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: 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: A data reader and method for data reading, such as a barcode scanner, wherein the scan pattern generating optics and other features are optimized for different modes of operation. In a preferred embodiment, different patterns are projected from different apertures in the scanner housing, one scan pattern optimized for handheld operation and the other optimized for fixed operation. Other optimizable features include the presence or absence of an aiming beam, which may be generated from the same laser source as the scan pattern or from another source, and enabling or disabling decoding of the received signal during a portion of a facet wheel rotation. Decoding may be disabled while the scan line(s) for handheld use is generated unless a switch or trigger is actuated.

Abstract: A data reader and method for data reading, such as a barcode scanner, wherein the scan pattern generating optics and other features are optimized for different modes of operation. In a preferred embodiment, different patterns are projected from different apertures in the scanner housing, one scan pattern optimized for handheld operation and the other optimized for fixed operation. Other optimizable features include the presence or absence of an aiming beam, which may be generated from the same laser source as the scan pattern or from another source, and enabling or disabling decoding of the signal received signal during a portion of a facet wheel rotation. Decoding may be disabled while the scan line(s) for handheld use is generated unless a switch or trigger is actuated.

Abstract: In an optical data reader, light is aimed out through a window at objects located in front of the window, and reflections from the objects and/or the window itself are detected. The amount of detected light is compared to one or more expected levels to determine when an object is present in front of the window and/or whether the window is properly installed. The optical reader is controlled based on this determination. Control functions that may be implemented in this manner include, for example, waking up the data reader when an object is detected in front of the glass, and disabling the data reader if the window is removed.

Abstract: A universal interface driver application specific integrated circuit (UIDA) for a data reading device which supports multiple host interface configurations through the use of shared communications lines. In one application, the UIDA is a 32 or 44-pin TQFP chip located in a bar code scanner, or other data reader, connected to a host processing device such as a computer terminal. The scanner reads and decodes bar codes, transmitting the information to the host processing device through an interconnect cable using a host specific input/output interface protocol. The UIDA contains circuitry to support numerous different host interface protocols, such as RS-232C, IBM46XX, or Keyboard Wedge interface, in order to allow a single data reader to operate with a wide variety of host processing devices.

Abstract: A data reader and method for data reading, such as a barcode scanner, wherein the scan pattern generating optics and other features are optimized for different modes of operation. In a preferred embodiment, different patterns are projected from different apertures in the scanner housing, one scan pattern optimized for handheld operation and the other optimized for fixed operation. Other optimizable features include the presence or absence of an aiming beam, which may be generated from the same laser source as the scan pattern or from another source, and enabling or disabling decoding of the signal received signal during a portion of a facet wheel rotation. Decoding may be disabled while the scan line(s) for handheld use is generated unless a switch or trigger is actuated.

Abstract: A universal interface driver application specific integrated circuit (UIDA) for a data reading device which supports multiple host interface configurations through the use of shared communications lines. In one application, the UIDA is a 32 or 44-pin TQFP chip located in a bar code scanner, or other data reader, connected to a host processing device such as a computer terminal. The scanner reads and decodes bar codes, transmitting the information to the host processing device through an interconnect cable using a host specific input/output interface protocol. The UIDA contains circuitry to support numerous different host interface protocols, such as RS-232C, IBM46XX, or Keyboard Wedge interface, in order to allow a single data reader to operate with a wide variety of host processing devices.

Abstract: A data reader and method for data reading, such as a barcode scanner, wherein the scan pattern generating optics and other features are optimized for different modes of operation. In a preferred embodiment, different patterns are projected from different apertures in the scanner housing, one scan pattern optimized for handheld operation and the other optimized for fixed operation. Other optimizable features include the presence or absence of an aiming beam, which may be generated from the same laser source as the scan pattern or from another source, and enabling or disabling decoding of the signal received signal during a portion of a facet wheel rotation. Decoding may be disabled while the scan line(s) for handheld use is generated unless a switch or trigger is actuated.

Abstract: A universal interface driver application specific integrated circuit (UIDA) for a data reading device which supports multiple host interface configurations through the use of shared communications lines. In one application, the UIDA is a 32 or 44-pin TQFP chip located in a bar code scanner, or other data reader, connected to a host processing device such as a computer terminal. The scanner reads and decodes bar codes, transmitting the information to the host processing device through an interconnect cable using a host specific input/output interface protocol. The UIDA contains circuitry to support numerous different host interface protocols, such as RS-232C, IBM46XX, or Keyboard Wedge interface, in order to allow a single data reader to operate with a wide variety of host processing devices.

