MS-3 Laser Scanner P/N 83-000000 Rev 4
Copyright © 2002 by Microscan Systems, Inc., 1201 S.W. 7th Street, Renton, Washington, U.S.A. 98055 (425) 226-5700 FAX: (425) 226-8682 ISO 9001/Certification No. 00-1047 All rights reserved. The information contained herein is proprietary and is provided solely for the purpose of allowing customers to operate and/or service Microscan manufactured equipment and is not to be released, reproduced, or used for any other purpose without written permission of Microscan.
Microscan Limited Warranty Statement and Exclusions What is Covered? Microscan Systems Inc. warrants to the original purchaser that products manufactured by it will be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service for a period of one year from the date of shipment. This warranty is specifically limited to, at Microscan’s sole option, repair or replacement with a functionally equivalent unit and return without charge for service or return freight.
Table of Contents Product Labels ...............................................................................................x Warning and Caution Summary .................................................................... xi Chapter 1 Quick Start Step 1 Hardware Required ......................................................................... 1-2 Step 2 Connect the System ........................................................................ 1-3 Step 3 Initiate Communications ....................
UPC/EAN .................................................................................................. 5-17 Code 128................................................................................................... 5-20 UCC/EAN-128........................................................................................... 5-21 Code 93..................................................................................................... 5-24 Pharma Code .....................................................
Chapter 11 Utilities Counters ................................................................................................... 11-4 Part Number ............................................................................................. 11-5 Checksum ................................................................................................. 11-6 Read Rate................................................................................................. 11-7 Device Control .........................
List of Figures Figure 1-1 Hardware Required ................................................................... 1-2 Figure 1-2 Hardware Connections ............................................................. 1-3 Figure 1-3 Hyperterminal Dialog ................................................................ 1-4 Figure 1-4 Low Density Ranges ................................................................. 1-5 Figure 1-5 High Density Ranges ................................................................
Table A-11 Hex Value to Binary Conversion ........................................... A-15 Table A-12 Quadrus EZ Status ................................................................ A-15 Table A-13 Multidrop Addresses .............................................................
About the MS-3 Laser Scanner The MS-3 Laser is a ultra-compact scanner that can decode high density symbols from 2 to 10 inches at a 70 degrees scan angle with scan rates of 300 to 1000 decodes per second with a low power draw of 300mA at 5V. A multi-function TEST button, which “out of the box” can do read rate, automatic calibration, and saves, can also be programmed to perform a variety of functions.
Product Labels Top CAUTION-LASER LIG HT WHEN OPEN-DO NOT STARE INTO BEAM. PRODUCT CONFORMS TO USA DHHS 21 CFR SUBCHAPTER "J" EN 60825-1: 2001 DIN VD E 0837 T eil 1: 1994-07 LASE RST RAHLU NG, W ENN ABD ECKUNG GE ÖFF NET. NICHT IN DEN ST RA HL BLICKEN VORSICHT CLA SS II LASER PRODUC T 650 nm LASER D IODE 1.0 MILLIWA TT MAX LASER LIGH T DO NOT ST ARE INTO B EAM.
Warning and Caution Summary This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
xii MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual
Chapter Quick Start 1 Chapter Contents This section is designed to get your scanner up and running quickly the user can get a sense of its capabilities and test sample bar code symbols. Detailed setup information for configuring the scanner for your specific application can be obtained in the subsequent chapters. Note: You can learn the current setting of any parameter by inserting a question mark after the number, as in To see all “K” commands, send .
Step 1 — Hardware Required Caution: If using your own power supply, be certain that it is wired correctly and supply voltage is 5VDC. Incorrect wiring or voltage can cause software or equipment failures. If connecting to a host with an ADP Interface Box, you will need the following: • (1) An MS-3 laser scanner. • (2) An ADP-232 interface box P/N 99-510007-01. 1 • (3) A host computer. 6 1–Quick Start • (4) A null modem configuration cable, P/N 61-300026-01, DB25 plug to DB-9 socket, 6ft.
