CipherLab 8500, 8570, 8580, 8590 Reference Manual
8500 Series Mobile Computer
8500/8570/8580/8590
Version 2.11
Copyright © 2006~ 2008 CIPHERLAB CO., LTD.
All rights reserved
The software contains proprietary information of CIPHERLAB CO., LTD.; it is provided
under a license agreement containing restrictions on use and disclosure and is also
protected by copyright law. Reverse engineering of the software is prohibited.
Due to continued product development this information may change without notice. The
information and intellectual property contained herein is confidential between CIPHERLAB
and the client and remains the exclusive property of CIPHERLAB CO., LTD. If you find
any problems in the documentation, please report them to us in writing. CIPHERLAB
does not warrant that this document is error-free.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording or otherwise without the prior written permission of CIPHERLAB CO., LTD.
For product consultancy and technical support, please contact your local sales
representative. Also, you may visit our web site for more information.
The CipherLab logo is a registered trademark of CIPHERLAB CO., LTD.
Microsoft, Windows, and the Windows logo are registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
Bluetooth is a trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc., U.S.A.
Other product names mentioned in this manual may be trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective companies and are hereby acknowledged.
The editorial use of these names is for identification as well as to the benefit of the
owners, with no intention of infringement.
CIPHERLAB CO., LTD.
Website:
http://www.cipherlab.com
IMPORTANT NOTICES
FOR USA
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the
user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
FOR CANADA
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus as set out in the interference-causing equipment standard entitled
"Digital Apparatus," ICES-003 of Industry Canada.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
Cet appareil numerique respecte les limites de bruits radioelectriques applicables aux
appareils numeriques de Classe B prescrites dans la norme sur le material brouilleur:
"Appareils Numeriques," NMB-003 edictee par l'Industrie.
FOR HAND-HELD PRODUCT WITH RF FUNCTIONS
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20
cm between the radiator & your body. It only operated in hand-held used.
If you only transfer data to Host by WLAN/Bluetooth, please keep the minimum distance
20 cm between machine & your body.
FOR PRODUCT WITH LASER
Per FDA and IEC standards, the scan engines described in this manual are not given a
laser classification. However, the following precautions should be observed:
CAUTION
This laser component emits FDA / IEC Class 2 laser light at the exit port. Do not
stare into beam.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
RISK OF EXPLOSION IF BATTERY IS REPLACED BY AN INCORRECT TYPE.
DISPOSE OF USED BATTERIES ACCORDING TO THE INSTRUCTIONS.
The use of any batteries or charging devices, which are not originally sold or
manufactured by CipherLab, will void your warranty and may cause damage to
human body or the product itself.
DO NOT disassemble, incinerate or short circuit the battery.
DO NOT expose the scanner or the battery to any flammable sources.
For green-environment issue, it's important that batteries should be recycled in a
proper way.
Under no circumstances, internal components are self-serviceable.
The charging and communication cradle uses an AC power adaptor. A socket outlet
shall be installed near the equipment and shall be easily accessible. Make sure there
is stable power supply for the mobile computer or its peripherals to operate properly.
CARE & MAINTENANCE
This mobile computer is intended for industrial logistics use. The mobile computer is
rated IP 64, however, it may do damage to the mobile computer when being exposed
to extreme temperatures or soaked wet.
When the body of the mobile computer gets dirty, use a clean and wet cloth to wipe
off the dust. DO NOT use/mix any bleach or cleaner. Always keep the LCD dry.
For a liquid crystal display (LCD) or touch screen, use a clean, non-abrasive, lint-free
cloth to wipe dust off the screen. DO NOT use any pointed or sharp object to move
against the surface.
If you want to put away the mobile computer for a period of time, download the
collected data to a host computer, and then take out the battery pack. Store the
mobile computer and battery pack separately.
When the mobile computer resumes its work, the main and backup batteries will take
a certain time to become fully charged.
If you shall find the mobile computer malfunctioning, write down the specific scenario
and consult your local sales representative.