Abstract: A data reader and method for data reading, such as a barcode scanner, wherein the scan pattern generating optics and other features are optimized for different modes of operation. In a preferred embodiment, different patterns are projected from different apertures in the scanner housing, one scan pattern optimized for handheld operation and the other optimized for fixed operation. Other optimizable features include the presence or absence of an aiming beam, which may be generated from the same laser source as the scan pattern or from another source, and enabling or disabling decoding of the signal received signal during a portion of a facet wheel rotation. Decoding may be disabled while the scan line(s) for handheld use is generated unless a switch or trigger is actuated.

Abstract: A data reader and method for data reading, such as a barcode scanner, wherein the scan pattern generating optics and other features are optimized for different modes of operation. In a preferred embodiment, different patterns are projected from different apertures in the scanner housing, one scan pattern optimized for handheld operation and the other optimized for fixed operation. Other optimizable features include the presence or absence of an aiming beam, which may be generated from the same laser source as the scan pattern or from another source, and enabling or disabling decoding of the signal received signal during a portion of a facet wheel rotation. Decoding may be disabled while the scan line(s) for handheld use is generated unless a switch or trigger is actuated.

Abstract: An improved, rotatably articuable scanner for reading and decoding bar codes in connection with the sale of retail articles is disclosed. An ultra-compact, lightweight, low-cost, self-contained, visible laser diode (VLD) bar code scanner is provided with a great range of functionality and versatility. A scan head housing an optical subsystem is rotatably connected with a tower housing. The heat-generating electronic components are located in the tower housing away from heat-sensitive optical components located in the scan head. The scanner presents an extremely small footprint, and provides for its mounting in virtually any orientation and location. The optical subsystem uses a basket-type mirror array configured around a rotating planar folding mirror, driven by a compact cup (brushed) DC motor. The scanner features a short optical beam path.

Abstract: A scan assembly and method of manufacture in which the dither mechanism comprises a co-molded dither spring, dither mount and mirror mount. The method comprises co-molding a living hinge with a base mount on the fixed end of the living hinge and a mirror mount on the free end of the living hinge. The living hinge may be molded out of the same plastic material as the base mount and mirror mount, or the living hinge may be molded out of a more pliable plastic.

Abstract: An improved, rotatably articuable scanner for reading and decoding bar codes in connection with the sale of retail articles is disclosed. An ultra-compact, lightweight, low-cost, self-contained, visible laser diode (VLD) bar code scanner is provided with a great range of functionality and versatility. A scan head housing an optical subsystem is rotatably connected with a tower housing. The heat-generating electronic components are located in the tower housing away from heat-sensitive optical components located in the scan head. The scanner presents an extremely small footprint, and provides for its mounting in virtually any orientation and location.

Abstract: An improved, rotatably articuable scanner for reading and decoding bar codes in connection with the sale of retail articles is disclosed. An ultra-compact, lightweight, low-cost, self contained, visible laser diode (VLD) bar code scanner is provided with a great range of functionality and versatility. A scan head housing an optical subsystem is rotatably connected with a tower housing. The heat-generating electronic components are located in the tower housing away from heat-sensitive optical components located in the scan head. The scanner presents an extremely small footprint, and provides for its mounting in virtually any orientation and location. The optical subsystem uses a basket-type mirror array configured around a rotating planar folding mirror, driven by a compact cup (brushed) DC motor. The scanner features a short optical beam path.

Abstract: A package sorting and/or tracking system or workstation including a high performance data reader or barcode scanner, a real time system control computer, user interface devices, a superstructure to which all hardware is attached providing hands-free scanning operation at each work station, and a real-time communication link with the host computer system for transferring information scanned from the parcels or configuring the scanning system with up-to-the minute routing information. A scale system weighs each parcel to assure compliance to specifications. An optional feedback system to error-proof the sorting operation whereby the scanning system is configured with a sensing device on each of the bins to which a parcel may be sorted. Based on the tracking information read from the barcode label and the routing information provided by the host computer system, the scanning system instructs the operator to place the parcel in a particular bin.

Abstract: A scan assembly and method of manufacture in which the dither mechanism comprises a co-molded dither spring, dither mount and mirror mount. The method comprises positioning a dither spring in a mold fixture, closing a mold over both a free end of the dither spring and a fixed end of the dither spring, placing the mold in an injection molding machine, injecting plastic material into the mold and forming a base mount on the fixed end of the dither spring and a mirror mount on the free end to form the spring assembly, allowing the spring assembly to cool, and removing the spring assembly from the mold.