LSI Data & Bar Code Solutions
Bar
Codes
A bar
code works in much the same way as an ordinary flashlight, by reading
the reflected light from a surface, This process begins when a device
directs a light beam through a bar code. The device contains a small
sensory reading element. The sensor detects the light being reflected
back from the bar code, and converts it to electrical energy, and
in then converted to into data.
The
benefits of implementing Bar codes for automated data collection
are very simple: speed and accuracy. It has been proven that entering
Bar-code data is approximately 100 times faster and more accurate
than a manual keyboard entry, which in turn increases the accuracy,
efficiency and productivity of any facilities operations.
PDT
or Portable Data Terminal was specifically designed to bring the Computer to the bar code,
particularly to address the jobs such as Warehouse Management and
Inventory Control. A fully programmable handheld computer is necessary
in such instances.
Selecting
the mode of communications is very important in determining what
end result your operation is attempting to achieve. Collected Data
can be transferred back to the host in one of two ways.
- A
Radio Frequency communication link Ð providing real on-line real
time data uplink. This often requires a more complex connection
to the host which will result in a more costly implementation.
When on-line real time data transfer is required RF is the method
of choice.
- Batch Data Collection is a simpler and easier process. In this
method data is collected in small batches and transferred from
the portable into the host computer by a serial cable connection.
- Programming
- Operating System of a PDT determines the method of programming
used. Proprietary operating systems usually require knowledge
of the proprietary language. Other units may use a common operating
system such as DOS, MS Windows, and now Windows CE ... allowing
for programming with a more common language base such as Visual
Basic, Basic or C.
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