Barcode Reader Support and FAQ

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What type of Handheld Scanner should I use?
What's a "Barcode Symbology"?
What's a keyboard wedge interface?
How do I connect the scanner to my PC?
What software do I need for a scanner on my PC?
How do I print barcodes?
What's in a barcode?

What type of Handheld Scanner should I use?
These days we suggest you first consider a CCD or Linear Imager Scanner that you hold above the barcode. Varying models will read from close (say contact to 25mm) to the barcode, to around 200mm from the barcode. You simply position the red Scanner beam on the barcode to read (you may also need to push an ON switch). The Scanner will "beep", flash an LED light, and in some cases vibrate, when it reads the barcode correctly. Generally, the greater the reading distance, the more expensive the Scanner. Hands Free Stands are also available for some Scanners, allowing an item to be brought to the Scanner, rather than the Scanner to the item. Both CCD and Linear Imager Scanners are "solid state" (no moving parts) making them very reliable.

The next step up is a Laser Scanner. These read at a distance, and emit a fine bright red scan light that makes them easy to align to a barcode. There are circumstances where the Laser will be easier to use, and accordingly the best choice, even though it will cost a little more than a Linear Imager. Hands Free Stands are also available for this class of Scanner.

Finally, there will be applications where an older style, pencil-like Wand Scanner will be best. Typically these are applications where one barcode amongst many must be scanned. The Wand is designed to make physical contact with the barcode as it is "swiped" across it. This makes it easy to chose only the barcode that has to be scanned.

If you have any doubts on your most appropriate choice, give us a call, we're very friendly.
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What's a "Barcode Symbology"?
Over the years a number of different types of barcodes, or "symbologies" have been developed for various applications. Each of these types has its strengths and weaknesses, and specific rules about its construction. A Barcode Decoder is programmed to "decode" these rules when it reads a barcode so that the output is the ASCII characters that the barcode symbol was intended to represent. An example is the supermarket codes called UPC in the USA, APN in Australia, JAN in Japan, and EAN in Europe. These are all numeric only codes related to each other. They allow identification of the country and manufacturer. Code 128 can represent numbers, letters, and even control characters. Code 39 can represent numbers and letters, and is common in libraries.

ASP will be happy to assist you with make the most appropriate choice of symbology.
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What's a keyboard wedge interface?
The simplest and commonest way of interfacing or physically connecting devices so that they can talk to each other. With scanners it's done by connecting one to a PC and its keyboard.
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How do I connect the scanner to my PC?
ASP's BarCode Zappers with Keyboard Wedge interfaces are fitted with a universal AT/pC-PS2 "Y-shaped" cable. One end of this cable is plugged into the keyboard cable connector and the other into the PC'S keyboard port. Our USB interface Scanners simply plug into your PC's USB port.
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What software do I need for a scanner on my PC?
None if common interfaces such as Keyboard Wedge or USB, are used, as the PC is "tricked" into seeing and barcode scan as keystrokes. If you need to use a less common interface such as RS232, ASP's ASPKey+ Utility Program can likewise trick your PC into thinking barcode scans have been typed in. If unsure please contact us for further advice.
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How do I print barcodes?
You have several choices. If you need to produce runs of sticky barcode labels we recommend ASP's Label+, a program for you for your PC that allows you print barcodes with your laser (best) or inkjet (adequate) printer. Use the program in conjunction with ASP's range of special die-cut peel and stick label sheets. If you need to print barcodes within documents, use one of ASP's range TrueType Barcode Fonts. Finally, if your needs are more "industrial", ASP has a great range of reliable dedicated Barcode Label Printers using Thermal Transfer and Direct Thermal technology. As ever, give us a call to discuss your application, and we'll be happy to advise.
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What's in a barcode?
Information which is encoded in its white spaces and black bars. These are decoded by a scanner's engine or decoder according to preset rules, sent to the PC and appear as text at your monitor.
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