Chapter 1 Quick Start Step 2 — Connect the System To connect the system, do the following: 1. Connect the scanner (1) to the 15-pin connector of the ADP-232 interface box (2), using the attached 3-foot cable custom cable.1 1 6 2. Connect the host computer (3) to the ADP’s “RS232” 25-pin connector. 2 (Refer to “ADP Interface Box” on page A-5 for pin connections.) 3. Connect power supply (5) to the ADP’s “POWER” connector. 3 5 4. Apply power to the system.
Step 3 — Initiate Communications From your PC host computer, you can initiate communications with the scanner by: • Using a terminal communications program such as Hyperterminal™ provided in the Windows™ operating system In order to communicate with the scanner, you will need to use the following communications settings: Baud = 9600 Parity = Even Stop Bits = One Data Bits = Seven 1–Quick Start Flow Control = None Figure 1-3 Hyperterminal Dialog 1-4 MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual
Chapter 1 Quick Start Step 4 — Position Symbol and Scanner Note: If using an I 2/5 symbol, verify that the number of characters in the symbol being scanned matches the symbol length enabled for the I 2/5 symbol type (default is 10 and 6). See “Interleaved 2 of 5” on page 5-13 1. Set up a symbol at the scanning distance you will be using in your application.1 2. Avoid bright light or IR light from other sources, including other scanners. 3.
Step 5 — Start Calibration In the calibration routine, the scanner attempts various settings to determine the optimum decode rate for the given conditions. In this process it might do the following: • Adjust laser power • Adjust AGC gain • Adjust motor speed • Enable Autodiscrimination (read several symbol types) 1. Start calibration: By Serial Command Send <@> from your terminal. 2.
Chapter 1 Quick Start Step 6 — Test for Read Rate By Serial Command Send from your terminal. By Test Button Press and hold the TEST button on the MS-3 until you hear one beep and see one LED momentarily turn amber. This will signal the beginning of the read rate routine.1 4. End the read rate test: By Serial Command Send from your terminal. Read rate performance LEDs Press the TEST button and quickly release.
Step 7 — Save Settings After calibrating the MS-3, you can save your new settings to be available on power-on by: By Serial Command Send from your terminal. By Test Button TEST Read rate performance LEDs 100% GR 80% ST 60% 40% 1–Quick Start 20% PWR LASER Test Button MS-3 Press and hold the TEST button until you hear three beeps and see three performance LEDs momentarily turn amber.
Chapter Communications 2 Chapter Contents This section includes connecting parameters and options for communicating by the auxiliary port and various interfaces. Note: The characters NULL <> and , can only be entered through embedded menus, not through ESP or serial commands.
Communications By Serial Command Command Title Host Port Parameters RS422 Status 2–Communications Auxiliary Port Parameters Format 2-2 MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual
Chapter 2 Communications Communications by Embedded Menu Microscan’s scanners have embedded menus that can be accessed from the terminal window in ESP or from a separate terminal program. See “Embedded Menus” on page A-22 for instructions on using the embedded menus.
Host Port Parameters Host Port Parameters Baud Rate, Host Port Definition: The rate at which the scanner and host transfer data back and forth. Usage: Can be used to transfer data faster or to match host port settings. Serial Cmd: Default: 9600 Options: 0 = 600 1 = 1200 2 = 2400 3 = 4800 4 = 9600 5 = 19.2 K 6 = 38.4K 7 = 57.6K 8 = 115.
Chapter 2 Communications RS422 Status Used only in Point-to-Point protocol, and not with RTS/CTS. Definition: Enables RS422. When RS422 is enabled, RS232 is disabled. Usage: Only changed if necessary to match host setting. Serial Cmd: Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled Whenever RS422 is disabled, RS232 is enabled in the background. However, when Multidrop is enabled, the functioning protocol is RS485 regardless of the displayed status of RS422.
Auxiliary Port Auxiliary Port Note: The aux port cannot be used when the host port is set to RS422 or Multidrop. 2–Communications As with the host port parameters, the auxiliary terminal’s settings (baud rate, parity, stop bits, and data bits) must be identical with those of the auxiliary device. Definition: An auxiliary port connects the scanner to a remote display or to other scanners that can display or transfer data.
