Abstract: In general terms, the present invention provides a method of automatically scanning an inventory field to allow the selection of a desired item for retrieval. A camera is positioned in the crane trolley located above the field. The camera continuously performs a scan of the field displaying an image to the operator of the items being scanned. This real-time image allows the operator to distinguish between items scanned in the field. The operator can subsequently choose the desired item triggering the camera system to automatically capture desired information from the item which is in turn communicated to an inventory control system. The camera system mitigates the requirement of a second individual to communicate information between the field and the operator.

Abstract: Optical reading system and methods having multiple modes of operation, for example: omnidirectional and single-code picking; fixed and handheld reading; 1D and 2D code reading. In one configuration, an image-based system obtains input data via an area sensor (e.g., a 2D COD array) with only data corresponding to a pattern of virtual scan lines being stored and processed. A user may implement different operating modes such as a first mode reading codes in any location or orientation and a second mode reading only a code oriented along a particular virtual scan line or group thereof. Alternately, the data reader is operable to switch between handheld mode selecting a first pattern of virtual scan lines to process and/or decode and a fixed mode selecting a second pattern of virtual scan lines to process and/or decode. Virtual scan patterns in either mode can change from frame to frame.

Abstract: A method of enabling anonymous communication between a user and an application server, via interaction of a sensing device with coded data disposed on a surface to generate interaction data, the method including the steps, performed in a computer system, of: identifying a first telecommunication address of the user from: an identity of the sensing device received or determined in the computer system; or the interaction data; associating a temporary telecommunication address with the first telecommunication address; sending the temporary telecommunication address and interaction data to an application; receiving information from the application addressed to said temporary telecommunication address; and forwarding the information from the application to the first telecommunication address.

Abstract: A method of associating a barcode with a product that has a product body with a round ending section. The method includes positioning the barcode repetitively along a circle sharing a common center with an outer-ring of the round ending section. A method of reading such a barcode on such a product includes positioning at least a portion of the round ending section of the product within a field of view of a barcode reader such that a complete barcode can be construed from a portion of a first instance of the barcode and a portion of the second distance of the barcode.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method, apparatus, and computer program product for obtaining the location of, for example, a mobile device. An image of a target in a defined space is obtained, the target encoding data from which its location in the defined space may be determined. The position of a reference point in the image which represents the location of, for example, a mobile device, is determined relative to the target. The location of the mobile device in the defined paces is then determined by combining the location of the target in the defined space with an appropriately scaled version of the relative position of the reference point to the target in the image.

Abstract: Described is a method and system for barcode decoding. The method comprises receiving an input signal corresponding to a reflection of light from a bar code. The input signal is divided into a predetermined number of segments. Each segment includes a plurality of samples. Each of the segments is represented using at least one of the samples therefrom. At least one sample from each segment is analyzed to determine a location the bar code within the input signal.

Abstract: A method for expediting the barcode interpretation process implemented on conventional optical imaging barcode readers. The method involves interrupting the mainline processing of the conventional barcode detection, obtaining a copy of the captured image, scaling the image, locating the barcode in the scaled image, scaling the image back to normal proportions, calculating the location of the barcode in the scaled up image, and reporting the barcode location back to the mainline processing for decoding of only the region of interest. The mainline processing of the optical imager may then proceed with barcode interpretation in the area identified by the method of the present invention without wasting time applying complicated decoding algorithms to areas within the image that do not contain any barcode information.

Abstract: Systems, methods and storage mediums are disclosed for processing image data and associated two-dimensional barcodes for decreased data storage requirements and increased data transfer capabilities. Image data of a document may be obtained, processed, and rendered into a barcode including image data from which the document may be substantially reproduced. The barcode may be incorporated into a reproduction of the document. The amount of data associated with the reproduction of the document may be decreased by reducing the resolution of the reproduction, thereby allowing for decreased data storage requirements and increased data transfer capabilities. The amount of data may also be decreased by reducing the area of the reproduction.

Abstract: On a display window that displays code patterns that are read at a time, a code reading device allows the code pattern that is successfully decoded to be visually confirmed with ease. In a handy terminal, when an image scanner reads code patterns at a time in response to a trigger operation, a CPU performs decoding processes for each code pattern and determines whether the decoding processes have been successfully completed or not based on the decoding results so as to display an identifying mark indicating the determination result in association with the image of each code pattern.

