Worth Data 5000 User Manual

0 (0)

5000 TriCoder™

Portab le Dat a Col lector

A batter y operat ed

Portable Bat ch

Reader with Voice

Messa ges for PC,

Mac, etc.

www.worthdata.com

Owner’ s Man ual

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.

PROPOSITION 65 WARNING: This product, its packaging, and/or components may contain chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer or birth defects or other reproductive harm

Certain models of this product have a laser scanner integrated with it as one unit. The laser used is a CDRH IEC Class II Laser Product and has a 1.2 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™, or the Trigger on the Handle. 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” or the Trigger is 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:

There are no user adjustments or maintenance operations to be performed on the integrated laser scanner. Opening the Unit Will Void The Warranty.

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

The LT5000 TriCoder as well as the LZ160, LZ300 and LZ400 Laser Scanners are covered by one or more of the following U.S. Patents:

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	5017765	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

Worth Data, Inc. ● 623 Swift Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 ● 831-458-9938 ● 800-345-4220 www.worthdata.com

© Copyright 2010, All rights reserved This manual contains confidential and proprietary information and is copyrighted. No part of this manual may be photocopied or reproduced in any form without the prior written consent of Worth Data® Inc.

Chapter 1: How to Use this Manual.........................................................................................................................................................	5
Chapter 2: TriCoder Quickstart................................................................................................................................................................	6
Program #0 Quickstart ........................................................................................................................................................................	7
Getting into Data Collection Mode ....................................................................................................................................................	7
Collecting Data ..................................................................................................................................................................................	8
Uploading Data ..................................................................................................................................................................................	9
Program #1 Quickstart ......................................................................................................................................................................	10
Collecting Data ................................................................................................................................................................................	10
Reviewing and Editing Data..............................................................................................................................................................	11
Uploading Data ..................................................................................................................................................................................	13
Tips on choosing a program for Data Collection .............................................................................................................................	13
Chapter 3: Non Portable Mode...............................................................................................................................................................	14
Getting in and out of NON PORTABLE mode ...............................................................................................................................	14
Establishing communication in NON-PORTABLE Mode ..............................................................................................................	14
Chapter 4: Using Integrated Hardware Utilities....................................................................................................................................	16
Full Speed USB Data Upload and PC Serial Interface ...................................................................................................................	16
Windows Users ................................................................................................................................................................................	16
PC Serial Interface ...........................................................................................................................................................................	17
Chapter 5: Uploading Data.....................................................................................................................................................................	19
Uploading into Excel®.......................................................................................................................................................................	19
File Formats........................................................................................................................................................................................	19
Carriage Return Separated Files.......................................................................................................................................................	19
Comma Separated Files ...................................................................................................................................................................	20
Flat File Formats ..............................................................................................................................................................................	21
Uploading the data .............................................................................................................................................................................	22
USB HID Keyboard Upload ............................................................................................................................................................	22
Serial Upload ......................................................................................................................................................................................	23
Chapter 6: TriCoder Connection............................................................................................................................................................	24
USB HID Keyboard Interface – PC and Mac..................................................................................................................................	24
Testing Communication using NON PORTABLE mode ................................................................................................................	24
Serial Interface ...................................................................................................................................................................................	25
Serial Installation on a PC................................................................................................................................................................	25
Chapter 7: Configuring the TriCoder ....................................................................................................................................................	26
Using Setup Mode to change the TriCoder Setup............................................................................................................................	26
PC Serial Interface ...........................................................................................................................................................................	26
Testing Communication using NON PORTABLE mode ................................................................................................................	26
USB HID Keyboard Interface...........................................................................................................................................................	27
Configuring the TriCoder for USB HID Keyboard .........................................................................................................................	27
Chapter 8: TriCoder Setup .....................................................................................................................................................................	29
Using the keypad to setup the TriCoder ..........................................................................................................................................	29
Using the Hardware Utilities to change Setup Parameters ............................................................................................................	30
TriCoder Setup Parameters ..............................................................................................................................................................	31
Bar Code Setup ................................................................................................................................................................................	32
I/O SETTINGS ................................................................................................................................................................................	36
SPEAKER OPTIONS ......................................................................................................................................................................	42
Laser Options ...................................................................................................................................................................................	42
Date & Time Settings.......................................................................................................................................................................	43
LCD Options....................................................................................................................................................................................	44