Chapter 2 Communications Transparent Mode Definition: In Transparent mode data is passed between the auxiliary port and the host. The scanner buffers data from the auxiliary port and echoes the keyed data on the auxiliary port. Data initiated from the Auxiliary Port • Auxiliary port data is passed through to the host whenever a return key is pressed at the auxiliary port or bar code data is sent.
Auxiliary Port Half Duplex Mode Definition: In Half Duplex mode all auxiliary port data and bar code data is sent directly to the host. Bar code data is displayed on the auxiliary port screen at the same time the data is sent to the host. Data initiated from the Auxiliary Port • Auxiliary port data to the host is ignored if the scanner is in a polled mode. Host • Auxiliary port data or scanned data is sent to the host whenever it is received. • Auxiliary port data is not echoed.
Chapter 2 Communications Full Duplex Mode Definition: In Full Duplex mode all auxiliary port data and bar code data is sent directly to the host. Bar code data is not displayed on the auxiliary port screen. Data initiated from the Auxiliary Port • Auxiliary port data to the host is ignored if the scanner is in a polled mode. • Auxiliary port data or scanned data is sent to the host whenever it is received. • Auxiliary port data is not echoed.
Auxiliary Port Daisy Chain Mode Definition: In a daisy chain application, scanners are connected in tandem or “daisy chain” and decoded data is relayed from one scanner to another on up to the host. A master scanner has its host port linked to the host computer and its auxiliary port linked to the host port of the first “slave” scanner in the chain. Thereafter, each slave’s auxiliary port is linked to the host port of the slave that is further from the host in the daisy chain.
Chapter 2 Conditions: Communications The conditions for a daisy chain application are as follows: 1. The master scanner’s trigger must be Serial or External; the slave scanners’ triggers are configured for Serial. Host Slave 2. All scanners are enabled to Daisy Chain mode. 3. Each scanner’s auxiliary port must be connected to the Host port of its slave scanner. Master 4. Each slave scanner in the daisy chain must be set to send its data no less than 20mS before its preceding scanner. 5.
Auxiliary Port Command Processing Mode Definition: When enabled, Command Processing allows commands to be entered via the aux port and direct externally triggered read cycle data in one of two ways: 1. If the last command came from the aux port, then externally triggered read cycle data will be output to both the host and the aux ports. 2–Communications 2. If the last command came from the host port, then externally triggered read cycle data will only be output to the host port.
Chapter 2 Communications Parity, Aux Port Definition: An error detection routine in which one data bit in each character is set to 1 or 0 so that the total number of 1 bits in the data field is even or odd. Usage: Only changed if necessary to match host setting.
Auxiliary Port Daisy Chain ID Status Definition: Each scanner in a daisy chain can be assigned a one or two character ID that will appear in front of decoded data and identify its source. Usage: Used in a daisy chain setup in cases where the host needs to know which scanner in a daisy chain setup sent the data.
Protocol Chapter 3 Chapter Contents Protocols are the rules by which devices pass data back and forth. This section includes the basic options available for data communication, including multidrop and user-defined options and output data formats. Note: The characters NULL <> and , can only be entered through embedded menus, not through ESP or serial commands.
Protocol By Serial Command Format 3–Protocol Command Title Host Protocol LRC Response Timeout Intercharacter Delay Preamble Postamble 3-2 MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual
Chapter 3 Protocol Protocol by Embedded Menu For information on accessing the embedded menus, see “Embedded Menus” on page A-22.
Protocol Protocol Definition: Protocols define the sequence and format in which information is transferred between the scanner and the host, or in the case of Multidrop, between scanners and a concentrator. Usage: In general, the point-to-point protocols will work well in most applications. They require no address and must use RS232 or RS422 communications standards.
Chapter 3 Protocol Point-to-Point with RTS/CTS Definition: Point-to-Point with RTS/CTS (request-to-send/clear-to-send) is a simple hardware handshaking protocol that allows a scanner to initiate data transfers to the host. Usage: A scanner initiates a data transfer with an RTS (request-to-send) transmission. The host, when ready, responds with a CTS (clear-to-send) and the data is transmitted. CTS and RTS signals are transmitted over two dedicated wires as defined in the RS-232 standard.
