Microscan MS-3 User Manual

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MS-3 Laser E.book Page i Monday, August 30, 2004 11:09 AM

MS-3 Laser Scanner

User’s Manual

P/N 83-000003 Rev E

MS-3 Laser E.book Page ii Monday, August 30, 2004 11:09 AM

1201 S.W. 7th Street, Renton, Washington, U.S.A. 98055 (425) 226-5700 FAX: (425) 226-8682

purpose of allowing customers to operate and/or service Microscan manufactured equipment and is not to be released, reproduced, or used for any other purpose without written permission of Microscan.

Throughout this manual, trademarked names might be used. Rather than put a tr ademark (™) symbol in every occurrence of a trademarked name, we state herein that we are using the names only in an editorial fashion, and to the benefit of the trademark owner, with no inten tion of infringement.

Disclaimer

The information and specifications described in this manual are subject to change without notice.

Latest Manual Version

For the latest version of this manual, see the Download page on our web site at

www.microscan.com. For technical support email helpdesk@microscan.com.

Microscan Systems, Inc.

1201 S.W. Seventh Street Renton, Washington 98055 U.S.A. Tel: 425 226 5700 Fax: 425 226 8250 helpdesk@microscan.com

Microscan Europe

Tel: 31 172 423360 Fax: 31 172 423366

Microscan Asia Pacific R.O.

Tel: 65 6846 1214 Fax: 65 6846 4641

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Microscan Limited Warranty Statement and Exclusions

What Is Covered?

Microscan Systems Inc. warrants to the original purchaser that products manufactured by it will be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service for a period of one year from the date of shipment. This warranty is specifically limited to, at Microscan’s sole option, repair or replacement with a functionally equivalent unit and return without charge for service or return freight.

What Is Excluded?

This limited warranty specifically excludes the following: (1) Any products or parts that have been subject to misuse, neglect, accident, unauthorized repair, improper installation, or abnor mal conditions or operations; (2) Any products or parts that have been transferred by the original purchaser; (3) Customer mis-adjustment of settings contrary to the procedure described in the Microscan Systems Inc. owners manual; (4) Upgrading software versions at customer request unless required to meet specifications in effect at the time of purchase; (5) Units returned and found to have no failure will be excluded; (6) Claims for damage in transit are to be directed to the freight carrier upon receipt. Any use of the product is at purchaser’s own risk. This limited warranty is the only warranty provided by Microscan S ystems Inc. regarding the product. Except for the limited warranty above, the product is provided “as is.” T o the maximum extent permitted by law, this express warr anty excludes all other warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to, implied warranties of merchantability and. Technical support ques tions may be directed to: helpdesk@microscan.com Register your product with Microscan: www.microscan.com/register fitness for a particular purpose. Microscan Systems Inc. does not warrant that the functions contained in the product will meet any requirements or needs pur chaser may have, or that the product will operate error free, or in an uninterrupted fashion, or that any defects or errors in the product will be corrected, or that the product is compatible with any particular machinery.

Limitation of Liability

In no event shall Microscan Systems Inc. be liable to you or any third party for any special, incidental, or consequential damages (including, without limitation, indirect, special, punitive, or exemplary damages for loss of business, loss of profits, business interruption, or loss of business information), whether in contract, tort, or otherwise, even if Microscan Systems Inc. has been advised of the possibility of such damages. Microscan Systems Inc.’s aggregate liability with respect to its obligations under this warranty or otherwise with respect to the product and docu mentation or otherwise shall not exceed the amount paid by you for the product and documentation. Some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or limitations on an implied warranty, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state.

Tel: 425.226.5700 | Fax: 425.226.8250 | helpdesk@microscan.com

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Chapter 1 Quick Start

Step 1 Hardware Required .........................................................................1-2

Step 2 Connect the System........................................................................1-3

Step 3 Position Symbol and Reader...........................................................1-4

Step 4 Install ESP.......................................................................................1-5

Step 5 Select Reader Model.......................................................................1-6

Step 6 Autoconnect.....................................................................................1-7

Step 7 Test for Read Rate..........................................................................1-8

Step 8 Calibrate the Reader .......................................................................1-9

Step 9 Save Calibration Settings for Power-on.........................................1-10

Step 10 Configure the Reader..................................................................1-11

Table of Contents

Chapter 2 Using ESP

Setup Mode.................................................................................................2-2

Application Mode ........................................................................................2-3

Pulldown Menus................................................ .. ........................................2-4

Connect Menu............................................................................... .. ............2-9

View ..........................................................................................................2-11

Navigating in ESP.....................................................................................2-12

Send/Receive Options..............................................................................2-13

Chapter 3 Communications

Communications by ESP............................................................................3-2

Communications By Serial Command........................................................3-2

Password Protection...................................................................................3-3

RS-232/422 Host Port.................................................................................3-4

RS-232 Auxiliary Port........................................................ ... .....................3-11

Preamble...................................................................................................3-20

Postamble.................................................................................................3-21

LRC Status................................................................................................3-22

Intercharacter Delay..................................................................................3-22

Chapter 4 Read Cycle

Read Cycle by ESP ..................................................... ... ............................4-2

Read Cycle by Serial Command 2

Multisymbol.................................................................................................4-3

Number of Symbols ..................................................... ... ............................4-4

Serial Trigger .................................................... ................................. ... ....4-12

End of Read Cycle....................................................................................4-14

Decodes Before Output ............................................................................4-16

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Scanner Setup ............................................ ... .................................. .. .......4-17

Laser Setup...............................................................................................4-21

Chapter 5 Symbologies

Symbology by Serial Command..................................................................5-2

Code 39.......................................................................................................5-3

Code 128.....................................................................................................5-6

Interleaved 2 of 5 ......................................................................................5-13

Codabar ....................................................................................................5-17

UPC/EAN..................................................................................................5 -21

Code 93.....................................................................................................5-24

Pharmacode..............................................................................................5-25

Narrow Margins.........................................................................................5-27

Symbology ID....................................................................... ... ..................5-28

Background Color .....................................................................................5-29

Autodiscriminate........................................................................................5-29

Chapter 6 I/O Parameters

Output Conditions by ESP Menu ................................................................6-2

I/O Parameters by Serial Command...........................................................6-3

Symbol Data Output....................................................................................6-4

Message Output............................................. .............................................6-7

Noread Message.........................................................................................6-8

Bad Symbol Message .................................................................................6-9

No Symbol Message.................................................................................6-10

Beeper.......................................................................................................6-11

Partial Output............................................................................................6-12

Serial Verification................................................... ...................................6-13

Test Button................................................................................................6-15

Output 1 ........................................... .................................. .......................6-18

Output 2 ........................................... .................................. .......................6-24

Output 3 ........................................... .................................. .......................6-25

Quality Output...........................................................................................6 -26

Chapter 7 Matchcode

Matchcode by ESP............................................... .......................................7-2

Matchcode by Serial Command..................................................................7-2

Overview of Matchcode...............................................................................7-3

Using Master Symbols ............................. ...................................................7-3

Matchcode Type.......................................... ... .................................. .. ... ......7-4

New Master Pin...........................................................................................7-9

Master Symbol Database..........................................................................7-10

Chapter 8 Diagnostics

Diagnostics by ESP Menu...........................................................................8-2

Diagnostics by Serial Command.................................................................8-2

Diagnostic Messages Overview..................................................................8-3

Counts.........................................................................................................8-4

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Hours Since Last Reset..............................................................................8-6

Laser High...................................................................................................8-7

Laser Low ...................................................................................................8-8

Service Message ........................................................................................8-9

Chapter 9 Calibration

Calibration...................................................................................................9-2

Auto Frame.................................................................................................9-6

Chapter 10 Terminal Mode

Terminal Window......................................................................................10-2

Find Function............................................................................................10-3

Macros......................................................................................................10-4

Terminal Window Functions......................................................................10-5

Chapter 11 Utilities

Utilities by ESP Menu ...............................................................................11-2

Summary of Utilities Commands...............................................................11-3

Read Rate......................................................................... ... .....................11-5

Counters ...................................................................................................11-6

Master Database............................................ ................................. ... ... ....11-8

Digital Bar Code......................................................................................11-11

Firmware.................................................................................................11-12

Device Control .................................................. .. ... .................................11-13

Symbol Type...........................................................................................11-15

Defaulting/Saving/Resetting....................................................................11-16

Microscan Grading..................................................................................11-17

Reader Status Requests.........................................................................11-19

Appendices 1

Appendix A General Specifications.............................................................A-2

Appendix B Electrical Specifications...........................................................A-4

Appendix C Connectivity.............................................................................A-7

Appendix D Serial Configuration Commands............................................A-13

Appendix E Serial Command Format .......................................................A-16

Appendix F ASCII Table ...........................................................................A-18

Appendix G Defaulting/Saving/Resetting..................................................A-20

Appendix H PDF Symbology ....................................................................A-23

Appendix I Symbol Configuration.................................................. ............A-26

Appendix J Object Detector......................................................................A-28

Appendix K Formulas for Number of Decodes..........................................A-29

Appendix L Operational Tips.....................................................................A-31

Appendix M Interface Standards...............................................................A-32

Appendix N Multidrop Communications....................................................A-33

Appendix O Glossary of Terms.................................................................A-38

Chapter 1 Index

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Figure 1-1 Hardware Required ...................................................................1-2

Figure 1-2 Hardware Connections .............................................................1-3

Figure 1-3 Symbol/Reader Position ...........................................................1-4

Figure 1-4 Calibration .................................................................................1-9

Figure 1-5 Save Settings ..........................................................................1-10

Figure 2-1 How Settings are Saved ............................ ... ... .........................2-4

Figure 4-2 External Level Trigger ...............................................................4-8

Figure 4-3 Trigger Edge .............................................................................4-9

Figure 4-4 Laser On Position ...................................................................4-22

Figure 4-5 Laser Off Position ...................................................................4 -22

Figure 6-6 Read Cycle ...............................................................................6-6

Figure 9-7 Calibration Display ....................................................................9-3

Figure 9-8 Embedded Calibration Setup Menu ..........................................9-4

Figure 9-9 Auto Frame Defaults .................................................................9-6

Figure 9-10 Constrained Scan Beam Width ...............................................9-6

Figure 10-11 Terminal Window ................................................................10-2

Figure A-1 MS-3 Laser Scanner ................................................................A-2

Figure A-1 MS-3 Integral Right Angle

Laser Scanner .....................................................................................A-2

Figure A-2 MS-3/IB-131 Typical Setup ......................................................A-7

Figure A-3 IC-331

SCANNER Pinouts .............................................................................A-8

Figure A-4 IC-331

EXTERNAL Pinouts (to IB-131) ..........................................................A-8

Figure A-5 IB-131 Mechanical ..................................................................A-10

Figure A-6 IB-131 Multidrop Setup ...........................................................A-11

Figure A-7 Scanner/IB-131 Daisy Chain Setup ........................................A-12

Figure A-8 Hyperterminal Dialog ..............................................................A-15

Figure A-1 Object Detector ......................................................................A-28

Figure A-2 Ladder ....................................................................................A-29

Figure A-3 Picket Fence ...........................................................................A-29

Figure A-4 Angled Picket Fence ..............................................................A-30

Figure A-5 Polling Sequence ...................................................................A-35

Figure A-6 Polling Sequence ...................................................................A-36

List of Figures

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Table 6-1-Test Button Options................................................ ..................6-16

Table 11-2-Utilities Commands.................................................................11-3

Table 11-3-Maximum Characters for Master Symbol Database.............11-10

Table 11-4-Software Reset/Save/Recall Commands..............................11-16

Table 11-5-Hex

Value to Binary

Conversion.......................................................................................11-19

Table 11-6-MS-3 FIS-0003 Laser Scanner Status..................................11-19

Table A-1-MS-3 Laser

High Density Ranges........................................................................ ...A-3

Table A-2-MS-3 Laser

Low Density Ranges............................................................................A-3

Table A-3-MS-3 Laser Connector, 15-pin Socket.......................................A-4

Table A-4-Host 25-pin Connector...............................................................A-9

Table A-5-Trigger 4-pin Connector.............................................................A-9

Table A-6-Power 3-pin Connector ..............................................................A-9

Table A-7-Scanner 15-pin Connector.........................................................A-9

Table A-8-Network 25-pin Connector .........................................................A-9

Table A-9-Serial Configuration Commands ..............................................A-13

Table A-10-ASCII Table with Control Characters.....................................A-18

Table A-11-Communication Protocol Commands.....................................A-18

Table A-12-Software Reset/Save/Recall Commands...............................A-20

Table A-13-Multidrop Addresses .............................................................. A-37

List of Tables

About the MS-3 Laser

The MS-3 Laser scanner is a ultra-compact scanner that can decode high density symbols from 2 to 10 inches at a 70 degrees scan angle with scan rates of 300 to 1000 decodes per second with a low power draw of 300 ton, which “out of the box” can do read rate, automatic calibr ation, and sa ve s, can also be programmed to perform a variety of functions.