Other Settings ..................................................................................................................................................................................	45
System Tools....................................................................................................................................................................................	47
Chapter 9: Using the Integrated Hardware Utilities..............................................................................................................................	48
Installing the Hardware Utilities ......................................................................................................................................................	48
Running the Hardware Utilities program........................................................................................................................................	48
Using the Table Editor.......................................................................................................................................................................	50
Uploading from TriCoder to your Computer..................................................................................................................................	51
Serial Uploading.................................................................................................................................................................................	51
Full Speed USB Uploading ................................................................................................................................................................	53
Downloading from the computer to your TriCoder ...........................................................................................................................	55
Serial Downloads .............................................................................................................................................................................	55
Full Speed USB Downloads ............................................................................................................................................................	56
Chapter 10: Creating a Custom Program ..............................................................................................................................................	57
Using KwikInventory™...................................................................................................................................................................	57
Program Statements ..........................................................................................................................................................................	57
Program Name ...................................................................................................................................................................................	58
Programming .....................................................................................................................................................................................	59
Parts of the TriCoder programming screen ......................................................................................................................................	59
Finishing and checking your program .............................................................................................................................................	73
Reviewing and Modifying programs ................................................................................................................................................	74
Chapter 11: Creating TriCoder Programs on your Windows PC..........................................................................................................	75
Chapter 12: Voice Messages...................................................................................................................................................................	78
Why Use Voice Messages and Prompts?..........................................................................................................................................	78
Tips for Using Voice Prompts ...........................................................................................................................................................	78
TriCoder's Voice Message Mapping ................................................................................................................................................	78
Accessing Voice Message Operations ...............................................................................................................................................	78
Recording and Playback of Voice Messages ....................................................................................................................................	79
Voice Message Options ......................................................................................................................................................................	79
Default Voice Messages .....................................................................................................................................................................	80
Cloning Voice Messages from TriCoder to TriCoder.....................................................................................................................	80
Chapter 13: Tables ..................................................................................................................................................................................	81
Why Use Tables?................................................................................................................................................................................	81
Downloading a table to the TriCoder...............................................................................................................................................	82
Chapter 14: Troubleshooting..................................................................................................................................................................	83
Display and Error Messages .............................................................................................................................................................	83
General Troubleshooting...................................................................................................................................................................	86
USB troubleshooting (for Windows Users) ......................................................................................................................................	88
Serial mode troubleshooting .............................................................................................................................................................	89
Program troubleshooting ..................................................................................................................................................................	90
Error messages for special consideration ........................................................................................................................................	90
Planning for success… .......................................................................................................................................................................	91
If you have a problem… ....................................................................................................................................................................	91
Chapter 15: Fail-safe Re-initialization Procedure.................................................................................................................................	92

Chapter 16: Powering the TriCoder .......................................................................................................................................................	93
Turning the TriCoder ON and OFF.................................................................................................................................................	93
Battery Power and Wall Power ........................................................................................................................................................	93
To change the Li-ion battery:...........................................................................................................................................................	94
Storing the TriCoder .........................................................................................................................................................................	94
Chapter 17: Firmware Upgrades............................................................................................................................................................	95
Failsafe Firmware Update.................................................................................................................................................................	98
Appendix A: How to scan a bar code .....................................................................................................................................................	99
Appendix B: Laser Scanner Options ....................................................................................................................................................	100
Special Laser Settings ....................................................................................................................................................................	100
Appendix C: Cable Pin-outs .................................................................................................................................................................	101
Appendix D: Optional Features............................................................................................................................................................	103
Appendix E: USB Driver Installation Recovery ..................................................................................................................................	104
Resolving incomplete, aborted, or incorrect FULL SPEED driver installation .........................................................................	104
Manually Updating TriCoder High Speed USB Driver on Windows 7, Vista, & XP ...................................................................	104
Manually Updating TriCoder High Speed USB Driver on Windows 2000 ...................................................................................	104
Manually Updating Tricoder USB Driver on Windows 98/Me .....................................................................................................	105
Resolving incomplete, aborted or incorrect HID driver installation...........................................................................................	106
Windows 7, Vista & XP: ...............................................................................................................................................................	106
Win98/ME: ....................................................................................................................................................................................	106
Win2000: .......................................................................................................................................................................................	106
Appendix F: Specifications for Code 39...............................................................................................................................................	107
Code 39 Advanced Features and Functions...................................................................................................................................	108
Special key sequences for USB .....................................................................................................................................................	111
Appendix G: Code 128 Specifications ..................................................................................................................................................	114
Appendix H: Interleaved 2 of 5 Code ...................................................................................................................................................	115
Appendix I: UPC Specifications ...........................................................................................................................................................	116
ISBN Specifications.......................................................................................................................................................................	116
The UPC/EAN checksum character ...............................................................................................................................................	117
Checksum calculation for UPC-A, EAN-13 and EAN-8 ...............................................................................................................	117
UPC-E Checksum Calculation.......................................................................................................................................................	118
Appendix J: Codabar Specifications ....................................................................................................................................................	119
Codabar start/stop transmission .....................................................................................................................................................	119
Appendix K: MSI/Plessey Specifications .............................................................................................................................................	120
The MSI Mod 10 check digit is calculated as follows: ..................................................................................................................	120
The MSI Mod 11 check digit is calculated as follows: ..................................................................................................................	120
Appendix L: Code 93 Specifications.....................................................................................................................................................	121
Appendix M: ASCII Code Equivalent Table........................................................................................................................................	122
Appendix N: RS-422 .............................................................................................................................................................................	123

TriCoder Coding Form_____________________________________________________________________________________ 124

Full Ascii Menu__________________________________________________________________________________________ 125

REVISION 7-2010

Chapter 1: 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 frequently used in NON PORTABLE mode as a fixed reader for library and POS applications. NON PORTABLE mode is most useful for testing communication before beginning data collection. Chapter 3: Non Portable Mode covers all areas of fixed use.

