Abstract: A portable barcode and RF ID tag reader that gathers information about items to be purchased etc by reading barcodes or RF ID tags. A store host computer gathers information about items to be purchased from the portable barcode/ID Tag readers and then the items are bagged by the customer at the checkout stand or by employees of the store at the checkout stand or in a separate warehouse from which the customer picks up the order. The portable barcode/RF ID tag reader can also be used in authenticating articles by accessing a factory computer using a serial number for the article scanned from an RF ID tag on the article. The portable barcode/RF ID tag reader is comprised of a microprocessor coupled to a bar code reader, an RF ID tag reader, a spread spectrum RF transceiver, a communication port, an audible feedback device, a touchscreen or light pen and display, a thermal printer and a magnetic stripe card reader and a smart card reader.