TriCoder Portable Bar Code Reader Owner's Manual

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Owner’s Guide

™

A battery

operated

Portable Batch

Reader with

Voice Messages

for PC, Mac,

etc.

Portable Bar Code Reader

TriCoder

Page 2

Warning: This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, it may cause interference to radio communications. It has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A computing device pursuant to Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference when operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause interference in which case the user, at his own expense, will be required to take whatever measures may be required to correct the interference.

Certain models of this product have a laser scanner integrated with it as one unit. The laser used is a Class II Laser Product and has a 1.0 Milliwatt Maximum Output.

To operate the laser scanner, aim the top of the case at a bar code and press the “Scan Key” on the keyboard of the TriCoder™. The light source will turn off once a successful scan has occurred or 2.5 seconds has elapsed, whichever is first. Do not look directly into the laser light source with the “Scan Key” depressed; avoid direct eye contact with the laser light source.Warning labels to AVOID DIRECT EYE EXPOSURE, DANGER are located according to the diagram below:

The LT54 models of the TriCoder as well as the LZ300 and LZ400 Laser Scanners are covered by one or more of the following U.S. Patents:

There are no user adjustments or maintenance operations to be performed on the integrated laser scanner.

Caution - use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous laser light exposure.

Patent # 4,360,798 4,369,361 4,387,297 4,460,120 4,496,831 4,593,186 4,603,262 4,607,156 4,652,750 4673,805 4,736,095 4,758,717 4,816,660 4,845,350 4,896,026 4,897,532 4,923,281 4,933,538 4,992,717 5,015,833 5,017,765 5,021,641 5,029,183 5,047,617 5,103,461 5,113,445 5,140,144 5,142,550 5,149,950 5,157,687 5,168,148 5,168,149 5,180,904 5,229,591 5,230,088 5,235,167 5,243,655 5,247,162 5,250,791 5,250,792 5,262,627 5,280,163 5,280,164 5,280,498 5,304,786 5,304,788 5,321,246 5,377,361 5,367,151 5,373,148 5,378,882 5,396,053 5,396,055 5,399,646 5,408,081 5,410,139 5,410,140 5,412,198 5,418,812 4,420,411 5,436,440 5,444,231 5,449,891 5,449,893 5,468,949 5,479,000 5,479,002 5,479,441 5,504,322 5,528,621 5,532,469 5,543,610 5,545,889 5,552,592 5,578,810 5,589,680 5,612,531

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Table of Contents

How to Use this Manual........................................................................................ i

TriCoder Quickstart .............................................................................................ii

Chapter 1 Program #0 Quickstart.........................................................1-1

Getting into Data Collection Mode...................................... 1-1

Collecting Data ....................................................................1-2

Uploading Data.................................................................... 1-3

Chapter 2 Program #1 Quickstart.........................................................2-1

Collecting Data ....................................................................2-1

Reviewing and Editing Data................................................ 2-3

Uploading Data.................................................................... 2-5

Chapter 3 Non Portable Mode...............................................................3-1

Getting in and out of NON PORTABLE mode............ 3-1

Establishing communication in Non Portable Mode.... 3-2

USB Keyboard Interface and Keyboard Wedge.................. 3-2

Testing Fast USB Data Upload and PC Serial Interface...... 3-4

Chapter 4 Uploading Data.....................................................................4-1

Uploading into Excel ...........................................................4-1

Data Upload ......................................................................... 4-1

File Formats ......................................................................... 4-6

Chapter 5 TriCoder Connection............................................................5-1

USB Interface – PC and Mac............................................... 5-1

Serial Interface..................................................................... 5-3

Connecting the Hardware ............................................. 5-3

Serial Installation on a PC ............................................5-3

Configuring the TriCoder ............................................. 5-4

Testing Communication ............................................... 5-6

Keyboard Wedge Interface (not USB)................................. 5-6

Connecting the Hardware ............................................. 5-6

PC Keyboard Wedge Installation .................................5-7

Configuring the TriCoder for Keyboard Wedge .......... 5-7

Testing Communication................................................ 5-9

Chapter 6 TriCoder Setup......................................................................6-1

Using the bar code TriCoder Setup Menu ...........................6-1

Using the keypad to setup the TriCoder .............................. 6-1

Using the TriCoder Utilities and USB to change Setup ...... 6-3

Cloning from one TriCoder to another ................................6-4

TriCoder Setup Parameters.................................................. 6-8

Beep Tone..................................................................... 6-8

Speaker Volume............................................................ 6-8

Code 3 of 9 (Code 39) .................................................. 6-8

UPC/EAN ..................................................................... 6-9

Codabar....................................................................... 6-10

2 of 5 Code.................................................................. 6-11

2 of 5 Length............................................................... 6-11

MSI/Plessey ................................................................ 6-12

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Code 128..................................................................... 6-12

Code 93....................................................................... 6-13

RSS-14........................................................................ 6-13

Preamble and Postamble............................................. 6-13

Terminator Character.................................................. 6-15

Computer Interface ..................................................... 6-16

Intercharacter Delay.................................................... 6-18

Speaker / Batteries ...................................................... 6-18

Scanner Options.......................................................... 6-19

Aiming Dot Duration.................................................. 6-19

Keyboard Country ...................................................... 6-20

Operation Mode.......................................................... 6-21

Voice Messages .......................................................... 6-22

Set Date....................................................................... 6-22

Set Time...................................................................... 6-22

Alternative Date and Time formats ............................6-23

Single Cycle Transmit ................................................6-23

EOF String.................................................................. 6-23

Shut Down Time.........................................................6-24

Partitions..................................................................... 6-24

Characters ................................................................... 6-25

Data Security Features................................................ 6-25

Protocol....................................................................... 6-26

Baud Rate.................................................................... 6-28

Parity........................................................................... 6-28

Data Bits .....................................................................6-28

Stop Bits...................................................................... 6-29

Dialing String.............................................................. 6-29

Set ID Character ......................................................... 6-29

Host Response Delay.................................................. 6-30

Transmission Mode .................................................... 6-30

Modem Redial Delay.................................................. 6-30

Chapter 7 Using the TriCoder Utilities .................................................7-1

Installing the TriCoder Utilities........................................... 7-1

Running the TriCoder Utilities program.............................. 7-1

Using the Table Editor......................................................... 7-3

Uploading from TriCoder to your Computer....................... 7-4

Downloading from the computer to your TriCoder................. 7-8

Chapter 8 Creating a custom program..................................................8-1

If you are using KwikAsset™.............................................. 8-1

Program Statements ............................................................. 8-1

Program Name.............................................................. 8-3

Statement Entry Types.................................................. 8-3

Data............................................................................... 8-4

Branch........................................................................... 8-4

Question........................................................................ 8-5

Date and Time Stamp ...................................................8-6

Time Stamp................................................................... 8-6

Date Stamp.................................................................... 8-7

Xtra ............................................................................... 8-7

None.............................................................................. 8-8

Data AND Immediate Output....................................... 8-9

Compare........................................................................ 8-9

Printer Output .............................................................8-10

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Arithmatic................................................................... 8-10

Prompt Text ................................................................ 8-11

Voice Message Frequency.......................................... 8-12

Message Numbers....................................................... 8-12

Data ID........................................................................ 8-13

Data Type.................................................................... 8-16

Maximum Data Length............................................... 8-16

Minimum Data Length ............................................... 8-17

Input Device................................................................ 8-17

Yes/Next Statement .................................................... 8-17

No/End Statement....................................................... 8-18

Upload Prefix.............................................................. 8-19

Upload Suffix.............................................................. 8-22

Programming the TriCoder by scanning bar codes only .. 8-23

Finishing and checking your program ...............................8-24

Reviewing and Modifying programs ................................. 8-25

Chapter 9 Creating TriCoder Programs on your PC .........................9-1

Installing the Virtual TriCoder Utility ................................. 9-1

Starting the Virtual TriCoder Utility.................................... 9-1

The Virtual TriCoder Utility Screen.................................... 9-2

Creating a program .............................................................. 9-5

Chapter 10 Transmitting and Receiving Programs and Setup............10-1

Receiving a program on the TriCoder or host ................... 10-1

Cloning to or from older TriCoders................................... 10-2

Chapter 11 Partitioning memory for data files and tables...................11-1

Partitioning Memory.......................................................... 11-1

Using Multiple Data Files.................................................. 11-1

Partitioning memory for tables ..........................................11-4

Chapter 12 Tables and Pick Lists..........................................................12-1

Partitioning memory for table use...................................... 12-1

Data Validation using Tables.............................................12-1

Data Maintenance using tables ..........................................12-4

Downloading a table to the TriCoder................................. 12-7

Pick Lists............................................................................ 12-7

Chapter 13 Voice Messages...................................................................13-1

Why Use Voice Messages and Prompts? .......................... 13-1

Tips for Using Voice Prompts ...........................................13-1

TriCoder's Voice Message Mapping.................................. 13-2

Accessing Voice Message Operations............................... 13-3

Recording and Playback of Voice Messages..................... 13-4

Voice Message Options .....................................................13-5

Default Voice Messages ....................................................13-6

Cloning Voice Messages from TriCoder to TriCoder .......13-6

Chapter 14 Troubleshooting..................................................................14-1

Display and Error Messages ..............................................14-1

General Troubleshooting ................................................... 14-6

Poor read rates…................................................................ 14-8

USB troubleshooting (for Windows Users)....................... 14-9

Keyboard Wedge mode troubleshooting ........................... 14-9

Serial mode troubleshooting ............................................ 14-10

Program troubleshooting.................................................. 14-12

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Error messages for special consideration......................... 14-13

Fail-safe Re-initialization Procedure ...............................14-15

Planning for success…..................................................... 14-16

If you have a problem… .................................................. 14-17

Appendix A Powering the TriCoder ........................................................A-1

Turning the TriCoder ON and OFF .................................... A-1

Battery Power and Wall Power........................................... A-1

Storing the TriCoder ........................................................... A-4

Appendix B Firmware and Model Upgrades ..........................................B-1

Firmware Updates................................................................B-1

Model Changes ....................................................................B-3

Appendix C How to scan a bar code........................................................C-1

Laser Scanners .....................................................................C-1

CCD Scanners......................................................................C-2

Appendix D Cable Pin-outs......................................................................D-1

Appendix E Optional Features ................................................................E-1

Appendix F Jumpers, Switches, and Adjustments..................................F-7

Appendix G USB Driver Installation Recovery ......................................G-1

Appendix H Specifications for Code 39.................................................. H-1

Appendix I Code 128 Specifications........................................................ I-1

Appendix J Interleaved 2 of 5 Code.........................................................J-1

Appendix K UPC Specifications ..............................................................K-1

Appendix L Codabar Specifications........................................................ L-1

Appendix M MSI/Plessey Specifications................................................. M-1

Appendix N Code 93 Specifications.........................................................N-1

Appendix O ASCII Code Equivalent Table.............................................O-1

Appendix P RS-422 ..................................................................................P-1

Appendix Q Polling and how it works .....................................................Q-1

Appendix R Modem Uploads ...................................................................R-1

Appendix S Buffered Terminal Mode..................................................... S-1

Appendix T Using the TriCoder as a Time Clock................................... T-1

Index.........................................................................................1

Revised - July 11, 2008

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How to Use this Manual

The TriCoder™ is an extremely versatile bar code reader. It functions as both a portable data collection device as well as a fixed on-line bar code reader. Although the TriCoder can perform complex data collection functions, it's true value is in its simplicity. With very little instruction, a user can collect data using one of the built-in programs, upload it and process the data.

This manual is provided with the intention of acting as a guide or reference. Sometimes the best way to learn to use the TriCoder is to simply turn it on and start following the prompts. Other times, more guidance is desired, especially if the user wants to get up and running quickly.

Two data collection tutorials are provided as well as detailed instruction on using the TriCoder as a fixed reader using NON PORTABLE mode. The first Quickstart Tutorial uses the built-in Program #0, a simple one prompt (ITEM) data collection program that is useful for simple inventory applications. The second Quickstart Tutorial demonstrates Program #1, an editable program that by default prompts the operator for an item number, then a quantity. To get started quickly, we suggest using one of the Quickstart Tutorials, then move on to the PROGRAMMING section if you find that neither Program #0 nor Program #1 offers exactly what you need.

Although most people use the TriCoder as a portable data collector, it is also frequently used in NON PORTABLE mode as a fixed reader for library and POS applications. Everyone should use NON PORTABLE mode for testing communication before beginning data collection. Chapter 3, Using NON- PORTABLE mode, covers all areas of fixed use.

USB support on the TriCoder is now so fast (40 times faster than serial, 1000 times faster than keyboard) it is the interface of choice. You can have very fast data uploads, program transfers, and still have operate as a USB keyboard in non-portable mode. USB is standard on all models of the TriCoder.

The remainder of the manual is a reference guide. Chapters 5, 6, and 7 of the CONNECTION AND SETUP section provide details on configuring the TriCoder as well as the actual hardware connections. Chapters 8 and 9 of the PROGRAMMING section of the manual details usage of voice messages, Data Identifiers for data editing, and default Qty 1 scanning. Chapters 10-14 of the ADVANCED USAGE section describe Voice Messaging, Transmitting and Receiving programs, Tables and Pick Lists and Memory partitioning.

The TROUBLESHOOTING section provides reference for error messages, solving problems and details on how to reach Worth Data. The REFERENCE section offers bar code specifications and other useful information.

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TriCoder Quickstart

As powerful as the TriCoder is, its basic operation is quite simple. Many people can use Program #0 or Program #1 to satisfy their data collection needs. This Chapter helps you get started quickly using Program #0 or Program #1. It also will refer you to the correct place if you want to customize or expand on Program #1. We highly recommend going to Chapter 3; Non Portable Mode and establishing communication between the TriCoder and the PC before you continue with either of the tutorials. It is easier to establish communication with one data item in the TriCoder rather than trying to do so during a massive batch upload. The chapters in this section are:

• Program #0 Tutorial

Uses the fixed program #0 to collect and upload data for a single ITEM prompt to your computer. If you need a program that prompts for an item number and then a quantity, go to the Program #1 Tutorial. If Program #0 works for you, except that you have trouble with the wedge upload, switch to USB or see Program #2. It is identical to program #0 but allows timing delays to be inserted in the Upload Prefix and Suffix. See Chapter 8;Creating a custom program for information on the Upload Prefix and Suffix.

• Program #1 Tutorial

Uses the editable program #1, which prompts for Item Number, then Quantity. The tutorial includes collecting, reviewing, and uploading

data as well as providing outlines for different file formats and voice messaging. Since Program #1 is editable, the tutorial also discusses use of the following popular features:

− Data Security

Restricting user to Data Collection mode or to data collection in one program only.

− Xtra Statement

Automatically enter a quantity of 1 without the user having to input any data.

• Non Portable Mode

Provides details on Non Portable use and establishes communication between TriCoder and host computer through the USB port, keyboard and serial port. Includes installation instructions for the Windows TriCoder Utilities program

• Uploading Data

Guides the user through the uploading of data through USB, the keyboard and serial port for both tutorials described above.

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Tips on choosing a program for Data Collection

The TriCoder comes with 3 programs pre-installed. Program #0 is a simple un-editable program prompting repeatedly for an ITEM. Program #2 is identical to Program #0 except that it allows for customization (i.e. the Upload Prefix and Upload Suffix). See Chapter 8; Creating custom programs for details on what the Upload Prefix and Upload Suffix can do for you.

Program #1 differs from Program #0 and #2 in that it has two prompts "ENTER ITEM NO." and then "ENTER QUANTITY". Program #1 is also fully editable and lends itself well to the use of several features in particular.

The tutorial on Program #1 includes explanation of two safety features. The first safety feature, Data Security, confines the user to data collection mode ONLY. The user is not allowed into any mode other than DATA COLLECTION mode. In addition to using Data Security to restrict the user to DATA COLLECTION mode, you can use the second security feature, Program Restriction, to confine the user to one particular program in the TriCoder. For details on how to use these Data Security features, see Chapter 6; TriCoder Setup.

Another useful programming feature explained in the tutorial is the Xtra Statement, which works with the "ENTER QUANTITY" prompt by automatically entering a quantity of “1” if the user enters another ITEM number instead of a quantity. See Chapter 8, Creating a custom program for details on the Xtra program statement.

Program #1 is extremely versatile. Use it if you can, making modifications to fit your application. If you require a customized program, these are just a few of the options and features offered by custom programming:

• Additional user prompts for other types of data

• Program timing delays to facilitate uploading directly into an

application

• Branching to different areas in the program, depending on the

input from the user

• Downloading tables of data to validate or edit into the

TriCoder

• Recording customized Voice Messages

If any of the above features (or anything not offered by Program #1) appears to be something you are interested in, move on to the

PROGRAMMING section of the manual. The Chapters 8 and 9 in the PROGRAMMING section cover all aspects of creating and maintaining

custom programs in the TriCoder.

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Choosing an Interface

If you are a Windows® user with Windows Vista, XP, 2000, ME or 98SE, we suggest that you use the high speed USB interface, which offers the following advantages: (the first time you plug in your USB cable, you may be asked to choose the type of USB interface you wish to use)

1) Forty times faster data uploads than serial data uploads.

2) The ability to update your firmware with all the improvements available on the Website over the years or your TriCoder’s life at speeds 40 times faster than serial, (its not even possible with the keyboard wedge).

3) The ability to download tables, upload/download programs from your PC at much faster speeds than serial, (not possible with keyboard wedge interfaces). All communication is controlled by the new TriCoder Utilities - you can even change your setup!

4) The ability to operate in Non-Portable Mode as a USB keyboard without having to add a jumper block to a Y-Cable when the TriCoder is removed from the Y-cable for portable data collection

5) The ability to use the Virtual TriCoder program for developing custom programs on the TriCoder in a Windows environment.

If you are a Macintosh user, you should specify the PC and Mac USB Keyboard.