The remainder of the manual is a reference guide. Chapters 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 of the CONNECTION AND SETUP section provide details on configuring the TriCoder as well as the actual hardware connections.

If you need use some of the advanced programming features of the TriCoder, Chapters 10 and 11 of the manual details usage of such features as Xtra Statements, Voice Messaging, and Data Identifiers.

Chapters 11-13 of the manual describe Voice Messaging, Transmitting and Receiving programs, and uploading Lookup Tables.

The TROUBLESHOOTING section provides reference for error messages, solving problems and details on how to reach Worth Data.

The APPENDIXES offers bar code specifications and other useful information.

Chapter 2: 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 upload (you need delays), see Program #2. It is identical to program #0 but allows editing of the Upload Prefix and Suffix. See Chapter 10; 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 both serially and via USB HID keyboard. Includes installation instructions for the Hardware Utilities program

Uploading Data

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

Program #0 Quickstart

Step

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 your unit is fully charged), getting into DATA COLLECTION mode and choosing Program #0.

1. Turn on the TriCoder by pressing the power key.

2.The TriCoder will power up and display its opening screen:

3.Press the number on the TriCoder keypad to select DATA COLLECTION MODE.

4.Press on the TriCoder keypad to select the Default Program #0.

PROGRAM NAMES
DEFAULT PROGRAM ----------	0
SAMPLE PROGRAM ------------	1
ENTER DATA ----------------------	2
PROGRAM #3 ---------------------	3
SELECT PROGRAM # 0-3: _

( new data entry prompt)

( 2nd data entry prompt)

Step

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 B: 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 SELECT PROGRAM # 0-3 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

00002 ( 2nd piece of data entered)

ENTER DATA

Continue to scan the sample bar codes below 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.

01 02

03						04


05						06


07						08

Uploading Data

Step

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 5; Uploading Data and proceed with your upload.

Step 2

Program #1 Quickstart

Step

Sample 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 Sample 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 Sample Program #1 requires two pieces of data; an item and a quantity. By default, Sample 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 10: Creating a custom program or Chapter 12:

Voice Messaging for details.

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

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:

7:><= ;78:7

:>=;8

:9675

;>=:;

855:7 5

67=>:

: 78;:9

Press SHIFT

Press

Press T

Remember, the only thing SHIFT F1 T can do is simply tell you how many times you have entered data for a particular prompt.

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 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


Step		During or after collecting data, it is possible to review and edit the data while it is still in the TriCoder. You can also
Step		delete data entirely. Data Review Mode is a handy tool – especially if you know you‟ve made a mistake and want to
3
3		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 prompt:

ENTER DATA

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 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 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 (ie. 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 (ie. 22345, 32245, 34522).

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 BATTERY: ------ xx% xxxK BYTES FREE

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 Main 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 Main Menu.

Step

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 5: Uploading Data and proceed with your upload.

Tips on choosing a program for Data Collection

The TriCoder comes with 3 programs pre-installed. Default Program #0 is a simple un-editable program prompting repeatedly for an “ENTER ITEM”. “ENTER DATA” Program #2 is identical to Program #0 except that it allows for customization (ie. the Upload Prefix and Upload Suffix). See Chapter 10: Creating a custom program for details on what the Upload Prefix and Upload Suffix can do for you.

Sample Program #1 differs from Program #0 and #2 in that it has two prompts - "ENTER ITEM NO." and then "ENTER QUANTITY". Sample Program #1 is also fully editable and lends itself well to the use of several features in particular. Two of these features are there to protect your data.

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 8: TriCoder Setup.

Another useful programming feature, 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. See Chapter 10: 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. Chapter 10: Creating a custom program covers all aspects of creating and maintaining custom programs in the TriCoder.

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 memory. Once data is entered via scanning a bar code or using the keypad, it is transmitted immediately by the TriCoder to the host. This mode is primarily used with the USB interface connecting as a USB HID keyboard on a PC running Windows® or Mac OS. You can use the TriCoder with a serial cable and also transmit to a COM port on a PC (use PortKey if you want keyboard emulation). NON PORTABLE mode is used to enter data directly into an application without storing it in memory. 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 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 Main Menu. The Main Menu is your navigational tool for getting into and out of the different activities in the TriCoder. The Main Menu consists of the following prompts:

Answering 1-5 takes you to that Mode. If you are already in a particular Mode (i.e. NON-PORTABLE MODE) and want to get back to the Main Menu, simply press the key.

If you are in NON PORTABLE mode and turn the TriCoder off, when you turn the TriCoder back on you will return to the Main Menu.

If you want to leave NON PORTABLE mode, simply press the 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 a USB cable or a RS232 serial cable. See Chapter 6: TriCoder Connection, for more information and diagrams to help you correctly connect the TriCoder to your computer.