Programmable firmware also allows considerable control of multiple features, including 3 programmable relay outputs and new master and trigger inputs.

A user interface program, the ESP (Easy Setup Program), downloadable from our web site (www.microscan.com), runs on Microsoft Windows Windows

viii MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual

NT™, Windows 2000™, or Windows XP operating systems.

mA at 5V. A multi-function TEST but-

95™, Windows 98™,

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About This Manual

This manual provides complete information on setting up, installing, and configuring the reader. The chapters are presented in the order in which a reader might be setup and made ready for industrial operation. Host serial commands are presented side-by-side with ESP menus and wherever possible follow the order presented in ESP.

Chapter 1, “Quick Start” provides overall step-by-step instructions for getting your

reader operational with specific “go to” references to other chapters and appendices.

Host Communications

There are four ways the scanner can be programmed:

1. Windows™ based ESP ™ (Easy Setup Program), the preferred method which offers point-and-click ease of use and visual responses to user adjustments. (NOT avail able at this time.)

2. Se rial co mmands su ch as <K100,1> can be sen t from a terminal program. They can also be sent from the Terminal window within ESP.

Note: You can learn the current setting of any parameter by in sert in g a qu est io n mark after the number, as in <K100?> To see all “K” commands, send <K?>.

3. Embedded firmware (onboard menus).

4. Bar code symbol configuration.

Highlighting

Serial commands, selections inside instructions, and menu defaults are highlighted in

red bold.

Cross-references are highlighted in blue. Web links and outside references are highlighted in blue bold italics.

References to menu topics are highlighted in Bold Initial Caps. References to topic headings within this manual or other documents are enclosed in quotation marks.

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Product Labels

The following labels are located on the top, side, and bottom of the MS-3 FIS-0003 Reader:

PWR

40%

60%

11-000063-01

20%

MS-3

80% ST

100%

LASER

www.micros can.com1201SW 7th St.

TEST

helpdesk@micr oscan.com

0.85"

(21,6mm)

THISDEVICE COMPLIES WIT HPART 15O FT HEF CC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TOT HE FOLLOWINGTWOCONDI TIONS. (1) THISDEVICE MAYNOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE,AND( 2)T HIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPTANY I NT ERFERENCE RE CEIVED,I NCLUDI NG INTERFERENCETHATM AY CAUSE UNDESIREDO PERATION.

Rent on, WA 98055

1.25"

(31,8mm)

LISTED UL6 0950

4k 68

11-00006 2-01

5V 2Watts max. CLASS B DEVICE Mad e i n US A

TopTop Side Bottom

Approvals

This equipment is in compliance or approved by the following organizations:

• CDRH (Center for Devices & Radiological Heal th)

• UL (Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.)

• cUL (UL mark of Canada)

• FCC (Federal Communication Commission)

•CE Compliant

• BSMI (Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection)

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Warning and Caution Summary

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide rea sonable 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 com munications. 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 whi ch th e receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an e xper ien ce d radio/TV te ch nici an for hel p.

For connection to a UL Listed direct plug-in power unit marked Class 2 and rated at

VDC at 2 Amps or greater.

5 European models must use a similarly rated Class I or Class II power supply that is cer-

tified to comply with standard for safety EN 60950.

WARNING

Use of controls, adjustments, or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous laser ligh t radiation expo sure.

WARNING

There are no user serviceable parts in the scanner. Open ing the scann er voids the Mi croscan Systems warranty and could expose the us er to laser diode powe r of up to 7 mW.

WARNING

The laser beam can be harmful to eyesight. Avoid eye contact with the laser beam. Never point the beam at other people, or in a direction where people may be passing .

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Chapter

Quick Star t

Chapter Contents

Step 1 Hardware Required..........................................................................1-2

Step 2 Connect the System.........................................................................1-3

Step 3 Position Symbol and Scanner..........................................................1-4

Step 4 Install ESP .......................................................................................1-5

Step 5 Select Scanner Model......................................................................1-6

Step 6 Autoconnect.....................................................................................1-7

Step 7 Test for Read Rate...........................................................................1-8

Step 8 Calibrate the Scanner......................................................................1-9

Step 9 Save Calibration Settings for Power-on.........................................1 -10

Step 10 Configure the Scanner.................................................................1-11

This section is designed to get the scanner up and running quickly so the user can get a sense of its capabilities and test sample bar code symbols. Detailed setup information for configuring the scanner for your specific application can be obtained in the subse quent chapters.

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Step 1 — Hardware Required

Caution: If using your own power supply (see “Warning and Caution Summary” on

page i-xi), be certain that it is wired correctly and supply voltage is 10 to 28 VDC.

Incorrect wiring or voltage can cause software or equipment failures.

If connecting to a host with an IB-131 Interface box, you will need the following:

Item

1 FIS-0003-1XXX MS-3 laser scanner 2 FIS-0001-0029 IC-331 Interface converter 3 99-400005-02 IB-131 Interface box 4 Host computer 5 P/N 61-300026-01 Null modem configuration cable

97-100004-05 (120VAC)

97-100004-06 (240VAC)

7 99-4400001-10 Optional object detector

Part Number Description

Power supply

a. See figure 1-1 for diagram of system.

Scanner

Host

Network

Figure 1-1 Hardware Required

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Step 2 — Connect the System

Caution:

• Be sure all cables are connected BEFORE applying power.

• Always power down BEFORE disconnecting any cables.

To connect the system, do the following:

1. Connect the scanner (1) to the “SCANNER” connector on the IC-331 interface converter (2)

using the attached 3-foot cable.

2. Connect the IC-331 directly to the “SCANNER” 15 pin connector on the IB-131 (3).

3. Connect the host computer (4) to the IB-131 “HOST” 2 5 -pi n c onn ec

tor via the null modem cable (5).2 (Refer to “IB-131 Interface” on

page A-8 for pin connections.)

4. Connect power su pply (6) t o the IB-131 “POWER” connector.

5. Apply power to the system.

Chapter 1 Quick Start

Scanner

Host

Network

Figure 1-2 Hardware Connections

1. Since power supply is included in the single cabling assembly, the reader cable should not exceed 3 feet. RS232 cabling from the IB-131 to the host can be up to 47 feet provided it does not include power input.

2. If using your own null modem RS232 host cable, be certain that the host’s TxD connects to the reader’s RxD and the reader’s TxD connects to the host’s RxD.

MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual 1-3

t is

Skew

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Step 3 — Position Symbol and Scanner

Note: Code 39 is the default code type enabled. If you are uncertain as to your symbology type, enable all codes by selecting the Auto Discriminate macro in Terminal mode.

1. Set up a symbol at the scanning distance you are using in your application. (See “Read Ranges” on page A-3.)

2. Avoid bright light or IR light from other sources, including other scanners.

3. Pit ch sym b ol or sc anne r slight ly to avoid specular reflection, the return of direct, non-diffused light.

Bar code symbol

canner

axis

Til ax

Pitc axis

Scan line

Figure 1-3 Symbol/Scanner Position

Note: If u s i ng a n I 2 / 5 sy m bol , verify that the number of characters in the symbol being scanned matches the symbol length enabled for the I 2/5 symbol type. (Default is 10 and 6 .)

See “Interleaved 2 of 5” on page 5-13.

1. Consult table A-1 and table A-2 on page A-3.

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Step 4 — Install ESP

(ESP is short for Easy Setup Program.) With your scanner connected to a host computer with Windows™ operating system, you

can use the ESP to configure and control the reader.

1. In se rt you r Mi cr osca n CD in to your computer’s CD drive.

2. Launch Setup.exe under ESP and follow the prompts. If downloading from the web:

a) Go to http://www.microscan.com/esp b) Enter c om pany inf ormat io n. c) Select ESP and download to your computer hard drive. d) Extract ESP WinZip files to a directory of your choice.

3. Note where your ESP.exe file is stored on your hard drive. At the end of the install process, you should see the following icon on your

desktop:

Chapter 1 Quick Start

4. Click t he ESP icon to start the program.

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Step 5 — Select Reader Model

When you start the program, the following menu will appear.

Note: If you need to select another model later, you can find it in the App Mode under Model on the menu bar.

1. Select MS-3 laser from the menu and click OK. If you do not want to make this selection every time you load ESP, uncheck Show

this window at Startup.

2. Select the default name, for example MS-3 Laser-1, or type in a file name of your choice and click OK.

3. Click Yes when the connect to the reader dialog appears.

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Step 6 — Autoconnect

1. In the Connecting to... dialog, if your com mun icat ions port i s not the defau lt COM1, use the pull down arrow to change your communications port.

Chapter 1 Quick Start

2. Click t he Start button. When connected, the CONNECTED message will app ear i n a g reen bo x in th e sta -

tus bar on the bottom right of the dialog.

3. If connection fails, enable a different Com port, check connections, and try again.

Tip: If you do not see either the CONNECTED or DISCONNECTED message at the bottom of your dialog, try expanding the ESP window horizontally.

Important Note: When you connect to the reader, the reader’s settings will be loaded into ESP.

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Step 7 — Test for Read Rate

With this test you can learn the percentage of decodes per images captured by observing the LEDs (20% through 100%) on the top of the MS-3 which are active during a read rate test. If the results are not satisfactory, move on to

on page 1-9.

By ESP

After connecting to the scanner, ESP will open in Easy Setup Mode.

1. Click t he Test button in Easy Setup Mode to begin the read rate test.

“Calibrate the Reader”

2. Follow th e in st ru ct ions in Easy Setup Mode screen.

3. To end the Read Rate test, click the Stop button.

By the Test Button

Test Button

1. Press and hold the TEST button on the MS-3 until you hear one beep and see one LED momen tarily turn amber . This will signal the beginning of the read rate

routine.

2. To end the read rate test press the TEST button and quickly release.

Read rate performance LEDs

TEST

100%STGR 80%

60% 40% 20%

PWR

1 1- 0000 63-0 1

1. This assumes that the default functions of the test button have not been re-programmed.

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Step 8 — Calibrate the Reader

If , after doing the read rate test, the results are not satisfactory, try the calibration routine.

During the calibration routine, the scanner attempts various settings to determine the optimum decode rate for the given conditions. In this process it might do the following:

Chapter 1 Quick Start

• Adjust laser power

• Adjust mirror motor speed

•Adjust AGC gain

The test will end automatically when the optimum combination of settings has been achieved.

• Enable Autodiscrimination (read several symbol types)

By ESP

Click the Calibrate button in Easy Setup Mode to begin the read rate test.

You can observe the progress of the calibration routine on the Calibration popup. Note: You can also calibrate the scanner in the Calibration menu in the Apps Mode.

By the Test button

Press and hold the TEST button until you hear two beeps and see two amber performance LEDs turn amber to indicate that the calibra tion is in progress.

The scanner will beep once at the end of calibration.

Read rate performance LEDs

Test Button

TEST

100%STGR

80% 60% 40% 20%

PWR

11-000063-01

Figure 1-4 Calibration

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Step 9 — Save Calibration Settings for Power-on

After calibrating the MS-3, you can save your new settings to be av ailable on power-on.

By ESP

Caution: If you have settings in the scanner that you have not yet loaded into ESP, the

ESP settings will overwrite the scanner’s settings when you save. Under these condi tions, it is highly recommended that you first do Receive Reader Settings before you save for power-on.

After testing and/or calibrating the scanner, you can save the settings for power-on by clicking the Save button.

By the Test Button

Press and hold the TEST button until you hear three beeps and see three performance LEDs momentarily turn

amber.

Test Button

Read rate performance LEDs

Figure 1-5 Save Settings

TEST

100%STGR 80%

60% 40% 20%

PWR

1 1- 0000 63-0 1

1. This assumes that the default functions of the test button have not been re-programmed.

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Step 10 — Configure the Reader

See the succeeding chapters and Appendices to see specific configuration command explanations for both ESP and serial commands.

By ESP

To change reader settings, or to access the utilities or terminal window, click on the

App Mode button.

Chapter 1 Quick Start

See Chapter 2, “Using ESP.”

By Serial Commands

From your terminal program or the terminal screen in ESP, you can enter serial string commands and configuration and utility commands as described in this manual.

See “Serial Configuration Commands” on page A-13 and “Summary of Utilities

Commands” on page 11-3.

Note: Y ou can learn the current setting of any parameter by inserting a question mark

after the number, as in <K100?> To see all “K” commands, send <K?>.