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Chapter 1

Program #0 Quickstart

The default data collection program, Program #0, is a simple program, repeatedly prompting the operator for data entry of the same type. This TriCoder program works well for a simple inventory where each item is scanned. This chapter is in the form of a tutorial. Even if you don’t intend to use Program #0, working through the tutorial will prepare you for creating your own programs and learning the basics of data collection.

Getting into Data Collection Mode

The first step involves turning on the TriCoder (make sure you have good batteries), getting into DATA COLLECTION mode and choosing Program #0.

Turn on the TriCoder by pressing the ON/OFF key. The TriCoder will power up and display its opening screen:

The TriCoder starts with the following opening screen:

DMA TRICODER x20xx X HIT ANY KEY_

Press any key on the TriCoder keypad. If the TriCoder was in NON PORTABLE MODE when it was shut off earlier, it will automatically go back into NON PORTABLE MODE now. If this is the case, press the F1 key to get to the DATA COLLECTION prompt. If the TriCoder was in any other mode at shutoff, DATA COLLECTION is the first prompt you will see after pressing any key at the opening screen.

DATA COLLECTION? KEY [YES/NO]?_

At the DATA COLLECTION prompt, press the YES key on the TriCoder keypad. Press “0” on the TriCoder keypad to select the default Program #0.

1. SAMPLE PROGRAM

3. PROGRAM NO. [0-3]?_

(If you had programs created in program #2 and #3, you would see their program name in the spaces above for 2 and 3.)

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Collecting Data

The second step involves collecting data in the TriCoder. This is a good time to practice scanning. If you are not familiar with scanning bar codes, see Appendix C; How to

scan a bar code for details and suggestions. If you don’t intend on using bar codes later, you can just enter the same data from the keypad.

Pressing “0” at the PROGRAM NO.? prompt begins the data collection process by displaying this prompt for the operator:

ENTER DATA _

For the purposes of this tutorial, we will use the sample bar codes as our data. Upon scanning, the TriCoder will beep once and display the following:

ENTER DATA

(original prompt)

00001

(bar code #1)

ENTER DATA

(new data entry prompt)

After scanning, the TriCoder displays the original prompt, then the data just entered, then the new data entry prompt. For the tutorial, our second piece of data will be 00002. Go ahead and scan sample bar code #2 or key in 00002:

00001

(original data)

ENTER DATA (2

data entry prompt)

00002 (2

piece of data entered)

ENTER DATA

(new data entry prompt)

Continue to scan the sample bar codes or enter the data from the keypad. The TriCoder display will scroll with each entry as shown immediately above. As soon as you are finished entering all 10 bar codes, press the END key to exit DATA COLLECTION.

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Program #0 Sample Bar Codes

Uploading Data

Once you have collected your data in Program #0, uploading that data to the computer is the final step. For the tutorial, we assume that you have successfully established communication between the computer and the TriCoder. If you have not, go to Chapter 3; Non Portable Mode, and establish communication first. If you are ready to upload, go to Chapter 4; Uploading Data and proceed with your upload.

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Chapter 2

Program #1 Quickstart

Program #1 prompts the operator for "Item" and then "Quantity". What makes this program different from program #0 (other than the additional "Quantity" prompt) is that Program #1 is editable. It can be customized to allow for additional prompts, voice messaging and file formatting. The tutorial for Program #1 includes collecting data, reviewing and editing data, using popular uploaded file formats and finally, uploading the data

Collecting Data

Collecting data in Program #1 requires two pieces of data; item and quantity. By default, Program #1 is set up to accept data from either the scanner or the keypad for the item, but only from the keypad for the quantity.

Program #1 also features voice messaging. By default, Program #1 plays a voice prompt of “Item” for the visual “ENTER ITEM NO.” prompt and a voice prompt of “Quantity” for the visual “ENTER QUANTITY” prompt. Program #1 only plays each voice message the first 5 times the prompt is displayed. The TriCoder can be programmed to play the voice message every time the visual prompt is displayed if desired. See Chapter 8; Creating a custom program or Chapter 13; Voice Messaging for details.

To collect data in Program #1, answer no to all TriCoder prompts until you see:

DATA COLLECTION? KEY [YES/NO]?_

At the DATA COLLECTION prompt, press the YES key on the TriCoder keypad. Press “1” on the TriCoder keypad to select the default Program #1.

1. SAMPLE PROGRAM

3. PROGRAM NO. [0-3]?_

(If you had programs created in program #2 and #3, you would see their program name in the spaces above for 2 and 3.)

Using the bar code samples on the next page, scan an item number bar code, then enter the quantity of “123” on the TriCoder keypad.

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Continue to scan bar codes and enter quantities until you have at least 10 records. You can check to see how many times you have scanned an item number by pressing the following keys while at the ENTER ITEM prompt:

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− Press SHIFT

− Press F1

− Press T

You can use the same key sequence to check the number of times you have entered data for any prompt.

To end data collection in Program #1, simply press the END key. If you forget to exit Data Collection and simply turn the TriCoder off, do not panic – the TriCoder has saved your data. Pressing the F1 key while in Data Collection also exits data collection and returns you to the Mode Menu. Using the END key to end Data Collection is the preferred method.

Reviewing and Editing Data

During or after collecting data, it is possible to review and edit the data while it is still in the TriCoder. You can also delete data entirely. Data Review Mode is a handy tool – especially if you know you’ve made a mistake and want to correct it before you upload your data.

For the tutorial, lets say that we just wanted to take a break from collecting data, exited DATA COLLECTION (by pressing the END key), turned off the TriCoder and went to lunch. We’re back now and want to resume our data collection. Turn the TriCoder back on and just as in step 1; get into DATA COLLECTION mode. Since there is already data in the TriCoder, instead of simply displaying the prompt, the TriCoder plays the “DATA FILE EXISTS” voice message, and displays the same message on the TriCoder screen:

DATA FILE EXISTS HIT ANY KEY_

then immediately displays the ENTER DATA prompt.

Say we want to review the data already in the TriCoder - maybe we made a mistake or think we missed some data. To review

data already in the TriCoder, press the “UP ARROW” key on the TriCoder keypad. The TriCoder will beep – 2 low beeps then 2 high beeps and display:

Data Review Request Press <BEGIN> key to Start or <F1> for Data Collection_

If we just wanted to go into DATA COLLECTION, we would simply press F1 and start scanning again, but we want to review the data already collected so press the BEGIN key to get into DATA REVIEW mode. Once in DATA REVIEW

mode, the TriCoder displays the last data collected. To get to the beginning

Step

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of your data file, press the BEGIN key. The TriCoder displays:

ENTER QUANTITY XXX

(last quantity data entered)

BEGIN OF FILE HIT ANY KEY_

Press any key on the TriCoder keypad. The TriCoder displays the first record of data. To scroll through the data record by record, press the RIGHT ARROW key.

To immediately go to the end of the data, press the END KEY. At the END OF FILE prompt, hit any key to get to the last record of data in the file.

To scroll backwards through the data record by record, press the LEFT ARROW key. To edit individual characters in a data record, use the right and left arrow keys to find the data you want to edit.

If you know what data you are looking for (or want to look for all data that has certain characters) you can use the SEARCH

key. After pressing the SEARCH key, the TriCoder displays the SEARCH PATTERN prompt. Enter the data you want to search for (i.e.22) then press ENTER. The TriCoder begins its search at the beginning of the file and moves forward until a match is found. If using our example of 22, the TriCoder would find all data that contains 22, regardless of its position in the data (i.e.22345, 32245, 34522). To scroll through the data fields, press the SEARCH key again.

Pressing the DELETE key deletes characters to the left. Replace characters simply by pressing a key. To replace an entire data entry, use the right and left arrow keys to find the data, then press the CLEAR key to delete the entry. You can re-enter data at this point by entering data from either the keypad or by scanning. If you enter data from the keypad (when either editing single characters or replacing an entire entry) you must press ENTER on the keypad for the change to take place. If you want to completely delete the data, after pressing CLEAR, the

TriCoder will prompt you with DELETE THIS FIELD? If you are sure you want to delete the data, press ENTER.

You can use the STATUS key at any time during data collection to check the amount of memory you have left as well as the battery levels:

mm/dd/yy hh:mm:ss

xxxk BYTES FREE AAaBAT-xx% LI – BAT-xx%

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If during data collection, the TriCoder displays the following message:

WARNING 2K LEFT HIT STATUS KEY_

it means that the TriCoder has only 2K of memory left to collect data. This is a good time to go and upload your data. You can continue to collect data but you will eventually get this message:

OUT OF MEMORY HIT ANY KEY_

Pressing a key will take you out of Data Collection mode and back to the Mode Menu. You will have to upload your data before you can collect any more.

When you are ready to go back to collecting data, press the F1 key at any time to begin appending data to the existing data file. The F1 key also backs you out of any mode you are in; for example, if you are in Non Portable mode, pressing F1 takes you back to the Data Collection prompt of the Mode Menu.

Uploading Data

Once you have collected your data in Program #1, uploading that data to the computer is the final step. For the tutorial, we assume that you have successfully established communication between

the computer and the TriCoder. If you have not, go to Chapter 3; Non Portable Mode, and establish communication first. If you are ready to upload, go to Chapter 4; Uploading Data and proceed with your upload.

Step

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Chapter 3

Non Portable Mode

NON PORTABLE mode allows the user to transmit data directly from the TriCoder to the host computer immediately without saving the data in the TriCoder's memory. Once data is entered via scanning a bar code or using the keypad, data is transmitted immediately by the TriCoder to the host. This mode is primarily used with the USB interface and the keyboard wedge interface. It is also used to test serial communication. NON PORTABLE mode is used to enter data directly into an application. Common applications include library check in/out, document tracking, and Point-Of-Sale. NON PORTABLE mode should also be used to establish communication between the TriCoder and host computer before serial or fast USB data uploads are attempted.

Getting in and out of NON PORTABLE mode

When you turn the TriCoder on, the first screen you see is the TriCoder version screen. After the opening screen is the TriCoder Mode Menu. The Mode Menu is your navigational tool for getting into an out of the different activities in the TriCoder. The Mode Menu consists of the following prompts:

DATA COLLECTION? KEY [YES/NO]?_

DATA UPLOAD? KEY [YES/NO]?_

NON PORTABLE MODE KEY [YES/NO]?_

PROGRAMMING MODE? KEY [YES/NO]?_

PROGRAM TRANSMIT? KEY [YES/NO]?_

PROGRAM RECEIVE? KEY [YES/NO]?_

Answering NO to any prompt takes you to the next prompt. If you are already in a particular mode (i.e. Non Portable Mode) and want to get back to the Mode Menu, simply press the F1 key.

If you are in NON PORTABLE mode and turn the TriCoder off, when you turn the TriCoder back on and press a key at the opening screen you are automatically brought back into NON PORTABLE mode.

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If you are in any other mode, simply answer NO to all prompts until you see:

NONPORTABLE MODE KEY [YES/NO]?_

Press YES to enter NON PORTABLE mode. If you have USB specified as the interface and you do not have the TriCoder connected by USB to the computer, you will get the message:

USB not Connected Connect, Hit any Key or F1 – Exit or F2 – Display Only

If you simply want to view data on the TriCoder screen and NOT transmit data to the computer, press F2. If you want to exit Non Portable Mode, press F1. If you want to communicate to the computer, connect to your USB port and press any key.

The TriCoder now displays:

NONPORTABLE MODE

and is ready and waiting for input.

If you want to leave NON PORTABLE mode, simply press the F1 key to return to the beginning of the MODE MENU.

Typically, the TriCoder is used in NON PORTABLE mode while it's connected to the host computer either by keyboard splitter Y-cable, USB cable connection, or via serial connection with PortKey. See Chapter 5; TriCoder Connection, for more information and diagrams to help you correctly connect the TriCoder to your computer.

Establishing communication in Non Portable Mode

USB Keyboard Interface and Keyboard Wedge

To test communication as a keyboard (USB or traditional), all you need is a program capable of accepting data from the keyboard – for example, Windows Notepad. The key to testing communications is to keep it simple – you don’t want to have to determine whether it’s your software or the TriCoder causing a problem.

1. Plug the TriCoder interface cable into the TriCoder and into the proper host computer port.

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First Time USB Use

As shipped from the factory the TriCoder’s Computer Interface Jumper is set for RS-232 Serial (T54/LT54). YOU CAN ALWAYS USE USB. The

first time you connect a USB cable to a host computer running Windows® or Mac OS, you will be asked to choose which USB interface you wish to use with the TriCoder by the TriCoder displaying the following message:

Choose USB Interface 1 - PC USB High Speed 2 - PC OR MAC USB KYBD

If you have a Mac, you must choose 2. You are limited to Non-Portable Mode and Data Upload only as 2 - PC OR Mac USB Keyboard.

If you are using Windows® (Vista, 2000, ME, XP, 98SE) and you wish to upload your files directly into your application through the keyboard, you must choose 2, (USB keyboards are still superior to keyboard wedge because there are no timing delays and no jumper block is necessary). After specifying 2, you will be asked to install the USB Keyboard HID driver, which is probably on your hard disk, but if not, is on your original Windows CD ROM; just keep clicking on NEXT until you are forced to supply the original Windows CD ROM (if the driver installation is aborted, see Appendix G; USB Driver Installation Recovery for more information).

Data uploads through the keyboard will be slower than high speed USB but you can still use the

USB High Speed program uploads/downloads, firmware upgrades, and table downloads by changing computer interface to the high speed USB operation, however you will be required to install another driver for high speed support, TRICODERUSB, which is supplied on your Worth Data Utilities CD ROM, (also on our website, www.barcodehq.com

under Downloads).

IMPORTANT: If you are installing the TriCoder in Windows® XP, you may see a dialog box appear warning you that the installation may cause your system to be unstable. The TriCoder installation WILL NOT harm Windows® XP or make your system unstable – go ahead and complete the installation.

If you are using Windows and you wish to use the TriCoder Utilities to upload data to a file in high speed, choose 1. You will also be able to do program uploads/downloads, firmware upgrades, and table downloads. Once you have chosen this setting, you will be required to install the high speed TRICODERUSB driver that is supplied on your TriCoder Utilities CD ROM, (also on our website, www.barcodehq.com

under Downloads). The first time you attempt to use Non-Portable Mode, you will be asked to install the USB Keyboard HID driver, which is probably on your hard disk, but if not, is also on your original Windows® CD ROM.

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Whatever decision you make, the TriCoder Setup parameter for Computer Interface will be changed to reflect your choice. Your choice will remain until you change the Computer Interface, (See Chapter 6; TriCoder Setup).

2. Start the software you are going to use to test the TriCoder. If it is a text editor or word processor, make sure to start with a new document. We suggest the use of the Notepad program (Windows or Mac).

Turn the TriCoder on. Press the NO key in response to all prompts until you see the NON PORTABLE mode prompt. Press the YES key. If you selected the PC High Speed USB in 1 above, and this is the first time you have used the NON PORTABLE mode, you will now be asked to install the USB Keyboard HID driver, which is probably on your hard disk, but if not, is on your original Windows CD ROM.

3. Type several numbers on the TriCoder keypad, then press the ENTER key. You should see the keyed data on the TriCoder screen AND on your computer screen.

4. Traditional keyboard users - If you do NOT see your data displayed on your computer screen, or you see partial data (letters or numbers missing), indicating timing between the TriCoder and keyboard is not quite right. Next try the “LEARNING” mode settings in Chapter 6; Computer Interface, which allows the TriCoder to match the timing of the keyboard. If “LEARNING” mode does not solve the problem, see the Intercharacter Delay parameter for a possible solution. (Do not use the "LEARNING" mode settings for USB.)

Using TriCoder Utilities to test Fast USB Data Upload and PC Serial Interface

Testing communication between PC and a TriCoder with fast USB interface or serial interface needs special software. Windows users should use the Windows TriCoder Utilities program that is shipped with TriCoder on CD ROM, (also on our website, www.barcodehq.com

under Downloads). If using a Unix dumb ASCII terminal configuration, the testing is identical to keyboard testing in the previous section. Serial and Fast USB Upload on a Macintosh are not supported with programs from Worth Data.

Windows® Users

1. Install the Windows TriCoder Utilities program by inserting the CD

ROM; Windows should sense the CD ROM and offer you the installation automatically. If not, click on Start, then choose Run. Type in D:/Setup.exe (substitute your drive letter if not D) then click on OK. Follow the directions on your screen to install the program.

2. After installing the Windows TriCoder Utilities program, make sure

your TriCoder is connected and turned on, then run the program by clicking on the TriCoder Utilities icon.

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3. If you are connected to the USB port, TriCoder Utilities will detect the USB and no other configuration parameters are required. If you are connected to the serial port, you need to click the Port Settings tab, choose the port type and then set the corresponding RS-232 settings for your serial port.

Once you have selected the correct Port Type as shown above, you should test your connection. If you are connected via USB, clicking on the Test button tells the TriCoder Utilities to check to see if there is a TriCoder attached to one of the host computer’s USB ports. If it is correctly attached, you will see the following advisory message:

If your test was successful, you can now skip the remaining material in this chapter and proceed directly to Chapter 4, Uploading Data.

Any of the following conditions will cause TriCoder Utilities to generate an error message:

1. Your TriCoder is not attached or it does not have firmware DMA 2001 or above.

2. Your TriCoder is not properly cabled or attached.

3. Your TriCoder is not Setup with Computer Interface-6 (Fast USB Upload).

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If you have specified a COM port, you will see the following screen where you can change all the serial port parameters. (Since the TriCoder’s default serial parameters are 9600,N, 8,1, you should probably not change the default parameters on the screen.)

TriCoder Utilities Serial Port Settings

4. After specifying finishing the serial port configuration, click on the

"Test" button. Click on the test window so that a flashing cursor appears. Scan the test label or, if you have no scanner, type 123 on the TriCoder keypad, then press the TriCoder ENTER key.

TriCoder Utilities Test Screen

5. You should see the data displayed both on the TriCoder display and in the test window on the PC. If you do not see the data displayed on your PC, follow the TriCoder Utilities suggestions on the screen, check your TriCoder Setup and try again. If you still have problems, go to the Troubleshooting section of this manual. Otherwise, you are ready to move on with your data collection or custom programming.