Establishing communication in NON-PORTABLE Mode

USB HID Keyboard Interface

To test communication as a USB HID keyboard, all you need is a program capable of accepting data from the keyboard – for example, Windows Notepad or WordPad. Typically, most applications work this way but for testing, a simple text editor (Notepad) or word processor is all that is needed. 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.

First Time USB Use

As shipped from the factory the I/O Setting or Computer Interface on the TriCoder is set for USB Full Speed. Unless you have changed it, 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 Full Speed

2 - PC OR MAC USB HID KEYBOARD

If you have a Mac, you must choose 2. You are then limited to NON-PORTABLE Mode and Data Upload as USB HID Keyboard.

If you are using Windows® 7, Vista, XP, 2000, ME, or 98SE and you wish to upload your files directly into your application through the keyboard, you must choose 2 – PC OR MAC USB HIS KEYBOARD. After specifying 2, depending on the version of Windows you have you may 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 E; USB Driver Installation Recovery for more information.) Data uploads through the USB keyboard will be slower than serial or full speed USB, but you will still be able to use the USB Full Speed program uploads/downloads, firmware upgrades, voice updates, and table downloads; however the first time you attempt a full speed USB operation, you will be required to install another driver for full speed support, TriCoder USB Drivers (trcdr.inf, trcdramd32.cat, trcdramd64.cat), which are supplied on your Utilities CD-ROM, (also on our website, http://www.barcodehq.com under Downloads).

IMPORTANT: If you are installing the TriCoder in Windows Vista or 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 or make your system unstable – go ahead and complete the installation. If you are installing on Windows 7 you may see a box that says “Unknown Hardware Found”. You must click on this balloon message to initiate the installation of the correct USB driver – or you will have to go into your control panel and update the USB Driver manually.

If you are using Windows and you wish to use the Integrated Hardware Utilities to upload data to a file in full speed USB, choose 1. You will also be able to do program uploads/downloads, firmware upgrades, voice downloads, and table downloads. Once you have chosen this setting, you will be required to install the full speed TriCoder USB drivers that are supplied on your Utilities CD-ROM, (also on our website, http://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 CDROM.

Whatever decision you make, the TriCoder I/O Settings parameter for HOST will be changed to reflect your choice. Your choice will remain until you change the USB Interface, (See Chapter 8: TriCoder Setup).

1.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).

2.Turn the TriCoder on and at the Main Menu (opening screen) press the 3 key to enter NON PORTABLE mode. If you have already connected the TriCoder to your computer in the Full Speed USB mode, 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.

Chapter 4: Using Integrated Hardware Utilities

Full Speed 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 Integrated Hardware Utilities program that is shipped with TriCoder on the Utilities 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 Integrated Hardware Utilities program by inserting the Utilities 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 your CD-ROM drive is not D:) then click on OK. Follow the directions on your screen to install the program.

2.After installing the Windows Hardware Utilities program, make sure your TriCoder is connected and turned on, then run the program by clicking on the Hardware Utilities icon in your Windows Start Menu.

3.If you are connected to the USB port, the Hardware 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 Serial Settings Tab, choose the port type and then set the corresponding RS-232 settings for your serial port.

4.Start the software you are going to use to test the TriCoder. We recommend a text editor or word processor; make sure to start with a new blank document.

5.Turn the TriCoder on. Press the “3” key on the TriCoder keypad 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 Host USB Cable, Hit Any Key or F1 to Exit

or F2 for Display Only

If you simply want to view data on the TriCoder screen and NOT transmit data to the computer, press If you want to exit Non Portable Mode, press If you want to communicate to the computer, connect your C22 USB cable to the TriCoder I/O Port and to your computer and press any key.

The TriCoder now displays:

NONPORTABLE MODE

PRESS <F1> TO EXIT

and is ready and waiting for keypad input or scanner input.

Scan the TEST LABEL above. You should see the word TEST LABEL (or data you entered on the keypad) on the TriCoder screen AND on your computer screen. If you are not using the TriCoder with a bar code scanner, type several numbers on the TriCoder keypad, then press the ENTER key.

If you do NOT see your data displayed on your computer screen, or you see partial data (letters or numbers missing), go to Chapter 8:

TriCoder Setup and review the Computer Interface settings.

PC Serial Interface

Testing communication between a serial interface TriCoder and a PC needs some kind of software to read the serial port. Windows users should use the Integrated Hardware Utilities program that comes on the Utilities CD-ROM shipped with every TriCoder.

Windows Users

Install the Integrated Hardware Utilities program by inserting the Worth Data Hardware Utilities CD-ROM in your computer and clicking on Start when the installation dialog appears, then choosing Run. If not, click on Start, then choose Run. Type in D:/setup.exe (substitute your drive letter if your CD-ROM Drive is not D:) then click on OK. Follow the directions on your screen to install the software.