Abstract: A symbol information reading apparatus may include an imaging element; an image memory structured to store image data; a position detecting processor structured to fetch the image data and structured to detect a position of symbol information. The position detecting processor may include a temporary area judgment unit that structured to calculate a variation of brightness, and structured to judge a temporary area having a possibility of corresponding to the symbol information; a correlation map creating unit that structured to calculate correlation between areas neighboring in a direction perpendicular to the scanning direction, and structured to create a map showing an area provided with large correlation values; a labeling unit that structured to check presence of a basic barcode on the correlation map, and structured to label an area judged as having the basic barcode; and a position determining unit that structured to detect a position of the symbol information recorded.

Abstract: The 2-dimensional code formation method of this invention comprises: a process of specifying the code size for 2-dimensional code; a process of specifying storage information to be written in the 2-dimensional code; a process of setting the cell size for the unit cell of the 2-dimensional code; a process of specifying the dot step size or the number of dots n x m (where n and m are natural numbers) arranged vertically and horizontally inside the unit cell; a process of creating laser-marking information based on the code size, storage information, cell size and step size or number of dots; and a process of performing laser marking of the 2-dimensional code based on that laser-marking information.

Abstract: Methods for efficiently retrieving information from an image of a symbol are described. Symbols are described that contain detection patterns that facilitate the determination of location, alignment, size and orientation of the symbol in an image. Detection patterns are described that possess geometric shapes susceptible to efficient decoding using probabilistic detection algorithms. Detection patterns are described that are provided in colors, shapes and sizes different from the color, shape and sizes of modules carrying information in the symbol. Methods are described for identifying the location and size of detection patterns in images of the symbol and for locating modules in the symbol to facilitate extraction of information carried by the modules.

Abstract: A component supplying system including a plurality of electronic-component supplying devices arranged to read from an information indicator information, such as ID, that is related to the each supplying device. A guide unit defines the track extending in the direction in which the supplying devices are arranged and that allows the reading unit to be moved along the track. The reading unit detachably attached to the guide unit. The reading unit can perform a reading operation irrespective of the directions the unit is moved along the track. In addition, the reading unit can be moved manually. The guide unit is detachably attached to a component supplying system, and the reading unit includes a wireless transmitter 182 that transmits the read information.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for automatic data collection. An automatic data collection system includes an image capture subsystem and a processor subsystem. The automatic data collection system is operable to decode machine-readable symbols in a machine-readable symbol reading mode, and to automatically switch from a machine-readable symbol reading mode to an optical character recognition mode in response to information encoded in a machine-readable symbol. In some embodiments, the automatic data collection system is further operable to perform optical character recognition on human-readable symbols in a human-readable symbol reading mode.

Abstract: A method of locating and decoding a two-dimensional machine-readable symbol in a digital image, where the symbol has three finder patterns adjacent respective corners of the symbol, takes into account the possibility of skew and pitch when delineating the symbol in the digital image by estimating the unknown fourth corner based on lines passing through known symbol edge points. On the basis of the delineating, a reference grid is mapped to the digital image and a bit stream is extracted based on the mapping.

Abstract: A bar-code-reading tool. A first mirror is disposed to receive light emitted by a bar-code reader. A second mirror is disposed to receive light reflected from a bar-code label affixed to an object. The first mirror and the second mirror are arranged in a folded optical path that is disposed for the bar-code reader to read the bar-code label. A fixture holds the object comprising the bar-code label on a planar base of the fixture and disposes the bar-code label in the folded optical path. The fixture is arranged so that the object is disposed above the planar base, and the bar-code reader is disposed below the planar base.

Abstract: Characteristics of a code are decided upon. For example, the geometry and how noisy the background of the barcode can be may be decided upon. A representation of the code based on the code's characteristics is automatically placed in a variety of trial locations, which are each tested to see if the current trial location is acceptable. In one embodiment, the representation of the code is slid across the document, and code may be placed in the first acceptable location found. For example, in one embodiment, if placing the code in the trial location results in obscuring foreground information, the location is determined to be unacceptable. In another embodiment, if the trial location obscures information that is critical to the purpose of the document, the location is determined to be unacceptable.