RELEASE NOTES
Version Date Notes
2.11 July 21, 2008
2.10 Apr. 24, 2008 New Word template applied
2.01 Aug. 10, 2007
2.00 May 19, 2007
1.07 Oct. 31, 2006
1.06 July 27, 2006
1.05 June 22, 2006
1.04 June 16, 2006
1.03 May 23, 2006 Company name changed to CIPHERLAB CO., LTD. since April 2006
1.02 Apr. 4, 2006
1.00 Mar. 1, 2006 Initial release
Modified: section 1.3.3 44-key Keypad – “59-key” corrected to
“44-key”
Modified: section 1.5.9 Reader – Defaults updated
Modified: section 4.1.8.(4) GSM/GPRS Menu> Security
Modified: section 4.1.8.(4) GSM/GPRS Menu> GPRS Settings
New release
Modified: section 1.5.9 List by standards for RFID tags
Modified: section 1.5.10 Bluetooth specification
Modified: section 4.1.7 Bluetooth Menu > Security – max. 16
characters for PIN
Modified: section 1.3.9 Reader – RFID (add ICODE)
Modified: section 2.5.2 Front Panel (LEDs of cradle)
New: section 4.1.8(2) System Menu > IR Network Menu
Modified: section 1.3.9 Reader – RFID
Modified: section 4.1.1 Information – add RFID version
FCC Regulations – Class B statement
Modified: section 1.3.9 Reader –
Enabled
Symbologies Supported &
New: Safety Precaution
Modified: Care & Maintenance
Modified: section 1.2.3 Dimensions & Specifications
Modified: section 1.3.4 Keypad – Screen Icons
Modified: section 1.3.5 LCD – Screen & Backlight Settings
Modified: section 1.3.12 Application Software to include AG and
CipherNet
Modified: sections 2, 2.5 ~ 2.7
Modified: sections 3.1 & 3.3
Modified: section 4.1.2 Screen Calibration
Modified: section 4.1.6 Load Program via Bluetooth
Update drawings
Load Program via Bluetooth
CONTENTS
IMPORTANT NOTICES ...................................................................................................................... - 3 -
For USA .......................................................................................................................................... - 3 -
For Canada .................................................................................................................................... - 3 -
For Hand-held Product with RF Functions ................................................................................... - 3 -
For Product with Laser .................................................................................................................. - 4 -
Safety Precautions ........................................................................................................................ - 4 -
Care & Maintenance ..................................................................................................................... - 4 -
RELEASE NOTES.............................................................................................................................. - 5 -
INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................................... 1
Getting Familiarized with 8500........................................................................................................ 2
Installing the Hand Strap............................................................................................................. 3
Installing the Pistol Grip............................................................................................................... 4
Charging the Battery .................................................................................................................... 5
Dimensions........................................................................................................................................ 6
Features............................................................................................................................................. 7
Inside the Package............................................................................................................................ 7
Accessories........................................................................................................................................ 8
USING 8500 MOBILE COMPUTER....................................................................................................... 9
1.1 Battery ......................................................................................................................................... 9
1.1.1 Inserting the Battery ........................................................................................................10
1.1.2 Charging the Battery ........................................................................................................ 11
1.1.3 Caution of Low Battery Charge........................................................................................11
1.1.4 Power Management.........................................................................................................11
1.2 Memory .....................................................................................................................................12
1.2.1 Caution of Data Loss........................................................................................................12
1.2.2 Upgradeable Memory.......................................................................................................12
1.3 Keypad ......................................................................................................................................13
1.3.1 Screen Icons..................................................................................................................... 14
1.3.2 24-key Layout................................................................................................................... 15
1.3.3 44-key Keypad..................................................................................................................17
1.4 LCD ............................................................................................................................................ 19
1.4.1 Adjusting the Backlight ....................................................................................................19
1.4.2 calibrating the Screen......................................................................................................20
1.5 Notifications.............................................................................................................................. 21
1.5.1 Status LED ........................................................................................................................ 21
1.5.2 Audio ................................................................................................................................. 21
1.5.3 Vibrator .............................................................................................................................21
1.6 Data Capture............................................................................................................................. 22
1.6.1 Dual-mode Support .......................................................................................................... 22
1.6.2 Symbologies Supported................................................................................................... 22
1.6.3 RFID Tags Supported ....................................................................................................... 24
8500 Series Mobile Computer Reference Manual
1.7 Communications via the Cradle...............................................................................................