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Chapter 4

Uploading Data

If you are ready to upload data, we assume you have established correct communication between your TriCoder and host and have collected some sample data, preferably using the Program #0 or Program #1 Tutorials. By default, the TriCoder uploads using a Carriage Return Separated format. For many users, the default file format works fine, but others may require more complex or even custom upload file formats. For different file formats, see the last section in this chapter, File Formats.

Uploading into Excel®

If you are planning to upload your data into an Excel® worksheet, you may want to consider using our KwikCount/EX program. KwikCount/EX is an Excel add-in that makes updating worksheets faster and easier. If you are trying to update several columns of data, need accumulation or subtraction functions, or are using the TriCoder for physical inventory, you should definitely look into using KwikCount/EX. You can find more information on KwikCount/EX at http://www.barcodehq.com/kwikcountex.html

Data Upload

DATA UPLOAD mode is used to extract the data collected while in DATA COLLECTION mode. DATA UPLOAD mode uses keyboard upload (wedge and USB keyboard), or uploading through the TriCoder Utilities (high speed USB and serial).

Before collecting and uploading large amounts of data,

1. test the TriCoder data communication in Non-Portable Mode detailed

in Chapter 3, Non-Portable Mode, and

2. try a small amount of data to make sure your upload works correctly.

Data can be uploaded either into a separate file that is then merged or processed by your application or it can be uploaded into your application directly. Before you upload directly into an application, back up any files that will be altered by the upload – work only with copies, not with your actual data, until you know your upload works correctly.

For this tutorial, first we will describe a keyboard/USB interface upload using Windows® or the Mac, then a high speed USB or serial upload using the TriCoder Utilities If you wish to do a Windows high speed USB or serial upload to a file, turn to page 4-3.

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Uploading via USB or PC Keyboard

Keyboard uploads are usually required because an application program will not accept file imports, hence you must upload directly into an application. We will illustrate the USB/Keyboard Data Upload using Notepad in Windows. If you want to use another text editor or Word Processor, the specifics may vary but the basic upload will be the same.

To get to DATA UPLOAD mode on the TriCoder, answer NO to all prompts until you see:

DATA UPLOAD? KEY [YES/NO]?_

DO NOT press YES until you have your computer ready for the data upload to begin. If you have chosen USB Computer Interface, and then press YES to the Data Upload prompt and are not connected to the USB port on your computer, you will get the following message:

USB not Connected Connect, Hit any key or F1 – Exit or F2 – Delete File

If you really want to upload your data to the computer, connect to the USB port and press any key. If you want to exit Data Upload mode, press F1. If you want to delete the data file without transferring it to your computer, press F2.

• Open Notepad (or program of your choice).

• If you have a USB cable, plug the USB cable between TriCoder

and your host computer’s USB port and turn on the TriCoder. If this is the first time you have plugged in a USB cable, you may be asked to choose the desired USB Interface and if running Windows, you will be required to install a USB driver, (See Chapter 3, First Time USB Users. If the Computer Interface is set to 6, the Fast USB Upload, you will not be able to upload data through the keyboard; Non-Portable mode operates exclusively through the USB keyboard.

• If you are using a Y-cable with a legacy keyboard port (5 or 6 pin

din on the PC), make sure your T54/LT54 TriCoder is jumpered correctly for legacy keyboard upload (Appendix F) - after attaching

the Y-cable to the PC, remove the jumper block from the end of the Y-cable (the jumper block allows you to use your keyboard while the TriCoder is not attached), turn on the TriCoder, and attach it to the Y-cable. The jumper block has to be reattached to the Y-cable when the TriCoder is removed.

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• By default, the TriCoder's Terminator Character is set to CR,

which means the TriCoder will insert a Carriage Return (like pressing the ENTER key on your PC) after each record of data it uploads. If you have changed the Terminator Character to a setting other than the default and are uploading data collected in the Tutorials, change it back to the default now.

• After verifying the setup of your TriCoder, follow the prompts

until you get to the DATA UPLOAD? prompt. If you are ready to upload your data, press the YES key on the TriCoder. Watch the computer screen to see your data appear - one piece of data per line. When the TriCoder is done uploading your data it will display the following message:

END OF TRANSMIT DEL FILE [Y/N]?_

• If all of your data appears correct on the PC screen, first save the

file. Then you can press the YES key on the TriCoder to delete the data in the TriCoder. If you need your data in a different format (i.e. Comma delimited or Flat File formats) go to the end of this chapter and read the section on File Formats. If deleting the data, the TriCoder will display:

ARE YOU SURE? KEY [YES/NO]_

• Press YES again to delete the file from the TriCoder. If your data

does not appear on the PC screen or is incorrect, press the NO key on the TriCoder, check your TriCoder setup and try the upload again. If you still have problems, consult the Troubleshooting section of this manual.

DATA UPLOAD with the TriCoder Utilities

The Windows TriCoder Utilities program has the ability to upload the TriCoder via USB or serial ports. (The USB upload is at forty times faster than the serial upload.) If you are uploading via USB, the TriCoder Utilities program will completely control the TriCoder, all you need to do is connect it and turn it on. If connected via the serial port, there are additional steps to follow.

High Speed USB upload

• Connect the TriCoder to the host computer with the USB cable and

turn the TriCoder on. If this is the first time you have plugged in a USB cable to the TriCoder, you will asked to choose the desired USB interface and install a USB driver on your computer, (See Chapter 3, First Time USB Use for instructions).

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• After installing the TriCoder Utilities (see Chapter 3, Non

Portable Mode for installation instructions) run the program by

clicking on the TriCoder Utilities program icon. If you are connected via USB, the TriCoder Utilities will sense it and no other configuration is required.

To upload your data, click on the TriCoder Upload tab, then click on the Data files folder under the TriCoder and choose the file you want to upload. You must then choose the folder on the right side of the screen that you want the data file to be saved in. Once you have chosen each, click the arrow button in the center to transfer the file. After you have uploaded the file, you can rename it or leave it as is.

Serial Upload

If you selected a COM port for serial uploading: (not USB)

• Make sure the serial port is configured the same as the TriCoder

defaults - baud 9600, parity none, data bits 8, stop bits 1. Verify that you are choosing the correct COM port 1, 2, 3 or 4. For the purposes of the tutorial, we assume you have tested the TriCoder communications in NON PORTABLE mode. If you have not, go to Chapter 3; Non Portable Mode, establish communications in NON PORTABLE mode, and then continue with the tutorial.

• Click on the TRICODER UPLOAD tab. Choose Data File as the

“File Type”, then enter the name (and directory path if needed) of the file you want to upload to or click Browse to select an existing file. If you upload to an existing file, you will be asked whether you want to Add to the file (will not overwrite existing data in file) or Replace the file (will completely replace the old file with the new data).

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• Click on the START button to start the program. You must start the

upload program before you start the TriCoder.

• Follow the prompts on the TriCoder until you see the following:

DATA UPLOAD? KEY [YES/NO]?_

• Press the YES key to begin the upload on the TriCoder. Wait for the

TriCoder and the uploading program to indicate that the upload is finished. Close the TriCoder Utilities program, then open Windows Notepad and open the file you created. The TriCoder should be displaying:

END OF TRANSMIT DEL FILE [Y/N]?_

• If the data in Notepad is correct, press the YES key on the TriCoder

to delete the data in the TriCoder. If there is a problem with the data in the file, press the NO key on the TriCoder, check the TriCoder setup and try the upload again. If you still have a problem, go to the TROUBLESHOOTING section of this manual.

You have now successfully collected, reviewed and uploaded data using the TriCoder as a portable device. If Program #0 or Program #1 is sufficient for your needs, you are ready to continue by collecting your own data and doing a test run with your data and application. If your data collection needs are more complex, Chapters 8 and 9 of the PROGRAMMING section of this manual provide detailed information concerning the more advanced programming features of the TriCoder. If you want a different file format from CR-separated data items, refer to the below section.

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File Formats

By default, the TriCoder transmits its data in the following order:

ID + Prefix + data + Checksum chs + Suffix + Terminator

You should keep the above order in mind when determining how to upload your data. Before we actually upload any data, lets discuss some of the most common file formats.

The program you are using to process your data will determine what format the uploaded file needs to use. There are several commonly used formats – Carriage Return separated, Comma separated; Tab separated, and Flat File formats. By default, the TriCoder uploads using the CR (Carriage Return) separated format. We will cover each format in order of ease of use, with the default uploading format first.

Carriage Return Separated Files

By default, the TriCoder uploads its data in the following format:

DATA(CR) 11111111 DATA(CR) data looks like: 22222222 DATA(CR) 33333333

This format is called Carriage Return separated. Each piece of data is followed by a Carriage Return (or Carriage Return/ Line Feed if Serial Interface), causing each piece of data to appear on a separate line. The TriCoder does this by using the Terminator Character. The Terminator Character is the character that follows each piece of data either when the TriCoder is uploaded or when data is transmitted in NON PORTABLE mode. The default Terminator Character for a keyboard wedge is CR (carriage return) and CR/LF (carriage return/line feed) for a serial interface.

To upload the TriCoder with a Carriage Return delimited file, simply leave the Terminator Character set to the default settings and upload the TriCoder.

Comma Separated Files

Another common file format is a Comma Separated File. A TriCoder setup to upload in this format uploads data like this:

“DATA”,”DATA”(CR) “111111”,”22” “DATA”,”DATA”(CR) data looks like: “222222”,”33” “DATA”,”DATA”(CR) “333333”,”44”

Each data item is surrounded by double quotes, creating a field. Fields of data are separated by commas. The double quotes allow commas to be used as actual data as well as separators (see the example below). At the end of

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all of the fields of data, a Carriage Return is added to create a complete record. Modifying Program #1 as an example, the data uploaded would look like this:

“ITEM NUMBER”, “QUANTITY” “0123456,12oz”, “15” “ITEM NUMBER”, “QUANTITY” “889384,8oz”, “940” “ITEM NUMBER”, “QUANTITY” “32834,20oz” , “7”

where ITEM NUMBER is the first field, QUANTITY is the second field, and both fields together make a record.

To program the TriCoder to upload in this format, the first thing we must do is set the Terminator Character to “None”. The idea is first, to stop the TriCoder from automatically sending the same character after each field of data, then second, customize the program in the TriCoder to transmit a double quote before and after each data item, a comma after each field and a carriage return after each record. To customize the program in the TriCoder, we use the Upload Suffix to specify which character we want to precede or follow each particular field. Using Program #1 as our example, we will walk through the steps required to upload Program #1 in a Comma delimited format:

1. Set the Terminator Character to NONE

Change the Terminator Character either by scanning the bar coded setup menu , by TriCoder keypad in PROGRAMMING MODE, or if you are using High Speed USB, you can change the TriCoder setup via the TriCoder Utilities program. To change it using the bar coded Setup Menu; scan these bar codes in the following order:

• Scan START SETUP

• Scan TERMINATOR CHARACTER

• Scan 2 (sets it to None)

• Scan END SETUP

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To change the Terminator Character using the keypad:

• get into PROGRAMMING MODE

• choose 5 for Change Setup

• choose 1 for Computer

• Press ENTER until you see TERMINATOR CHAR.

• Press 2

• Press F1

• Press F1 again to exit PROGRAMMING MODE

To change it using TriCoder Utilities and high speed USB:

• open TriCoder Utilities

• choose Tools, then TriCoder Setup from the menu.

• Click the Computer tab, then click the button that corresponds to

"no Terminator Character"

• Click OK

2. Program the Upload Prefix and Upload Suffix

After setting the Terminator Character to NONE, the next step is to enter PROGRAMMING MODE and program the Upload Prefix and Upload Suffix for each field of data. For Program #1, we will program the Upload Prefix and Upload Suffix as follows:

Statement Prompt Upload Prefix Upload Suffix

ENTER ITEM NO. “ (double quote) “, (double quote comma) ENTER QUANTITY “ (double quote) “CR (double quote carriage return)

• Put the TriCoder in PROGRAMMING MODE

• Press 1 at the Create Programs prompt (to edit program #1)

• Press YES at the EDIT PROGRAM #1? prompt

If you have no data collected in the TriCoder, press ENTER until you see:

UPLOAD PREFIX 01 _

If you have data collected in the TriCoder (assuming you are following the tutorial), you will see the Upload Prefix prompt immediately. This is because the TriCoder will allow you to edit ONLY the Upload

Prefix and Upload Suffix if data is currently in memory. At the Upload Prefix 01 prompt, scan the “double quote” bar code on the Full

ASCII Menu.

UPLOAD PREFIX 01 “_

Press the ENTER key to complete the change. Press the ENTER key again until you see:

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UPLOAD SUFFIX 01 _

Scan the bar code for “double quote” then scan the bar code for the “comma”.

UPLOAD SUFFIX 01 “,_

Press the ENTER key until you get to the UPLOAD PREFIX 02 prompt. At the prompt scan the “double quote” bar code.

UPLOAD PREFIX 02 “_

Press the ENTER key until you see the UPLOAD SUFFIX 02 prompt. Scan the “double quote” bar code, then, scan the “CR” bar code if using the TriCoder as a keyboard wedge, or the “CR” and the “LF” if using the TriCoder as a Serial interface:

UPLOAD SUFFIX 02 “?_

Press ENTER to complete the change. If you do not press ENTER after each change, the change will not be permanent. Press the F1 key to exit the program, then F1 again to exit PROGRAMMING MODE. The TriCoder is now programmed to upload its data in a comma separated file format.

Tab Separated Files

Occasionally it is necessary to have Tab Separated files. Some requirements can be met by just changing the Terminator Character to Tab.

1. Set the Terminator Character to TAB

Change the Terminator Character either by scanning the bar coded setup menu ,by TriCoder keypad in PROGRAMMING MODE or if using high speed USB, via the TriCoder Utilities program. To change it using the bar coded Setup Menu; scan these bar codes in the following order:

• Scan START SETUP

• Scan TERMINATOR CHARACTER

• Scan

2 (sets it to TAB)

• Scan END SETUP

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To change the Terminator Character using the keypad:

• enter PROGRAMMING MODE

• choose 5 for Change Setup

• choose 1 for Computer

• Press ENTER until you see TERMINATOR CHAR.

• Press 2

• Press F1

• Press F1 again to exit PROGRAMMING MODE

To change the Terminator Character using TriCoder Utilities and high speed USB:

• Start the TriCoder Utilities

• Click Tools then TriCoder Setup from the menu

• Click the Computer tab, then click the button for HT in the

Terminator Character section.

• Click OK

When uploading as a keyboard into an Excel spreadsheet, it is not quite as simple. You will have to set the Terminator Character to None, and then you will have to Upload Prefixes in each for each program data collection step. Excel usually requires delays between moving to the next column. Let’s assume we are going to upload data collected in the default Program #1, Item and Quantity, into Excel. The suffixes in the default program are none. We will change them to adapt to Excel.

2. Program the Upload Prefix and Upload Suffix

After setting the Terminator Character to NONE, the next step is to enter PROGRAMMING MODE and program the Upload Suffix for each field of data. For Program #1, we will program the Upload Suffix as follows:

− Put the TriCoder in PROGRAMMING MODE

− Press 1 at the Create Programs prompt (to edit program #1)

− Press YES at the EDIT PROGRAM #1? prompt

If you have no data collected in the TriCoder, press ENTER until you see:

UPLOAD SUFFIX 01 _

Scan the bar code on the Full ASCII Menu for TAB, the one labeled HT (ASCII10). Then scan the bar code DEL (ASCII 127) on the Full ASCII

Statement Prompt Upload Suffix

ENTER ITEM NO. TAB (HT on the full ASCII menu) DEL (ASCII 127) 05 ENTER QUANTITY CR (Enter) •(Left Arrow, ASCII 19) DEL (ASCII 127) 05

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Menu, followed by 0 and 5; this puts a ½ (0.5) second delay after the TAB key to give Excel time to reposition and update its files.

Press the ENTER key until you see the UPLOAD SUFFIX 02 prompt. Now we are going to simulate the positioning of the cursor to the first column of the next row. To get back, we would key ENTER followed by the Left Arrow key. To make the bar code reader simulate those keystrokes, we will first scan the bar code for CR (ASCII 13), followed by Left Arrow (ASCII 19), followed by DEL (ASCII 127) and then 0 and 5 for a ½ (0.5) second delay.

Flat File Formats

Flat Files are the most complicated file format of the three we are covering in the tutorial. The format of a Flat File is mostly dependent upon the host program you will use to process the data you are uploading.

A Flat File uses what we call “Refer-backs”. Each record has at least one field that remains constant while other fields may contain variable data. “Refer-backs” allow the operator to enter the data for the constant fields only once, letting the TriCoder append the data to each record as it uploads. “Refer-backs” are specified in the Upload Prefix and Upload Suffix of each field. We will use a program that prompts for operator name, item number and finally a quantity to demonstrate how “Refer-backs” work.

Lets say that the data for the first field in every record must be the operators initials (3 characters). The second field in each record must be an item number and the third field is a quantity. It doesn’t make sense to require the operator to enter their initials every time they scan an item number and enter a quantity. The solution is to create a program that uses a “Refer- back” to attach the data from prompt #1 (operator name) and the data for prompt #2 (item number) to the data for prompt #3 (quantity) every time. We do this by using the upload prefix or upload suffix.

Specifying these characters:

}xx

where xx is the number of the statement you want to take data from, in the Upload Prefix or Upload Suffix of the statement you want to attach the

“Refer-back” data to. The following TriCoder Coding Form shows the program we have described above (only the relevant entries on the form are shown):

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and the keyboard – do not plug the Splitter cable into a mouse port or any port other than the keyboard port. Take the 3

end of the Splitter cable with the modular (telephone style) connector and plug it into the port on the TriCoder labeled COMPUTER.