Abstract: Methods and systems better detect edges in a binary optical code, such as a bar code. One method constructs a threshold signal to be used for comparison with an equalized undifferentiated scan line signal imperfectly representing a binary optical code. The method comprises detecting peaks in the equalized undifferentiated scan line signal; determining midpoints between successive detected peaks; and generating a smooth signal based on the midpoints. The generated signal is the threshold signal. In one version of the method, the generating step comprises interpolating between successive midpoints so as to result in a signal passing through the midpoints and low-pass filtering the signal passing through the midpoints so as to result in a filtered signal, which is the threshold signal. In another version of the method, the generating step comprises performing regression using the midpoints so as to generate a signal curve that fits the midpoints according to a criterion.

Abstract: There is described a device having a two dimensional imager. The device having a two dimensional image sensor can be a hand held device. Imaging optics can be provided for focusing light reflected from a target onto the two dimensional imager. A two dimensional image sensor can be a color image sensor adapting the hand held device for use in obtaining a color image having color imaging data. Color imaging data obtained can be subject to processing.

Abstract: Operating a bi-optic imaging scanner (300) to image a target bar code (308). The scanner (300) including a plurality of camera assemblies (C1-C6). An image processing system (330) including a preprocessor (332) simultaneously receiving captured image data (350) corresponding to image frames (IF1-IF6) of each of the plurality of camera assemblies (C1-C6) and storing the captured image data in a preprocessor memory (334). The preprocessor (332) generating statistical information (SI) regarding the captured image data (350) stored in the preprocessor memory (334) to facilitate identification of regions of the image frames (IF1-IF6) wherein an image (308?) of the target bar code (308) may be present. The preprocessor (332) transferring selected captured image data (350) corresponding to identified regions of the image frames to a main system memory (338). A main processor (336) operates on selected captured image data (350) to decode the target bar code (308).

Abstract: A system and method for performing a read operation including acquiring a series of frames of image data; processing a first frame of image data including an array of pixel data acquired while an aiming pattern was generated for determining a location L of at least one pixel of the array of pixel data that corresponds to the aiming pattern; and processing a second frame of image data acquired while the aiming pattern was not generated. The processing of the second frame of image data includes the steps of selecting at least one optical code acquired in the second frame of image data that is located at a respective location; wherein the respective location meets a predetermined condition relative to the determined location L; and providing the selected at least one optical code for further processing in accordance with the read operation.

Abstract: A two-dimensional color barcode using gradations of color is disclosed. The barcode includes a black and white configuration block that encodes configuration information about the barcode and a plurality of color data blocks that encodes data. Each tile in the data blocks has one of the-predefined recoverable gradation values of the RGB, CMY or other color sets. The number of recoverable gradation values for each color used in the color data block is specified in the configuration block. The barcode also includes a corner marker consist of a column and a row of black abutting the configuration block which is located in the top left corner, three additional corner markers and a plurality of block separators along the sides of barcode. Also described are methods for generating and decoding such a 2d color barcode. The methods include transforming data values to be encoded into the color space and vise versa.

Abstract: Described is a method of locating a predetermined pattern. An image is divided into a predetermined number of areas. A search sequence indicative of an order in which the areas are to be analyzed for the predetermined pattern is determined. The areas in the search sequence are analyzed until either a predetermined time elapses or the predetermined pattern is detected. When the predetermined time has elapsed before the predetermined pattern is detected, a further image is obtained. Then, areas remaining in the sequence are analyzed in the further image beginning with an area to be analyzed immediately after a last analyzed area of the image until either the predetermined time elapses or the predetermined pattern is detected in one of the remaining areas.

Abstract: A system and method of detecting a barcode involves obtaining a two-dimensional source image and converting it into a frequency domain image (FDI). Frequency trends in the FDI are then analyzed to determine whether barcode information is present in the FDI. In this way, the presence, location, orientation, size and symbology of a barcode can be quickly and accurately determined.

Abstract: The method and system include marking a surgery site (e.g., location of surgical incision) or a site of other medical action with a machine-readable medical marking (e.g., bar code or a dot pattern), which may be used in conjunction with (1) a scanner for reading the machine-readable medical marking and (2) a controller for controlling medical actions in response to the read machine-readable medical marking. The system and method ensure the validation of the surgical procedure, the patient awaiting the surgical procedure, and the site or location on the patient where the surgery is to be performed. Utilizing a scanning device for reading machine-readable medical markings, and a controller, there are additional means to check and double check the medical action before the actual medical action (e.g., surgery) is performed.