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Chapter

Setup Mode.................................................................................................2-2

Application Mode.........................................................................................2-3

Pulldown Menus.................................. ................................. ... ... .................2-4

Connect Menu............................... ... ................................. ... .......................2-9

View...........................................................................................................2-11

Navigating in ESP .....................................................................................2-12

Send/Receive Options...............................................................................2-13

Using ESP

Chapter Contents

This section is designed to help you understand the structure, elements, and application of the ESP (Easy Setup Program).

When you start up ESP, unless otherwise specified, you will enter the Setup Mode for initial setup. From there, you move easily into the App Mode (application mode) where you can access several configuration and utilities menus.

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Setup Mode

In Setup Mode you are presented with the Test option and if appropriate for your application, Calibration. After connecting to your scanner (or reader) the Setup Mode will first appear. This will provide you with instructions specific to your model that will help you in positioning, testing, and if appropriate, calibrating.

Test

Click the Test button to start the read rate test for a quick indication of the read capabilities and the limits of your application. When Decodes per Second is unchecked, the test will count the percentage of decodes relative to the number of actual scans. Click Stop to end the test.

Calibrate

Some models include a calibration routine that will optimize reads by comparing read rates at various settings in focal lengths, scan speeds, and gain settings.

Test button

Click here to change from percentage of good decodes to decodes per second

Calibration is available on some models

Note: This view may be slightly different for each model.

Saves Calibration results (if available)

2-2 MS-3 Laser Reader User’s Manual

Ends the read rate test

On some models, clicking Auto Discriminate will enable most available symbology types.

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Application Mode

From Setup Mode, you can click on the App Mode button to access specific configuration menus, utilities, and a terminal window where serial commands can be entered.

Note that the App Mode and Setup Mode buttons appear in the same position to allow easy switching between these primary modes.

Chapter 2 Using ESP

Pulldown menus

Click this icon to return to Easy Setup mode

Click this icon to return to this view from Utilities or Terminal

Click on icons in this toolbar to access configuration menu trees to make specific changes in configuration

The icons on this toolbar are for operations

Click here to open a terminal window

Note: This view may be slightly different for each model.

Click here to access read rate and other utilities

Note: For specific information on any of the icons shown abov e in the operations bar or configuration bar, see specific chapters in this document.

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Pulldown Menus

File

New

Whenever New is selected, the default configuration of ESP is loaded.

Open/Save

When Save or Save As is selected, the ESP configuration is saved to the host computer’s hard drive and available whenever the same file is selected under

Open. Important: When you save menu changes to your

hard drive, these changes are not saved to your reader.

Figure 2-1 shows how settings can be saved and

received between ESP and the reader and ESP and the host hard drive.

Receive Reader Settings

ESP

Save to Reader

File

Save

Host hard

drive

Figure 2-1 How Settings are Saved

File Open

Reader

Import/Export

Import converts the ASCII settings from a text file to ESP configuration s ettings. Export converts the active ESP co nfigurat ion settings to an ASCII text file.

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Model

In Model you can select between models. When you choose another model, your current connection with your present model will be terminated.

To connect to another model, select New Model, choose a new model and click OK.

Note that all the models you have enabled by selecting will continue to appear in the Model menu and that the same menu is repeated when clicking the Switch Model icon.

Chapter 2 Using ESP

When you save your ESP file, you will be saving the settings of all the models defined in a single ESP file.

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Pulldown Menus

Options

You can use the Options menu save memos and set up ESP

Preferences.

Note: Preferences will be saved

and be loaded into ESP when ESP is opened next, whether or not you save the ESP file to the computer.

Preferences

General tab

Reload Last File

At startup, reloads the last file saved to the computer.

Show Model Prompt

At startup, remembers the last connected model and displays it in the Connecting... dialog whenever you attempt to connect.

Skip Easy Mode

At startup, Skips the Easy Mode and opens directly in the application mode.

Show Connect Prompt

At startup, displays the Would you like to connect... prompt.

Receive After Connect

At startup, loads the reader’s settings into ESP. (This is not recommended if you want to preserve your ESP settings for future use.)

Enable ‘Send and Save as Factory Settings’

At startup, enables the Send and Save as Factory option in the Send/Recv command.

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Terminal tab

When Show Non-Printable

Characters is checked, charac

ters such as CRLF will be displayed in the terminal window. When Enhanced Format is checked, the characters are dis played with more detailed formatting.

Change Keyboard Macros

In this dialog you can first select the function key and then enter your macro keystrokes in the associated key map. For exam ple, to make Ctrl-F5 the keystroke to enable send a trigger character, select F5, then in the Ctrl row, enter <trigger character> and click OK. Then whenever the Ctrl-F5 key stroke is pressed, the trigger character will start the read cycle.

Chapter 2 Using ESP

Change Font

Sets the font characteristics for the commands that you type in the terminal window.

Change Echo Font

Sets the font characteristics for text that is echoed back to the screen from the reader.

Toolbar Style

By user selection, displays toolbar buttons as icons, text only, or both (default).

Note: See also Chapter 14, “Terminal Mode.”

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Pulldown Menus

Bar Code Options tab

Sets up the sizing, font, and caption parameters for the bar codes that you can create and print from the Bar Code Options Dialog under View.

Sizing Information

Sets the bar height (in inches) and bar widths (in thousands of an inch) of the symbols. A bar width of 13 is 0.013 inches.

Caption

Sets the characteristics of caption font and its placement in relation to the bar code symbol.

Advanced tab

As indicated.

Document Memo

Whatever you type into the Document Memo will appear in a text box whenever your cursor hovers over the Document Memo option.

Model Memo

Memos created in Model Memo are specific to the model enabled when the message was created.

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Connect Menu

Autoconnect

Generally Autoconnect will be the quickest way that ESP can get connected to a reader. Autoconnect will try con necting at the most common communications settings and step through the various settings until they match up with the host’s settings.

Connect

When you select Connect, you will need to manually select the communications settings from a popup dialog.

Chapter 2 Using ESP

Configure Multidrop

To connect to the reader by Multidrop, you will need a multidrop concentrator such as the MS-5000 and the required power supplies and cabling to communicate with your scanner(s).

1. From the Communications drop down menu in ESP, select Configure Multidrop to bring up the Multidrop Settings dialog.

2. If ne ce ssa ry, change the default address to match the address of your multidropped scanne r and click OK.

If the host serial port is no t co nnec ted in ESP, you will see the following popup message:

ESP is not currently connected to the multidrop concentrator. Do you wish to establish a connec tion now?

3. Click Yes. You will see a Serial Communication Parameters dialog as shown on the next

page.

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Connect Menu

4. Select the concentrator’s host port communications settings.

When you click Connect, you will be connecting to your concentrato r, which can then relay commands to the scanner whose address w as set in the Multidrop Settings dialog.

5. Click Connect.

6. You should see the CONNECTED message in green at the bottom of the window along with the scanner’ s Multidrop address.

7. Do Retrieve Scanner Settings to upload scanner’s configuration (Step 4). If upload fails, return to the Serial Communication Parameters dialog and make the corrections.

8. Follow the same procedure for connecting other scanners to your multidrop network.

Note: For more information, see your scanner user’s manual or Microscan’s MS-5000 Multidrop Concentrator User’s Manual, 83-005000.

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View

View indicates the current view (with a dot before the item) and allows you to quickly move to other views which are also accessed by clicking the icons on the toolbars.

It also allows you to access the Barcode Dialog.

Barcode Dialog

In the Barcode Dialog you can create bar code symbols by directly typing in the text bar code text you want to appear in Code 128 bar code symbols. This is a very useful tool for creating configuration symbols which allows you to configure your reader by reading the bar code symbols you print out. To configure the size, text and caption parameters,

“Bar Code Options tab” on page 2-8.

see

Chapter 2 Using ESP

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Navigating in ESP

To change reader settings, or to access the utilities or terminal window, click on the

App Mode button.

To return to the Easy Mode, click on the EZ Mode button.

To make changes to a configuration setting in the menu trees:

1. Left click on the + to expand tree

2. Double click on parameter and click once in selection box to view options.

3. Place your curser in the selection box, scroll down to the setting you want to change and click once on the setting.

4. Left click again on the open screen to complete the selection.

5. Right click on the open screen and select

Save to Reader to implement the command

in the reader.

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Send/Receive Options

To access Receive, Save and Default options, click the Send/Recv button: configuration views.

Receiving

From the Send/Recv selector, select Receive Reader Settings.

Caution: Do no select this option if you do not want to upload the reader’ s settings. For

example, if your ESP file has a number of custom settings that you want to maintain and download into the reader, these settings would be lost by choosing Yes.

This is useful if you want to receive (upload) the reader’s settings and save them as a computer file for later retrieval. For example, if your reader has settings that you do not want to change, choosing Yes would allow you to load those settings to ESP and save as an ESP file for later retrieval.

Receiving the reader’s settings will also assure that you will not be subsequently saving any unwanted changes that you or someone else previously made in ESP.

See “Send/Receive Options” on page 2-13 for more detail.

You can also access this selector by right -clicking in any of the

Chapter 2 Using ESP

Saving

1. Send, No Save. (same as <A>)

This saves ESP settings to current memory.

2. Send and Save. (same as <Z>)

This activates all changes in current memory and saves to the reader for power-on.

3. Send and Save as Customer Defaults. (same as <Zc>)

(This option will be visible only if you had checked Enable ‘Send and Save as Customer Defaults’ in ESP Preferences in the Options menu.)

Use this to save y our own set of defa ult settings that you can quickly retri eve with a <Zrc> command.

For more on defaulting and saving settings, see “Defaulting/Saving/Resetting” on

page A-20.

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Send/Receive Options

Defaulting

When you select Default Current... or Default all ESP... you are only defaulting the ESP settings.

Advanced Options

Send Current View

This is the same as Save

to Reader, Send No Save

except that only the com mands in the current menu tree are sent.

Send Current Command

This is the same as Send

Current View above, but

only saves the command that is currently selected.

Add Exceptions

After you perform a Receive from Reader command1 and you click on the Add Exception option you may see a list of serial commands that looks like the example to the right. mands that may be in your reader’s firmware, but not included or different from your current ESP software.

Y ou can edit these commands by double-clicking on them and changing as needed.

When exceptions are present, you can also access them from an Exceptions button that will appear on the Applications button bar.

It is important to note that these commands will be saved to your reader whenever you do a Save to Reader command or send an <A> or a <Z> command.

Also, if there is a corresponding ESP menu item, the ESP Value column for that item will be blank following a Receive from Reader com mand.

These are serial com-

1. From the Send/Recv button or right-clicking from within the tree menus.

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Chapter

Communications

Chapter Contents

Communications by ESP.............................................................................3-2

Communications By Serial Command.........................................................3-2

Password Protection ...................................................................................3-3

RS-232/422 Host Port.................................................................................3-4

RS-232 Auxiliary Port................................................................................3-11

Preamble...................................................................................................3-20

Postamble ................................................................................................. 3 -21

LRC Status................................................................................................3-22

Intercharacter Delay..................................................................................3-22

The ESP™ (Easy Setup Program), configuration changes can be made in the ESP menus, then sent and saved to your reader. The user can also send serial commands to the reader via the ESP’s Terminal window.

This section includes connecting parameters and options for communicating by the auxiliary port and various interfaces.

Note: When assigning characters in user-defined fields, the characters NULL <> and , can only be entered through embedded menus, not through ESP or serial commands.

Note: Y ou can learn the current setting of any parameter by inserting a question mark after the number, as in <K100?>. To see all “K” commands, send <K?>.

Note: Default settings for establishing communications are:

Baud = 9600 Parity = Even Stop Bits = One Data Bits = Seven Flow Control = None

Note: Y ou can learn the current setting of any parameter by inserting a question mark after the number, as in <K100?> To see all “K” commands, send <K?>.

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Communications by ESP

Click this button to bring up the Communications menu.

To change a setting,

double-click the set-

ting and use your cursor to scroll through the options.

To open nested options,

single-click the +.

Note: Y ou can learn the current setting of any parameter by inserting a question mark

after the number, as in <K100?> To see all “K” commands, send <K?>.

Communications By Serial Command

Command Title Format Password Status <K732, status> Password Entry, Change <K733 password,new password> Host Port Parameters <K100,baud,parity,stop bits,data bits> Host Protocol <K140, protocol> Host RS422 Status <K102, status>

Aux Port Parameters Preamble <K141,preambole status,preamble>

Postamble <K142,postamble status,postamble> LRC Status <K145,status> Intercharacter Delay <K144,intercharacter delay>

<K101,aux port mode,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data

bits,daisy chain status,daisy chain ID>

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Password Protection

Note: Password protection options are entered serially and are not available in ESP menus.

Usage: Password Protection when enabled preve nts the sca nner’ s p ar ameters

from being modified but does not affect the flow of data from the scanner or its response to read only commands.

Definition: Can require a password for any serial or menu command change. Password

Entry:

If you enter the password correctly , you will see the password echoed to the screen and you will then be able to make changes to the scanner’s parameters.