After installing the Integrated Hardware Utilities program, run the program by clicking on the Integrated Hardware Utilities icon. After the program is up and running, click on the tab labeled TriCoder, then click on “TriCoder Manager”, then click on the Serial Tab to switch to the Serial Configuration settings.

Choose the correct serial port - COM1, COM2, COM3 or COM4. The default Baud Rate is 9600, the Parity is None, the Data Bits are 8, and the Stop Bits are 1. These are the default settings in the TriCoder also. For testing purposes, it is best to work with the default settings.

Hardware Utilities Serial Settings

Once the serial port configuration is finished, 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.

Hardware Utilities Serial Port Test Screen

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 Integrated Hardware 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.

Chapter 5: 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 Default Program #0 or Sample 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. By default, the TriCoder transmits it‟s 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.

Uploading into Excel®

If you are planning to upload your data into an Excel worksheet, you should 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.

KwikCount/EX is free with any TriCoder purchase and is available on the Utilities CD-ROM that came with your TriCoder. You can also find more information on KwikCount/EX at http://www.barcodehq.com/kwikcountex.html.

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; 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 separaters (see the example below). At the end of 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 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

To Change the Terminator Character in SETUP MODE.

Turn the TriCoder On

Select #5 for SETUP MODE

From the TRICODER SETUP screen choose 2 for I/O SETTINGS

Choose 2 to cycle through the TERMINATOR CHAR options

CR Is the default – The options are: CR – TAB – NONE – CR/LF

Press 0 for DONE/EXIT When you have selected NONE

Press 0 to exit TRICODER SETUP

The Terminator Character follows each piece of data in Non Portable Mode also. If you change it to NONE and still need a CR while in Non Portable mode, program the POSTAMBLE setup parameter (in OTHER SETTINGS) to be a CR (carriage return). Use the bar coded Full Ascii Menu to scan: CR (and LF if serial)

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 Prefix and Suffix as follows:

Statement Prompt		Prefix	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 PROGRAMMING MODE screen (to edit program #1)

Press 2 at the PROGRAM #1 screen

This will take you to the < PROGRAM #1 PROMPT 01 > screen

Press ENTER or the down arrow until you move the cursor to the line:

PREFIX -- _

If you have data collected in the TriCoder (assuming you are following the tutorial), you will only be able to change the Upload Prefix or the Upload Suffix. At the PREFIX prompt, scan the “double quote” bar code from the Full Ascii Menu.:

PREFIX -- “_

Press the ENTER key to complete the change. This will move the cursor to:

SUFFIX -- _

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

SUFFIX -- “,_

Press the ENTER key to complete the change.

Press the Right Arrow to go to PROMPT 02. At the prompt scan the “double quote” bar code.

PREFIX -- _

Press ENTER or the down arrow until you move the cursor to the line: Scan the “double quote” bar code, then, scan the “CR” bar code if using the TriCoder as a USB keyboard, or the “CR” and the “LF” if using the TriCoder as a Serial interface:

SUFFIX-- “?_

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

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.

Specifiying 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):

Stmt #	Entry	Prompt	Yes/Next	No/End	Upload	Upload
	Type		Stmt	Stmt	Prefix	Suffix
01	D	Operator Name	02	99	~0
02	D	Enter Item No.	03	99	~0
03	D	Enter Quantity	02	99	}01}02	CR
		Refer-back programming example

The above program would prompt for Operator Name once, then repeatedly prompt for Item, then Quantity, attaching the Operator Name data and the Item data to the front of every quantity upon upload.

If the data for Operator Name entered is WDS, and variable data is entered at each Item and Quantity prompt, the uploaded file would look like this:

Operator	Item #	Quantity		Uploaded data looks like:
Name
WDS	123456	124		WDS123456124
	892938	880		WDS892938880
	345890	3		WDS3458903
	99540	75		WDS9954075
		Flat File sample data
			21

The TriCoder is not limited to uploading using only the three file formats - Carriage Return delimited, Comma delimited and Flat File - described above. By using different characters in the Upload Prefix and Upload Suffix of each program statement, you can create a file in just about any format – the three described above are simply the most commonly used. For more information on using the Upload Prefix and Upload Suffix, see Chapter 10: Creating a custom program in this manual. For the tutorial, use either the

Carriage Return separated or Comma delimited formats.

Uploading the data

DATA UPLOAD mode is used to extract the data collected while in DATA COLLECTION mode. DATA UPLOAD mode uses either USB or Serial interface and requires that you have established communication between the host computer and the TriCoder. Before collecting and uploading large amounts of data, 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, we will describe a USB HID keyboard upload using Windows, then a Serial upload on a PC Serial Port using the Hardware Utilities. DATA UPLOAD is accessed from the Main Menu (opening Screen): Do NOT press 2 until you have your PC ready for the data upload to begin.

USB HID Keyboard Upload

Windows PC Users

To upload in Windows, for purposes of the Tutorial we will use Windows Notepad. If you want to use another Windows text editor or Word Processor, the specifics may vary but the basic upload will be the same.