25
1.7.1 Setting up the Cradle .......................................................................................................25
1.7.2 Cradle Options..................................................................................................................26
1.7.3 Understanding the Status Indicators ..............................................................................28
1.8 Communications Over Wireless Networks ..............................................................................29
1.8.1 IR/IrDA ..............................................................................................................................30
1.8.2 Bluetooth (Class 2)...........................................................................................................31
1.8.3 IEEE 802.11b/g ...............................................................................................................32
1.8.4 GSM/GPRS ....................................................................................................................... 33
LEARNING SOFTWARE ARCHITECTURE.............................................................................................35
2.1 Application Module...................................................................................................................37
2.1.1 Application Generator (AG) ..............................................................................................37
2.1.2 CipherNet.......................................................................................................................... 37
2.1.3 User Program.................................................................................................................... 38
2.2 System Configuration ............................................................................................................... 38
2.2.1 System Menu.................................................................................................................... 38
2.2.2 Kernel ...............................................................................................................................38
2.2.3 Program Manager ............................................................................................................38
SYSTEM MENU...................................................................................................................................39
3.1 Information................................................................................................................................40
3.1.1 Understanding Device Code ............................................................................................41
3.2 Settings .....................................................................................................................................42
3.2.1 Clock .................................................................................................................................42
3.2.2 Backlight Period ...............................................................................................................42
3.2.3 Auto Off .............................................................................................................................42
3.2.4 Power On Options............................................................................................................. 43
3.2.5 Key Click ...........................................................................................................................43
3.2.6 System Password .............................................................................................................43
3.2.7 Font ...................................................................................................................................43
3.2.8 Screen Calibration............................................................................................................ 43
3.2.9 Reset to Default ...............................................................................................................43
3.2.10 Reset Reader .................................................................................................................44
3.2.11 LCD Heater ..................................................................................................................... 44
3.3 Tests ..........................................................................................................................................45
3.3.1 Reader ..............................................................................................................................45
3.3.2 Buzzer ............................................................................................................................... 45
3.3.3 LCD & LED ........................................................................................................................45
3.3.4 Keyboard...........................................................................................................................45
3.3.5 Memory............................................................................................................................. 45
3.3.6 Touch Screen.................................................................................................................... 46
3.3.7 Vibrator .............................................................................................................................46
3.3.8 Echo Test .......................................................................................................................... 46
3.3.9 RFID ..................................................................................................................................46
3.4 Memory .....................................................................................................................................47
3.4.1 Size information ............................................................................................................... 47
3.4.2 Initialize............................................................................................................................. 47
3.5 Power......................................................................................................................................... 48
3.6 Load Program ...........................................................................................................................49
3.7 Bluetooth Menu ........................................................................................................................50
8500 Series Mobile Computer Reference Manual
3.7.1 Information .......................................................................................................................