Enter the password once and the scanner’s command protection is temporarily unlocked until the scanner is turned off or reset. If a reset occurs then the password will need to be entered again.

From a terminal screen enter <K733 password>. (Do not put a comma between K733 and the password.)

Chapter 3 Communications

Password Status

Definition: If Password Status is set to Disabled, then no parameters are off lim-

its. If Password Status is set to Enabled, then this option cannot be subse-

quently disabled until the password defined in <K733> is entered. This parameter is non-volatile and will be included in any <Z> or <Zc> parameter save.

Serial Cmd: <K732,status> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

New Password

Definition: To change the password from the current password, enter the current

password, a comma, and the new password. If successfully entered, the new password will be displayed and the command change protection temporarily removed.

Serial Cmd: <K733 password,new password>

Note: Follow this with a <Z> or <Zc> to save for power-on.

Default: MICRO Options: Any ASCII string up to 8 characters.

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RS-232/422 Host Port

Host Port Connections

Baud Rate (host port)

Usage: Can be used to transfer data faster or to match host port settings. Definition: The rate at which the reader and host transfer data back and forth. Serial Cmd: <K100,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits> Default: 9600 Options: 0 = 600 3 = 4800 6 = 38.4 K

1 = 1200 4 = 9600 7 = 57.6 K 2 = 2400 5 = 19.2 K 8 = 115.2 K

Parity (host port)

Usage: Only changed if necessary to match host setting. Definition: An error detection routine in which one data bit in each character is set to

1 or 0 so that the total number of 1 bits in the data field is even or odd.

Serial Cmd: <K100,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits> Default: Even Options: 0 = None 1 = Even 2 = Odd

Stop Bits (host port)

Usage: Only changed if necessary to match host setting. Definition: One or two bits added to the end of each character to indicate the end of

the character.

Serial Cmd: <K100,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits> Default: One Options: 0 = One 1 = Two

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Data Bits (host port)

Usage: Only changed if necessary to match host setting. Definition: Number of bits in each character. Serial Cmd: <K100,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits> Default: Seven Options: 0 = Seven 1 = Eight

Host Port Protocol

Usage: In general, the point-to-point protocols will work well in most applica-

tions. They require no address and must use RS-232 or RS-422 communications standards.

Definition: Protocols define the sequence and format in which information is trans-

ferred between the scanner and the host, or in the case of Multidrop, between scanners and a concentrator.

Serial Cmd: <K140,protocol> Default: Point-to-Point Options: 0 = Point-to-Point

1 = Point-to-Point with RTS/CTS 2 = Point-to-Point with XON/XOFF 3 = Point-to-P oint with RTS/CTS &

XON/XOFF If selecting one of the options from 0 to 4 (Point-to-Point, Point-to-

Point with RTS/CTS, Point-to-Point with XON/XOFF, Point-to- Point with RTS/CTS and XON/XOFF, or Polling Mode D), use the

<K140,protocol> format. Option 5 through 7 are special cases and discussed later in this section.

Chapter 3 Communications

4 = Polling Mode D 5 = Multidrop 6 = User Defined 7 = User Defined Multidrop

Point-to-Point (standard)

Usage: Used only with RS232 or RS422. Definition: Standard Point-to-Point requires no address and sends data to the host

whenever it is available, without any request or handshake from the host.

Serial Cmd: <K140,0>

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RS-232/422 Host Port

Point-to-Point with RTS/CTS

Usage: A reader initiates a data transfer with an RT S (request -to-send) tran smis-

sion. The host, when ready, responds with a CTS (clear-to-send) and the data is transmitted. CTS and RTS signals are transmitted over two dedicated wires as defined in the RS-232 standard.

Used only with RS232.

Definition: Point-to-Point with RTS/CTS (request-to-send/clear-to-send) is a

simple hardware handshaking protocol that allows a reader to initiate data transfers to the host.

Serial Cmd: <K140,1>

Point-to-Point with XON/XOFF (Transmitter On/Off)

Usage: If an XOFF has been received from the host, data will not be sent to the

host until the host sends an XON. During the XOFF phase, the host is free to carry on other chores and accept data from other devices.

Used only with RS232.

Definition: This option enables the host to send the XON and XOFF command as a

single byte transmission command of start (^Q) or stop (^S).

Serial Cmd: <K140,2>

Point-to-Point with RTS/CTS & XON/XOFF

Usage: Used only with RS232. Definition: This option is a combination of Point-to-Point with RTS/CTS and

Point-to-Point with XON/XOFF.

Serial Cmd: <K140,3>

Po lling Mode D

Usage: When in Polling Mode D, an address of 1 is automatically displayed on

the configuration screen. However, during transmission, a 1C hex poll address (FS) and a 1D hex select address (GS) are substituted for the 1.

Definition: Like Point-to-Point, Polling Mode D requires a dedicated connection to

the host; but unlike Point-to-Point, it requires an address and must wait for a poll from the host before sending data.

Serial Cmd: <K140,4>

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Multidrop

See also Quick Start Help for Multidrop setup. Usage: The MS-5000 can be used as a concentrator to a single host port connec-

tion. When Multidrop is selected, the protocol characters for RES, REQ, etc.

are assigned automatically.

Definition: Multidrop allows up to 50 devices to be connected to a single RS485

host, with the scanner assigned an unique address (from 01 to 50).

Multidrop Addresses:

Options: 01 through 50 Serial Cmd: If selecting Multidrop fan address must be defined and appended to the

Each address has its own separate poll and select address (from 1C to 7F hex).

command string. Format: <K100,5,address[01 to 50]>

Chapter 3 Communications

Note: Scanners linking up to a Microscan MS-5000 multidrop concentrator must be configured in standard multidrop protocol.

User Defined Point-to-Point

Usage: Useful for developing custom protocols in polled or unpolled mode. Definition: User Defined Point-to-Point allows the user to customize the point-to-

point protocol.

Serial Cmd: <K140,6,RES,address,REQ,EOT,STX,ETX,ACK,NAK,from host>

User Defined Address

Definition: User Defined is considered to be in a polled mode only if an address has

been assigned.

Serial Cmd: <K140,6,RES,address,REQ,EOT,STX,ETX,ACK,NAK,from host> Default: No address Options: Any ASCII character except a null.

User Defined Example

Definition: Example: ACK/NAK protocol can be configured using User Defined. The

scanner will transmit data to the host when an ACK is received. If a NAK or response timeout occurs, the scanner will re-send the data to the host up to 3 more times before aborting.

Tip: To use User Defined Point-to-Point, first select Point-to-Point

<K100,0> and then User Defined <K100,6>.

Example: To select an unpolled ACK/NAK User Defined protocol with

LRC disabled, send <K100,0><K100,6,,,,,,,^F,^U><Kc0>. ACK and NAK will be displayed in the menu.

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RS-232/422 Host Port

Serial Cmd: <K140,6,RES,address,REQ,EOT,STX,ETX,ACK,NAK,from host> Default: No assignment Options: Any ASCII character except a null. Control characters can be used to

define RES through NAK in serial commands.

From Host

Definition: This option allows the handshaking protocol to be initiated from the host,

if not configured in an unpolled mode. Messages sent to the host will include the scanner’s defined protocol. The status of From Host determines if messages sent from the host to the scanner must include the defined protocol. If From Host is disabled, the defined protocol is not included. If From Host is enabled, the defined protocol must be included.

Serial Cmd: <K140,6,RES,address,REQ,EOT,STX,ETX,ACK,NAK,from host> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

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User Defined Multidrop

Note: Any ASCII character except a null (00) and a ^A (01) can be assigned as an address. Control characters can be used to define RES through NAK in serial com mands. “Communication Protocol Commands” on page A-11.

Usage: This option is used when connecting to a concentrator or other device

that does not match standard multidrop protocol. If selecting User Defined Multidrop (7), complete the format by either

choosing new parameters or place commas where unchanged data fields occur.

Definition: User Defined Multidrop allows the user to customize the polling proto-

col.

Serial Cmd: <K140,7,RES,address,REQ,EOT,STX,ETX,ACK,NAK>

For User Defined Multidrop, first select Multidrop <K140,5>, then User Defined Multidrop <K140,7...>.

Address: Any single character (02 hex to 7E hex) in the ASCII table can be

assigned as the address character. The character chosen is used as the poll character and the subsequent ASCII character becomes the select character. For example, if a ^B (02 hex) is selected as the address, ^C (03 hex) becomes the select address that the host will use in sending host select commands.

Chapter 3 Communications

Note: Definitions of commands in User Defined and User Defined Multidrop must be duplicated in host applications to enable poll and select sequences to execute cor rectly during transmission.

Note: Typically, parameters in User Defined Multidrop are defined by first enabling Multidrop, then enabling User Defined Multidrop. This pre-loads multidrop charac

ters into the parameters. Then changes are made to individual characters to match the host or other requirements.

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RS-232/422 Host Port

Host RS-232/422 Status

Used only in Point-to-Point protocol, and not with RTS/CTS.

Usage: Only changed if necessary to match host setting. Definition: Enables RS422. When RS422 is enabled, RS232 is disabled. Serial Cmd: <K102,status> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

Whenever RS422 is disabled, RS232 is enabled in the background. However, when Multidrop is enabled, the functioning protocol is RS485 regardless of the displayed status of RS422. Before enabling RS422, first double-check that Multidrop is not enabled.

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RS-232 Auxiliary Port

Note: The aux port cannot be used when the host port is set to RS422 or Multidrop. As with the host port parameters, the auxiliary terminal’s settings (baud rate, parity,

stop bits, and data bits) must be identical with those of the auxiliary device. Usage: These commands set the communication parameters with the auxiliary

port which can be used to configure menus, send data to the host, dis play data transmissions originating from the host of the scanner, and relay data from other scanners set in tandem (daisy chained). If the scanner’s host port needs to be dedicated to the host, but configuration must be done on the fly , the auxiliary port can be set to accept configura tion changes by Command Processing (page 3-17).

Definition: An auxiliary port connects the scanner to a remote display or to other

scanners that can display or transfer data.

Chapter 3 Communications

Aux Port Connections

As with the host port parameters, the auxiliary terminal’s settings (baud rate, parity, stop bits, and data bits) must be identical with those of the auxiliary device.

Baud Rate, Aux Port

Usage: Can be used to transfer data faster or match an auxiliary device. Definition: The rate at which the scanner and host transfer data back and forth. Serial Cmd: <K101,aux port mode,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits,daisy chain

ID status,daisy chain ID> Default: 9600 Options: 0 = 600 3 = 4800 6 = 38.4 K

1 = 1200 4 = 9600 7 = 57.6 K

2 = 2400 5 = 19.2 K 8 = 115.2 K

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RS-232 Auxiliary Port

Parity, Aux Port

Usage: Only changed if necessary to match host setting. Definition: An error detection routine in which one data bit in each character is set to

1 or 0 so that the total number of 1 bits in the data field is even or odd.

Default: Even Options: <K101,aux port mode,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits,daisy chain

ID status,daisy chain ID>

Serial Cmd: 0 = None 1 = Even 2 = Odd

Stop Bits, Aux Port

Usage: Only changed if necessary to match host setting. Definition: Allows the user to select the last one or two bits in each character to indi-

cate the end of the character.

Serial Cmd: <K101,aux port mode,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits,daisy chain

ID status,daisy chain ID> Default: One Options: 0 = One 1 = Two

Data Bits, Aux Port

Usage: Only changed if necessary to match host setting. Definition: Number of bits in each character. Serial Cmd: <K101,aux port mode,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits,daisy chain

ID status,daisy chain ID> Default: Seven Options: 0 = Seven 1 = Eight

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Auxiliary Port Mode

Definition: Determines the flow of data between the auxiliary port device(s), the

scanner, and the host.

Serial Cmd: <K101,aux port mode,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits,daisy chain

ID status,daisy chain ID> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Transparent

2 = Half duplex 3 = Full duplex

4 = Daisy chain 5 = Command Processing

Chapter 3 Communications

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RS-232 Auxiliary Port

Transparent Mode

Usage: A common application, in conjunction with handheld scanners, is one that

employs an auxiliary readout to detect mis-applied bar code symbols.

Definition: In Transparent mode data is passed between the auxiliary port and the

host. The scanner buffers data from the auxiliary port and echoes the keyed data on the auxiliary port.

Data initiated from the Auxiliary Port

• Auxiliary port data is passed through to th e hos t whenever a retur n key is pressed at the auxiliary port or symbol data is sent.

• Whenever aux port data is sent with symbol data, the aux port data will appear between the preamble and the symbol data.

• Auxiliary port data to the host is always sent with a preamble and a postamble.

• If the scanner is in a polled mode to the host, auxiliary port data will NOT pass through.

