Barcoders (2003)

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The db application that I have just started would probably benefit from barcode reader support.

The barcode format in use is one of the common uses, and I would need it to read from a short distance ( >= 1m).

Can anyone offer any thoughts or recomendations based on how well they work with Access and PCs?

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I don’t know if you’re asking about Access’ ability to interpret barcode data or the hardware issues associated with a particular barcode scanner. What I can tell you is that I have successfully incorporated reading barcodes with a very inexpensive little scanner called a CueCat (available on eBay for less than $10) and free barcode fonts. I tried 2 types of CueCats – one was USB and the other piggybacked through a PS2 keyboard. Surprisingly the keyboard type worked more reliably and is cheaper. Since this scanner actually emulates keyboard strokes it works very well with Access and you still program with actual ascii characters. The wireless scanner manufacturers promise the same ease of use, but I haven’t tried them yet. Good luck!

Kathi Mills
Pitt graduate, go Stillers! BSEE ’86

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I was looking for more in the way of brands and models that people have worked on.

I think I will need something that can scan from some distance.

BTW, U of Pitt BSME ’91

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Jim,
Check out Wasp scanners – they seem to have many options. Do a google search if necessary, but I think their site it http://www.waspbarcode.com
Kathi

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I tried to get a CueCat when they were giving them away for free, but they discontinued the program.

Wish i had one now, I could be playing with it and figuring out how to put barcoding into this project instead of reading manufacturers web sites trying to figure out what to buy!

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Jim,
On eBay you can get a CueCat for around $10 total. I have bought both PS2 and USB versions from seller “lendavor”. Surprisingly I have had better luck with the PS2 while working with Access. This one does require a PS2 keyboard, not a wireless one or a USB one. In fact, even hooking up an external keyboard to my laptop didn’t work. The USB version DOES work, it just takes a little longer to “wake up” and recognize the bar code.

Keep in mind that you have to actually swipe the CueCat across the barcode. What I mean is that it needs to physically touch whatever you want to scan. In your case it wouldn’t work for remote scanning. Like I said earlier, it is a very inexpensive tool for development purposes, but not too practical in the real world.

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I’ve had good success using “wedge” barcode readers. These are the kind that have a “Y” connector that connects them between the keyboard and the PC. They do all the work, interpreting the barcode and passing it to whatever program is active. You can even program them to include a carriage return. Access really doesn’t know whether the input came from the keyboard or the barcode reader; it is just an entry into a control on a form.

Printing barcodes is another matter. You can find some free barcode fonts (“3 of 9” is one I’ve used), which require you to know how to format the string you want to print according to which type of barcode it is. They are generally limited in sizes and orientation. There are some ActiveX controls that give you alot more flexibility, if you need it, allowing you to print in any barcode type, greatly vary the height, rotate, etc.

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