In Windows, open Notepad (or program of your choice). Plug in your C22 USB Cable to the TriCoder and to a fee port on your PC.

By default, the Terminator Character in the TriCoder 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, at the opening screen press 2 for DATA UPLOAD. If you are ready to upload your data, press the YES key on the TriCoder. Watch the PC 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, 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 (ie. Comma delimited or Flat File formats) go back to the beginning of this chapter and read the section on File Formats. If deleting the data, the TriCoder will display:

ARE YOU SURE?

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 USB Troubleshooting section of this manual.

You can use Notepad (or your program) to save the file if it is data you would like to keep. The file can be saved with any name you want and can have any extension you would like. Common file types saved from notepad are .txt and .csv files.

Serial Upload

Windows Serial PC Users

The Worth Data Hardware Utilities program has the ability to upload the TriCoder via the serial port in addition to USB support. Plug the serial cable into the TriCoder and turn it on.

After installing the Hardware Utilities (see Chapter 3, Non Portable Mode for installation instructions) run the program by clicking on the Hardware Utilities icon in your Start Menu. Once the program is up, click on the Serial Tab.

Port Settings

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 Direction Radio Button From TriCoder. Choose Data File as the “File Type”. Enter the name (and directory path if needed) of the file you want to upload to. Click on the START button to start the program. You must start the upload program before you press 2 on the Main Menu of the TriCoder for Data Upload.

Press the 2 key at the TriCoder Main Menu (opening screen) to begin the upload from the TriCoder. Wait for the TriCoder and the uploading program to indicate that the upload is finished. Close the Hardware 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 10: Creating a custom Program of this manual provides detailed information concerning the more advanced programming features of the TriCoder.

Chapter 6: 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, or the Serial 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 and Serial Interface. If you are using your TriCoder with a USB connection, continue on with the next section. For serial interface, go to page 5-3.

USB HID Keyboard 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:

There are two “Timing” settings for use on older PC‟s and faster modern PC‟s,

In Windows, you have the convenience of HID Keyboard Interface in Non-Portable Mode, but you can still download new firmware releases, upload/download programs, and download tables using the Full Speed USB mode.

With the Full 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 and USB.

The C22 USB I/O Cable is required to connect the 5000 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 only.

Plug the USB end of the C22 cable into the USB port located on the back of the PC or Macintosh. Only one end of the cable fits. Plug the other end of the C22 cable into the I/O port on the bottom of the TriCoder.

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.

Testing Communication using NON PORTABLE mode

To test communication USB HID Keyboard, 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.

Serial Interface

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 Utilities CD-ROM that is included with each TriCoder has a Hardware Utilities program that is extremely useful. 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.

If you ordered the TriCoder with the intent to use it as a serial interface you should have also ordered the C24 9 pin serial cable with your TriCoder. This cable has a 9 pin male RS-232 on one end and our 30pin I/O connector on the other end.

If the host port is female, it‟s not serial port. (Parallel ports are female)

If you have the wrong cable (9 pin cable and you have a 25 pin port) you can get a 9 to 25 serial adapter at your computer store.

The easy part is the connection – simply plug the C24 end of your cable into the open serial port in the back of your computer. Plug the I/O end of the cable into the port on the bottom 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.

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 re-directs it through the keyboard buffer, allowing you to emulate most keys on your keyboard.

The TriCoder comes with the Integrated Hardware Utilities for Windows that allows you to configure your serial port, test your communications, upload data, programs, voice prompts, firmware updates, and tables. The Integrated Hardware Utilities is also the easiest way to test serial communications.

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

Chapter 7: 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 only by setup by going into SETUP MODE from the Main Menu or opening screen.

Using Setup Mode to change the TriCoder Setup

You can only change the Setup Parameters on the TriCoder by going into SETUP MODE from the Main Menu (opening screen option 5). When you enter setup you will see the following screen:

TRICODER SETUP
BAR CODE OPTIONS ----------------	1
I/O SETTINGS --------------------------	2
DATE & TIME SETTINGS -----------	3
SPEAKER SETTINGS ----------------	4
LASER SETTINGS --------------------	5
LCD SETTINGS ------------------------	6
LCD SETTINGS ------------------------	7
OTHER SETTINGS --------------------	8
SYSTEM TOOLS -----------------------	9
DONE/EXIT ------------------------------	0
PLEASE SELECT OPTION: _

At this screen press the NUMBER key on the TriCoder keypad that corresponds to the Setup Parameter you want to change (i.e. I/O SETTINGS = #2). You will then go to another screen with the following options:

I/O SETTINGS
HOST ----------------	SERIAL1
TERMINATOR CHARACTER - CR 2
SINGLE CYCLE UPLOAD	OFF 3
BAUD RATE ------------------	9600 4
PARITY ------------------------	NONE 5
DATA BITS ------------------	8 BITS	6
PROTOCOL ------------------	NONE	7
DONE/EXIT -----------------------------		0
CHANGE SETTING #: _

More than one Setup Parameter can be changed before you exit the setup. Pressing back one step in the Setup Mode; from there choose a new group of settings. Pressing exit SETUP MODE.

while in a Setup Parameter will take you again at the TriCoder Setup Screen will

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 Hardware 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 by the keypad in SETUP MODE. The I/O settings on the TriCoder are:

Setup Parameter	Default	Options
HOST (interface)	SERIAL	SERIAL, HID KEYBOARD, USB FULL SPEED
Baud Rate	9600	2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, 115200
Parity	NONE	None, EVEN, ODD
Data Bits	8	8 BITS, 7 BITS
RS-232 Protocol	NONE	NONE, XON/XOFF, ACK/NAK

I/O Parameters

See Chapter 8: TriCoder Setup for more 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. 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.