• <D> is the only command accepted by the scanner from the auxiliary port. All other commands will pass through to the host.

Host

Scanner

Aux

Aux Port

Port

Data initiated from the Scanner

• Transmission to the auxiliary port occurs immediately upon a good read.

• Scan data to the auxiliary port does not incl ude

Host

Aux Port

a preamble or a postamble.

• Communications with the auxiliary port is always in Point-to-Point protocol, even if the

Scanner

host is in a polled protocol mode.

Data initiated from the Host

• All host data is echoed to t he a uxili ar y por t in

Host

Aux Port

unpolled and polled mode.

Scanner

Serial Cmd: <K101,aux port mode,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits,daisy chain

ID status,daisy chain ID>

1 = Transparent

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Half Duplex Mode

Usage: Useful when the user wants symbol data displayed on an auxiliary screen

close to the scanner.

Definition: In Half Duplex mode all auxiliary port data and symbol data is sent

directly to the host. Symbol data is displayed on the auxiliary port screen at the same time the data is sent to the host.

Data initiated from the Auxiliary Port

• Auxiliary port data to th e hos t is i gnor ed i f t he scanner is in a polled mo de.

• Auxiliary port data or scanned data is sent to the host whenever it is received.

• Auxiliary port data is not e c hoed.

• Auxiliary port data to the host is always sent without a preamble or a postamble.

• <D> is the only command th at i s a ccepted by th e sc anner f rom th e auxiliary port. All other commands are passed through to the host.

Chapter 3 Communications

Host

Scanner

Aux Port

Data initiated from the Scanner

• Scan data is transmitted to the auxiliary port at the same time it is transmitted to the ho st .

• Data transmission confo rms with all parameters

Host

Aux Port

specified in the configuration menu (e.g., Pre- amble, Postamble, End of Read Cycle).

Data is initiated from the Host

Scanner

• All host data is echoed to the auxi li ary por t in unpolled mode.

Host

Scanner

Aux Port

Serial Cmd: <K101,aux port mode,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits,daisy chain

ID status,daisy chain ID>

2 = Half Duplex

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RS-232 Auxiliary Port

Full Duplex Mode

Usage: When communication to and from the auxiliary port is required. Definition: In Full Duplex mode all auxiliary port data and symbol data is sent

directly to the host. Symbol data is not displayed on the auxiliary port screen.

Data initiated from the Auxiliary Port

• Auxiliary port data to th e hos t is i gnor ed i f t he scanner is in a polled mo de.

• Auxiliary port data or scanned data is sent to the host whenever it is received.

• Auxiliary port data is not e c hoed.

• Auxiliary port data to the host is always sent without a preamble or a postamble.

• <D> is the only command that is a ccepted by th e sc anner f rom th e auxiliary port. All other commands are passed through to the host.

Host

Aux

Port

Scanner

Data initiated from the Scanner

• Scan data is not sent to the auxiliary port.

Host

Scanner

Aux

Port

Data initiated from the Host

• All host data is echoed to t he a uxili ar y por t in

Host

Aux

Port

unpolled mode.

Scanner

Serial Cmd: <K101,aux port mode,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits,daisy chain

ID status,daisy chain ID>

3 = Full duplex

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Daisy Chain Mode

Usage: Useful in applications where:

• A symbol might be scanned in both ladder and picket fence directions.

• A symbol may be present on multiple sides of a package.

• Symbols are presented at different depths.

Definition: In a daisy chain application, scanners are connected in tandem or “daisy

chain” and decoded data is relayed from one scanner to another on up to the host.

A master scanner has its host port linked to the host computer and its auxiliary port linked to the host port of the first “slave” scanner in the chain. Thereafter, each slave’s auxiliary port is linked to the host port of the slave that is further from the host in the daisy chain.

Each scanner in the daisy chain can be assigned an ID that accompanies any data that it sends.

Serial Cmd: <K101,aux port mode,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits,daisy chain

ID status,daisy chain ID> Options: 4 = Daisy chain Function: Before the master scanner times out, it checks its auxiliary port for data.

It should be set to wait at least 20 mS for each slave in the daisy chain.

(See “Read Cycle Timeout” on page 4-15.) If no data is received

within the read cycle timeout, the master sends a noread message to the

host. Otherwise the complete data is sent.

If for example a master scanner is set to timeout in 120 mS, the first

slave scanner might be set to 100 mS, the next to 80 mS, and so forth,

thus assuring that at least 20 mS elapses between transmissions.

Daisy-chained scanners can send a series of symbols by enabling Multi-

symbol and a common multisymbol separator. If the master scanner

does not receive the expected number of symbols, noread messages are

appended to the data string to make up the difference between the num-

ber of symbols enabled in Multisymbol and the number of symbols read.

For example, a master and two slaves have Number of Symbols set to

3 and Multisymbol Separator defined as %. If the master and the firs t

slave do not find symbols, but the next slave scanner registers a good

read, the transmitted results will be: symbol data % noread % noread.

Chapter 3 Communications

a. The above example is based on the best case. Other factors such as baud rate, dynamic focus timing,

number of characters in a giv en symbol, and the number o f slaves in t he daisy chain can affe ct timing and may need to be included in your calculations for complete accuracy.

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RS-232 Auxiliary Port

Conditions: The conditions for a daisy chain application are as follows:

1. The ma st er s cann er’s trigger must be Serial or External; the slave scanners’ triggers are configured for Serial.

2. All scanners are enabled to Daisy Chain mode.

3. Each scanner’s auxiliary port must be connected to the Host port of its slave scanner.

4. Ea ch slave scanne r in the dais y chain must be set to send its data no le ss t han 20 mS before its preceding scanner.

5. All but the master scanner must have Postamble enabled and set to CR (^M) only.

6. All but the master scanner must have their noread messages disabled.

7. If Multisymbol is enabled, Multisymbol Sepa rator ch aracters must match in all scanners and Number of Symbols must be set to number large enough to include all the symbols it may it self read plus the number of symbols that it will be expected to relay to the host or the next scanner up the line.

8. Symbology ID enable/disable must be the sam e in all sc anners .

9. All but the master scanner must have their diagnostic warning messages disabled.

10. Daisy Chain ID Status enable/dis able a nd the numbe r of c haracters in Daisy Chain ID must be the same in all scanners.

Host

Slave

Master

Command Processing Mode

Usage: Allows user to send configuration from the Host port or the AUX port. Definition: When enabled, Command Processing allows commands to be entered

via the aux port. The following rules apply:

1. Bar code data, includin g the serial trigger if used, will be transmitted to the last port from which a command was sent.

2. If a reset occurs, all data will be transmitted to the host port.

Serial Cmd: <K101,aux port mode,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits,daisy chain

ID status,daisy chain ID>

Options: 5 = Command Processing

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Daisy Chain ID Status

Usage: Used in a daisy chain setup in cases where the host needs to know which

scanner in a daisy chain setup sent the data.

Definition: Each scanner in a daisy chain can be assigned a one or two character ID

that will appear in front of decoded data and identify its source.

Serial Cmd: <K101,aux port mode,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits,daisy chain

ID status,daisy chain ID>

Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

Note: Enable/disable and length must be the same in all scanners.

Daisy Chain ID

Chapter 3 Communications

Usage: Used in a daisy chain setup in cases where the host needs to know which

scanner sent the data.

Definition: A one or two character prefix which identifies the particular daisy chain

scanner from which the data is being sent.

Serial Cmd: <K101,aux port mode,baud rate,parity,stop bits,data bits,daisy chain ID

status,daisy chain ID> Default: 1/ Options: Any one or two ASCII characters.

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Preamble

Preamble Status

Usage: Useful for identifying and controlling incoming data. For example, defin-

ing the preamble as a carriage return and a line feed causes each decoded message to be displayed of on its own line.

Definition: Defines a one to four character data string that can be added to the front

of the decoded data.

Serial Cmd: <K141,preamble status,preamble character(s)> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled (within any protocol)

Preamble Characters

Serial Cmd: <K141,preamble status,preamble characters> Default: ^M corresponds to: carriage return/null/null/null. Options: Up to four user-defined ASCII characters, including control characters.

Within a Serial Command.

To enter control characters within a serial command, hold down the control key while typing the desired character.

Example: <K141,1,CNTL-m> to enter ^M.

Within an Embedded Menu

Control characters entered on the command line are displayed in the menu as mnemonic characters, such as: <CR><NUL><NUL><NUL>.

To enter a control character from within an embedded menu, first type in a space (with the space key). This has the effect of allowing the control key to be recognized as a part of the control character. Next hold down the control key while typing the desired char acter.

Example: Space CNTL-m to enter ^M.

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Postamble

Postamble Status

Usage: Useful for identifying and controlling incoming data. For example, defin-

ing the postamble as a carriage return and a line feed causes each

decoded message to be displayed of on its own line. Definition: Defines a one to four character data string that can be added to the end

of the decoded data.

Serial Cmd: <K142,status,postamble character(s)> Default: Enabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled (within any protocol)

Chapter 3 Communications

Postamble Characters

Serial Cmd: <K142, status,postamble characters> Default: ^M^J. Corresponds to carriage return/line feed/null/null, as displayed in

the menu. Options: Up to four user-defined ASCII characters, including control characters.

Within a Serial Command

To enter control characters within a serial command, hold down the control key while typing the desired character.

Example: <K142,CNTL-m CNTL-j> to enter ^M^J.

Within an Embedded Menu

Control characters entered on the command line are displayed in the menu as mnemonic characters, such as: <CR><LF><NUL><NUL>

Example: Space CNTL-m Space CNTL-j to enter ^M^J.

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LRC Status

(Longitudinal Redundancy Check)

Usage: Used when extra data integrity is required. Definition: An error-checking routine that verifies the accuracy of transmissions. It is

the exclusive OR of all characters following the STX (start of text) up to and including the ETX (end of text). What this means is that the binary representation of all the characters in a transmissions are cumulatively added in a column and each resulting odd integer is assigned a 1 and each even integer a 0 (two 1s = 0, two 0s = 0, a 1 and a 0 = 1). The extra LRC character is then appended to the transmission and the receiver (usually the host) performs the same addition and compares the results.

Serial Cmd: <K145,LRC status> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

Intercharacter Delay

Usage: Used only when a host cannot receive data quickly enough and there is

enough time between symbols to allow data to be completely transferred. It is rarely used since any setting other than zero will slow down commu nications. For example, a 200 setting will result in a 1/5 second delay between each character that is transmitted.

Definition: The time interval in milliseconds between individual characters transmit-

ted from the scanner to the host.

Serial Cmd: <K144,intercharacter delay> Default: 0 Options: 0 to 255 (in milliseconds). Zero (0) causes no delay between

characters.

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Chapter

Read Cycle

Chapter Contents

Read Cycle by ESP................................................ ... ..................................4-2

Read Cycle by Serial Command ................................................................4-2

Multisymbol .................................................................................................4-3

Number of Symbols.....................................................................................4-4

Serial Trigger............................................ ... ... ................................. ... .......4-12

End of Read Cycle ....................................................................................4-14

Decodes Before Output.............................................................................4-16

Scanner Setup...........................................................................................4-17

Laser Setup...............................................................................................4-21

After you’ve established communications and completed basic read rate testing, you will need to address the spatial and timing parameters associated with your application. In a typical operation a bar coded item moves along a line past a reader. A trigger or timer activates a read cycle during which the reader actively searches for symbols. You will need to decide how to initiate the read cycle and how and when to end it.

Note: When assigning characters in user-defined fields, the characters NULL <> and , can only be entered through embedded menus, not through ESP or serial commands.

Note: Y ou can learn the current setting of any parameter by inserting a question mark after the number, as in <K100?>. To see all “K” commands, send <K?>.

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Read Cycle by ESP

Click this Button to bring up the Read Cycle/

Triggering menu

To change a setting,

double-click the set-

ting and use your cursor to scroll through the options.

To open nested options,

single-click the +.

Read Cycle by Serial Command

Command Title Format Multisymbol <K222, number of symbols,multisymbol separator> Trigger Mode <K200, trigger mode,trigger filter duration> External Trigger State <K202, external trigger state> Serial Trigger Character <K201, serial trigger character> Start Serial Trigger Character <K229,start trigger character> End Serial Trigger Character <K230, end trigger character> End of Read Cycle <K220, end of read cycle,read cycle timeout> Decodes Before Output <K221, number before output,decodes before output mode > Automatic Gain Control <K504, gain level,AGC sampling mode,AGC min,AGC max> Scan Speed <K500,scan speed> Symbol Detect/Transition <K505, symbol detect status,transition counter> Maximum Element <K502, maximum element> Scan Width Enhance <K511,scan width enhance>

Laser Controls

<K700, laser on/off status,laser framing status,laser on position,laser

off position,laser power>

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Multisymbol

Usage: Commonly used in shipping applications where a shipping symbol con-

tains individual bar codes for part number, quantity, etc. This feature allows one trigger to pick up all the symbols. AIAG and UCC/EAN-128 are two application standards that address this need.