Abstract: A plurality of bar-code candidate areas are calculated from scan data that is acquired by scanning a bar code. Feature data, which represents a specific feature, is calculated for each of the bar-code candidate areas. The bar-code candidate areas are evaluated based on their feature data to thereby determine a bar-code candidate area that has the highest probability of being a bar code. The specific feature includes any one or more of length of a differential waveform, average energy, and number of peaks in the differential waveform.

Abstract: A method of printing modules for a two dimensional barcode that includes printing a pixel at a plurality of the pixel locations included in the inner portion of the darkened module, and printing a pixel at less than all of the pixel locations of the outer boundary of the darkened module. Various embodiments are contemplated, such as, without limitation, methods that print darkened modules having four light corners, three light corners, two light corners, one light corner, and/or one light edge. Also, a method of printing a two dimensional barcode having a finder pattern wherein the inner edge of the finder pattern is light, meaning that is does not include any printed pixels at the pixel locations along the inner edge.

Abstract: An image printing method and apparatus which can detect the edge of a printing medium on which a barcode is written while reading the barcode using one sensor unit. The apparatus for printing an image on a printing medium on which a barcode is written includes a sensor unit sensing the barcode and generating a sensing signal. A first counting unit counts the sensing signal to generate a first count value when the value of the sensing signal is changed from a high value to a low value. A second counting unit counts the sensing signal of the barcode simultaneously with the first counting unit to generate a second count value which is initialized whenever the value of the sensing signal is changed. A detecting unit detects the edge of the printing medium based on the first and second count values of the first counting unit and the second counting unit. A reading unit reads the barcode based on the second count value of the second counting unit.

Abstract: The method and system include marking a surgery site (e.g., location of surgical incision) or a site of other medical action with a machine-readable medical marking (e.g., bar code or a dot pattern), which may be used in conjunction with (1) a scanner for reading the machine-readable medical marking and (2) a controller for controlling medical actions in response to the read machine-readable medical marking. The system and method ensure the validation of the surgical procedure, the patient awaiting the surgical procedure, and the site or location on the patient where the surgery is to be performed. Utilizing a scanning device for reading machine-readable medical markings, and a controller, there are additional means to check and double check the medical action before the actual medical action (e.g., surgery) is performed.

Abstract: A barcode sensor package has an optical emitter circuit and an optical detector circuit which are formed as one or more integrated optical circuits disposed in a housing which has a reading surface and one or more apertures located between the optical emitter and detector circuits. The optical emitter circuit has an emitter die, such as a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL), for emitting a light beam and a diffraction optical element disposed on the emitter die for focusing the light beam to a bar code. The optical detector circuit has a photodetector die, such as a phototransistor, for detecting reflective light and another diffraction optical element disposed on the photodetector die for guiding light reflected from the bar code to the detector. The diffraction optical elements are fabricated by patterning optical layers, deposited on respective emitter and detector dies, using photolithograph or a direct write process.

Abstract: In general terms, the present invention provides a method of automatically scanning an inventory field to allow the selection of a desired item for retrieval. A camera is positioned in the crane trolley located above the field. The camera continuously performs a scan of the field displaying an image to the operator of the items being scanned. This real-time image allows the operator to distinguish between items scanned in the field. The operator can subsequently choose the desired item triggering the camera system to automatically capture desired information from the item which is in turn communicated to an inventory control system. The camera system mitigates the requirement of a second individual to communicate information between the field and the operator.

Abstract: A method is provided for printing a plurality of images of a symbol that includes at least a two-dimensional machine readable symbol on a plurality of substrates or on a plurality of portions of a substrate so that the printable area of each substrate or substrate portion includes a complete representation of the two-dimensional machine readable symbol.

Abstract: Described is a system and method for bar code detection. The method comprises generating a digitized bar pattern (DBP) including a series of elements corresponding to elements of a scanned bar code, and identifying a first set of margins around a first portion of the series of elements. When an attempt to decode the first portion is unsuccessful, the first portion is analyzed to determine a second set of margins around a second portion of the series of elements, the second set of margins being within the first set of margins, and the second portion is input to a decoding algorithm.