USB HID Keyboard Interface

The TriCoder can operate as a USB HID keyboard on both a PC and a Macintosh. A USB cable and Setup configuration change is all that is needed. To install the TriCoder as a USB keyboard, use a cable C22. Use the following procedure and the diagram below to install the TriCoder between the keyboard and computer:

Take the large flat end of the C22 cable and plug it into your TriCoder. Make sure it is fully engaged – you will hear a click. Take the USB end of the C22 cable and plug it in to the back of the computer to any free USB port.

USB Installation on PC

Configuring the TriCoder for USB HID Keyboard

Once the hardware is connected, the next step is to configure the TriCoder and test your communication. The TriCoder Setup Mode allows the user to configure the TriCoder for different Host Interfaces.

Using Setup Mode to change the TriCoder Setup

You can change the Setup Parameters on the TriCoder by going into SETUP MODE from the Main Menu (opening screen option 5). When you enter setup you will see the following screen:

TRICODER SETUP
BAR CODE OPTIONS ----------------	1
I/O SETTINGS --------------------------	2
DATE & TIME SETTINGS -----------	3
SPEAKER SETTINGS ----------------	4
LASER SETTINGS --------------------	5
LCD SETTINGS ------------------------	6
LCD SETTINGS ------------------------	7
OTHER SETTINGS --------------------	8
SYSTEM TOOLS -----------------------	9
DONE/EXIT ------------------------------	0
PLEASE SELECT OPTION: _

At this screen press the NUMBER case key in #2 for I/O SETTINGS.

key on the TriCoder keypad that corresponds to the Setup Parameter you want to change - in this You will then go to another screen with the following options:

I/O SETTINGS
HOST --------------	HID KEYBOARD1
TERMINATOR CHARACTER CR			2
SINGLE CYCLE UPLOAD		OFF 3
BAUD RATE --------------------		9600 4
PARITY ---------------------		NONE 5
DATA BITS ------------------		8 BITS	6
USB ENUMERATION DELAY: 0			7
USB HID SPEED	-------------	FAST 8
USB HID ALT OUTPUT ------		OFF	9
DONE/EXIT ------------------------------			0
CHANGE SETTING #: _
Press the number 1 key on your keypad until you see HID KEYBOARD (as shown above) for HOST. This will configure your
			27

TriCoder for USB HID Keyboard uploads. Pressing the 1 key repeatedly will cycle through the 3 HOST settings.

More than one Setup Parameter can be changed before you exit the setup. Pressing while in a Setup Parameter will take you back one step in the Setup Mode; from there choose a new group of settings. Pressing again at the TriCoder Setup Screen will exit SETUP MODE.

Testing Communication using NON PORTABLE mode

To test communication as a USB HID Keyboard, 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.

There are two special settings to accommodate older computers that may have trouble accepting USB HID Keyboard data from the TriCoder in the default format.

The first setting is a USB ENUMERATION DELAY. This setting is adjustable from 0-9 seconds to delay the data from uploading to the computer until the enumeration is successful. If you are missing data at the very beginning of a file upload you can add a delay to the enumeration to solve this.

The second option is the USB HID SPEED. This setting by default is set to FAST and offers our fastest upload that will work with most modern PC‟s including any computer that runs Windows 7, Vista, or XP. The other option is to set it to SLOW for slower Windows machines that run older Windows versions like 98SE. If your software or computer is having trouble keeping up with the FAST setting you may hear beeps or a screech from the computer after a large number of records have uploaded. With any machine that does this your data may be incorrect or incomplete and you will need to select the SLOW HID Setting for uploading.

In some cases you may need both a USB ENUMERATION DELAY and the SLOW HID SETTING enabled to ensure correct uploading of your data on older PC‟s running old versions of Windows.

There is also a setting for foreign key support that sends all characters to the computer in their ascii key values or “ALT” key sequences. You can change the USB HID ALT OUTPUT from OFF to ON to switch this mode if you are using a foreign keyboard in your Windows setup and your data isn‟t coming across correctly from the TriCoder in HID Keyboard data upload or non portable mode.

An example of this is if you scan a bar code, or key in “A” on the TriCoder, and upload it with your computer keyboard set as a “English - US Keyboard” you will always get an “A” sent to the computer. However, if you choose another language or country keyboard like “French (France)” you may get a different character (e.g. “Q”). By changing the USB HID ALT OUTPUT to OFF the TriCoder will send the correct “ALT” sequence to the computer regardless of your keyboard settings.