Definition: Allows the user to set up conditions that will allow more than one symbol

to be decoded and output.

Conditions The following conditions apply:

1. All noread messages are post ed at the end of the data string.

2. If more than one symbol is wi thin the scan be am at the same time, symbol data may not be displayed in the order of appearance.

3. If Matchcode Type is set to Sequential or if Trigger is set to

Continuous Read 1 Output, Number of Symbols will default to 1 (if set to any number greater than 1).

4. The maximum number of characters in any one bar code (other than PDF417) is 64.

5. The maximum number of characters in a single scan line is 102 (Code 39).

6. The maximum number of cha racters for all symbols is 392, including preamble, separators, and LRC.

Chapter 4 Read Cycle

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Number of Symbols

Definition: Number of Symbols allows the user to define up to 12 bar code sym-

bols that can be read in a single read cycle.

Serial Cmd: <K222,number of symbols,multisymbol separator> Default: 1 Options 1 to 6

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Multisymbol Separator

Usage: Used to delimit or separate data fields with a user defined character. Definition: The character that’s inserted between each symbol scanned when Multi-

symbol is set to any number greater than 1.

ESP: To select a new multisymbol separator, double-click on Separator and

select a character in the popup window.

Chapter 4 Read Cycle

Serial Cmd: <K222,number of symbols,multisymbol separator>

Note: If Multisymbol Separator has been changed to any character other than the default comma and you wish to re-define the separator as a comma, use ESP or the embedded menu.

Default: , (comma) Options: Any available ASCII character, except < > NUL.

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Number of Symbols

Trigger

Trigger Mode

Definition: The type of trigger event that will initiate the read cycle. Serial Cmd: <K200,trigger mode,trigger filter duration> Default: Continuous Read Options: 0 = Continuous Read

1 = Continuous Read 1 Output 2 = External Level

Continuous Read

3 = External Edge 4 = Serial Data 5 = Serial Data & External Edge

Usage: Continuous Read is useful in testing symbol readability or reader func-

tions. It is not recommended for normal operations.

Definition: In Continuous Read, trigger input options are disabled, the reader is

always in the read cycle, and it will attempt to decode and output every scan crossing a symbol.When To Output and Noread options have no affect on Continuous Read.

Serial Cmd: <K200,0>

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Continuous Read 1 Output

Usage: Continuous Read 1 Output can be useful in applications where it is not

feasible to use a trigger and all succeeding symbols contain different information. It is also effective in applications where the objects are hand-presented.

Definition: In Continuous Read 1 Output the scanner self-triggers whenever it

decodes a new symbol or a timeout occurs. If End Of Read Cycle is set to Timeout and the symbol doesn't change,

the scanner will repeat the output at the end of each timeout period. For example, if Timeout is set to one second, the scanner sends the symbol data immediately and repeats the output at intervals of one second for as long as the symbol continues to be scanned.

If End Of Read Cycle is set to New Trigger, the scanner will send the current symbol data immediately, but send it only once. A new symbol appearing in the scanner’s range will be read and sent immediately provided it is not identical to the previous symbol read.

Serial Cmd: <K200,1>

Chapter 4 Read Cycle

Caution: In automated environments, Continuous Read 1 Output is not recommended because there is no one to verify that a symbol was missed.

Note: If Trigger is set to Continuous Read 1 Output, Number of Symbols will default back to 1 (if set to any number greater than 1).

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Number of Symbols

External Level

Usage: This mode is effective in an application where the speeds of the convey-

ing apparatus are variable and the time the reader spends scanning each object is not predictable. It also allows the user to determine if a noread has occurred.

Object detector

Initiate Read Cycle: Object # 1, moving in front of the detector beam, causes a change in the trigger state, initiating the read cycle.

End Read Cycle:

The same object, moving out of the detector beam, causes another change in the trigger state, ending the read cycle.

Associated waveforms assume External Trigger State is set to Positive.

Positive

Figure 4-2 External Level Trigger

Definition: External Level allows the read cycle to begin when a trigger (change of

state) from an external sensing device is received. The read cycle endures until the object moves out of the sensor range and the active trigger state changes again.

Serial Cmd: <K200,2> Important: Level and Edge apply to the active logic state (Positive or Negative)

that exists while the object is in a read cycle, between the rising edge and falling edge.

Rising edge is the trigger signal associated with the appearance of an object. Falling edge is the trigger signal associated with the subsequent disappearance of the object.

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External Trigger Edge

Usage: This mode is highly recommended in any application where conveying

speed is constant or if spacing, object size, or timeouts are consistent.

Definition: External Trigger Edge, as with Level, allows the read cycle to begin

when a trigger (change of state) from an external sensing device is received. However, the passing of an object out of sensor range does not end the read cycle. The read cycle ends with a good read output or, depending on End of Read Cycle setting, a timeout or new trigger occurs.

Object detector

Initiate Read Cycle: Object # 1, moving in front of the detector beam, causes a change in the trigger state, initiating the read cycle.

Initiate Second Read Cycle: Object # 2, moving in front of the detector beam, causes another change in the trigger state. This signal initiates a new read cycle and ends the previous read cycle unless Timeout is enabled and a good read or timeout has not occurred.

Chapter 4 Read Cycle

Active

Associated waveforms assume External State is set to Positive.

Active

Figure 4-3 Trigger Edge

Serial Cmd: <K200,3>

Important: Level and Edge apply to the active logic state (Positive or Negative) that exists while the object is in a read cycle, between the rising edge and falling edge.

Rising edge is the trigger signal associated with the appearance of an object. Falling edge is the trigger signal associated with the subsequent disappearance of the object.

Important: Level and Edge apply to the active logic state (Positive or Negative) that exists while the object is in a read cycle, between the rising edge and falling edge.

Rising edge is the trigger signal associated with the appearance of an object. Falling edge is the trigger signal associated with the subsequent disappearance of the object.

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Number of Symbols

Serial Data

Usage: Highly recommended in any application where conveying speed is con-

stant or if spacing, object size, or timeouts are consistent.

Definition: In Serial Data, the reader accepts an ASCII character from the host or

controlling device as a trigger to start a read cycle. A Serial Data trigger behaves the same as an External Edge trigger.

Serial Cmd: <K200,4>

Serial Data or External Edge

Usage: Serial Data or External Edge is seldom used but can be useful in an

application that primarily uses an external sensing device but occasionally needs to be manually triggered. An auxiliary terminal can be connected to the aux port so the user can send the serial trigger character through the scanner to the host.

Definition: In this mode the reader accepts either a serial ASCII character or an

external trigger pulse to start the read cycle.

Serial Cmd: <K200,5>

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Trigger Filter Duration

Usage: Trigger Filter Duration is useful where trigger bounce could cause false

triggers.

Definition: Trigger Filter Duration can prevent trigger bounce from falsely trigger-

ing the scanner by limiting the time in which trigger pulses can be received.

Serial Cmd: <K200,trigger mode,trigger filter duration> Default: 244 (0.0099796 seconds) Options: 0.0000818 to 2.6803815 seconds

External Trigger State

Chapter 4 Read Cycle

Note: External Level, External Edge, or Serial Data or Edge trigger mode must be enabled for External Trigger to take effect.

Usage: Users can select the trigger polarity that will operate with their systems. Definition: Determines whether a positive or negative transition will initiate the read

cycle.

Serial Cmd: <K202,external trigger state> Default: Positive Options: 0 = Negative 1 = Positive

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Serial Trigger

Usage: Allows the user to define the trigger character that initiates the read

cycle.

Definition: An on-line host command composed of a single ASCII host serial trigger

character that initiates or ends the read cycle. Trigger characters are of two types: delimited and non-delimited. A

delimited character is entered within angle brackets delimiters < >. A non-delimited trigger character is one that either starts or ends the

read cycle and is NOT enclosed by delimiters such as < >.

Serial Trigger Character

Usage: Useful in applications wh er e a single serial chara ct er enclosed in angle

brackets initia tes th e read cycle.

Definition: A trigger character is one that starts the read cycle, is enclosed by delim-

iters < > and can only be sent when the trigger mode is set to Serial Data or Serial Data & Edge.

Serial Cmd: <K201,serial trigger character> Default: GS (corresponds to ^] displayed in the embedded menu) Options: Any single ASCII character, including control characters, except NUL

(00H), an existing host command character, or an on-line protocol character.

Note: Serial Data or Serial Data & Edge triggering mode must be enabled for Serial Trigger Character to take effect.

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Non-delimited Start and Stop Characters

Note: If the serial trigger is set to an existing command, it will override the command. The command will no longer be valid. For example, if the serial trigger is <Z>, par ameters will no longer be saved, but when the save command is sent (<Z>), the reader will trigger.

Note: In multidrop and user-defined protocols, the start and stop characters must be delimited.

Both Start and Stop non-delimited characters can be defined and will function according to the trigger event, as follows:

When defining Start and Stop trigger characters, the following rules apply:

•In External Edge the reader looks only for the Start Trigger Character and ignores any Stop Trigger Character that may be defined.

•In External Level, the Start Trigger Character begins the read cycle and Stop Trigger Character ends it. Note that even after a symbol has been decoded and the symbol data transmitted, the reader remains in External Level trigger read cycle until a Stop character is received.

•In Serial Data & Edge trigger mode, either a Start Trigger Character or a hard- ware trigger can start an Edge trigger read cycle.

Chapter 4 Read Cycle

Start Character (non-delimited)

Usage: It is useful in applications where different characters are required to start

and end a read cycle.

Definition: A single ASCII host serial trigger character that starts the read cycle and

is not enclosed by delimiters such as < and >.

Serial Cmd: <K229,start trigger character> Default: Null (disabled) Options: Tw o hex digits representing an ASCII character except <, >, XON and

XOFF.

Stop Character (non-delimited)

Usage: It is useful in applications where different characters are required to start

and end a read cycle.

Definition: A single ASCII host serial trigger character that ends the read cycle and is

not enclosed by delimiters such as < and >.

Serial Cmd: <K230,stop trigger character> Default: Null (disabled) Options: T wo hex digits representing an ASCII char acter except <, >, XON and XOFF.

See Appendix F — “ASCII Table” for ASCII character information.

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End of Read Cycle

Note: When to Output must be set to End of Read Cycle before this command can be active.

Definition: The read cycle is the time during which the scanner will attempt to read

End of Read Cycle Mode

Definition: A read cycle can be terminated by a new trigger, a timeout, or a combina-

Serial Cmd: <K220, end of read cycle,read cycle timeout> Options: 0 = Timeout

and decode a symbol. At the end of a read cycle the scanner stops read ing symbols and sends the symbol data or noread message to the host.

tion of both.

1 = New Trig ger 2 = Timeout & New Trigger

Note: When operating in Continuous Read or Continuo us Read 1 Output, the scan- ner is always in the read cycle.

Timeout

Usage: Typically used with Serial or Edge and Continuous One.

It is effective in highly controlled applications when the maximum length of time between objects can be predicted. It assures that a read cycle ends before the next bar coded object appears, giving the system extra time to decode and transmit the data to the host.

Definition: Timeout ends the read cycle when the time set in Read Cycle Timeout

elapses or “times out.” If in Continuous Read 1 Output, a timeout initiates a new read cycle

and allows the same symbol to be read again. With either External Edge, Serial Data, or Serial Data & Edge

enabled, a timeout ends the read cycle and symbol data or a noread message is sent to the host.

With External Level enabled, the read cycle does not end until the falling edge trigger or a timeout occurs. The next read cycle does not begin until the next rising edge trigger.

New Trigger

Usage: New Trigger is an effective way to end a read cycle when objects move

past the scanner at irregular intervals (not timing dependent).

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Definition: New Trigger ends the current read cycle and initiates a new one when a

new trigger occurs. New Trigger refers only to a “rising edge” trigger. With either External Edge, Serial, or Serial or Edge enabled, an edge

or serial trigger ends a read cycle and initiates the next read cycle. In the case of External Level, a falling edge trigger ends the re ad cycle

but the next read cycle does not begin until the occurrence of the next rising edge trigger.

Note: When New Trigger is enabled and if not in External Level mode, Laser On/ Off will have no effect. When noreads occur, the laser will remain on.

Timeout or New Trigger

Usage: Useful in applications that require an alternative way to end the read

cycle. For example, if an assembly line should stop completely or the intervals between objects are highly irregular.

Definition:

Timeout or New Trigger

or a new trigger (whichever occurs first) ends the read cycle.

Chapter 4 Read Cycle

is identical to Timeout, except that a timeout

Read Cycle Timeout

Usage: It is useful in many tightly controlled applications which require a read

cycle to end before the next object appears and therefore need the flexibility of a timeout adjustment.