Protocol Polling Mode D Definition: Like Point-to-Point, Polling Mode D requires a dedicated connection to the host; but unlike Point-to-Point, it requires an address and must wait for a poll from the host before sending data. Usage: When in Polling Mode D, an address of 1 is automatically displayed on the configuration screen. However, during transmission, a 1C hex poll address (FS) and a 1D hex select address (GS) are substituted for the 1.
Chapter 3 Protocol User Defined Address Definition: User Defined is considered to be in a polled mode only if an address has been assigned. Serial Cmd: Default: No address Options: Any ASCII character except a null. User Defined Example Definition: Example: ACK/NAK protocol can be configured using User Defined. The scanner will transmit data to the host when an ACK is received.
Protocol User Defined Multidrop Note: Any ASCII character except a null (00) and a ^A (01) can be assigned as an address. Control characters can be used to define RES through NAK in serial commands. “Communication Protocol Commands” on page A-11 Definition: User Defined Multidrop allows the user to customize the polling protocol. Usage: This option is used when connecting to a concentrator or other device that does not match standard multidrop protocol.
Chapter 3 Protocol LRC (Longitudinal Redundancy Check) Definition: An error-checking routine that verifies the accuracy of transmissions. It is the exclusive OR of all characters following the STX (start of text) up to and including the ETX (end of text). What this means is that the binary representation of all the characters in a transmissions are cumulatively added in a column and each resulting odd integer is assigned a 1 and each even integer a 0 (two 1s = 0, two 0s = 0, a 1 and a 0 = 1).
Response Timeout Response Timeout Time the scanner will wait before timing out if ACK, NAK, and ETX are enabled, and a host response is expected. Usage: Only used when a response is required from the host. While in Multidrop, if the scanner does not receive an ACK or NAK from the host after sending polled data, it will act on a fault. The scanner can be set to wait indefinitely by setting Response Timeout to zero. Serial Cmd: Default: 0 (causes an indefinite wait.
Chapter 3 Protocol Intercharacter Delay Definition: The time interval in milliseconds between individual characters transmitted from the scanner to the host. Usage: Intercharacter Delay is only used where a host cannot receive data quickly enough and there is enough time between symbols to allow data to be completely transferred. It is rarely used since any setting other than zero will slow down communications.
Preamble Characters Preamble Characters Definition: Defines a one to four character data string that can be added to the front of the decoded data. Usage: Useful for identifying and controlling incoming data. For example, defining the preamble as a carriage return and a line feed causes each decoded message to be displayed of on its own line.
Chapter 3 Protocol Postamble Characters Definition: Defines a one to four character data string that can be added to the end of the decoded data. Usage: Useful for identifying and controlling incoming data. For example, defining the postamble as a carriage return and a line feed causes each decoded message to be displayed of on its own line.
3–Protocol Postamble Characters 3-14 MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual
Chapter Read Cycle/Trigger 4 Chapter Contents Read cycles and triggering modes are at the heart of bar code scanning. After you’ve established communications and completed basic read rate testing, you will need to address the spatial and timing parameters associated with your application. In a typical operation a bar coded item moves along a line past a scanner. A trigger or timer activates a read cycle during which the scanner actively searches for symbols.
Read Cycle by Serial Command Format 4–Read Cycle/Trig- Command Title Trigger Mode External Trigger State Serial Trigger Character Start Serial Trigger Character End Serial Trigger Character Good Decode Reads
Chapter 4 Read Cycle/Trigger Read Cycle by Embedded Menu For information on accessing the embedded menus, see “Embedded Menus” on page A-22.
Trigger Mode Trigger Mode Definition: The type of trigger event that will initiate the read cycle.
Chapter 4 Read Cycle/Trigger Continuous Read 1 Output Definition: In Continuous Read 1 Output the scanner self-triggers whenever it decodes a new symbol or a timeout occurs. If End Of Read Cycle is set to Timeout and the symbol doesn't change, the scanner will repeat the output at the end of each timeout period. For example, if Timeout is set to one second, the scanner sends the symbol data immediately and repeats the output at intervals of one second for as long as the symbol continues to be scanned.