Abstract: Misunderstanding is not caused among users such that the user misconstrues a special digit character of barcode data which is not directly input by the user as an input character or misconstrues the input character as the special digit character. In the invention, the input character string is displayed in a first display area and information on the special digit character is displayed in a second display area. At this point, it is preferable to notify the user that a position of a cursor in the first display area is located at the position of the special digit character by displaying the information displayed in the second display area in a mode which is different from the display mode of other cursor positions.

Abstract: A device for storing and displaying numerous optically readable codes. The device includes a memory for storing the codes, a display for displaying the codes of sufficient contrast to be readable by an optical scanner, an optional selector for allowing the user to request display of the code(s), and a processor for coordinating operation of the memory, display and optional selector.

Abstract: A system is described for managing data and information in a healthcare environment, such as a hospital. A handheld code scanner reads codes and either accepts data, or performs instructions based on the read code. The code scanner wirelessly transmits the codes or data to a central server which acts on the read code to carry out necessary functions. The system is useful for tracking patient data, such as for delivery of medicine. In addition, since the system can carry out instructions, it is useful for allowing healthcare workers to quickly and conveniently perform their duties without the necessity of sitting at a computer terminal.

Abstract: A method for improving the readability of composite images by determining available areas on a document where no text or graphics will be printed in visible ink and printing one or more 2-D bar code with invisible ink at a size pre-determined based on the available areas. The one or more auxiliary 2-D bar codes are printed in luminescent ink, either invisible or lightly colored when viewed under white light.

Abstract: Barcode data communication methods, barcode embedding methods, and barcode systems are described. According to one embodiment, a barcode data communication method includes accessing a composite image comprising a disguised barcode image incapable of being directly read from a base image by a barcode reader, extracting data corresponding to the barcode image from the composite image, modifying the data to provide the barcode image in a state wherein the barcode image may be directly read by a barcode reader, and reading the barcode image using the barcode reader after the modifying.

Abstract: A system is provided for selecting a particular barcode on an item that includes multiple barcodes. The system (1) acquires, via a barcode imager, an image of the item within the field of view of the barcode imager, (2) analyzes the acquired image to determine a set of potential barcode fields, (3) determines, using a predetermined criterion (e.g., distance from center of imaged area, type of bar code, etc.), a candidate barcode field from among the set of potential barcode fields, (4) displays a modified image derived from the acquired image, wherein the candidate barcode field is identified within the modified image, and (5) allows the user to initiate a decode session when the candidate barcode field includes the desired barcode.

Abstract: Systems and methods for extracting a graphical bar code (i.e., an image that contains inconspicuous graphical modulations that encode embedded information) from an input image are described. In one aspect, estimates of position coordinates for a detected graphical bar code candidate are computed. An objective function is optimized based on the computed position coordinates to obtain final position coordinate estimates for the graphical bar code candidate. Non-graphical bar code regions are trimmed from the input image based on the final position coordinates for the graphical bar code candidate to produce a trimmed graphical bar code candidate for decoding.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for reading a target object with an image reader that includes an illumination source that illuminates an area corresponding to an indicia area when the imager is acting within an operating range of the indicia, a two-dimensional array sensor capable of collecting data from a captured image corresponding to an image reflected from the indicia area by the illumination source when the imager is acting within the operating range of the indicia, a starting coordinate located substantially about the center of the captured image, and a processing source including a search routine originating at the starting coordinate capable of analyzing the captured image by employing a plurality of scan paths associated to an algebraic equation.

Abstract: A scanner system and method for improving capture rate of reading labels with add-ons without sacrificing throughput with respect to non-add-on labels, the scanner including a mode in which the scanner in conjunction with the host (point-of-sale terminal) “learns” over time which base label codes will have associated add-ons. As the scanner successfully reads both a base label and its add-on data, the base label data is stored in a list in the scanner's memory. The required number of reads of base label or the timeout timer value may be adjusted based upon whether add-ons are expected or not corresponding to future scans of a base label corresponding to that of one in the list store. Base label statistics on successful base label and associated add-on reads, as well as ordering and selective storage of base label information based on frequency of base label occurrence may also be provided.