Definition: Read Cycle Timeout is the time span of the read cycle and is repre-

sented in 10 mS increments. It is used in conjunction with External Edge or Serial Trigger.

Serial Cmd: <K220, Default: 100 (Corresponds to one second or 1000 mS.) Options: 0 to 65535. (Divide any positive number entered by 100 to determine the

time in seconds.)

Timeout does not function when in Continuous or Level read cycle modes. Continuous 1: The scanner will only read a given symbol once until a timeout occurs

or a different symbol is presented.

Note: A minimum setting of 2 is recommended. Note: Timeout or Timeout or New Trigger under End of Read Cycle must be

enabled for Read Cycle Timeout to take effect.

end of read cycle,read cycle timeout>

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Decodes Before Output

Note: When setting up, determine if the reader’s scan rate is capable of scanning your

longest symbol the required number of times.

Decodes Before Output Mode

Usage: Useful when the highest level of reliability is required. Definition: When consecutive is enabled, the number set in Decodes Before Out-

put must be achieved consecutively before decoded data is sent. For example, if set to Number Before Output is set to 5, then the data will be output whenever five decodes occur in succession.

When the default non-consecutive is set, whenever a cumulative number of decodes is achieved, decoded data is sent. For example, if non-consec utive is enabled and Decodes Before Output is set to 10, then data will be sent when the total number of decodes reaches 10 regardless of the number of bad reads between decodes.

Serial Cmd: <K221,number before output,decodes before output mode> Default: Non-consecutive Options: 0 = Non-consecutive 1 = Consecutive

Number Before Output

Usage: This is a very useful feature to increase reliability of reads for symbolo-

gies that do not have internal error checking such as Pharmacode.

Definition: The number of decodes required per symbol before a symbol’s decoded

data is sent. It requires the scanner to successfully decode a symbol a designated number of times before it is sent. If it doesn’t achieve the number of good reads during the read cycle, then a noread will be sent.

Note: Higher settings will decrease throughput speed.

Serial Cmd: <K221,number before output,decodes before output mode> Default: 1 Options: 1 to 255

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Scanner Setup

Scanner Setup includes Gain, Scan Speed, Laser Power, and AGC.

Gain Level

Usage: Can be useful for fine-tuning gain or when portions of analog signals

spike, as in the case of specular reflection or extraneous noise.

Definition: Sets a voltage amplitude value for the analog circuitry. Serial Cmd: <K504, gain level,AGC sampling,AGC min,AGC max> Default: 90 (high density scanner) or 110 (low density scanner).

Note: Gain Level is optimized at the factory before shipment; the default value may not be 90.

Options: 40 to 255

Chapter 4 Read Cycle

Scan Speed

Usage: To ensure a minimum number of scans, faster scan speeds are typically

used for fast moving symbols and/or longer symbols with larger bar widths. See “Formulas for Number of Decodes” on page A-27.

Note: Scan beams move faster across symbols further out in the scan range since the moving beam is being projected from a spinning mirror.

Definition: Allows the user to set the number of scans per second by controlling the

spinning mirror motor speed.

Serial Cmd: <K500,scan speed> Default: 50 (x 10) Low density scanner

35 (x 10) High density scanner

Options: 300 to 1000

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Scanner Setup

Laser Power

Usage: Used to optimize read performance at different distances. T ypically higher

power is used at greater distances.

Definition: Allows the user or calibration routine to select laser power setting. Serial Cmd: <K700,laser on/off status,laser framing status,laser on position,laser off

position,laser power>

Default: High Power (Low density scanner)

Medium Power (High density scanner)

Options: 0 = Low 1 = Medium 2 = High

Automatic Gain Control (AGC)

AGC Sampling Mode

Usage: AGC Sampling allows you to specify how automatic gain control sam-

pling will be done.

Definition: AGC is the acronym for Automatic Gain Control. AGC increases the depth

of field by attempting to maintain signal strength at a constant level regardless of the range of the bar code symbol.

Serial Cmd: <K504,gain level,AGC sampling mode,AGC min,AGC max> Default: Continuous Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Leading Edge 2 = Continuous

Disabled

Usage: Disabled is not recommended, but can be useful in certain applications

in which symbols do not require a large depth of field.

Definition: When AGC Sampling is set to Disabled, gain levels can only be manu ally

controlled by the Gain command.

Leading Edge

Usage: Leading Edge is rarely used, but in some cases can improve scan rates

when symbols are skewed and the leading edge of a symbol is difficult to locate.

Definition: Finds the leading edge of a symbol by looking for a 40 µS quiet zone fol-

lowed by the number of transitions set in “Transition Counter” on

page 4-20, stores the highest value of the samples, and adjusts the AGC

accordingly at the end of the scan.

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Continuous

Usage: Continuous is the default and the preferred mode for sampling analog

signal amplitude.

Definition: Samples AGC throughout the scan at the rate set in “Transition

Counter” on page 4-20, averages the sample values, and adjusts the

AGC value at the end of the scan.

AGC Minimum

(Read Only)

Usage: Definition: Limits the minimum range of the available gain. Serial Cmd: <K504,gain level,AGC sampling mode,AGC min,AGC max>

Send <K504?> for a readout.

Default: 70 Options 40 to 250

Chapter 4 Read Cycle

AGC Maximum

(Read Only)

Usage: Definition: Limits the maximum range of the available gain. Serial Cmd: <K504,gain level,AGC sampling mode,AGC min,AGC max>

Send <K504?> for a readout.

Default: 245f Options 60 to 255

Symbol Detect Status

Definition: During the read cycle, the scanner counts the number of bar and space

transitions defined in the Transition Counter. If the count matches or exceeds the threshold, the scanner will perform AGC routines. When enabled, a bad symbol or no symbol message can be output rather than a noread message.

Serial Cmd: <K505,symbol detect status,transition counter> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

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Scanner Setup

Transition Counter

Usage: Can be useful in certain application where extraneous objects in the field

of view might require a higher threshold.

Definition: Determines the number of bar/space transitions that are sampled before

AGC can be resolved.

Definition: Determines the number of bar/space transitions that must be read before

a symbol is considered present and AGC can be resolved.

Serial Cmd: <K505,symbol detect status,transition counter> Default: 14 Options: 0 to 255

Note: Transition Counter is used for both AGC and symbol detection routines (see

“No Symbol Message” on page 6-10.

Maximum Element

Usage: Caution: Do not change this parameter unless instructed by a your tech-

nical representative.

Definition: Maximum Element represents the maximum bar element width, as mea-

sured in micro seconds, that’s allowed before a video reset occurs (default to white).

Serial Cmd: <K502,maximum element> Default: 1500 (45.75 µS) Options: 1 to 65535 (.035 µS to 2294 µS increments)

Scan Width Enhance

Usage: This option should be enabled if large portions of scan width are needed.

For example, if a large character count symbol is used to the edge of the scan or is using 70-80% of total scan width.

Definition: Scan width Enhance tends to trade depth for width.

Disable if outside edge/long range performance is needed.

Serial Cmd: <K511,scan width enhance> Default: Enabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

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Laser Setup

Laser Setup includes Laser On/Off and Laser Fram ing . Note: See also “Auto Frame” on page 9-6 for more details on laser framing.

Laser On/Off

Usage: Laser On/Off extends the life of the laser. It is useful where there are

significant time gaps between symbols. It also provides visual confirmation of a read cycle timeout and minimizes laser exposure to people.

Definition:

Serial Cmd: <K700,laser on/off status,laser framing status,laser on position,laser

Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

When the laser operates continuously.

off position,laser power>

enabled, the laser is ON only during the read cycle. When disabled,

Chapter 4 Read Cycle

Laser Framing Status

Usage: Useful in avoiding highly reflective objects, for filtering out un wanted sig-

nals, or avoiding the wrong symbols.

Definition: When Laser Framing is disabled, the laser is ON for 100 percent of the

full scan. When enabled, the extent of the laser arc is determined by the Laser On Position and Laser Off Position settings.

Serial Cmd: <K700,laser on/off status,laser framing status,laser on position,laser

off position,laser power> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

To adjust laser framing automatically, click the Calibration button and click the Auto

Frame button.

Note: Because scan widths are not always perfectly symmetrical, the most effective way to setup laser framing is to experiment with the Laser On Position and Laser Off Position commands until you get the best results.

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Laser Setup

Laser On Position

Definition: Percentage of the full scan arc that the

scan beam moves through before the laser turns ON. For example, if set for 30, the laser will be off during the first 30 percent of the scan.

When Laser Framing is disabled, the laser is ON for 100 percent of the full scan. When Laser Framing Status is enabled, the laser remains OFF from the start of the scan and remains OFF for the specified percentage of the scan, which is up to 70 percent of the scan, as specified by this command.

LaserOn

Position

LASER

MS-3

Figure 4-4 Laser On Position

Serial Cmd: <K700,laser on/off status,laser framing status,laser on position,laser

off position,laser power> Default: 10 Options: 1 to 80

Laser Off Position

Definition: Percentage of the full scan arc that

the scan beam moves through

before the laser turns OFF.

Notes:

The combined values of Laser On

Position and Laser Off Position

cannot exceed 100 percent, the total

arc of one scan.

Laser Off Position must always

exceed the value of Laser On Posi

LASER

tion for an actual laser scan to take

place.

Serial Cmd: <K700,laser on/off status,laser framing status,laser on position,laser

off position,laser power>

Default: 90 Options: 20 to 100

Laser Off

Position

MS-3

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Chapter

Symbologies

Chapter Contents

Symbology by Serial Command..................................................................5-2

Code 39......................................... ... ................................. ... .......................5-3

Code 128........................................................................... ... .......................5-6

Interleaved 2 of 5............................................ ................................. ... .......5-13

Codabar.....................................................................................................5-17

Code 93......................................... ... ................................. ... .....................5-24

Narrow Margins.........................................................................................5-27

Symbology ID............................. ... .................................. ..........................5-28

Background Color......................................................................................5-29

Autodiscriminate........................................................................................5-29

This section describes the various symbol types that can be read and decoded by the reader.

Code 39 is enabled by default. T o enable all codes, send a <P> serial command to the scanner from the Terminal window. See http://www.aimusa.org/standards/aimpubs.htm for additional information

about symbologies. Note: When assigning characters in user-defined fields, the characters NULL <> and ,

can only be entered through embedded menus, not through ESP or serial commands.

1. If using an I 2/5 symbol, verify that the number of characters in the symbol being scanned matches the code length enabled for the I 2/5 symbol type (default is 10 and 6).

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Symbology by Serial Command

Command Title Format

Code 39

Code 128

Interleaved 2 of 5

Codabar

UPC/EAN Code 93 <K475,status,fixed symbol length status,symbol length> Pharmacode Narrow Margins/

Symbology ID Background Color <K451, background color>

<K470, status,check digit status,check digit output,large intercharacter

gap,fixed symbol length status,symbol length,full ASCII set> <K474,status,fixed symbol length status,symbol length,EAN-128 sta-

tus,output format,application record separator status,application record separator character,application record brackets,applic ation record pad ding>

<K472,status,check digit status,check digit output status,symbol length #1,symbol length #2,unused,range mode>

<K471,status,start & stop match status,start & stop output status,large intercharacter gap,fixed symbol length status,fixed symbol length,check digit type,check digit output status>

<K473, UPCstatus,EAN status,supplementals status,separator sta-

tus,separator character,unused,UPC-E output as UPC-A>

<K477,status,fixed bar length status,fixed bar length,min. no. of

bars,bar widths,direction,fixed threshold value> <K450, na rrow margins status,symbology ID stat us>

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Code 39

Usage: Code 39 is considered the standard for non-retail bar code applications. Definition: An alphanumeric symbol with unique start/stop symbol patterns, com-

posed of 9 black and white elements per character, of which 3 are wide.

Code 39 Status

Serial Cmd: <K470,status,check digit status,check digit output,large intercharacter

gap,fixed symbol length status,symbol length,full ASCII set>

Default: Enabled

Note: This is the only symbol type enabled by default.

Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

Chapter 5 Symbologies

Check Digit Status (Code 39)

Serial Cmd: <K470,code 39 status,check digit st atus,ch eck digit output,large inter-

character gap,fixed symbol length status,symbol length,full ASCII set> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

Check Digit Output (Code 39)

Usage: Check Digit Output Status, added to the symbol, provides additional

security. Definition: When enabled, the check digit character is read and sent along with the

symbol data. When disabled, symbol data is sent without the check digit.

Note: With Check Digit Output Status and an External or Serial trig-

ger option enabled, an invalid check digit calculation will cause a noread

message to be transmitted at the end of the read cycle.