Chapter 8: TriCoder Setup

All of the Setup Parameters are changed via the TriCoder keypad using the Setup Mode. You can also send your setup from the Hardware Utilities via USB using the Full Speed USB setup or by a Clone file also sent from the Hardware Utilities.

Using the keypad to setup the TriCoder

You can change the Setup Parameters on the TriCoder by going into SETUP MODE from the Main Menu (opening screen option 5). When you enter setup you will see the following screen:

TRICODER SETUP
BAR CODE OPTIONS ----------------	1
I/O SETTINGS --------------------------	2
DATE & TIME SETTINGS -----------	3
SPEAKER SETTINGS ----------------	4
LASER SETTINGS --------------------	5
LCD SETTINGS ------------------------	6
LCD SETTINGS ------------------------	7
OTHER SETTINGS --------------------	8
SYSTEM TOOLS -----------------------	9
DONE/EXIT ------------------------------	0
PLEASE SELECT OPTION: _

At this screen press the NUMBER key on the TriCoder keypad that corresponds to the Setup Parameter you want to change.

The setup parameters are distributed in the groups as follows:

Menu	Setup	Menu	Setup
Selection	Parameters	Selection	Parameters
BAR CODE	CODE 3 OF 9	LASER OPTIONS	DOUBLE DECODE
OPTIONS	UPC-A EAN13	“5”	4.5 SECOND LASER BEAM
“1”	UPC-E EAN8		AIMING DOT DURATION

	CODE 128
	2 OF 5 CODES	LCD OPTIONS	MASTER BACKGROUND
	CODABAR	“6”	PROMPT BACKGROUND

	MSI/PLESSEY		PROMT TEXT COLOR
	CODE93/CODE11		DATA BACKGD COLOR
	DataBar/RSS/Others		DATA TEXT COLOR
I/O SETTINGS	HOST (I/O Interface)		BRIGHTNESS
”2”	TERMINATOR CHAR		BRIGHTNESS TIMEOUT
	SINGLE CYCLE
	BAUD RATE
	PARITY
	DATA BITS
	RS-232 PROTOCOL
	USB ENUM DELAY
	USB HID SPEED
	USB HID ALT OUTPUT
DATE & TIME	TIME	OTHER SETTINGS	PREAMBLE
SETTINGS	DATE	“7”	POSTAMBLE
“3”	DATE FORMAT		CHARACTERS
“3”	DATE FORMAT		CHARACTERS

	YEAR OUTPUT
	YEAR OUTPUT
	SHUT DOWN TIME	SYSTEM TOOLS	CHARGING FROM USB
	DATE/TIME FORMAT	“8”	PLAY VOICE PROMPT

			LANGUAGE
			RESET SETUP TO DEFAULT

			RESET PROGS & DATA
SPEAKER	BEEP VOLUME		CLEAR DATA FILE(S)
SETTINGS	BEEP TONE		DATA SECURITY
“4”	VOICE VOLUME		FIXED PROGRAM

	KEYPAD TONE		TABLE ALLOWED

To select a particular category, press the corresponding number key on the TriCoder keypad. Once you are in a category it will have a new screen with options for that particular setup for you to change. 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.

Press the key to go back to the category selection screen.

+ 96 hidden pages

Worth Data 5000 User Manual

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: How to Use this Manual

Chapter 2: TriCoder Quickstart

Program #0 Quickstart

Getting into Data Collection Mode

Collecting Data

Uploading Data

Program #1 Quickstart

Collecting Data

Reviewing and Editing Data

Uploading Data

Tips on choosing a program for Data Collection

Chapter 3: Non Portable Mode

Getting in and out of NON PORTABLE mode

Establishing communication in NON-PORTABLE Mode

USB HID Keyboard Interface

First Time USB Use

Chapter 4: Using Integrated Hardware Utilities

Full Speed USB Data Upload and PC Serial Interface

Windows Users

PC Serial Interface

Windows Users

Chapter 5: Uploading Data

Uploading into Excel®

File Formats

Carriage Return Separated Files

Comma Separated Files

Flat File Formats

Uploading the data

USB HID Keyboard Upload

Windows PC Users

Serial Upload

Windows Serial PC Users

Chapter 6: TriCoder Connection

USB HID Keyboard Interface – PC and Mac

Testing Communication using NON PORTABLE mode

Serial Interface

Serial Installation on a PC

Serial Interface Communications Software

Chapter 7: Configuring the TriCoder

Using Setup Mode to change the TriCoder Setup

PC Serial Interface

Testing Communication using NON PORTABLE mode

USB HID Keyboard Interface

Configuring the TriCoder for USB HID Keyboard

Using Setup Mode to change the TriCoder Setup

Testing Communication using NON PORTABLE mode

Chapter 8: TriCoder Setup

Using the keypad to setup the TriCoder