3. Plug the 5-volt power adapter (included with the TriCoder) into the port labeled PWR at the bottom of the TriCoder. Turn the TriCoder on by pressing the ON/OFF key. Now turn on the computer. The TriCoder ships with a small black plastic block with a female modular connector in it called a Jumper Block. When removing the TriCoder from the cable for portable operation, place the Jumper Block on the now free end of the Splitter cable. This allows your keyboard to function even though the TriCoder is not attached.

PC Keyboard Wedge Installation

Configuring the TriCoder for Keyboard Wedge

Once the hardware is connected, the next step is to configure the TriCoder and test your communication.

The TriCoder setup allows the user to configure the TriCoder for different Computer Interfaces, and the reading of different bar code types, as well as configuring some of the more advanced features of the TriCoder. If you have a PC with a T64 or LT64 TriCoder, the default Computer Interface is

1- PC Keyboard. If you have a T54 or LT54 TriCoder you will need to do a jumper change - See Appendix F, and change the Computer Interface to 1.

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Chapter 5

TriCoder Connection

Interfacing with the computer is possibly the most critical operation. Without proper communication between the computer and TriCoder, all that data you collected for hours and hours really isn’t doing you much good. Whether you are using the USB interface, serial interface, or the keyboard wedge interface, before you even begin collecting data you need to establish communication in NON PORTABLE MODE, (See Chapter 3; Non-Portable Mode), and then move on to uploading stored data. There are several steps involved in establishing communication:

• Connecting the hardware

• Configuring the TriCoder

• Testing in NON-PORTABLE MODE

We will explain each of these steps for the USB, Serial Interface, and Keyboard Wedge. If you are using your TriCoder with a USB connection, continue on with the next section. For serial interface, go to page 5-3, and if you are using your TriCoder as a Keyboard Wedge, turn to page 5-9 and begin th

ere.

USB Interface – PC and Mac

The TriCoder can be attached to a PC or Mac via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port. The USB connection offers several advantages, which are:

• A Jumper Block is not needed when TriCoder is removed from PC

as with a Keyboard Wedge,

• There are no “Timing” settings required as with Keyboard Wedges,

• In Windows®, you have the convenience of keyboard interface in

Non-Portable Mode, but you can still download new firmware releases, upload/download programs, and download tables.

• The USB cable is less expensive than a PC Y Cable or serial cable.

You don’t have to use our USB cable–any USB A to B cable will work, and

• With the high speed USB interface, data uploads and program

transfers are up to 40 times faster than serial and 1000 times faster than keyboard. See Chapter 3; Non Portable Mode, First time USB use regarding Windows XP and USB.

The C21 USB Cable is required to connect the TriCoder to a USB port. The USB port does not power the TriCoder – it will operate on batteries or the Worth Data 5V power supply.

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1. Plug the flat end of the C21 cable into the USB port located on the

back of the PC or Macintosh. Only one end of the cable fits. If you don’t have Worth Data’s C21 cable, any USB cable will work.

2. Plug the other end of the C21 USB cable into the USB port on the bottom of the TriCoder.

3. If this is the first time you have connected the TriCoder to a USB cable, you could be asked to select the exact USB interface you desire, and you will be asked to install Windows® USB driver(s). See Chapter 3: Non Portable Mode, First Time USB Use, especially if using Windows® Vista or XP.

Testing Communication using NON PORTABLE mode

To test communication as a keyboard wedge or USB, go to Chapter 3; Non Portable Mode for detailed instruction on how to use NON PORTABLE

mode to establish communication between the TriCoder and the host computer. The key to testing communications is to keep it simple – you don’t want to have to determine whether it’s your software or the TriCoder causing a problem.

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Serial Interface

Connecting the Hardware

The TriCoder can operate as a serial interface reader on a PC. To use the serial interface, you must have software reading the serial port directly, or a keyboard emulation program like PortKey, (allows a serial interface TriCoder to look like it’s working as a keyboard wedge). The TriCoder Utilities disk that is included with each TriCoder has Windows utilities that are extremely useful on a PC serial port. Use the following procedures and illustrations to connect the TriCoder to the PC serial port

Serial Installation on a PC

The RS-232 serial ports on a PC are commonly called COM ports and are referred to as COM1, COM2, COM3, and COM4. Typically you will be using COM1 or COM2.

1. If you ordered the TriCoder for serial upload and planned to use

it on a PC, you should have also ordered one of two cables, either the 25 pin F34 cable or the 9 pin F36 cabl

e. The F34 25pin female null modem cable is designed to work directly off of a 25 pin PC serial port. The F36 9pin female straight cable is wired to connect directly to a 9 pin PC serial port. Both cabl

es have a female 9 pin

or 25 pin end and a RJ-45 modular (telephone style) 8 pin end.

2. If the host port is female, it’s not serial port.

3. If you have the wrong cable (9 pin cable and you have a 25 pin port, or vice versa) you can get a 9 to 25 or 25 to 9 adapter at your computer store.

4. The easy part is the connection – simply plug the 25 pin or 9 pin end of your cable into the open serial port in the back of your computer. Plug the modular end of the cable into the port labeled COMPUTER on the side of the TriCoder. If your serial ports are labeled (COM1 or COM2), make a note of which port you are plugged into – the software you use will need to know which COM port you are using.

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Serial Installation on PC

Serial Interface Communications Software

If you serially connect the TriCoder to a PC, software is required to communicate with the serial port. Some applications read the serial port directly; no additional software is required.

If you want to connect to the serial port yet emulate the keyboard, use our PortKey software. PortKey takes data coming from the serial port and redirects it through the keyboard buffer, allowing you to emulate most keys on your keyboard. PortKey has its own users manual. Follow the manual for installation and setup instructions.

The TriCoder comes with the TriCoder Utilities for Windows that allows you to configure your serial port, test your communications, upload data and programs, download programs and tables and edit tables. The Windows TriCoder Utilities is the easiest way to test communications.

If you are using a program other than the TriCoder Utilities, follow the installation and setup instructions for that program.

Configuring the TriCoder

Once the hardware is connected, the next step is to configure the TriCoder and test your communication. If you are using the serial interface, you should have installed the serial communication software you want to use (see the previous section).

The TriCoder setup allows the user to configure the TriCoder for different computer interfaces, and reading of different types of bar codes, as well as configuring some of the more advanced features of the TriCoder. The TriCoder can be setup using the bar coded setup menu or by going into PROGRAMMING MODE.

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Using the bar coded TriCoder Setup Menu

To use the bar coded TriCoder Setup Menu, scan these bar codes in this order:

• Start Setup

• Setup Parameter bar code ( i.e. “Beep Tone” )

• Bar code of number that corresponds to the

appropriate setting

( i.e. 3 to change the Beep Tone to “high” )

• End Setup

More than one Setup Parameter can be changed before you scan END SETUP. For example, scan START SETUP, then “Beep Tone”, then 3, then “Operation Mode”, then 0, then END SETUP. This series of scans changes the beep tone to “high”, and puts the TriCoder into NON PORTABLE mode. For details on TriCoder Setup Parameters, see Chapter

6; TriCoder Setup.

Using Programming Mode to change the TriCoder Setup

The same Setup Parameters can be changed using the TriCoder keypad (no bar codes necessary) by going into PROGRAMMING MODE. Answer NO to all of the prompts until you see:

PROGRAMMING MODE KEY [YES/NO]?_

Press the YES key; then enter the password, WDTRI. At the menu prompt, press the 5 key to CHANGE SETUP. Once in the TriCoder Setup, press the number of the group you want to enter. Press ENTER until you see the Setup Parameter you want to change (i.e. BEEP TONE), then enter the number for the correct setting (i.e. 3 to change the BEEP TONE to “high”).

More than one Setup Parameter can be changed before you exit the setup. Pressing F1 while in a Setup Parameter will take you back to the Setup

Menu; from there choose a new group of settings. Pressing F1 again at the Setup Menu will exit PROGRAMMING MODE.

PC Serial Interface

The Serial Interface requires certain setup parameters. To set up the TriCoder, you need to know some basic information about the serial port you will be using, as well as the software you will use to test the TriCoder. If possible, use the TriCoder at its default settings. Whether or not you can do this often depends upon the software you are using. If using PortKey or the TriCoder Utilities, use the default settings. If your software requires you to set your own baud rate, parity, data bits and stop bits; simply set them to match the TriCoders default settings. See Chapter 6; TriCoder Setup for details on changing the serial parameters using the bar coded setup menu or by the keypad in PROGRAMMING MODE. The serial default settings on the TriCoder are:

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Setup Parameter Setting Description Computer Interface

3 Default setting on all T54/LT54s. RS-232 ASCII Data Format

Baud Rate

5 9600

Parity

0 None

Data Bits

1 8 bits

Stop Bits

0 1 bit

Protocol

0 None

Default Serial Parameters

Only the default settings for each Setup Parameter are shown above. See

Chapter 6; TriCoder Setup for detailed information.

Testing Communication using NON PORTABLE mode

Testing communication between a serial interface TriCoder and a PC needs some kind of software to read the serial port. If using a dumb terminal/host configuration, the testing is almost identical to that of a PC keyboard wedge. To establish communication between a serial TriCoder and its host, go to Chapter 3; Non Portable Mode for detailed instructions. The key to testing communications is to keep it simple – you don’t want to have to determine whether it’s your software or the TriCoder causing a problem.

Keyboard Wedge Interface (not USB)

Connecting the Hardware

The TriCoder can operate as a legacy keyboard wedge on both a PC and a Macintosh using a keyboard Y-cable plus a jumper change (see Appendix F).

PC Keyboard Installation (does not apply to USB)

To install the TriCoder as a keyboard wedge, use a Splitter cable, F30/1 for the PC. Use the following procedure and the diagram on the following page to install the TriCoder between the keyboard and computer:

1. Before unplugging or plugging in anything, the computer must be turned OFF. With the power OFF, locate the cable coming out of the keyboard and follow it to the back of the computer where it plugs in. Unplug the keyboard cable, look at the connector and note whether it is large and has 5 pins or small with 6 pins. Take the F30-1 Y cable and check whether the female end of the cable matches (5 pin or 6 pin) the male end of the keyboard cable. If it does not, remove the adapter from the Splitter cable (it may be on either end), flip it over and place it on the correct end. You should now have the two ends of the Splitter cable and the keyboard cable all with the same size connector.

2. Take the end of the keyboard cable you unplugged from the back of the computer and plug it into the female end of the F30-1 Splitter cable. Take the male end of the F30-1 Splitter cable and plug it in to the back of the computer where the keyboard had been plugged in. The Splitter cable must sit in between the computer

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and the keyboard – do not plug the Splitter cable into a mouse port or any port other than the keyboard port. Take the 3

end of the Splitter cable with the modular (telephone style) connector and plug it into the port on the TriCoder labeled COMPUTER.

PC Keyboard Wedge Installation

Configuring the TriCoder for Keyboard Wedge

Once the hardware is connected, the next step is to configure the TriCoder and test your communication.

change a jumper change to convert the computer port to Keyboard Output See Appendix F for more information.

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Using the bar coded TriCoder Setup Menu

To use the bar coded TriCoder Setup Menu, scan these bar codes in this order:

• Start Setup

• Setup Parameter bar code ( i.e. “Beep Tone” )

• Number bar code that corresponds to the appropriate setting

( i.e. “3” to change the Beep Tone to “high” )

• End Setup

If you are using a Laser Scanner to setup the TriCoder, the beam will often cover more than one bar code. Cover any adjacent bar codes before scanning. Check the TriCoder display to make sure the correct setting was entered.

Using Programming Mode to change the TriCoder Setup

The same Setup Parameters can be changed using the TriCoder keypad (no bar codes necessary) by going into PROGRAMMING MODE. Answer NO to all of the prompts until you see:

PROGRAMMING MODE KEY [YES/NO]?_

Press the YES key, and then enter the password, WDTRI. At the menu prompt, press 5 to CHANGE SETUP. Once in the TriCoder Setup, press the number of the group you want to enter. Then press ENTER until you see the Setup Parameter you want to change (i.e. BEEP TONE), and then enter the number for the correct setting (i.e. 3 to change the BEEP TONE to “high”). To enter an alpha character (i.e. “A”), press the SHIFT key, and then press the corresponding alpha key (the alpha character is in the upper right corner of each key). You will know if the TriCoder is in “shifted” mode by the cursor – it will be a black square when shifted, a straight line when a narrow underline.

More than one Setup Parameter can be changed before you exit the setup. Pressing F1 while in a Setup Parameter will take you back to the Setup

Menu; from there choose a new group of settings. Pressing F1 again at the Setup Menu will exit PROGRAMMING MODE.

Legacy Keyboard Interface Configuration

To change a T54/LT54 from Serial Upload to a Legacy Keyboard using a keyboard Y-Cable you will need to change a jumper inside the unit (see Appendix F), then set the Computer Interface to 1. Test scans with garbled or incomplete data are not the result of the wrong interface, but rather

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are keyboard BIOS timing sensitivities. If you have garbled or incomplete data, try the “Learning” mode setting #8. “Learning” mode will make the correct adjustments for keyboard timing problems; see Chapter 6; TriCoder Setup: Computer Interface for details.

To use the TriCoder as a Keyboard Interface, use the following chart to determine what the correct setup parameters are for the type of computer you are using:

Computer Interface Setting Description

PCs and Compatibles 1

Default Setting on T64/LT64. Used with all IBM PCs and compatibles unless you are choose a USB setting.

PC Learned timing

If you power the TriCoder with external power supply, you can use LEARNING mode. On the setup menu, scan START SETUP, Computer Interface, and then scan the 8. Press any key on the PC keyboard. (the TriCoder should beep once) then scan END SETUP. The TriCoder then watched the key codes coming from the PC and “learns” the timing, setting it in the EEPROM until you change it.

Testing Communication using NON PORTABLE mode

To test communication as a keyboard wedge, go to Chapter 3; Non Portable Mode for detailed instruction on how to use NON PORTABLE

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Chapter 6

TriCoder Setup

Most, but not all of the Setup Parameters can be changed by either using the TriCoder keypad in Programming Mode or scanning the appropriate bar codes on the TriCoder Setup Menu. You can also "clone" your setup from one TriCoder to another if you have the appropriate cables and if you are using high speed USB you can change your setup parameters using the TriCoder Utilities program.

Using the bar code TriCoder Setup Menu

To access the Setup using the bar coded TriCoder Setup Menu, scan the START SETUP bar code in the upper left hand corner of the bar coded TriCoder Setup Menu. You should hear two beeps from the TriCoder upon scanning START SETUP and the words START SETUP should appear on the TriCoder display. At this point you are ready to scan and change as many parameters as you wish, following this order:

1. Scan the bar code for the parameter you want to change

2. Scan the number on the Barpad Table (to the right) that corresponds to the setting you want to choose.

3. If the parameter requires it, scan the SET bar code. SET is normally used to terminate a setup parameter that can have variable input, i.e. Preamble or Postamble.

4. If you want to make more changes, go back and start at step 1

5. If you are finished, scan the END SETUP bar code in the upper right hand corner. You should hear 3 beeps at END SETUP.

6. To reset the TriCoder back to the default settings at any time, scan START SETUP, RESET, then END SETUP. Resetting the TriCoder will lose any changes you have made and set the TriCoder to the default settings (indicated by a * on the bar coded setup menu).

Using the keypad to setup the TriCoder

To use the keypad to setup the TriCoder, you must first get into PROGRAMMING MODE. To do this, answer NO to all Mode Menu prompts until you see:

PROGRAMMING MODE KEY [YES/NO]?_

Press the YES key. A password is required to proceed into PROGRAMMING MODE:

PROGRAMMING MODE PASSWORD?_

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Enter the password, WDTRI using the TriCoder keypad, then press

ENTER. The TriCoder now displays the PROGRAM FUNCTION menu:

Create Programs->1-3 Voice -> 4 Setup -> 5 Automation ---------->7 Data File Names---->6

Press the 5 key to select Change Setup. The keypad setup menu is now displayed:

BarCodes-->0 DateTime->4 Computer->1 Speaker--->5 RS-232------>2 Other------->6 Security---->3 Exit-------->F1

The setup parameters are distributed in the groups as follows:

Selection

Setup

Parameters

Selection

Setup

Parameters

BAR CODES Code 3 of 9 DATE TIME Set Time

“0” UPC & EAN “4” Set Date

Code 25 / I 25 Date Format 2 of 5 Length Display of Year Code 128 Codabar MSI/Plessey Code 93

COMPUTER Computer Interface SPEAKER Speaker /Batteries

“1” Intercharacter Delay “5” Beep Tone

Terminator Character Speaker Volume Beep Tone Single Cycle Transmit Country Code

RS232 Baud Rate OTHER Shut Down Time

“2” Protocol “6” Preamble

Dialing String Postamble Parity EOF String Data Bits Partitions Stop Bits Voice Messages Set ID Character Scanner Options Host Response Delay Aiming Dot Duration

Modem Redial Delay Transmit Mode

SECURITY Data Security

“3”

To select a particular category, press the corresponding number key on the TriCoder keypad. Once you are in a category, pressing ENTER will scroll through the parameters in the order shown above. When you get to the one you want to change, enter the new character (see the Parameter details later on), then press ENTER. Some changes must be made by scanning bar codes from the FULL ASCII MENU. You can set a parameter back to the default settings by pressing the CLEAR key. You can use the arrow keys to

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help you navigate the menu:

Up Arrow moves to beginning of category Down Arrow moves to end of category Left Arrow moves up one in the category Right Arrow moves down one in the category Press the F1 key to go back to the category selection screen.

Using the TriCoder Utilities and USB to change Setup Parameters

If you are using the High Speed USB interface, you can use the TriCoder Utilities program to change your setup parameters.

To use the TriCoder Utilities, you must make sure your TriCoder is turned on, plugged into the USB cable and is set for High Speed USB interface. In the TriCoder Utilities program, choose Tools from the pull-down menu, and then choose TriCoder Setup.

Click on any of the tabs to change settings for that section. Once you have made your changes, click OK and the changes are automatically made in your TriCoder.