Trigger Mode External Trigger Level Definition: External Trigger Level allows the read cycle to begin when a trigger (change of state) from an external sensing device is received. The read cycle endures until the object moves out of the sensor range and the active trigger state changes again. Usage: This mode is effective in an application where the speeds of the conveying apparatus are variable and the time the scanner spends scanning each object is not predictable.
Chapter 4 Read Cycle/Trigger External Trigger Edge Definition: External Trigger Edge, as with Level, allows the read cycle to begin when a trigger (change of state) from an external sensing device is received. However, the passing of an object out of sensor range does not end the read cycle. The read cycle ends with a good read output or, depending on End of Read Cycle setting, a timeout or new trigger occurs.
Trigger Mode Serial Data Definition: In Serial Data, the scanner accepts an ASCII character from the host or controlling device as a trigger to start a read cycle. A Serial Data trigger behaves the same as an External Edge trigger. Serial commands are entered inside corner brackets, such as . Usage: Serial Data is effective in a highly controlled environment where the host knows precisely when the object is in the scan zone. It is also useful in determining if a noread has occurred.
Chapter 4 Read Cycle/Trigger Trigger Filter Duration Definition: Trigger Filter Duration can prevent trigger bounce from falsely triggering the scanner by limiting the time in which trigger pulses can be received. Usage: Trigger Filter Duration is useful where trigger bounce could cause false triggers. Serial Cmd: Default: 244(10mS) Options: 2 to 65535 (corresponding to 82 µS to 2.68S in 40.
External Trigger State External Trigger State Note: External Level, External Edge, or Serial Data or Edge trigger mode must be enabled for External Trigger to take effect. Definition: Determines whether a positive or negative transition will initiate the read cycle. Usage: Users can select the trigger polarity that will operate with their systems. (If using the Microscan object detector, use Positive.
Chapter 4 Read Cycle/Trigger Serial Trigger Character Definition: A single ASCII host serial trigger character that initiates the read cycle. Serial Trigger Character is considered an on-line host command and requires the same command format as all host commands: that is, to be entered within angle brackets delimiters < >. Usage: Allows the user to define the trigger character that initiates the read cycle.
Serial Trigger Character Start and End Trigger Characters (non-delimited) Definition: A non-delimited trigger character is one that either starts or ends the read cycle and is NOT enclosed by delimiters such as < >.
Chapter 4 Read Cycle/Trigger End Serial Trigger Character (non-delimited) Definition: A single ASCII host serial trigger character that ends the read cycle and is not enclosed by delimiters such as < and >. Usage: It is useful in applications where different characters are required to start and end a read cycle. Serial Cmd: Default: Null (disabled) Options: Two hex digits representing an ASCII character except <, >, XON and XOFF.
Good Decode Reads Good Decode Reads Note: When setting up, determine if the scanner’s scan rate is capable of scanning your longest symbol the required number of times. Decodes Before Output Definition: The number of decodes (from 1 to 31) required per symbol before a symbol’s decoded data is sent. It requires the scanner to successfully decode a symbol a designated number of times before it is sent. If it doesn’t achieve the number of good reads during the read cycle, then a noread will be sent.
Chapter 4 Read Cycle/Trigger Read Cycle Note: When to Output must be set to End of Read Cycle before this command can be active. Definition: The read cycle is the time during which the scanner will attempt to read and decode a symbol. At the end of a read cycle the scanner stops reading symbols and sends the symbol data or noread message to the host. End of Read Cycle Mode A read cycle can be terminated by a new trigger, a timeout, or a combination of both.
Read Cycle Usage: Typically used with Serial or Edge and Continuous One. It is effective in highly controlled applications when the maximum length of time between objects can be predicted. It assures that a read cycle ends before the next bar coded object appears, giving the system extra time to decode and transmit the data to the host. New Trigger Definition: New Trigger ends the current read cycle and initiates a new one when a new trigger occurs. New Trigger refers only to a “rising edge” trigger.
Chapter 4 Read Cycle/Trigger Timeout Duration Definition: Timeout Duration is the time span of the read cycle and is represented in 10 mS increments. It is used in conjunction with External Edge or Serial Trigger. Usage: It is useful in many tightly controlled applications which require a read cycle to end before the next object appears and therefore need the flexibility of a timeout adjustment.