3.7.2 Connect Setting................................................................................................................ 52
3.7.3 Security .............................................................................................................................53
3.7.4 Echo Tests ........................................................................................................................54
3.7.5 Pairing Test....................................................................................................................... 57
3.7.6 Freq. Dev. List................................................................................................................... 58
3.7.7 Network Setting................................................................................................................59
3.8 Serial PPP Menu .......................................................................................................................60
3.8.1 Information .......................................................................................................................60
3.8.2 Connection Set................................................................................................................. 61
3.8.3 Echo Test .......................................................................................................................... 62
3.9 IR Network Menu (Ethernet via IR) ..........................................................................................63
3.9.1 Information .......................................................................................................................63
3.9.2 Network Setting................................................................................................................64
3.9.3 Echo Tests ........................................................................................................................65
3.10 Wi-Fi Menu.............................................................................................................................. 66
3.10.1 Information.....................................................................................................................67
3.10.2 Network Setting .............................................................................................................68
3.10.3 WLAN Setting .................................................................................................................69
3.10.4 Security...........................................................................................................................70
3.10.5 Echo Tests ......................................................................................................................71
3.11 GSM/GPRS Menu................................................................................................................... 74
3.11.1 Information.....................................................................................................................74
3.11.2 Security...........................................................................................................................75
3.11.3 GPRS Setting.................................................................................................................. 76
3.11.4 GSM/GPRS Tests........................................................................................................... 77
51
PROGRAM MANAGER & KERNEL ...................................................................................................... 79
4.1 Program Manager.....................................................................................................................79
4.1.1 Download..........................................................................................................................80
4.1.2 Activate ............................................................................................................................. 82
4.1.3 Upload...............................................................................................................................83
4.2 Kernel........................................................................................................................................ 84
4.2.1 Kernel Information ...........................................................................................................84
4.2.2 Load Program ...................................................................................................................85
4.2.3 Kernel Update ..................................................................................................................87
4.2.4 Test & Calibrate................................................................................................................ 87
4.2.5 Bluetooth Menu................................................................................................................ 88
SPECIFICATIONS................................................................................................................................ 89
DOWNLOAD UTILITIES ....................................................................................................................... 91
ProgLoad.exe ................................................................................................................................... 92
IRLoad.exe .......................................................................................................................................93
Command Line ........................................................................................................................... 93
Download.exe .................................................................................................................................. 94
Command Line ........................................................................................................................... 94
TROUBLESHOOTING ..........................................................................................................................95
INTRODUCTION
Answering heavy industrial demands for robust, versatile and high performance
computers, the 8500 Series Mobile Computer is specifically designed for all-day,
everyday use as well as for data-intensive applications in harsh environments.
This line of product comes with built-in Bluetooth wireless technology and allows for
optional modules for 802.11b/g as well as GSM/GPRS, enabling all the time, anywhere
applications and seamless real time sharing of performance. The 8500 Series Mobile
Computer is bundled with powerful and rich features to ensure success in timely
processing of information, even in rigorous industrial environments, and thus, makes an
ideal choice for a wireless solution in either increasing business flexibility or answering
the demanding needs of heavy-duty mobile computers. Being programmable, this handy
device can run custom applications or terminal emulation applications.
This manual serves to guide you through how to install, configure, and operate the
mobile computer. We recommend you to keep one copy of the manual at hand for quick
reference or maintenance purposes. To avoid any improper disposal or operation, please
read the manual thoroughly before use.
Thank you for choosing CipherLab products!
1
8500 Series Mobile Computer Reference Manual
GETTING FAMILIARIZED WITH 8500
Figure 1: Overview
2
Introduction
INSTALLING THE HAND STRAP
The hand strap is ideal for one-handed operation, which requires safe and convenient
hold of the mobile computer.
Warning: Always make sure the hand strap is well hooked and screwed to the back
of the mobile computer before use.
When the hand strap is desired, install it to the mobile computer by following these
steps:
1) Place the mobile computer face down on a flat and clean surface.
2) Screw one end of the hand strap to the back of the mobile computer.
3) Insert and hook the other end of the hand strap to the bottom of the mobile
computer.
4) Make sure the hand strap is securely attached to the mobile computer.
5) Adjust the length of the hand strap to suit your handbreadth.
Figure 2: Installing the Hand Strap
3
8500 Series Mobile Computer Reference Manual
INSTALLING THE PISTOL GRIP
This contoured pistol grip enables intuitive trigger-and-scan operation, which is very
helpful in scan intensive applications. When the pistol grip is desired, install it to the
mobile computer by following these steps:
1) Place the mobile computer face down on a flat and clean surface.
2) Remove the shield-like cover on the back of the mobile computer by unscrewing.
If the hand strap is installed, remove it first. Keep the cover and screws for future use
when the pistol grip is not desired.
3) Connect the power connector from the pistol grip to the receptacle on the mobile
computer.
4) Screw the pistol grip to the shield-like cover.
5) Make sure all screws are tightened up.
6) Turn on the mobile computer and test the trigger.