Cloning from one TriCoder to another

If your programs, tables and setup are complex or large, transmitting them from TriCoder to TriCoder is faster and easier than manually entering all of the information every time. Transmitting programs and setup to a host

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computer allows you to store a back-up copy (excluding Voice Messages) available for download if anything happens to your TriCoder.

Transferring programs, tables and setup directly from one TriCoder to another is called Cloning. Cloning also allows you to copy voice messages from one TriCoder to another (transferring programs and setup to the host computer does not allow you to do this).

There are several things you need to do before receiving programs or setup from another TriCoder:

• Receiving and transmitting programs from one TriCoder to another

requires the correct cables. The TriCoder Data Cloning Cable (F38) is needed to clone or transmit/receive programs, tables and setup information. The TriCoder Voice Cloning Cable (T15) is required to "clone" or transmit and receive voice messages. Voice messages can only be transmitted or received from TriCoder to TriCoder. They cannot be transmitted via host computer. The Data Cloning Cable is attached to each TriCoders Computer port. The connector on the Voice Cloning Cable that has two black rings on the tip plugs into the auxiliary jack on the bottom of the receiving TriCoder. The tip with the single ring plugs into the transmitting TriCoder.

• Make sure all data is uploaded and deleted from the receiving

TriCoder. The TriCoder will not allow you to receive data unless the TriCoders data files are empty.

• Plug in the 5-volt power adapter(s). You want to make sure you

don’t have a low-battery situation in the middle of a transfer.

• For serial and keyboard cloning, always start the receiving

TriCoder first. For USB cloning to a host computer, follow the instructions on the TriCoder’s display.

• When transmitting between two TriCoders, both TriCoders must

be configured to use the same Computer Interface. If configured as serial interface, the serial parameters must be the same on both TriCoders; baud rate, parity, data bits and stop bits must match. Two USB TriCoders cannot be cloned together.

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Starting the Receiving TriCoder

Make sure all cables are attached correctly and the 5-volt power adapter is plugged in. To start the receiving TriCoder, answer NO to all prompts until you see:

PROGRAM RECEIVE? KEY [YES/NO]?_

Press YES to get to the RECEIVE PROGRAM menu:

RECEIVE PROGRAM KEY

------------------------------ -------Programs [1-3]?---------->1 - 3 Clone TriCoder?----------> 0

Press 0 to Clone the entire TriCoder. Cloning receives the programs, tables, Setup, and voice messages (if using a voice cloning cable T15) from another TriCoder.

Press 1, 2 or 3 to receive a program only. Pressing 1, 2 or 3 determines which program number you are assigning - it does not have to correspond to the program number being transmitted from the other TriCoder or host.

After making a selection, the TriCoder displays:

RECEIVING PROGRAM PLEASE WAIT➔

Once the transmission is complete, the receiving TriCoder displays:

END OF PGM. RECV HIT ANY KEY_

Press any key to return to the Mode Menu. If the TriCoder has a problem during the transmission, the transfer will end

and the TriCoder will display the following error message:

DATA XMIT ERROR CYCLE POWER

If you receive this message while receiving a program, the program transfer is incomplete and the transmit/receive session will have to be restarted. To avoid any problems, do not press any keys on the TriCoder once the transmission has started.

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Starting the Transmitting TriCoder

At this point, you can start the transmitting TriCoder. To start transmitting programs or setup from a TriCoder, answer NO to all prompts until you see:

PROGRAM TRANSMIT? KEY [YES/NO]?_

Press YES to get to the TRANSMIT PROGRAM menu:

TRANSMIT PROGRAM KEY

-------------------------------- -----Programs [1-3]?------------>1 - 3 Clone TriCoder?------------> 0

Press 0 to Clone the entire TriCoder. Cloning transmits the programs, tables, Setup and voice messages (if using a voice cloning cable T15) to another TriCoder.

Press 1, 2 or 3 to transmit a program only. Pressing 1, 2 or 3 determines which program number you are transmitting - it does not have to correspond to the program number chosen by the receiving TriCoder or host.

After making a selection, the TriCoder displays:

SENDING PROGRAM PLEASE WAIT➔

Once the transmission is complete, the transmitting TriCoder displays:

END OF PGM. XMIT HIT ANY KEY_

Press any key to return to the Mode Menu. The serial protocol for program transmission is different than that for data

transmission. During serial program transmission, the TriCoder transmits each character one at a time, expecting the receiving TriCoder to echo the character back. If the characters match, then the transmitting TriCoder sends the next character. If the characters don’t match, the transmitting TriCoder sends a NAK to the receiving unit. At that point, the transmitter re-sends the last character. If the transmitter ends up sending 10 NAKS, it will abort the transmission (there is obviously something wrong) by sending EOT (ASCII 4) and display the following error message:

DATA XMIT ERROR CYCLE POWER

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If all data is echoed back correctly, the last character sent to the receiving unit is ASCII 128.

If you see this message while transmitting a program, the program transfer is incomplete and the transmit/receive session will have to be restarted. To avoid any problems, do not press any keys on the TriCoder once the transmission has started.

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TriCoder Setup Parameters

Default settings are shown in bold print. The number or letter associated with the setting is the same whether configuring the TriCoder using the bar coded Setup Menu or via the keypad in PROGRAMMING MODE. Some parameters are set only by the bar code setup menu or only by the TriCoder keypad.

Beep Tone

Lowest 0 Low 1 Medium 2 High 3 Highest 4 No Beep, No LED on tethered scanner 5 No Beep, but LED on tethered scanner shows good

read

The TriCoder allows five different beep pitches or no beep at all.

Speaker Volume

Speaker and beeper volume are also controlled by keyboard Setup in PROGRAMMING MODE. The default is 5, a medium setting. If you want it louder, enter a larger number. If you want it less loud, enter a lower number.

Code 3 of 9 (Code 39)

Enable Code 3 of 9 0

Disable Code 3 of 9 1

Enable Full ASCII Code 39 2

Disable Full ASCII Code 39 3

Enable Code 39 Accumulate Mode 4

Disable Code 39 Accumulate Mode 5 Enable Start/Stop character transmission 6

Disable Start/Stop character transmission 7

Enable Mod 43 Check Digit 8

Disable Mod43 Check Digit 9

Enable Check Digit transmission A

Disable Check Digit transmission B

Caps Lock ON C

Caps Lock OFF D

• The Start and Stop character for Code 39 is the * character. Settings 6

and 7 determine whether or not those characters are transmitted to the computer along with the data. For example, at setting 6, the data of 1234 would be transmitted as *1234*. Transmitting the start and stop

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characters can be useful if you need to differentiate between data that comes from a bar code versus data coming from the keyboard.

• Enabling use of the Mod 43 check character requires that the last character

of your bar code conform to the Mod 43 check character specifications. See Appendix H; Code 39 for more information. Enable transmission (A) will send the check digit data along with the rest of the bar code data to your computer. To use A, you must also be using 8.

• Caps Lock ON causes lower case letters read as data to be transmitted

to the computer as UPPER CASE, and upper case letters to be transmitted as LOWER CASE. Numbers, punctuation and control characters are not affected. This setting applies to all bar code types.

UPC/EAN

Enable UPC/EAN 0

Disable UPC/EAN 1 Enable UPC/EAN Supplements 2

Disable UPC/EAN Supplements 3 Enable transmission of UPC-A NSC or EAN 2 Flags 4

Disable transmission of UPC-A NSC or EAN 2 Flags 5 Enable transmission of UPC-A and EAN-13 check digit 6 Disable transmission of UPC-A and EAN-13 check digit 7 Enable transmission of UPC-E NSC and EAN-8 Flag character 8 Disable transmission of UPC-E and EAN-8 Flag ch. 9 Enable transmission of UPC-E and EAN-8 Check digit A

Disable transmission of UPC-E and EAN-8 check digit B UPC-E Compressed C UPC-E Expanded D EAN-8 observing 9&A E EAN-8 forced to transmit 8 digits always F

• Use setting 2 to enable reading of the 2 and 5 digit UPC/EAN

supplements commonly found on magazines and paperback books. Using this setting forces left to right reading of UPC codes to assure that the supplement code is not missed. This setting also allows for reading of the UCC/EAN 128 Extended Coupon Code. The Extended Coupon Code consists of a UPC code with a NSC of 5 or and EAN code with a country code of 99 along with a C0de 128 supplemental code to the right. This setting allows you to read the Code 128 supplement with the UPC/EAN, providing the UPC has a NSC of 5 or the EAN code has a country code of 99. Without the correct NSC or country code, the Code 128 portion will be ignored; UPC code with an NSC of 5 or EAN codes with country code of 99 will not be read unless there is a readable Code 128 supplemental code read also.

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• ISBN (International Standard Book Numbering) bar codes are EAN-13

with a 5-digit supplement. If the “Bookland” bar code uses 978 (books) or 977 (periodicals) as the first three digits, then it can be transmitted by the TriCoder in the ISBN format. The settings for this can be found under the Terminator Character parameter. For details on ISBN, see Appendix K; UPC/EAN.

• Use setting 4 and 9 to enable transmission of the NSC character to your

computer. The Number System Character is the leading character in the bar code. For details, see Appendix K; UPC/EAN.

• Use setting 6 and A to enable transmission of the check digit character

to your computer. The check digit is the last character and is based upon a calculation performed on the other characters.

• Setting C transmits UPC-E0 bar codes as is; setting D transmits them

with inserted zero’s to make them the same length as a UPC-A bar code. A NSC of 0 is assumed. It is possible to read UPC-E1 bar codes; by default this option is disabled. Do not enable UPC-E1 if you plan on reading EAN-13 bar codes; you may experience partial reads when reading EAN-13. The UPC-E1 option is set in the 2 of 5 Code parameter. To enable UPC-E1 reading, set the 2 of 5 Code parameter to 8. To turn off UPC-E1 reading, set it back to the default of 9.

• If you prefer to transmit UPC-E bar codes in a 6 digit format while EAN-8

is transmitted in its original 8 digit format, use setting F. This will allow you to use settings 9 and A and still transmit EAN-8 as 8 digits.

• UPC-A can be transmitted in EAN-13 format by adding a leading 0

(USA county code) to the UPC-A data. This setting is found in the Terminator Character parameter.

Codabar

Enable Codabar 0 Disable Codabar 1 Enable CLSI Codabar 2

Disable CLSI Codabar 3 Disable Start/Stop character transmission 4 Enable Start/Stop character transmission 5

• CLSI is a form of Codabar often used by libraries.

• Setting 5 will transmit the Codabar start and stop characters with the

bar code data to your computer. If you are varying the start and stop characters to differentiate between different labels, transmitting the start and stop can be helpful. See Appendix L; Codabar for more information.

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2 of 5 Code

Enable Interleaved 2 of 5 0 Disable Interleaved 2 of 5 1 Enable Interleaved 2 of 5 check digit 2 Disable Interleaved 2 of 5 check digit 3 Enable check digit transmission 4 Disable check digit transmission 5 Enable Standard 2 of 5 6 Disable Standard 2 of 5 7 Enable UPC- E1 8

Disable UPC- E1 9

• Setting 2 requires that the last digit in your bar code conform to the

specifications for the 2 of 5 check digit calculation. See Appendix J; 2 of 5 Code for more information.

• Transmission of the check digit (5) requires the use of setting 2 and will

transmit the check digit along with the bar code data to the computer.

• Settings 8 and 9 enable and disable the reading of UPC-E1 codes. See

the UPC/EAN setup parameter for more information.

2 of 5 Length

Default setting 06

Valid entries 00-98 To read variable length 2 of 5 codes (temporarily ONLY!) 00

• 2 of 5 codes are so susceptible to partial misreads that only one length

of code should be read, and that should be checked by the TriCoder.

• The default setting of 06 causes the TriCoder to read only 2 of 5 codes

that are 6 digits in length. To set the TriCoder to read a different length, scan any two digit number from the bar pad table. For example, to change the TriCoder to accept an 8-digit bar code, scan 0 then 8 from the bar pad table. 2 of 5 code must always be an even number of digits so the length setting must always be an even number.

• If you have to read variable length Interleaved 2 of 5 codes, specify a 2

of 5 length of 00, however, you will want to use other checking features (Data ID, etc.) when creating a program for data collection. Reading variable length I 2of5 or 2 of 5 codes is to be avoided if at all possible. The 00 setting is supplied for the purposes of reading codes of unknown length, counting the digits, and setting the length to the proper number.

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MSI/Plessey

Disable MSI & Plessey bar codes 0

Enable MSI, 1 Mod 10 check digit 1 Enable MSI, 2 Mod 10 check digits 2 Enable MSI, 1 Mod 11/ Mod 10 check digit 3 Transmit no check digits 4 Transmit 1 check digit 5 Transmit 2 check digits 6 Enable Plessey bar code (mutually exclusive with MSI) 7 Enable LabelCode5 (mutually exclusive with MSI & Plessey) 8 Enable LabelCode4 (mutually exclusive with all above codes) 9

• LabelCode 5 and LabelCode 4 are proprietary bar code types used by

Follet.

• For more information regarding MSI or Plessey Code, see Appendix

M; MSI Plessey Code.

Code 128

Disable Code 128 0

Enable Code 128 1 Disable UCC/EAN-128 2 Enable UCC/EAN-128 3 Enable Storage Tek Tape Label Code (TriOptic Code 39) C Disable Storage Tek Tape Label Code (TriOptic Code 39) D Bar Code ID’s transmitted E Bar Code ID’s not transmitted F

• UCC/EAN-128 is a subset of Code 128 that follows certain

specifications regarding character content, length and check digits. Enabling UCC/EAN-128 (2) causes the TriCoder to look for a Code 128 bar code that begins with the Code 128 F1 (Function 1) character. See Appendix I; Code 128 for more details.

• The StorageTek Tape Label code (also called TriOptic Code 39) is a

proprietary variation of Code 39 code used for the storage of computer data tapes. Enabling the tape label code (C) does not disable reading of Code 128 bar codes.

• Bar Code ID’s are characters assigned to each bar code type to identify

that particular type of code. These Bar Code ID’s can be used to identify what type of bar code you are using when you are not sure or you want your application to differentiate between the different types. This applies only when the TriCoder is used in NON PORTABLE mode.

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The Bar Code ID’s are assigned as follows:

Bar Code ID Bar Code ID

Codabar a Code 39 b UPC-A c EAN-13 d I 2of5 e 2 of 5 f Code 128 g Code 93 i MSI j UPC-E(0) n UPC-E (1) o EAN-8 p RSS-14 r StorageTek s Plessey x LabelCode 4 y LabelCode 5 z

The ID character is transmitted in front of the bar code data.

Code 93

Enable Code 93 0 Disable Code 93 1 Enable Full ASCII Code 93 2 Disable Full ASCII Code 93 3

• Code 93 is similar in character set to Code 39. See Appendix N: Code

93 for more information. Code 93 is not a commonly used bar code

symbology.

RSS-14

Disable RSS-14 0

Enable Standard 14 digits 1 Enable 14 plus Identifiers 2 Enable 14 plus UCC 128 Emulation 3

• By default, standard RSS-14 is disabled, scan 1 to enable. Options 3

and 4 enable the alternate RSS-14 formats. For more information on RSS-14, see the AIM website at: http://www.aimglobal.org/standards/symbinfo/rss_overview.asp

Preamble and Postamble

The Preamble and Postamble apply to data entered in NON-PORTABLE MODE only. Upload Prefixes are used in programs for portable data collection.

• Preambles are user-defined data that is transmitted at the beginning of data

(bar code or keyed) that is entered in the TriCoder in NON PORTABLE mode. For example, if you set a preamble of @@ and scanned bar code data of 12345, @@12345 would be transmitted to the computer.

• Postambles are user-defined data that is transmitted at the end of data (bar

code or keyed) that is entered in the TriCoder in NON PORTABLE mode. For example, if you set a preamble of @@ and scanned bar code data of

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12345, 12345@@ would be transmitted to the computer.

• By default, the TriCoder has no preambles or postambles configured.

Preambles and Postambles can each contain up to 15 characters scanned from the bar coded FULL ASCII Menu. To set a preamble or postamble:

1. Scan the Preamble or Postamble bar code or select Preamble or Postamble from the keypad menu.

2. Scan the desired characters (up to 15) from the FULL ASCII Menu.

3. Scan the SET bar code, or if using the keypad, press ENTER.

4. To clear the Preamble or Postamble and return to the default (no Preambles or Postambles defined), scan CLEAR at step #2, then continue with your setup.

• You can use the Preamble or Postamble to trim characters from

the data you are entering into the TriCoder in NON PORTABLE mode. The Upload Prefix and Suffix is used to trim data in portable mode (data collection). You can trim from 1-15 characters from the data by creating a preamble or postamble of:

where ~ is ASCII 126 and x is a single hex digit 1-F (corresponding to 1-15). Data that is shorter than the trim amount are transmitted without trimming. Preambles trim data from the front; Postambles trim characters from the end.

Here are some examples, with and without trimming included:

Data Scanned Preamble Value Data Transmitted

123 XYZ XYZ123 12345678 ~3XYZ XYZ45678 12345678 ~9 12345678 12345678901 ~A 1 123456 ~5 6

Preamble affects leading (high order) characters

Data Scanned Postamble Value Data Transmitted

123 XYZ 123XYZ 12345678 ~3XYZ 12345XYZ 12345678 ~9 12345678 12345678901 ~A 1 123456 ~5 1

Postamble affects trailing (low order) characters

• Using the Bar Code ID feature and the Preamble or Postamble,

you can trim data selectively, trimming characters only on the bar code type specified. To use selective trimming, enter:

~bx

where b is the Bar Code ID character (see the Code 128 setup parameter) and x is the number of characters to trim from the

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front of the data. For example, ~b2~c1 says “trim 2 characters from Code 39 data and 1 character from UPC-A data”. Remember that the Preamble trims leading data and the Postamble trims trailing data.

• The Preamble and Postamble can also be used to create “line

feeds” on the TriCoder display before the data is displayed. To enter “line feeds” before or after your data enter:

where x is 1-3, depending on how may lines you want to scroll. For example, it you wanted skip 3 lines, you would enter }3.