Multisymbol Multisymbol Definition: Multisymbol allows the user to define up to six bar code symbols that can be read in a single read cycle. Usage: Multisymbol is commonly used in shipping applications where a shipping symbol contains individual symbols for part number, quantity, etc. This feature allows one trigger to pick up all the symbols. AIAG and UCC/EAN- 128 are two application standards that address this need. Conditions The following conditions apply: 1.
Chapter 4 Read Cycle/Trigger Multisymbol Separator Definition: The character that’s inserted between each symbol scanned when Multisymbol is set to any number greater than 1. Usage: Used to delimit or separate data fields with a user defined character. Serial Cmd: Note: If Multisymbol Separator has been changed to any character other than the default comma and you wish to re-define the separator as a comma, use the embedded menu.
4–Read Cycle/Trig- Multisymbol 4-20 MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual
Chapter Symbology 5 Chapter Contents This section describes the various symbol types that can be read and decoded by the scanner. Code 39 is enabled by default. To enable all codes, send a
serial command to the scanner from the Terminal window.1 See http://www.aimusa.org/standards/aimpubs.htm for additional information about symbologies. Note: The characters NULL <> and , can only be entered through embedded menus, not through ESP or serial commands.
Symbology by Embedded Menu 5–Symbology From the Main menu, scroll down through the options until you reach the following screens: Code Type 1, Code Type 2, and Code Parameters, respectively.
Chapter 5 Symbology Symbology by Serial Command Command Title Narrow Margins/ Symbology ID Background Color Code 39 Codabar Interleaved 2 of 5 UPC/EAN Code 128 UCC/EAN-128 Code 93
Autodiscriminate Autodiscriminate Although Autodiscriminate is not a configuration command, but it is included here as a convenient tool for enabling most symbol types. Definition: Enables all available symbology types except PDF417, UCC/EAN 128. The user may also individually disable/enable each symbology type. Usage: Commonly used for quick setup mode to detect symbol type. This is particularly useful for users who might be unfamiliar with their application’s symbology.
Chapter 5 Symbology Narrow Margins Definition: Allows the scanner to read symbols with quiet zones less than 8 times the width of the narrow bar element. “Quiet zone” is the space at the leading and trailing ends of a symbol. Each quiet zone can be as narrow as only five times the width of the narrow bar element when Narrow Margins is enabled. Usage: Used when the leading and trailing edges of the symbols are smaller than the standard margin or when other objects encroach into the margins.
Symbology ID Symbology ID Definition: Symbology ID is an AIM standard prefix set of characters that identify the symbol type. When enabled, the reader analyzes and identifies the symbology and adds a three character identifying prefix to the data: 1. ] (close bracket character) indicating the presence of a symbology ID 2. A, C, E, I, L, Q, b, d, p A = Code 39; C = Code 128 or UCC/EAN-128; E = UPC/EAN; I = I–2/5; p = Pharmacode 5–Symbology 3.
Chapter 5 Symbology Background Color Definition: Usage: Serial Cmd: Default: Options: Allows the user to choose which symbol background (spaces and surrounding medium) the scanner can read. If the background is darker than the symbol, then enable black background. Typically the background is white; but on PCBs for example, they can be black.
Code 39 Code 39 Definition: An alphanumeric symbol with unique start/stop symbol patterns, composed of 9 black and white elements per character, of which 3 are wide. Usage: Code 39 is considered the standard for non-retail symbology. Code 39 Status Serial Cmd: Default: Enabled Note: This is the only symbol type enabled by default.
Chapter 5 Symbology Large Intercharacter Gap (Code 39) Definition: When enabled, the scanner can read symbols with gaps between symbol characters that exceed three times (3x) the narrow element width. Usage: Large Intercharacter Gap is helpful for reading symbols that are printed out of specification. Caution: Do not use Large Intercharacter Gap with Narrow Margins enabled since a large intercharacter gap (over 3x) could cause a narrow margins (5x) to be interpreted as an intercharacter gap.