Figure 3: Installing the Pistol Grip
4
Introduction
CHARGING THE BATTERY
You can use a cradle or charger to charge the Mobile Computer and/or its battery. Below
is the 4-Slot Battery Charger. For the Charging & Communication Cradle, refer to section
Communications via the Cradle.
1.7
Warning: It is recommended that the charging devices be operated at room
temperature (18°C to 25°C) for optimal performance. The charging devices
will not charge the battery when the temperature exceeds 40°C.
1) The Battery Charger can be mounted on table or wall. Drill two holes (centers spaced
160 millimeters apart), secure the two supplied screws, and mount the Battery
Charger by sliding over screws.
2) Slide the battery into the battery compartment at a proper angle, with contacts facing
to back.
3) Connect the power supply cord to the power receptacle on the charger.
4) Connect the other end of the power supply cord to a suitable power outlet.
5) Press the power switch on, and the Battery Charger’s LED will be red.
6) While charging, the LED of the battery compartment will be red. When fully charged,
the LED will be green.
Figure 4: 4-Slot Battery Charger
LED Status Meaning
Power Solid red
Off
Power ON
Power OFF
Battery Charging Solid red
Solid green
Flashing red and green
Off
Charging battery
Charging done
Error occurs
Battery not ready
5
8500 Series Mobile Computer Reference Manual
DIMENSIONS
Figure 5: Dimensions
6
Introduction
FEATURES
Ergonomic design — ruggedized yet streamlined, with hand strap for secure hold.
Built tough to survive drop test and sealed against moisture/dust to IP 64.
Upgradeable memory — optional memory card adds up to 10 MB (2 MB onboard + 8
MB) for data storage.
Dual mode support — One barcode scan engine plus the RFID reader
Total wireless solution — IR/IrDA and Bluetooth integrated, with connectivity options
for 802.11b/g and/or GSM/GPRS.
Large graphic monochrome LCD touch screen supports double-byte characters and
bitmap graphics. The touch screen featuring signature capture can be activated with
its stylus or a finger, software programmable.
Programmable feedback includes buzzer, LED indicator, and vibrator.
Quick link to any backend database through Windows-based CipherNet programs for
VT100/220 and IBM 5250 emulation.
Easy customization of AG applications through Windows-based Application Generator
(AG) programs for preloaded AG Runtime.
Programming support includes BASIC & C compilers.
Accessories and peripherals include pistol grip, international AC charging cradle, etc.
INSIDE THE PACKAGE
The following items are included in the package. Save the box and packaging material for
future use in case you need to store or ship the mobile computer.
8500 Series Mobile Computer
Rechargeable Li-ion battery pack
Stylus
Hand Strap
Software & Manual CD
Note: For battery charging, you need to purchase a charging cradle separately.
7
8500 Series Mobile Computer Reference Manual
ACCESSORIES
Rich choices of optional accessories are available for you to enhance the total
performance of the mobile computer.
Pistol Grip (detachable)
Belt Holster
Protective Cover
Memory Card, 4 or 8 MB
Spare rechargeable Li-ion battery
4-slot Battery Charger
Charging & Communication Cradle
Modem Cradle
Ethernet Cradle
Vehicle Cradle
Travel Charger
Bluetooth Access Point
802.11b/g Access Point
8
Chapter 1
USING 8500 MOBILE COMPUTER
This chapter explains the features and usage of the 8500 Series Mobile Computer. The
8500 family includes:
8500 Bluetooth Class 2
8570 Bluetooth Class 2 + 802.11b/g
8580 Bluetooth Class 2 + GSM/GPRS
8590 Bluetooth Class 2 + 802.11b/g + GSM/GPRS
IN THIS CHAPTER
1.1 Battery....................................................................... 9
1.2 Memory.................................................................... 12
1.3 Keypad..................................................................... 13
1.4 Touch Screen ............................................................ 19
1.5 Notifications.............................................................. 21
1.6 Data Capture ............................................................ 22
1.7 Communications via the Cradle.................................... 25
1.8 Communications over Wireless Networks....................... 29
1.1 BATTERY
Main Battery
The mobile computer is powered by a rechargeable 3.7 V/4000 mAh Li-ion battery
pack, and it takes approximately four hours to fully charge it.