Serial Cmd: <K470,status,check digit status,check digit output,large intercharacter

gap,fixed symbol length status,symbol length,full ASCII set> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

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Code 39

Large Intercharacter Gap (Code 39)

Usage: Large Intercharacter Gap is helpful for reading symbols that are

printed out of specification. Caution: Do not use Large Intercharacter Gap with Narrow Margins

enabled since a large intercharacter gap (over 3x) could cause a narrow margins (5x) to be interpreted as an intercharacter gap.

Definition: When enabled, the scanner can read symbols with gaps between symbol

characters that exceed three times (3x) the narrow element width.

Serial Cmd: <K470,status,check digit status,check digit output,large intercharac-

ter gap,fixed symbol length status,symbol length,full ASCII set>

Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

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Fixed Symbol Length Status (Code 39)

Definition: When enabled, the scanner will check the symbol length against the sym-

bol length field. If disabled, any length is considered a valid symbol.

Serial Cmd: <K470, status,check digit status,check digit output status,large intercharac-

ter gap,fixed symbol length status,symbol length,full ASCII set> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

Symbol Length (Code 39)

Usage: Fixed symbol Length helps prevent truncations and increases data

integrity by ensuring that only one symbol length will be accepted. Definition: Specifies the exact number of characters that the scanner will recognize

(this does not include start and stop and check digit characters). The

scanner ignores any symbol not having the specified length.

Serial Cmd: <K470,status,check digit status,check digit output,large intercharacter

gap,fixed symbol length status,symbol length,full ASCII set> Default: 10 Default: 1 to 64

Chapter 5 Symbologies

Full ASCII Set (Code 39)

Usage: Must be enabled when reading characters outside the standard character

set (0-9, A-Z, etc.)

User must know in advance whether or not to use Full ASCII Set option.

Since Full ASCII Set requires two symbol words to encode one charac

ter, it is less efficient. Definition: Standard Code 39 encodes 43 characters; zero through nine, capital “A”

through capital “Z” , minus symbol, plus symbol, forward slash, space, dec

imal point, dollar sign and percent symbol. When Full ASCII Set is

enabled, the reader can read the full A SCII character set, from 0 to 255.

Serial Cmd: <K470,status,check digit status,check digit output,large intercharacter

gap,fixed symbol length status,symbol length,full ASCII set> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

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Code 128

Usage: Code 128 is useful in applications with tight spots and high security

needs.

Definition: A very dense alphanumeric symbology. It encodes all 128 ASCII charac-

ters; it is continuous, has variable length, and uses multiple element widths measured edge to edge.

Code 128 Status

Serial Cmd: <K474,status,fixed symbol length status,fixed symbol length,EAN-128

status,output format,application record separator status,application record separator character,application record brackets,application record padding>

Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

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Fixed Symbol Length Status (Code 128)

Definition: When enabled, the scanner will check the symbol length against the sym-

bol length field. When disabled, any length is considered a valid symbol.

Serial Cmd: <K474,status,fixed symbol length status,fixed symbol length,EAN-

128 status,output format,application record separator status,application

record separator character,application record brackets,application record

padding> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

Symbol Length (Code 128)

Chapter 5 Symbologies

Usage: Fixed Symbol Length helps prevent truncations and increases data

integrity by ensuring that only a fixed symbol length will be accepted. Definition: Specifies a fixed number of characters that the scanner will recognize

(this does not include start and stop and check digit characters). The

scanner ignores any symbol not having the specified length. Serial Cmd: <K474,status,fixed symbol length status,fixed symbol le ngth,EAN-128

status,output format,application record separator status,application

record separator character,application record brackets,application record

padding>

Default: 10 Options: 1 to 64

Note: Fixed Symbol Length Status must be enabled for Symbol Length to take effect.

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Code 128

EAN-128 Status

Note: Code 128 must be Enabled for EAN-128 to function.

Usage: Used as a standard for shipping symbols. Definition: A subset of Code 128, with extended features. (See the Uniform Code

Council, Inc. at www.uc-council.org.)

Serial Cmd: <K474,status,fixed symbol length status,fixed symbol length,EAN-128

status,output format,application record separator status,application

record separator character,application record brackets,application record padding>

Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled 2 = Required

If set to Enabled, symbols can be read with or without a function 1 character in the first position.

If set to Required, the symbol must have a function 1 in the first position and conform to EAN format in order to decode the symbol.

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Output Format (Code 128)

Usage: Application Record is useful in applications in which the software can

utilize application record formatting to help automate the processing of

its EAN-128 data. Definition: Offers an option between Standard EAN-128 and Application Record

format. Serial Cmd: <K474,status,fixed symbol length status,fixed symbol length,EAN-128

status,output format,application record separator status,application

record separator character,application record brackets,application record

padding>

Default: Standard Options: 0 = Standard 1 = Application Record

In Standard UCC/EAN-128 application identifiers and data fields are sent, but none of the formatting (separators, parentheses, padding) will be included.

Application Record is a variation of UCC/EAN-128 that allows the user to define separators between data fields, enclose application identifiers in parentheses, and enable padding (zeros) for variable length fields.

Note: If an illegal Application Record format is detected, the scanner will process it as a noread and output a noread message (if enabled).

Chapter 5 Symbologies

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Code 128

Application Record Separator Status (Code 128)

Definition: When enabled, a separator character is inserted between application

records.

Serial Cmd: <K474,status,fixed symbol length status,fixed symbol length,EAN-128 sta-

tus,output format,application record separator status,application record

separator character,application record brackets,application record padding> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

Note: Output Format must be set to Application Record before this parameter can take effect.

Note: When set to Disable, app rec sep char is forced to NUL. When set to Enable, Application Record Separator Character must also be sent in the same command.

Application Record Separator Character (Code 128)

Note: Application Record Separator Character Status is enabled by setting the parameter to any value other than a null.

Definition: Allows the user to define an ASCII character as an application record sep-

arator.

Serial Cmd: <K474,status,fixed symbol length status,fixed symbol length,EAN-128

status,output format,application record separator status,application

record separator character,application record brackets,application

record padding> Default: , (comma) Options: User Defined ASCII character

Note: Has no effect unless Application Record Separator Status is enabled.

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Application Record Brackets (Code 128)

Definition: When enabled, parentheses ( ) are added to enclose application identifi-

ers.

Serial Cmd: <K474,status,fixed symbol length status,fixed symbol length,EAN-128

status,output format,application record separator status,application record separator character,application record brackets,application record padding>

Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

Note: Output Format must be set to Application Record before this parameter can take effect.

Chapter 5 Symbologies

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Code 128

Application Record Padding (Code 128)

Definition: Padding is the insertion of zeros to make up the maximum length of a

variable application record data field, except for the last field which does

not require padding.

When enabled, padding is included. When disabled, padding is omitted.

Note: Padding is never added to fixed length fields or to the last data

field of a symbol. Enabling or disabling Record Padding will have no

effect on these.

Serial Cmd: <K474,status,fixed symbol length status,fixed symbol length,EAN-128

status,output format,application record separator status,application

record separator character,application record brackets,application

record padding>

Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

Note: Output Format must be set to Application Record before this parameter can take effect.

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Interleaved 2 of 5

Usage: It is has been popular because it is the most dense symbol for printing

numeric characters less than 10 char acters in length; how ever we do not recommend this symbology for any new applications because of inherent problems such as truncation.

Definition: A dense, continuous, self-checking, numeric symbology. Characters are

paired together so that each character has five elements, two wide and three narrow, representing numbers 0 through 9, with the bars repre senting the first character and the interleaved spaces representing the second character. (A check digit is highly recommended.)

Important: You must set Symbol Length in order to decode I 2/5 sym-

bols.

Chapter 5 Symbologies

Interleaved 2 of 5 Status

Serial Cmd: <K472,status,check digit status,check digit output status,symbol

length #1,symbol length #2,unused,range mode> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

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Interleaved 2 of 5

Check Digit Status (Interleaved 2 of 5)

Usage: It is typically not used but can be enabled for additional security in appli-

cations where the host requires redundant check digit verification.

Definition: An error correcting routine in which the check digit character is added. Serial Cmd: <K472,status,check digit status,check digit output status,symbol

length #1,symbol length #2,unused,range mode> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

Check Digit Output Status (Interleaved 2 of 5)

Definition: When enabled, a check digit character is sent along with the bar symbol

data for added data security .

Serial Cmd: <K472,status,check digit status,check digit output status,symbol

length #1,symbol length #2,unused,range mode> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

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Symbol Length #1 (Interleaved 2 of 5)

Usage: With Industrial 2/5, two symbol lengths can be defined. When using only

one symbol length in an application, setting Symbol Length #2 to 0 (zero) to ensure data integrity is recommended.

Definition: Specifies a number of characters that the reader will recognize, including

start and stop and check digit characters. The reader ignores any symbol smaller than the specified length. Because In d u strial 2/5 i s a c o n t in u o u s symbol, it is prone to substitution errors. Hence, a symbol length must be defined and a bar symbol must contain an even number of digits.Note: If start, stop or check digits are used, they are not included in the symbol length count.

Note: If Range Mode is set to Enable, the settings for Symbol Length #1 and Symbol Length #2 will define the range of symbol lengths that

can be decoded.

Serial Cmd: <K472,

length #1,symbol length #2,unused,range mode>

Default: 10 Options: 0 to 64

Since I 2/5 characters are paired, symbol length must be set to an even number. If Check Digit is enabled, add 2 to your symbol length. For example, if your symbol is 10 characters plus a check digit, then enable

Symbol Length for 12. Note: Typically, when printing an I 2/5 symbol with an odd number of

digits, a 0 will be added as the first character.

status,check digit status,check digit output status,symbol

Chapter 5 Symbologies

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Interleaved 2 of 5

Symbol Length #2 (Interleaved 2 of 5)

Usage: If using a second symbol, a zero or any even symbol length in the option

range may be specified. If not using a second symbol, set Symbol

Length #2 to 0 to ensure data integrity. Definition: Specifies a number of characters that the reader will recognize, including

start and stop and check digit characters. The reader ignores any symbol

smaller than the specified length.

Note: If Range Mode is set to Enable, the settings for Symbol Length

#1 and Symbol Length #2 will define the range of symbol lengths that

can be decoded.

Serial Cmd: <K472,status,check digit status,check digit output status,symbol length

#1,symbol length #2,unused,range mode> Default: 6 Options: 0 to 64

Since I 2/5 characters are paired, symbol length must be set to an even

number. If Check Digit is enabled, add 2 to your symbol length. For

example, if your symbol is 10 characters plus a check digit, then enable

Symbol Length for 12.

Note: Typically, when printing an I 2/5 symbol with an odd number of

digits, a 0 will be added as the first character.

Range Mode Status (Interleaved 2 of 5)

Usage: Useful in applications where symbol lengths may vary. Definition: Allows user the option to define a symbol length range for I–2 of 5. Serial Cmd: <K472,status,check digit status,check digit output status,symbol length

#1,symbol length #2,unused,range mode> Default: 0 Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

When set to Enabled, minimum and maximum symbol lengths will be

defined by Symbol Length #1 and Symbol Length #2.

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Codabar

Usage: Used in photo-finishing and library applications. Formerly used in some

medical applications but not typically used in newer applications.

Definition: Codabar is a 16-character set (0 through 9, and the characters $, :, /, .,

+, and –) with start/stop codes and at least two distinctly different bar widths.

Codabar Status

Serial Cmd: <K471,status,start & stop match status,start & stop output,large inter-

character gap,fixed symbol length status,symbol length,check digit

type,check digit output status> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

Chapter 5 Symbologies

Start & Stop Match Status (Codabar)

Usage: Used to increase security of symbology. Definition: Requires the Codabar start and stop characters (a, b, c, or d) to match

before a valid read can occur.

Serial Cmd: <K471,status,start & stop match status,start & stop output sta-

tus,large intercharacter gap,fixed symbol length status,symbol

length,check digit type,check digit output status> Default: Enabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

Start & Stop Output Status (Codabar)

Usage: Used to verify matching. Definition: Causes the start and stop characters to be transmitted with symbol data. Serial Cmd: <K471,status,start & stop match status,start & stop output sta-

tus,large intercharacter gap,fixed symbol length status,symbol

length,check digit type,check digit status,check digit output status> Default: Enabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

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Codabar

Large Intercharacter Gap (Codabar)

Usage: It is helpful for reading symbols that are printed out of specification.

Caution: Do not use Large Intercharacter Gap with Narrow Margins enabled since enabling Large Intercharacter Gap (over 3x) could cause a narrow margins (5x) to be interpreted as an intercharacter gap.

Definition: Instructs the scanner to read symbols with gaps between characters

exceeding three times the narrow element width.

Serial Cmd: <K471,status,start & stop match status,start & stop output status,large

intercharacter gap,fixed symbol length status,symbol length,check

digit type,check digit output status> Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled

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Microscan MS-3 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual