbols thereon. The apparatus comprises a window, positioned adjacent the laser scanner which has an illuminating portion through which the scan pattern is transmitted and a background portion through which the scan pattern is not transmitted. The apparatus also comprises graphic means, adjacent a first part of the background portion of the window, for delineating a target area towards which the package should be directed by an operator to ensure that the label is properly oriented within the scan pattern for the laser light beam to acurately illuminate and read the symbols on the label. The apparatus may also comprise mask means, superposed on a second part of the background portion of the window, for substantially obstructing the laser scanner from the view of the operator.

Abstract: The scanner includes scanning circuitry for optically scanning bar code labels and providing an electrical signal in response thereto, decoding circuitry, responsive to the scanning circuitry for translating the electrical signal into a digital signal, and a microprocessor, responsive to the decoding circuitry, for controlling operation of the scanner and for translating the digital signal into data to be provided to the associated host computer under control of control characters. A non-volatile random access control memory is provided for storing control characters. Interface circuitry, connected to the host computer and to the microprocessor, transfers data from the microprocessor to the host computer. A switch enables the microprocessor to translate the digital signal into control characters and enables the microprocessor to store the control characters in the non-volatile random access control memory.