For power-saving purpose, always turn off the backlight while working in a well-lit
area. When the backlight is on for extended periods of time, the main battery will
become low sooner than expected.
The smart battery icon on the LCD screen shows the status of power consumption.
There are two ways to monitor a low battery charge or discharged battery from the
screen.
Examine the level of the 4-bar battery icon
Monitor voltage level (see section 3.5 Power)
Backup Battery
The backup battery on the main board takes charge when the main battery is
removed or drained out. When fully charged, the 3.0 V/7 mAh rechargeable Lithium
button cell helps retain data in SRAM and maintain the running of the real-time clock
and calendar for at least one week without the main battery. In the meantime, you
have to replace the main battery as soon as possible.
It takes at least twenty-four hours to fully charge the backup battery. However, it is
not necessary to fully charge the backup battery for the mobile computer to work.
9
8500 Series Mobile Computer Reference Manual
Monitor voltage level (see section 3.5 Power)
1.1.1 INSERTING THE BATTERY
For shipping and storage purposes, save the mobile computer and the main battery in
separate packages. This will keep both batteries in good condition for future use.
Note: Any improper handling may reduce the battery life.
1) Hold the mobile computer still as shown below.
2) Slide the battery pack into the battery compartment at a proper angle (30°~45°) so
that the tabs on the bottom of the battery are hooked in the grooves of the
compartment. Make sure that the battery is snugly fit into the compartment.
3) Slide the battery latch to lock the battery in the compartment.
Note: For a new battery, make sure it is fully charged before use. Always prepare a
spare battery pack, especially when you are on the road.
Figure 6: Installing the Main Battery
10
Chapter 1 Using 8500 Mobile Computer
1.1.2 CHARGING THE BATTERY
The main and backup batteries may not be charged to full for shipment. When you first
receive the package, you will need to charge batteries to full before using the mobile
computer.
Note: For initial charging, it takes approximately 4 hours to fully charge the main
battery.
Because the internal backup battery is constantly charged from the main battery, the
initial charging requires inserting the battery pack to the mobile computer and then
seating the mobile computer in the cradle for charging. This will have both the main and
backup batteries charged at the same time.
Note: For a new battery, make sure it is fully charged before use. Always prepare a
spare battery pack, especially when you are on the road.
1.1.3 CAUTION OF LOW BATTERY CHARGE
The battery pack is the only power source for the mobile computer to work. It also
charges the backup battery on the main board so that the data stored in SRAM can be
retained properly. Therefore, when the main battery charge goes low, you need to
replace the battery pack with a charged one or charge it as soon as possible. Most of all,
always save data before it is too late; you should upload important data on a regular
basis.
Warning: Data loss may occur with SRAM during low battery condition. Always save
data before running out of power or keep a fresh battery for replacement.
1.1.4 POWER MANAGEMENT
For any portable device, power management is a critical issue especially when you are on
the road. Below are some tips to help you save battery power.
Warning: Using backlight, wireless connectivity, and peripherals while on battery
power will substantially reduce battery power.
To speed up charging the mobile computer, turn off the mobile computer and seat it
in the cradle.
Bring a second battery pack on the road.
Stop wireless connectivity, Bluetooth, 802.11b/g or GSM/GPRS that is not in use.
11
8500 Series Mobile Computer Reference Manual
1.2 MEMORY
The collected data can be sent back to a host computer immediately over wireless
networks, or stored in memory (SRAM) and upload later. The mobile computer is
equipped with a calendar chip for accurate time/date logging.
Read-only Memory (ROM)
2 megabytes flash memory for storing core, OS, application programs, fonts, etc.
Random-access Memory (RAM)
2 megabytes SRAM for storing data. Its contents will be retained by the backup
battery.
1.2.1 CAUTION OF DATA LOSS
When the main battery is removed or drained, the backup battery on the main board is
to retain the contents of SRAM and maintain the running of real-time clock and calendar
for at least one week, on condition that the backup battery has already been fully
charged.