Abstract: A visual code system wherein camera-equipped mobile phones (or similar devices, such as wireless PDAs) are used to identify and decode images that contain one or more “visual codes.” By recognizing a code tag, the device can determine a bit pattern or an integer number encoded in the tag (the code value), the targeted object or image element, as well as additional parameters, such as the viewing angle of the camera. Code recognition is performed on the mobile device itself. When the mobile device is equipped with a wireless communication channel, it can be used to retrieve online content or to access information on the Internet based on the sensed code and its parameters. The retrieved content can then be presented on the mobile device.

Abstract: A system, method and corresponding apparatus are provided for storing, retrieving and delivering unit dose blisters in their natural, raw state (i.e., without over-wrapping or repackaging). In particular, a plurality of unit dose blister mounts are configured to position a corresponding plurality of different types of unit dose blisters in a predetermined, repeatable orientation, so that they can be retrieved and delivered using, for example, an automated retrieval system. The storage apparatus (or unit dose blister mount) may include a cavity that is configured to receive a unit dose medication or medication cavity of the unit dose blister in such a way that the unit dose blister lies substantially flat in the horizontal plane, enabling any identification information displayed on the underside of the unit dose blister (i.e., the side opposite the unit dose medication, or medication cavity) to be viewed.

Abstract: A combination barcode imager/decoder and real-time video capture system is provided. The system is configured for being implemented at a POS location for performing the functions of barcode imaging and decoding, and real-time video capture for video surveillance purposes. The system includes an imager or imaging sensor and a switching mechanism for switching and operating the imager between a barcode imaging and decoding mode for imaging and decoding barcodes positioned in proximity to the imager, and a real-time video capture mode for capturing real-time video for video surveillance purposes.

Abstract: A hand-supportable digital imaging-based bar code symbol reader comprises: an automatic object presence detection subsystem; an image formation and detection subsystem; a LED-based illumination subsystem having a wide area illumination mode of operation; an automatic light exposure measurement and illumination control subsystem; an image capturing and buffering subsystem; an image-processing bar code symbol reading subsystem; an input/output subsystem; and a system control subsystem for controlling each of the above-described subsystems. The image-processing bar code symbol reading subsystem performs helically-sweeping feature-extraction analysis on a captured digital image of an object referenced from the center thereof, so as to enable the rapid reading of a bar code symbol graphically represented therein, using advanced image-processing based bar code reading techniques.

Abstract: A method of locating an imaged bar code in a captured image frame for an imaging-based bar code reader. The steps of the method include: a) determining a mode of operation of the reader; b) if the reader is being operated in a hand-held mode of operation, utilizing a first method of locating an imaged bar code; and c) if the reader is being operated in a fixed position mode, utilizing a second method of locating an imaged bar code. The first method of locating an imaged bar code includes searching for an imaged bar code commencing at a starting location near a geographic center of the selected image frame. The second method of locating an imaged bar code includes determining a location corresponding to movement in a selected image frame of the series of image frames and searching for an imaged bar code commencing at the movement location.

Abstract: Disclosed is an automatically-activated code symbol reading system comprising a bar code symbol reading mechanism contained within a hand-supportable housing having a manually-activatable data transmission switch. During symbol reading operations, the bar code symbol reading mechanism automatically generates a visible laser scanning pattern for repeatedly reading one or more bar code symbols on an object during a bar code symbol reading cycle, and automatically generating a new symbol character data string in response to each bar code symbol read thereby. During system operation, the user visually aligns the visible laser scanning pattern with a particular bar code symbol on an object (e.g. product, bar code menu, etc.) so that the bar code symbol is scanned, detected and decoded in a cyclical manner.

Abstract: A product is on a surface provided with a first position code which codes coordinates for a plurality of first points. In at least one partial area on the surface, the product is further provided with a second position code which codes coordinates for a plurality of second points. The partial area further comprises a field which is associated with a predetermined function to be performed in consequence of a user unit being placed in the field. Methods and devices for coding and for recording of information from a surface are also described.

Abstract: A device for processing image data relating to bar codes is described. In one embodiment a bar code verification device is provided having an ergonomic form factor characterized by a domed hand held trigger and a viewing window. The verification device may be disposed in a network that includes a host processor system and other bar code reading devices which may include other bar code verification devices. Processing circuitry for processing image signals corresponding to printed bar codes may be partially disposed within the hand held verification device and partially disposed within a host processor system spaced apart from and associated with the hand held verification device. The hand held verification device may be in wireless communication with the host processor system to which it is associated.