• Lastly, the Preamble and Postamble can be used to check a

minimum and maximum character length for data entered in NON PORTABLE mode. In portable data collection, min and max character lengths are set using the Max Data Len and the Min Data Len in the programming statements. To check for length in the Preamble or Postamble, enter:

|nnmm

where | is ASCII 124, nn is the two-digit minimum and mm is the two-digit maximum. |0210 would check for a minimum of 2 characters and a maximum of 10.

Terminator Character

CR - Carriage Return 0

HT - Horizontal Tab 1 None 2 CR/LF - Carriage Return/Line Feed 3

Do not transmit EAN-13 data with 5 digit supplement as ISBN C Transmit EAN-13 data with 5 digit supplement as ISBN format D No country code transmitted for UPC-A E Transmit UPC-A in EAN-13 format (Country Code 0) F

• The Terminator Character is the character sent at the end of each

data entry in NON PORTABLE mode and at the end of each field when uploading after data collection (Portable use). Your application will determine what Terminator Character (if any) you use.

• In Keyboard Wedge mode, CR (0) is the default. For Serial Interface,

CR/LF (3) is the default.

• Settings C, D, E and F correspond to settings for UPC bar codes only.

See the UPC/EAN section for details.

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Computer Interface

PC USB Keyboard Upload 0

PC compatibles Keyboard Wedge 1 RS-232 ASCII Data Format 3

RS-422 ASCII Data Format 5 PC USB High Speed Upload 6 If setting 1 or setting 2 and Non-Dedicated Server 7 Learning Mode for Timing with PC Keyboard Wedge 8 Macintosh USB Keyboard 9

T64/LT64s are shipped with the Computer Interface set to 1. T54s/LT54s are shipped with the Computer Interface set to 3. All models of the TriCoder have a built-in USB port.

USB Selections

If you have a Mac, you must choose 9. You are limited to Non-Portable Mode and Data Upload as a Mac USB Keyboard.

If you are using Windows-98 or later (2000, ME, XP, etc.) and you wish to upload your files directly into your application through the keyboard, you must choose 0, (USB keyboards are still superior to keyboard wedge because there are no timing delays and no jumper block is necessary). After specifying 2, the first time you plug in a USB cable to the TriCoder and host, you will be asked to install the USB Keyboard HID driver, which is probably on your hard disk, but if not, is on your original Windows CD ROM; just keep clicking on NEXT until you are forced to supply the original Windows CD ROM. Data uploads through the keyboard will be slower than serial and high speed USB, but you will still be able to use the High Speed program uploads/downloads, firmware upgrades, and table downloads; the first time you attempt a high speed USB operation, you will be required to install another driver for high speed support, TRICODERUSB, which is supplied on your TriCoder Utilities CD ROM, (also on our website, www.barcodehq.com

under Downloads).

If you are using Windows and you wish to use the TriCoder Utilities to upload data to a file in high speed, choose 6. You will also be able to do program uploads/downloads, firmware upgrades, and table downloads. The first time you plug in a USB cable between the TriCoder and a host, you will be required to install the high speed TRICODERUSB driver that is supplied on your TriCoder Utilities CD ROM, (also on our website, www.barcodehq.com

under Downloads). The first time you attempt to use Non-Portable Mode, you will be asked to install the USB Keyboard HID driver, which is probably on your hard disk, but if not, is on your original Windows CD ROM.

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Other Interfaces

Depending upon the setting of the Interface Jumper (see pages K-2 and K-

3), the TriCoders Computer Interface is set to either RS-232 or PC compatible Legacy Keyboard Wedge.

• The easy way to select an interface if using Keyboard Wedge mode

(not USB) is to use Learning Mode (8). Follow these instructions:

1. Scan Start Setup

2. Scan Computer Interface

3. Scan 8

4. Press any key on your PC keyboard

5. Scan End Setup

The TriCoder watches the key codes coming from the computer, “learns” the keyboard timing, and beeps to signify it has captured the timing; it then sets it in the EEPROM until you change it.

• RS-422 is for use with RS-422 boards only. If your computer is using

a RS-422 board, you must order the 422 option at the same time you order your TriCoder, as this feature is not field-installable. RS-422 also requires special cables. RS-422 and RS-232 are mutually exclusive; only one or the other is available.

• If you are a Windows® with Window Vista, XP, ME, 2000 or 98SE,

we suggest that you use the high speed USB interface, which offers the following advantages: (the first time you plug in your USB cable, you may be asked to choose the type of USB interface you wish to use)

1) Data uploads at speeds 40 times faster than a serial upload.

The ability to update your firmware at speeds 40 times faster than serial interface (its not even possible with the keyboard wedge). This includes all improvements available on our Website for the life of your TriCoder.

3) The ability to download tables and upload/download programs from your PC at much faster speeds than serial, (not possible with keyboard wedge interfaces) and use the TriCoder Utilities to quickly change your TriCoder Setup.

4) The ability to operate in Non-Portable Mode as a USB keyboard without having to add a jumper block to a Y-Cable when the TriCoder is removed from t

he Y-cable for portable data collection.

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Intercharacter Delay

None 0

Short Delay 1 Medium-short Delay 2 Medium-long Delay 3 Long Delay 4

(This does not apply to USB. It rarely applies to serial.)

• Use Computer Interface setting 8 for Learning Mode whenever

possible. This allows the TriCoder to figure out the timing on its own and set it in the EEPROM for you. Don’t try this parameter unless Learning Mode fails.

• Intercharacter Delay is a setting that allows the TriCoder to match the

keyboard timing on your PC. Most computers work fine with no delay at all, but due to the variety of BIOS and clock speeds, some PC’s may need a timing delay.

• The best way to determine whether you need to program a delay or not

is to start at setting 0 (None). Try reading a bar code in NON PORTABLE mode while connected to your computer. If your data transmits with no problems, leave your delay at 0. If you have garbled or missing data, try each delay starting with 1 until you have complete and correct data. Between setting changes, try typing on your keyboard to make sure you still have correct characters coming from your keyboard. In some instances, you may need to re-boot the computer between delay setting changes.

• Intercharacter Delay settings are generally for Keyboard Wedge mode

but will work in Serial Mode (usually only if using PortKey and emulating keyboard data). Garbled data in Serial Mode is usually the result of the wrong Baud Rate or Parity setting. Check these first before you start changing the Intercharacter Delay.

Speaker / Batteries

Speaker ON 0

Speaker OFF 1 Alkaline Batteries or Alkaline Rechargeables 2 Nickel Metal Hydride or NiCad Rechargeable Batteries 3

• If you are using the headphones in a noisy environment, you can conserve

battery power by turning the Speaker OFF (1). You control the volume of the headphones by adjusting a variable resistor inside the TriCoder’s case. See Appendix F: Jumpers, Switches, and Adjustments.

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• For the TriCoder to know when to tell you to change batteries, you must

select the correct battery type. The default is Alkaline (2). If you start using rechargeable batteries and fail change 2 to 3, your TriCoder will probably start acting very strange, (beeping, black bars on the display, no laser beam, etc.) as the batteries run down. Rechargeable batteries don’t have the instant reserve power that alkalines do; therefore, without warning or indication they can be depleted unless the TriCoder knows to look for rechargeable batteries.

Battery Status can be displayed by pressing the STATUS key on the TriCoder keypad while in NON PORTABLE mode or while collecting data (portable).

Scanner Options

Switch Wand (no longer available) 7 Non-switched Wand (for NON PORTABLE mode only) 8

If using a "switch" wand (no longer available), you must set the decode light switch to "W", (See Appendix F). A “non-switched” wand can be used, but only with the 5v power supply and the decode light switch (see TriCoder diagram in Appendix F) must also be set to "L", (the default at shipping).

Aiming Dot Duration

If you have a DMA TriCoder with firmware version of DMA2018 or higher, board level F or greater, and an internal laser or the external LZ200D scanner, you can get a aiming dot to project before the laser beam spreads over the bar code. This is useful when trying to read in direct sunlight (because the dot is brighter than the line), when trying to read at a distance, and when trying to read one of many bar codes on a page.

By setting the time in 1/10ths of a second that the aiming dot stays on after pulling the trigger and before the beam spreads, the bright dot can be used to position in the middle of the bar code. This feature is accessible only through the keyboard setup under OTHER. The default is set to 00, no aiming dot. You can enter any number from 01 to 99 (99 gives 9.9 seconds). Typically you will want 1 (10) or 2 (20) seconds of aiming dot. You also must make sure the decode light switch (see diagram on page M-3) is set to L.

To check your firmware version and board level, power up your TriCoder and note the opening screen display:

DMA TRICODER Xxxxx B HIT ANY KEY_

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X is W for a TriCoder jumpered for Keyboard Interface or

R for a TriCoder jumpered for Serial Interface or K for USB Keyboard upload or H for USB High Speed upload

xxxx is the firmware version (i.e. 2018) and B is the board level( i.e. F).

Keyboard Country

US 00

French 01 German 02 Belgian 03 French Canadian 04 Danish 05 Dutch 06 Italian 07 Latin American 08 Norwegian 09 Portuguese 10 Spanish 11 Swedish 12 Swiss German 13 United Kingdom 14

• This does not apply to USB or Serial. In addition to keyboard wedge

country emulation, it also controls the display of French, German, or English messages.

• This parameter applies only to TriCoders operating in Keyboard

Wedge mode. The default setting is US (00) and requires a two-digit entry for all settings.

• Setting 01 (French) and 02 (German) also apply to the displayed

messages on the TriCoder. Displayed messages will appear on the TriCoder in the language chosen. If you want to use a US keyboard and display messages in French or German, scan 51 for French or 52 for German.

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Operation Mode

Non Portable Mode 0

Programming Mode 1 Data Collection Mode 2 Data Upload Mode 3 Program Transmit Mode 4 Program Receive Mode 5 Buffered Terminal Mode 6

• Non Portable Mode is used to read data directly into the Computer

from the TriCoder, both in Keyboard Wedge, USB and Serial modes. If using the TriCoder as a serial interface, setting Protocol to Host Response Accepted can turn the TriCoder into a dumb terminal, displaying prompts from the host and transmitting data back.

• Programming Mode is used to create or modify a program, record and

test voice prompts and to change the Setup using the TriCoder keypad. The TriCoder requires entry of a password before you are allowed to access Programming Mode. The password, WDTRI, is the same for all TriCoders.

• Data Collection Mode is a portable mode used to collect data using

one of the TriCoder's four available programs. Program #0 and Program #1 are pre-programmed into the TriCoder when you receive it. Program #0 is a fixed program while Program #1 is a simple inventory program that is user-editable. Programs #2 and #3 are not set and are available for custom programming. See Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 for data collection tutorials using Program #0 and #1.

• Data Upload Mode is used to transfer data collected in the TriCoder to

the host computer for Keyboard Wedge, USB and Serial mode.

• Program Transmit Mode is used to transmit a TriCoder program,

setup or voice messages to another TriCoder or to a host computer. Voice messages can only be transferred from TriCoder to TriCoder. “Cloning” (copying the entire setup and programs) is handy when setting up multiple TriCoders.

• Program Receive Mode is used to receive a TriCoder program, setup

or voice messages from another TriCoder or host computer. Voice messages can only be received from another TriCoder.

• Buffered Terminal Mode allows the TriCoder to function as an online

intelligent buffered terminal using Program #1 and uploading upon request by a host computer polling with ACK/NAK protocol. This mode requires programming at the computer end.

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Voice Messages

This parameter partitions the total amount of voice messages into different message lengths. The default setting is:

303015

xx yy zz

where:

xx is number of ½ second messages yy is the number of 1 second messages zz is the number of 2 second messages

The total time allotted must not exceed 75 seconds. To change the partitions, scan 6 digits total; 2 for the number of ½ second messages, 2 for the number of 1 second messages and 2 for the number of 2 second messages. See the default setting as an example.

WARNING: changing this parameter after you have recorded messages could result in having to re-record some of them; they would still be there but longer messages may get cut up and shorter ones combined.

Set Date

Using the barpad table, scan a 6-digit date in the mmddyy format. For example, to set a date of 1/1/99, you would scan 010199. Press the STATUS key to view the current date and time in both NON PORTABLE mode and during data collection. To set the time in the TriCoder from a host computer, see Appendix U; Using the TriCoder as a Time Clock for details.

There are alternative date formats available for the TriCoder. See the Protocol parameter for details. Changing the date format requires resetting the actual date in that format also.

If you setup the TriCoder using the keypad in PROGRAMMING MODE, you can choose to have the TriCoder display the year in a 4-digit format instead of a 2-digit format. This setting will help you comply with Y2K requirements.

Set Time

Using the barpad table, scan a 4-digit time in the military hhmm format. For example, to enter a time of 3:35 p.m., scan 1535. Press the STATUS key in NON PORTABLE mode or during data collection to view the current time. The time can also be set from a host computer; see Appendix T; Using the TriCoder as a Time Clock for details.

Batteries maintain the real-time clock. Fresh batteries will keep your realtime clock as accurate as possible.

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Alternative Date and Time formats

See the Protocol parameter for details on how to set the TriCoder to use alternative Date and Time formats. The default formats use mmddyy and hhmm. Formats include:

• A - short format - no separators between characters

• B - long format - date uses / separators, time uses: separator

• C - US format - mmddyy, hhmm

• D - European Format- ddmmyy, hhmm

Combinations are AC, AD, BC and BD. To use the European format, first change the format in the Protocol parameter, then reset the date and time, entering the digits in the correct order. Follow the same procedure to set it back to the US format.

Single Cycle Transmit

Single Cycle Transmit OFF

Single Cycle Transmit ON 1

• Single Cycle Transmit allows the TriCoder to upload one field at a

time to the host, controlled by the pressing of any key (except F1) on the TriCoder each time the operator wants to transmit a field.

• Single Cycle Transmit is used to test complex upload prefix and suffix

sequences. This is typically used when a TriCoder is used in Keyboard Wedge mode and you are uploading directly into an application. Single Cycle Transmit allows you to test key sequences and delays before you collect a lot of data and try an upload. Pressing F1 terminates the upload session.

EOF String

The EOF String setting allows you to choose up to 8 characters to be transmitted at the end of a TriCoder file upload. It is typically used to signal to the receiving host program that the TriCoder is done uploading its data and has transferred its last piece of data. The characters chosen are often characters not available on the TriCoder keypad; they are scanned from the FULL ASCII MENU. To program an EOF String:

• Scan EOF String

• Scan up to 8 characters from the FULL ASCII MENU

• Scan the SET bar code

If you do not program an EOF String, the TriCoder sends a Ctrl Z (ASCII

26). Undisplayable characters are displayed on the TriCoder as ?. To view the ASCII equivalent (so you know what characters are there) press the F2 key while in the EOF String parameter.

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Shut Down Time

By default, if the TriCoder is inactive for more than 5 minutes, it will shut itself down in order to conserve batteries. To resume operation, you must turn the TriCoder back on using the ON/OFF key. To change the amount of time the TriCoder waits before shutting down:

• Scan Shut Down Time

• Scan two digits - the default is 05 (5 minutes)- to correspond to the

length of time in minutes. For example, 01 would be 1 minute.

If you want to prevent the TriCoder from shutting off automatically at all, set the Shut Down Time to 00.

Partitions

The Partitions setting is where you specify how you want to divide the memory in the TriCoder. Memory can be allocated for data files (up to 3) and tables (up to 3). Memory is partitioned in 64K size pages. The TriCoder has 512k, or 8 pages, of memory to allocate. Partitions are specified using a six-digit number:

abcxyz

where:

is the number of pages of memory allocated to Data File #1.

is the number of pages of memory allocated to Data File #2

is the number of pages of memory allocated to Data File #3

is the number of pages of memory allocated to Table #1

is the number of pages of memory allocated to Table #2

is the number of pages of memory allocated to Table #3

• The default is for all memory to be allocated to Data File #1.

• The total amount of memory partitioned must equal the total amount of

memory available. You must specify 8 pages (in whatever combination) for the TriCoder.

• The Partitions cannot be changed while there is data collected in the

TriCoder. You must upload and delete the data first.

• All downloaded tables currently in the TriCoder will be lost when the

Partitions are changed. You will have to re-download the tables once the change is complete.

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Characters

This setting allows the TriCoder to output chosen ASCII characters in place of the actual characters entered. For example, if you scanned the number 1 (hex 31) and wanted the TriCoder to output hex 92 instead, you would enter 3192 for the Characters parameter. This would re-assign the output characters, with the TriCoder outputting hex 92 every time it sees hex 31. To re-assign characters:

• Scan Characters

• Scan up to seven 4-digit pairings where the first 2 digits represent the

hex number to replace and the second 2 digits represent the hex number to insert. You can have up to seven character re-assignments.

• Scan SET

You can eliminate the output of a character by using FF as the hex number to insert. For example, if you wanted to eliminate all $, following the above instructions, enter 24FF.

Data Security Features

The TriCoder has two features that are there it ensure the integrity of your data. The first feature is Data Security, which is found in the Protocol setup parameter. Turning Data Security on prevents the operator from editing data as well as not allowing them to exit Data Collection mode. There is another security feature called Program Restriction that restricts the user to one data collection program only. Program Restriction is set only by keypad – at the

NON PORTABLE MODE KEY [YES/NO]?_

prompt, press the following keys on the TriCoder keypad:

remember to press and release the key before pressing the next key

SHIFT D

remember to press and release SHIFT before pressing D or P

SHIFT P you will see the prompt: ENTER PROGRAM # [0-3]_ 0,1,2, OR 3 press the number of the program you want to restrict the user to F1

To reset the program restriction back to all programs, simply press the ENTER key at the “ENTER PROGRAM # [0-3]” prompt.

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Protocol

Settings 0 - 6 apply only to Serial Interface TriCoders only.