If you want to put away the mobile computer for a couple of days, you should be aware
that data loss occurs when both the main and backup batteries discharge completely.
Therefore, it is necessary to upload data and files before putting away the mobile
computer!
1.2.2 UPGRADEABLE MEMORY
When ordering, you may choose to have up to 10 MB memory — 2 MB onboard + 8 MB
memory card.
4 MB memory card
8 MB memory card
12
Chapter 1 Using 8500 Mobile Computer
1.3 KEYPAD
The mobile computer can be equipped with a keypad of 24 keys or 44 keys for system
setup, user entry and so on. The keypad comes with programmable LED backlight, like
the screen. Refer to section
Silicon rubber has been chosen for their durability and prompt feedback. The key click
can be configured through programming or the System Menu.
Below briefly describes the functions of common keys on the mobile computer.
SCAN
It will trigger the scan engine to read a barcode, or the RFID reader to read a tag, if the COM port
is enabled.
ENTER
Two on each side of the [SCAN] trigger, user-friendly and convenient for either right-handed or
left-handed operator to perform general function of the [ENTER] key.
Normally, the [ENTER] key is used for command execution or input confirmation.
1.4 LCD for screen & backlight settings.
ESC (Escape)
Normally, this key is used to stop and exit the current operation.
BkSp (Backspace)
If this key is being held down for more than one second, a clear code will be sent.
FN (Function)
This key serves as a modifier key and has to be used together with another key. For example,
press [FN] + [1] can produce the result of F1.
POWER
In order to prevent an accidental press of the POWER key, you need to hold down this key for
approximately 1.5 seconds to turn ON/OFF the mobile computer.
Note: Functionality of keys is application-dependent.
13
8500 Series Mobile Computer Reference Manual
1.3.1 SCREEN ICONS
When any of the following icons appears on the screen, it indicates a certain mode is
activated. It means holding down the specific key is unnecessary.
24-key
A This icon appears when you press [Alpha] once, indicating it is set to alphabetic
a This icon appears when you press [Alpha] twice, indicating it is set to alphabetic
Description
mode for typing capital letters.
mode for typing small letters.
This icon appears when you press [FN], indicating it is set to the function mode.
Then, press another key ([1] ~ [9]) to produce the result and the icon will go off.
To get the value of another key combination modified by the [FN] key, repeat
the above steps.
To exit the function mode, press [FN] again and the icon will go off.
44-key Description
This icon appears when you press [Shift] to set the alphabetic mode to small letters.
By default, the alphabetic mode is set to capital letters.
This icon appears when you press [RED], indicating it is set to the function mode.
Then, press another key ([F1] ~ [F12]) to produce the result and the icon will go
off.
To get the value of another key combination modified by the [RED] key, repeat
the above steps.
To exit the function mode, press [RED] again and the icon will go off.
This icon appears when you press [Alt] to enter the special function mode.
Note: When using the Function, Shift or Alt key to modify another key, the system will
send the associated key code to the application program, and it is up to the
application program to interpret the key code.
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Chapter 1 Using 8500 Mobile Computer
1.3.2 24-KEY LAYOUT
The layout of the 24-key keypad is similar to that of a telephone, which consists of an
alphanumeric keypad, navigation and function keys, as well as assorted characters.
Figure 7: 24-key Layout
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8500 Series Mobile Computer Reference Manual
This alphanumeric keypad is set to numeric mode by default. The [Alpha] key serves as a toggle
among numeric, alpha (lower-case alphabetic), and ALPHA (upper-case alphabetic) input modes.
Note: It is not necessary to hold down the [Alpha] key.
The alpha icon will appear on the lower-left corner of the screen in a sequence as shown below.
Status Icon Alpha Key Input Mode
(none) N/A Numbers
a Press the [Alpha] key one time Small letters
A Press the [Alpha] key two times Capital letters
When in alpha mode, it takes turns to show alphabets and number when you keep
pressing the same key; each press must not exceed one second. For example, keep
pressing the number key [2], it will take turns to show “A”, “B”, “C” or “2”.
When you first press the number key [2], it will product the letter “A” or “a”.
When you press the number key [2] twice (the time interval must not exceed one
second), it will produce the letter “B” or “b”.
When you press the number key [2] three times (the time interval between each
press must not exceed one second), it will produce the letter “C” or “c”.
When you press the number key [2] four times (the time interval between each press
must not exceed one second), it will produce the number “2”.
In order to get the desired character, you will need to press the same key, one to four
times (the time interval between each press must not exceed one second). Only when
you stop pressing the same key for longer than one second or you press another key, will
the system send the real key code to the application program.
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Chapter 1 Using 8500 Mobile Computer
1.3.3 44-KEY KEYPAD
The layout of the 44-key keypad includes numeric, alphabetic, assorted characters,
function and modifier keys.
Figure 8: 44-key Layout
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8500 Series Mobile Computer Reference Manual
For the 44-key keypad, these keys can be categorized into the following groups by color:
Blue Area
Two [ENTER] keys: user-friendly and convenient for either right-handed or left-handed
operator to perform general function of a [Enter] key.
It can be used together with [RED] modifier key: [ENTER] + [RED] = alternately turn ON/OFF
the backlight of LCD and keypad.
Black Area
[POWER] key
Numeric keys
Modifier keys: [Shift] or [Alt] that modifies its next key. The functionality depends on software
application.
Others like [Backspace], [ESC], [Space], [Tab], [Insert], [Delete], [ - ], [ . ]
Yellow Area
[SCAN] trigger
Navigation keys for moving the cursor up, down, left, right.
Alphabetic keys
Others like punctuation keys for comma & semi-colon, dollar & colon.
Red Area
[RED] modifier key: the solid red key next to the Power key
[RED] followed by one red-coded key: The [RED] modifier key modifies (activates) the second
key. Its functionality is determined by the red-coded key, which is specified by red letters
under the navigation keys or on top of alpha keys and some punctuation keys.
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Chapter 1 Using 8500 Mobile Computer
1.4 LCD
The mobile computer comes with a 3” FSTN graphic LCD, 160 by 160 pixels resolutions,
which can be programmed to display text or graphics, such as specific font and company
logo, to meet varying application needs.
Options
English font
Chinese font
Other language fonts,
Font Size (pixels) Characters by lines
Font size 6×8 (pixels)
Font size 8×16 (pixels)
Font size 16×16 (pixels) 10 characters by 9 lines
Programmable
26 characters by 19 lines
20 characters by 9 lines
company logo…
Note: Normally, the bottom line (ICON_ZONE) is reserved to display status icons, such
as the battery icon.
1.4.1 ADJUSTING THE BACKLIGHT
The backlight of screen and keypad helps ease reading under dim environments. It can
be turned on and adjusted decreasingly or increasingly by the following key combinations.
Keep pressing the key combination until the luminosity or contrast is decreased or
increased to a desired level.
Warning: Using backlight while on battery power will substantially reduce battery
power. It is suggested to dim the backlight while working in a well-lit area
or automatically turn it off when not in use.
Key Combination Action
24-key 44-key
[FN] + [Enter] [RED] + [Enter] Toggle ON/OFF the backlight
[FN] + [Left] [RED] + [Left] Turn ON the backlight of LCD and decrease its luminosity
[FN] + [Right] [RED] + [Right] Turn ON the backlight of LCD and increase its luminosity
[FN] + [Up] [RED] + [Up] Turn ON the backlight of LCD and increase its contrast
[FN] + [Down] [RED] + [Down] Turn ON the backlight of LCD and decrease its contrast
Note: Hold down the [FN] key and press the second key for adjustment.
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8500 Series Mobile Computer Reference Manual
1.4.2 CALIBRATING THE SCREEN
This LCD is also a touch screen, which enables the use of a stylus for handwriting. It also
features signature capture that can save signature as confirmation of receipt when
delivering goods to door.
Refer to section 3.2 Settings for screen & contrast calibration.
Warning: DO NOT use any pointed or sharp objects to move against the surface of
the screen.
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