None 0 XON / XOFF 1 ACK/ NAK without Polling 2 Polled - No ACK / NAK* 3 Polled - with ACK / NAK* 4 Host Response Accepted* 5 Host Response Ignored 6 Data Security ON 7 Data Security OFF 8 XMODEM 9 Date Format mmddyyhhmm A Date Format mm/dd/yy hh:mm B US Date Format mm/dd/yy C European Date Format dd/mm/yy D

*Requires the 5V Power Supply to be plugged into TriCoder.

None means that the TriCoder will transmit to the host computer without waiting for a request or a response. Unless you are using multiple TriCoders on one port (multi-dropping), None is the setting you will probably want to use.

XON / XOFF is a protocol where the host sends an XOFF (Ctrl S / ASCII

19) character to the TriCoder when it is busy, and an XON (Ctrl Q / ASCII

17) when it is ready to receive data again from the TriCoder. This allows

the host to perform other tasks without missing data coming from the TriCoder. XON / XOFF should not used with Linux or Unix terminals, even if they have XON/XOFF specified; if you do, the TriCoder will probably get hung.

ACK / NAK without polling adds the ACK / NAK protocol for data accuracy. This protocol causes the TriCoder to add 2 checksum characters to its data - calculated from all data (data ID + prefix + data + suffix) except the Terminator Character. The host compares calculated checksums to the checksums transmitted by the TriCoder. If they match, the host sends an ACK; if they do not match, it sends a NAK. If you need to use a protocol for data accuracy, we recommend using XMODEM instead of ACK /

NAK whenever possible. Polled - No ACK /NAK puts the TriCoder in a “polling” mode, waiting for

the host to send the TriCoders ID character before the TriCoder sends its data. Polled - with ACK /NAK adds ACK /NAK protocol to the “polling” mode

described above. You can change the length of time the TriCoder will wait for a response by using the Host Response Delay setting.

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Host Response Accepted causes the TriCoder to act upon data received from the host. Data received from the host can cause the TriCoder to beep, display data or output a voice message. These are the controls for this protocol:

Data from Host Response by TriCoder Ctrl G (“BEL” - ASCII 7)

one short beep

Ctrl R (“DC2” - ASCII 18)

two long beeps

nnDC4 nnENQ

-nn is the two-digit voice message

-DC4 is ASCII 20

-ENQ is ASCII 05, used to send a voice message without data entry as the next step.

xxxxxxxxxxCR -xxxxxxxxx is variable-length data for display

as a prompt on the TriCoder

-CR is ASCII 13 - used to terminate the data prompt.

Selecting Host Response Accepted allows the TriCoder and host to operate interactively with prompts and error messages from the host. Host

Response Accepted works with the other Protocol settings of None, ACK / NAK, and both Polling settings.

If your TriCoder is connected between a dumb terminal and host, select Host Response Ignored to prevent data intended for the Terminal from causing continual beeping on the TriCoder.

There are restrictions on the use of Host Response Accepted:

1. To prevent conflict between TriCoder ID characters (used to identify individual TriCoders for polling) and data characters, the displayable data characters are limited to ASCII 32 - 95. In other words, no lower case characters are allowed. TriCoder ID characters must be ASCII 96127 only.

2. A displayable prompt must be terminated by a CR (carriage return) unless terminated by one of the other controls - BEL, DC2, nnDC4 or

nnENQ. A prompt can also be a single character of CR, BEL, DC2, nnDC4 or nnENQ.

3. With Host Response Accepted, before data can be entered on the TriCoder, a valid prompt must have been received from the host. In order to keep from missing a message from the host, the TriCoder locks out keyboard or scanner input until it receives the prompt from the host. While the TriCoder is waiting for the host prompt it displays:

WAITING ON PMPT_

If you want to enter data without receiving the expected prompt from the host, press the CLEAR key.

Host Response Ignored tells the TriCoder to ignore all data received from

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the host, except ACK/NAK and XON/XOFF if configured to use those protocols.

Data Security OFF allows the operator full access to all TriCoder functions. Data Security ON prevents the operator from editing any data or leaving

DATA COLLECTION mode. To exit DATA COLLECTION mode, Data Security must be turned off either by scanning the bar coded Setup Menu or by using the keypad - press F1, then SHIFT, then D.

XMODEM is a file transfer communications protocol widely supported and used

by programs including Windows HyperTerminal and Procomm. XMODEM has significant data error-checking, making it reliable for data transmission over phone lines. XMODEM is the protocol of choice for file transfers.

The Date and Time Formats allow you to change the display and output formats of the date and time. When changing the TriCoder to use the European format, remember to change the format first, then go to the SET DATE parameter and enter the date using the European DD/MM/YY format. See Alternative Date Formats for details.

Baud Rate

Set the Baud Rate to match your terminal or serial port.

300 0 600 1 1200 2 2400 3 4800 4 9600 5 19,200 6 38,400 7

Parity

None 0

Even 1 Odd 2

The Parity should match the parity setting of your Terminal. Parity can vary on a PC serial port - None is usually used in conjunction with the 8 data bits setting, while Even or Odd is associated with 7 data bits.

Data Bits

7 bits 0 8 bits 1

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Set the Data Bits to match the setting used by your terminal or serial port.

Stop Bits

1 bit 0

2 bits 1

Set the Stop Bits to match the setting used by your terminal or serial port.

Dialing String

This parameter allows you to program an automatic dialing string for use with a modem. The Dialing String can contain up to 24 characters scanned from the FULL ASCII MENU. To program the Dialing String:

• Scan Dialing String

• Scan up to 24 characters from the FULL ASCII MENU

• Scan the SET bar code

Typical Dialing String characters are modem control characters such as ATDT1nnnnnnnnnn; where nnnnnnnnnn is the phone number to be dialed. The last character should not be a CR (carriage return). The Dialing String is transmitted by pressing the F2 key in response to the

DATA UPLOAD? KEY [YES/NO]?_

prompt. When in SETUP MODE, you can display the three-digit ASCII value for any characters entered for the Dialing String. See Appendix S; Modem Protocol for details on TriCoder/ Modem communications.

Set ID Character

The ID Character is used with the polling functions only. It allows you to assign each TriCoder a unique ASCII character used by the host to poll the TriCoders. The TriCoder will not transmit its data until it has been polled with its ID Character by the host.

ID Characters are limited to ASCII characters 96-127. These characters are the lower case letters found in the last two columns of bar codes on the FULL ASCII MENU. To set the ID Character, simply scan the desired character from the FULL ASCII MENU (scan “a” to assign an ID Character of “a”). If polling, all TriCoders must be assigned an ID Character.

The order of the data transmitted in Non Portable mode is:

ID+Preamble+DATA+Postamble+Chksum chs+Terminator

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Host Response Delay

This setting is used only with ACK/ NAK protocol and Buffered Terminal Mode. It is used to set a time-out for the TriCoder while it is waiting for a

response from the host. The default is infinite delay - it will wait forever for the host to respond. If you want the TriCoder to time-out rather than waiting forever, set the number of seconds you want to wait as a two-digit number. For example, to set a 5 second delay, enter 05. Setting the delay to 00 sets an infinite delay.

Transmission Mode

The Transmission Mode setting is used only with a Terminal/Host configuration using a F45 or F45-1 Serial Y Cable.

Full Duplex 0 Half Duplex 1

Using the default setting (0), data is transmitted from the female DB25 end of the cable only. Using half duplex (1) causes data to be transmitted out of both ends of the cable. It is typically used for dumb terminal (Unix and Linux) troubleshooting transmission problems only.

Modem Redial Delay

Automatically, the TriCoder resets the modem before the first dialing attempt and between dialing attempts. You can vary the length of the delay between dialing attempts (Retry Delay) from the standard default of 30 seconds to anything from 01-99 seconds. You cannot make this change by scanning the bar coded TriCoder setup menu; it can only be made through the keyboard setup on the TriCoder.

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Chapter 7

Using the TriCoder Utilities

The TriCoder Utilities for Windows program is a versatile application that gives you the ability to:

• Test communication (serial and USB High Speed)

• Upload data from TriCoder to computer

• Download programs and tables from the computer to the TriCoder

• Change TriCoder Setup parameters (High Speed USB only)

• Edit and Download tables

• Edit and download programs (Virtual TriCoder required for editing)

The TriCoder Utilities for Windows CD comes with every TriCoder. If you did not receive a disk or need the latest version of the TriCoder Utilities, visit our website at http://www.barcodehq.com/downloads.html to download the latest version.

Installing the TriCoder Utilities

The TriCoder Utilities is for Windows ONLY. There is no version for any other operating system.

To install the TriCoder Utilities for Windows, insert the CD into your CD drive. If you have autoplay enabled, the installation should begin automatically. If it does not, or you have autoplay disabled, click on the Windows Start button, and then click Run. Click Browse to find your CD drive, then find the file named setup.exe. Click Open, then click OK and follow the installation instructions.

Running the TriCoder Utilities program

The first time you start the TriCoder Utilities, it will ask you whether you are connected to the Serial port or to a USB port. This should only show up the first time you run the program.

If you are physically connecting the TriCoder to the USB port for the very first time, see Chapter 5; TriCoder Connection for details on Windows USB driver installation.

If you are connected to the serial port, click on the Port Settings tab and verify that the correct port name (COM1, etc.), baud rate, etc. are chosen.

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If you are connected via USB, you should see USB chosen as the port type:

If you do not have your TriCoder turned on, or the USB driver is installed incorrectly, you will see this error message:

You can either turn your TriCoder on and click Retry, or click Cancel to exit the error message dialog box. If you click Cancel, and still want to work in TriCoder Utilities without having your USB TriCoder attached, just

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click OK when you see this message:

Using the Table Editor

The Table Editor allows you to:

• load and edit existing tables that are on your computer and download

them into your TriCoder and

• create new tables and download them to your TriCoder

Once you have the table open in the Table Editor, you can change any of the parameters and fields and then download the table back into your TriCoder.

For more information on using Tables, see Chapter 12; Tables and Picklists. One thing to remember when using tables is that your TriCoder memory must be partitioned before you can download the table to your TriCoder. For more information on partitions, see Chapter 11; Partitioning

Memory for Data Files and Tables.

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Uploading from TriCoder to your Computer

You can upload programs, data and cloned setup information to your computer from your TriCoder by either the serial port or the USB port.

Serial Uploading

If you are uploading your TriCoder from the Serial port, make sure your port settings are correct before you begin your upload. It is usually a good idea to check your port settings and test in Non-Portable mode before uploading information from your TriCoder.

• Make sure your TriCoder is connected and communicating.

• Select the type of file you will be uploading - Data file (collected data),

a Program or a TriCoder Clone file (complete setup information including setup parameters and programs).

• Select the name for your file. We suggest using different file extensions

for different types of files, for example, .dat for data files, .pgm for program files and .cln for clone files.

Data Files

1. On the TriCoder, press NO until you see the prompt

DATA UPLOAD KEY [YES/NO]?_

2. Select Data File as the file type, then enter the name of the file (we recommend the extension .dat for data files)

3. Click the START button in the TriCoder Utilities.

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4. At the DATA UPLOAD prompt on the TriCoder, press YES.

5. When the data is finished uploading, TriCoder Utilities will let you

know it is finished. The TriCoder will display the message

END OF TRANSMIT, DEL FILE Y/N?_

We suggest before you delete the data file from the TriCoder that you open the data file in Notepad to confirm the upload. If all is correct, you can press YES to delete the data file from the TriCoder. If your upload is not correct, press NO and try your upload again.

Program Files

1. On the TriCoder, press NO until you see the prompt

PROGRAM TRANSMIT KEY [YES/NO]?_

then press YES.

2. In the TriCoder Utilities, choose Program as the File type, then

specify the name of the file (we suggest the extension .pgm for program files)

3. Click the START button in the TriCoder Utilities.

4. On the TriCoder, press the number of the program you want to

upload at the TRANSMIT PROGRAM KEY prompt. Remember that you cannot transmit program 0, you must choose 1, 2 or 3. Pressing 0 will clone your TriCoder.

5. TriCoder Utilities will let you know when your transmission is

finished. The TriCoder will display the message

END OF PGM,XMIT HIT ANY KEY_

Cloning the TriCoder

1. On the TriCoder, press NO until you see the prompt

PROGRAM TRANSMIT KEY [YES/NO]?_

then press YES.

2. In the TriCoder Utilities, choose Clone TriCoder as the File type,

then specify the name of the file (we recommend using the extension .cln for clone files)

3. Click the START button in the TriCoder Utilities.

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4. On the TriCoder, press 0 at the TRANSMIT PROGRAM KEY prompt.

6. TriCoder Utilities will let you know when your transmission is finished. The TriCoder will display the message

END OF PGM,XMIT HIT ANY KEY_

High Speed USB Uploading

If you are uploading information from your TriCoder via High Speed USB interface, you will be absolutely amazed at how easy it is! The TriCoder Utilities takes care of it all, your TriCoder just has to be turned on.

Data Files

1. Make sure you are connected to the USB cable then turn on your TriCoder.

2. Start the TriCoder Utilities program

3. Click the TriCoder Upload tab

In the left panel, you will see what is currently in your TriCoder. The right panel will determine where your uploaded file will go. Make sure you are in the directory where you want to keep your file.

A unique feature of the USB interface is the ability to change the name of the data file in the TriCoder while in TriCoder Utilities. Renaming the data file is as simple as clicking the file name, typing in a new one and pressing ENTER. The example above shows the data file in the TriCoder named DATA FILE #1. In the next example, we have changed the data file name

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to Inventorydata.

4. Finally, to upload the file, click on the file you want to upload, and

then click on the arrow button between the two panels. That's it! You don't have to do anything on the TriCoder!

Program Files

1. Again, make sure you are connected to the USB cable and that

your TriCoder is on.

2. Start TriCoder Utilities if it isn't already running.

3. Click the TriCoder Upload tab

4. Highlight the program name you want to upload in the left panel

5. Choose the directory or folder you want to upload your file to in

the right panel

6. Click on the arrow between the panels. That's it

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Cloning your TriCoder

1. Make sure you are connected to the USB cable and that your TriCoder is turned on.

2. Start the TriCoder Utilities if it isn't already running.

3. Click on the TriCoder Upload tab

4. Highlight Cloning in the left panel.

5. Select the directory or folder you want to upload your cloning file to in the right panel.

6. Click the arrow between the panels. The file is saved as "cloning.cln" and you are finished!

Downloading from the computer to your TriCoder

You can download saved files on your computer back into your TriCoder using the TriCoder Utilities in either serial or high-speed USB mode. The files must be valid TriCoder programs, tables or clone files. TriCoder programs can be created on your computer using the Virtual TriCoder or created on the TriCoder itself. Tables must conform to the table format required by the TriCoder (see Chapter 12: Tables and Pick Lists) and your TriCoder memory must be partitioned before it can accept any tables.

Also, you will not be allowed to download anything to your TriCoder if there is currently data stored in your TriCoder. Before you download anything to your TriCoder, make sure you upload any data files and delete them from your TriCoder. If there is data in your TriCoder and you try to download a file to it, you will see the message:

NOT ALLOWED TO RCV HIT ANY KEY_

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Serial Downloads

If you are downloading to your TriCoder from the Serial port, make sure your port settings are correct before you begin your download. It is usually a good idea to check your port settings and test in Non-Portable mode before downloading information into your TriCoder.

• Make sure your TriCoder is connected and communicating.

• Select the type of file you will be downloading - a Program (for

collecting data), a TriCoder Clone file (complete setup information including setup parameters and programs) or a Table (for reference while collecting data).

• Select the file you want to download. We suggest using different file

extensions for different types of files, for example, .pgm for program files, .cln for clone files and .tbl for table files. The TriCoder Utilities uses these file extensions by default.

Program Download

1. On the TriCoder, press NO until you see the prompt

PROGRAM RECEIVE KEY [YES/NO]?_

then press YES.

2. In the TriCoder Utilities, specify the location and name of the file

(we suggest the extension .pgm for program files)

3. Click the START button in the TriCoder Utilities.

4. On the TriCoder, press the number of the program you want to

download to at the PROGRAM RECIEVE KEY prompt.

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Remember that you cannot download into program 0; you must choose 1, 2 or 3. Pressing 0 will clone your TriCoder.

5. TriCoder Utilities will let you know when your transmission is finished. The TriCoder will display the message

END OF PGM RCV HIT ANY KEY_

Table Download

1. On the TriCoder, press NO until you see the prompt

TABLE DOWNLOAD KEY [YES/NO]?_

then press YES. If you have not partitioned your TriCoder memory, you will not see the Table Download prompt. Go back and partition your memory, then try again.

2. In the TriCoder Utilities, specify the location and name of the file (we suggest the extension .tbl for table files)

3. Click the START button in the TriCoder Utilities.

4. On the TriCoder, press the number of the program you want to download to at the PROGRAM RECIEVE KEY prompt. Remember that you cannot download into program 0; you must choose 1, 2 or 3. Pressing 0 will clone your TriCoder.

5. TriCoder Utilities will let you know when your transmission is finished. The TriCoder will display the message

END OF PGM RCV HIT ANY KEY_

Cloning File Download

1. On the TriCoder, press NO until you see the prompt

PROGRAM RECEIVE? KEY [YES/NO]?_

then press YES. If you currently have collected data still in the TriCoder you will not be allowed to receive. You must delete the data file from the TriCoder before you can accept a clone file.

2. In the TriCoder Utilities, specify the location and name of the file (we suggest using the extension .cln for cloning files.

3. Click the START button in the TriCoder Utilities.

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4. On the TriCoder, press the 0 key to accept a clone file.

5. TriCoder Utilities will let you know when your transmission is

finished. The TriCoder will display the message

END OF PGM RCV HIT ANY KEY_

High Speed USB Downloads

If you are downloading from your computer to your TriCoder via the High Speed USB interface, the only thing you need to do on your TriCoder is make sure it is set for High Speed USB and turn it on! The TriCoder Utilities program will take care of the rest!

Program File Downloads

1. Make sure you are connected to the USB cable and that your

TriCoder is on.

2. Start TriCoder Utilities if it isn't already running.

3. Click the TriCoder Download tab

4. The left panel is showing you your computer files. Find the folder

and file name of the program you want to download in the left panel and click to highlight it.

5. Choose the program file in the right panel (these are the programs

already in your TriCoder) that you want to replace

6. Click on the arrow between the panels. That's it!

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Table Downloads

1. Again, make sure you are connected to the USB cable and that your TriCoder is turned on.

2. Start the TriCoder Utilities if it isn't already running.

3. Your TriCoder memory must already be partitioned to accept a table file. If it is not, click on Tools, then TriCoder Setup. Click the Partitions tab, set the partitions and then click OK.

4. Click the TriCoder Download tab.

5. The left panel is showing you the files on your computer. Find the folder and file name of the table you want to download in the left panel and click to highlight it (we recommend using the file extension .tbl for table files).

6. Click on the table in the right panel that you want to download to (if you partitioned for just one table, you will only see one choice).

7. Click on the arrow between the panels and you are done!

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Chapter 8

Creating a custom program

You can create a program in the TriCoder to prompt the operator for anything. You can tell the operator what to do next, notify them of errors, date and time stamp the data or review and edit previous data. The TriCoder has room for 4 programs; program #0 is fixed and cannot be changed or deleted, program #1 is editable and prompts for item and quantity, program #2 is based on Program #0 but with some editing allowed and #3 is not pre-set and can be programmed by the user as desired.

Programs are constructed of statements, with each program capable of containing up to 97 statements. Statements determine what happens at each step of the program - one statement might prompt the user to enter data, another statement may add a date stamp. Statements in turn are constructed of fields, each one determining certain properties of the statement.

Programs can be created on the TriCoder itself or created on your computer (if you have Windows) and downloaded to the TriCoder via serial or USB. The remainder of this chapter is directed towards programming the TriCoder itself; if after completing this chapter you decide you want to create programs on your PC, go to Chapter 9; Creating programs on your computer for details.

We have provided a form to help you chart out programs before they are entered into the TriCoder. TriCoder Coding Forms can be found at the very back of the manual. We will also use sections of the TriCoder Coding Form to illustrate coding of certain features. You may find it helpful to have a TriCoder Coding Form in front of you while using this section of the manual.

If you are using KwikAsset™...

If you are using the KwikAsset™ program, do NOT program your TriCoder according to the instructions here. The KwikAsset™ program itself will generate your program and download it to your TriCoder. See the KwikAsset™ manual for more information.

Program Statements

The following information is provided in the order in which it is referenced in the TriCoder when creating a program. To create a program in the TriCoder, the first thing that has to happen is to get the TriCoder into PROGRAMMING mode. After turning on the TriCoder, press NO in response to all of the prompts until you see:

PROGRAMMING MODE? KEY [YES/NO]?_

If you were in NON PORTABLE mode when you turned on the TriCoder, press F1, then answer NO to all prompts until you see the PROGRAMMING MODE? prompt.

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Press YES at the PROGRAMMING MODE? prompt, then enter the password, WDTRI to get to the Programming Menu. Entering the password incorrectly generates the message:

INCORRECT PASSWORD HIT ANY KEY_

Entering the password incorrectly 2 times generates the following message:

ACCESS DENIED HIT ANY KEY_

At this point, you will be returned to the Mode Menu to start again. If you have entered the password correctly, you see the PROGRAM FUNCTION menu:

Create Programs ------>1-3 Voice --> 4 Setup --> 5

Automation --

------------> 7

Data File Names--------> 6

Press the number of the program you wish to create; 1,2, or 3. The TriCoder then displays:

EDIT PROGRAM x?

(x is 1, 2, or 3)

KEY [YES/NO]

Press YES. If you press NO, the TriCoder asks if you want to delete the program. Use this to delete an existing program and create a new one in its place. After answering YES to the EDIT PROGRAM prompt, the TriCoder is ready to create a program.

Parts of the TriCoder programming screen

Before you start programming the TriCoder, it helps to know what the TriCoder is asking you at each step. The text below is an example of what you see on the TriCoder screen when creating a program.

PROMPT 01 _

The word PROMPT describes what field in the program statement you are working on; in the example above we are at the Prompt Text field.

The 01 tells us what statement number we are working on. In the example, we are working on statement #01. If we were working on statement #03, the text would look like this:

PROMPT 03 _

The cursor beneath the word PROMPT is waiting for input. In our example above, we would then type the text we want to use for our user prompt for statement #03.

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The remainder of this chapter will explain each step in creating program statements. They are described in the order that they appear when programming the TriCoder.

• Program Name

The first prompt the TriCoder displays when creating a program is the PROGRAM NAME prompt. The PROGRAM NAME entered at this prompt will be used to identify the program in the DATA COLLECTION menu. The PROGRAM NAME can consist of alphanumeric data and can be up to 20 characters.

The PROGRAM NAME prompt has another function besides simply naming the program. When collecting data, programs usually start with statement #1, or if data has already been collected, it starts at the statement number where the user left off. You can force the TriCoder to ALWAYS start at a particular statement number whether starting a new data file or resuming collection in an existing one. This is done using the first 3 characters in the PROGRAM NAME prompt. The first character must be ~, followed by the two digit statement number you want to start with. You can then follow with an actual program name if you want to. This feature can cause partial data records since resuming data collection after some data has been collected may start at a statement number other than where you left off. Because of possible partial records, the host program that processes this data needs to handle the partial records in a special way or ignore them completely. The following example shows a program named INVENTORY that always starts at statement #4:

PROGRAM NAME? ~04INVENTORY

This example shows a program named RECEIVING:

PROGRAM NAME? RECEIVING

This program starts with statement #1 if the data file is empty. If you are resuming a previous data collection and you still have data present (you didn’t upload and delete your data file), the program will resume at the statement number following the statement at which the user last entered data.

• Statement Entry Types

The next prompt in the program process is the ENTRY TYPE prompt. This prompt determines what type of data is entered for this statement. This is the most important prompt as it deter-mines exactly what happens at this step in the program. After entering a name at the PROGRAM NAME prompt, you see:

ENTRY TYPE 01 _

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These are the Statement Entry types available:

Statement Entry Type Code used for TriCoder Coding Form

Data D Branch B Question Q Date and Time Stamp S Time Stamp only T Date Stamp only Y Xtra X None N Data AND Immediate Output O Compare C Printer Output P Arithmetic A

Details on each Statement Entry Type are as follows:

Data

Data entry prompts are program statements that prompt the operator to enter data for storage in memory. A typical Data Statement would be prompting the operator for an Item Number or a Quantity. This is the most commonly used statement type.

A program statement used to enter data looks like this:

ENTRY TYPE 01 D_

The previous example indicates a Statement Entry Type of Data for statement #01.

Branch

A branch statement allows the program to jump to anywhere between 1 and 15 different statements depending on the character entered at the branch prompt. The data entered at a branch statement is not saved to memory; it simply acts as a pointer, directing the program to the appropriate statement. When creating a branch statement, the programmer will only see 3 program statement fields; ENTRY TYPE, PROMPT and STMT TO BRANCH.

The ENTRY TYPE for a branch statement should look like this:

ENTRY TYPE 01 B_

The next field is the PROMPT field. This field is the prompt text that the user will see when executing the branch statement. This is an example of a PROMPT field for a branch statement:

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PROMPT 01 TRANSACTION?_

The final field for a branch statement is the STMT TO BRANCH field. This field tells the program what statements to go to when particular characters are entered. At this point you can enter up to 15 groups of 3 digit codes for a total of 45 characters.

• The first character in each 3 digit code is the conditional character;

this is the character that determines the branch when entered. The * character is used to mean any character other than the conditional characters already specified.

• The next 2 characters in the 3 digit code determine which

statement to go to when the conditional character is entered.

For example, lets say you wanted the following branches to happen:

Go to statement 18 if an R is keyed/scanned Go to statement 34 if a 5 is keyed/scanned Go to statement 02 if anything else is keyed/scanned

The STMT TO BRANCH field would look like this:

STMT TO BRANCH 01 R18534*02_

Question

A question statement creates a program prompt that the user answers YES or NO to. Data is not stored to memory for this type of statement; a YES answer directs the program to one statement number while a NO answer directs the program to another statement number. The question statement is answered by pressing the YES or NO key on the TriCoder keypad.

When creating a question statement, the programmer will only see 5 program statement fields; ENTRY TYPE, PROMPT, VOICE MESSAGES, YES/NEXT STMT and NO/END STMT. The ENTRY TYPE prompt for a question statement looks like this:

ENTRY TYPE 01 Q_

The PROMPT field determines what the user sees on the display screen for this field. Here is an example of a PROMPT field for a question statement:

PROMPT 01 DAMAGED GOODS?_

The MESSAGE NUMBER field defines the voice messages you want to play for this statement.

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MESSAGE NUMBERS 01 0200_

The next field prompt, the YES/NEXT STMT prompt, determines which statement the YES key takes the program to. For example, if we wanted the program to jump to statement #05 if we answer YES to statement #01, the prompt should look like this:

YES/NEXT STMT 01 05_

The NO/END STMT prompt determines where the program goes if the question is answered with the NO key. If we wanted the NO key to take us to statement #03 in the example above, our NO/END STMT prompt should look like this:

NO/END STMT 01 03_

Date and Time Stamp

The Date and Time Stamp statement requires no action from the user. By specifying S as the statement ENTRY TYPE, the TriCoder accesses its internal real-time clock and writes the current date and time information to memory when the program statement is executed. By default, this information is not displayed by the TriCoder when the statement is executed, but it can be displayed simply by entering DIS in the DATA ID field of the program statement.

The default format of the date and time stamp is

MMDDYYHHMM (if USA)

The format can be changed using the Alternative Date Formats setup parameter.

If you want to add seconds to the time portion of the Date and Time stamp, use s instead of S.

ENTRY TYPE 01 s_

The Date and Time Stamp statement uses only 3 programming statement fields; ENTRY TYPE, DATA ID and YES/NEXT STMT.

Time Stamp

The Time Stamp statement type records only the time information to memory in the HHMM format. Just as with the Date and Time Stamp statement, using DIS in the DATA ID field will display the time information on the TriCoder screen when the statement is executed. Use t

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instead of T to record seconds in addition to the hours and minutes:

ENTRY TYPE 01 t_

The Time Stamp statement uses the same program fields as the Date and Time Stamp statement.

Date Stamp

The Date Stamp statement stores only the date information in a MMDDYY format. As in the other Date/Time stamp statements, using DIS in the DATA ID field will display the Date information on the TriCoder when the statement is executed. The date format can be changed using the Alternative Date Format settings in the TriCoder setup.

ENTRY TYPE 01 Y_

The Date Stamp statement uses the same program fields as the other Date and Time Stamp statements.

Xtra

The Xtra Statement works with the "ENTER QUANTITY" prompt by automatically entering a quantity of “1” if the user enters another Item number instead of a quantity. The user has the option of entering an actual quantity if it is more than “1”. Using this feature in Program #1 is a good way to demonstrate its value. The XTRA Statement must be set before you begin your data collection. To use the XTRA Statement, three things must happen:

1. The statement type for the “ENTER QUANTITY” prompt must be

“X” (Xtra)

2. The maximum data length of the “ENTER QUANTITY”

statement must be less than the minimum data length for the next statement to be executed - in program #1, the next statement to be executed is the “ENTER ITEM NO.” statement.

3. The length of the data entered at the “ENTER QUANTITY”

prompt must be between the minimum data length and the maximum data length of the next statement to be executed (ITEM in program #1).

Using Program #1 as an example: If the number of characters entered at the “ENTER QUANTITY” prompt is

less than the minimum data length of the “ENTER ITEM NO.” prompt, then the data entered is stored as the quantity.

If the number of characters entered at the “ENTER QUANTITY” prompt is between the maximum data length and the minimum data length for the

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“ENTER ITEM NO.” prompt, then a “1” is stored as the data for the “ENTER QUANTITY” and the data entered at the “ENTER QUANTITY” prompt is stored as the data for the “ENTER ITEM NO.” prompt. If it seems confusing, use the following TriCoder Coding Form as an example:

Stmt # Entry Type Prompt Min Data Len Max Data Len Next Stmt

01 D

ENTER ITEM NO.

06 13 02

02 X

ENTER QUANTITY

01 04 01

While collecting data using the program shown above, if data between 6 and 12 digits in length is scanned or entered at the “ENTER QUANTITY” prompt, data of "1" is automatically entered. In other words, if you continually scan your item numbers (as long as they are all between 6 and 12 digits in length) you will automatically enter a quantity of 1 for each item. To enter a quantity other than 1, simply enter the quantity by using the keypad, making sure the length of the quantity data does not exceed the maximum data length for the quantity field (4 digits). The very last quantity entered at the end of data collection must be keyed in from the TriCoder keypad, even if it is 1. Also, in order to either scan an item or enter a quantity at this statement, you must change the “Input Type” statement to be blank instead of K or W. This is especially important if you are editing the default Program #1.

If you are using the “selective bar code trimming” feature with the XTRA Statement, the trimming must be specified in both the “DATA Statement” and the “XTRA Statement”. For example, if you wanted to eliminate the leading character on all UPC codes, you would have to specify:

{c1

in both the upload prefix for the DATA Statement (Statement 1 on the example above) and the upload prefix for the XTRA Statement (Statement 2 on the example above). If you do not specify the trimming in both upload prefixes, the trimming will not happen correctly.

None

The None statement entry type is used as a “dummy” statement, recording no data and transmitting only the Upload prefix and suffix. It is typically used as a destination for a branch statement, allowing you to record what action the operator took without recording any data. The program goes on without any input from the operator.

To illustrate it’s use, lets say that a branch statement (statement #3) goes to statement #04 (None statement) if the operator enters the letter A.

ENTRY TYPE 04 N_

Even though the operator enters the letter A at statement #3, the A will not be written to memory and uploaded because branch statements record no

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data. What if your application requires the A as part of its data? By making statement #04 a None statement and entering an A as the upload prefix or suffix, an A will upload as the data for statement #04.

UPLOAD PREFIX 04 A_

The None statement can also be used to add more than 15 characters to an upload prefix or upload suffix when using refer-backs – many times 15 characters is not enough. See Upload Prefix in this chapter for more information on refer-back (appending data to another field) programming.

Data AND Immediate Output

The Data AND Immediate Output statement entry type is used when you want to create a regular Data entry prompt (see Data) where the data is stored in memory but also want the data to be output immediately (like NON PORTABLE mode) as well. The TriCoder must be connected to the computer for the Immediate Output portion of this statement type to work. An example of using this type of statement would be if you want to collect sales invoice data in the TriCoder (to later upload and update your inventory) but want to also transmit data immediately to the computer to create the actual invoice itself. You would be scanning directly into your invoice software while saving the same data in the TriCoder to upload later for inventory management.

Compare

The Compare statement will compare the data collected in that statement against data collected in a previous statement and take you to a new statement dependent upon whether the data in the two compared statements matched. The statement to compare to is referenced in the Data ID field. For example, you could enter data in statement 1, then in statement 2, enter new data. then compare that data to the data in statement 1. If the data matches, you could move on to statement 3; if it doesn't match, you could have it take you back to statement 1. An example of an application might be a pharmacy - where you would want to verify that the correct drug is being dispensed into the correct customer vial. Coding for this statement might look like this:

Stmnt # Type

Prompt

Freq. Voice

Msg.

Data ID Min. Len Max Len. Yes/Next No/End

1 D Scan 1st Item A 41 02 09 2 C Scan 2nd Item A 42 01 01 03 3 D Not Equal, Press Enter A 62 00 01 01 00

According to the example, data scanned in statement 2 is compared to the data scanned in statement 1. If the two items match, the operator is taken back to statement 1 to scan the next item. If the items do not match, the operator is taken to statement 3, where an voice error message is played and the operator is instructed to press the ENTER key. Upon pressing the ENTER key, the operator is taken back to statement 1 and it starts over.

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Even if compared data is wrong, it is still written to the data file for upload, so an audit trail is available to see where errors occured.

Printer Output

The TriCoder supports output to the Zebra QL320 or Cameo portable label printer using the P statement (

TriCoder must have board revision level H - level

G can be upgraded - contact Worth Data

). Using the LabelVista* software included with the Zebra printer, design a label format, identify the fixed and variable fields and download it to the QL320 or Cameo printer via USB using the TriCoder Utilities program. The printer is capable of holding several different label file formats, each one identified by filename.

The P statement is then used to:

a) reference by filename the label format file in the printer, and b) provide data for the variable fields designated in the label format

file. The P statement is limited to 70 characters and refer-backs (see page 4-11) can be used.

The P statement for a label using the filename "myfile" with 3 variable fields would look as follows (the

(space) indicates an actual space character):

(space)UF(space)myfile.fmtCRLFdata1CRLFdata2CRLFdata3

CR and LF are scanned from the Full ASCII Menu and the filename must end with ".fmt". No CRLF is required after the last data item. The TriCoder will do it for you. Here is a program example using refer-backs

Stmnt # Type Prompt Min. Len. Max Len. Yes/Next No/End

1 D Scan Item Number 1 10 02 09 2 D Scan price 1 10 03 99 3 D Scan location 1 10 04 99 4 P

! UF myfile.fmtCRLR}1CRLF}2CRLF}3

01 99

* For details on creating label formats and specific commands for the printer, see the Zebra CD that comes with the QL320 or Cameo printers. If you do not have a label format, you can utilize line printing by leaving out the ! UF myfile.fmt portion of the command.

Arithmatic

The TriCoder has the ability to act as a simple calculator, performing addition, subtraction and multiplication (no division). The "A" statement allows the user to input data (numeric only), press +(add), -(subtract) or *(multiply) and then input another piece of data (again, numeric only). The sum is displayed and the user has two choices; press +, - or * again and enter another number and get a new sum, or press the ENTER key to accept the sum as the final result. Here is an example of data entry for someone who is adding 2 numbers, subtracting a number and accepting a final result:

TriCoder Display User Action

ENTER QUANTITY (program prompt) press 5 + 8, then press ENTER 13 (intermediate sum) press - 4, then press ENTER 9 (final sum) if accepting result as final, press ENTER