Code 39 Full ASCII Set (Code 39) Definition: Usage: Serial Cmd: User must know in advance whether or not to use Full ASCII Set option. Since Full ASCII Set requires two code words to encode one character, it is less efficient.
Chapter 5 Symbology Codabar Definition: Codabar is a 16-character set (0 through 9, and the characters $, :, /, ., +, and –) with start/stop codes and at least two distinctly different bar widths. Usage: Used in photo-finishing and library applications. Formerly used in some medical applications but not typically used in newer applications.
Codabar Large Intercharacter Gap (Codabar) Definition: Instructs the scanner to read symbols with gaps between characters exceeding three times the narrow element width. Usage: It is helpful for reading symbols that are printed out of specification. Caution: Do not use Large Intercharacter Gap with Narrow Margins enabled since enabling Large Intercharacter Gap (over 3x) could cause a narrow margins (5x) to be interpreted as an intercharacter gap.
Chapter 5 Symbology Note: Fixed Symbol Length Status must be enabled for Fixed Symbol Length to take effect. Note: Because of symbology limitations, setting Symbol Length to any number less than four will produce undetermined results. Check Digit Type (Codabar) Definition: Allows the user to select the check digit type Codabar will use.
Interleaved 2 of 5 Interleaved 2 of 5 Definition: A dense, continuous, self-checking, numeric symbology. Characters are paired together so that each character has five elements, two wide and three narrow, representing numbers 0 through 9, with the bars representing the first character and the interleaved spaces representing the second character. (A check digit is highly recommended.) Important: You must set Symbol Length in order to decode I 2/5 symbols.
Chapter 5 Symbology Check Digit Output (Interleaved 2 of 5) Definition: When enabled, a check digit character is sent along with the bar symbol data for added data security. Serial Cmd: Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled Symbol Length #1 (Interleaved 2 of 5) Definition: Allows user to define the symbol length. Because I 2/5 is a continuous symbol, it is prone to substitution errors.
Interleaved 2 of 5 Symbol Length #2 (Interleaved 2 of 5) Definition: Allows user to define a second symbol length for I–2 of 5. Usage: If using a second symbol, a zero or any even symbol length from 2 to 64 may be specified. If not using a second symbol, set Symbol Length #2 to 0 to ensure data integrity.
Chapter 5 Symbology UPC/EAN Definition: Usage: UPC (Universal Product Code) is a fixed length numeric, continuous symbology. UPC can have two- or five-digit supplemental bar code data following the normal code. The U.P.C., Version A (U.P.C., A) symbol is used to encode a 12 digit number. The first digit is the number system character, the next five are the manufacturer number, the next five are the product number, and the last digit is the checksum character.
UPC/EAN Supplementals Status (UPC/EAN) Definition: Usage: Serial Cmd: Default: Options: Disabled: Enabled: 5–Symbology Required: A supplemental is a 2 or 5 digit symbol appended to the main symbol. When set to Enabled or Required, the scanner reads supplemental bar code data that has been appended to the standard UPC or EAN codes. Reads Supplementals typically used in publications and documentation.
Chapter 5 Symbology Separator Character (UPC/EAN) Note: If Separator Character has been changed to any other character and you wish to re-define the separator as a comma, you will need to use ESP or the embedded menu. Definition: Usage: Serial Cmd: Default: Options: Allows the user to change the separator character from a comma to a new character. As required by the application.
Code 128 Code 128 Definition: A very dense alphanumeric symbology. It encodes all 128 ASCII characters; it is continuous, has variable length, and uses multiple element widths measured edge to edge. Usage: Code 128 is useful in applications with tight spots and high security needs.
Chapter 5 Symbology UCC/EAN-128 Note: Code 128 must be Enabled for UCC/EAN-128 to function. Definition: Usage: A subset of Code 128, with extended features. (See the Uniform Code Council, Inc. at www.uc-council.org.) Used as a standard for shipping symbols.
UCC/EAN-128 Application Record Separator Status (UCC/EAN-128) Definition: Serial Cmd: Default: Options: When enabled, a separator character is inserted between application records. Disabled 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled Note: Output Format must be set to Application Record before this parameter can take effect.
Chapter 5 Symbology Application Record Padding (UCC/EAN-128) Definition: Padding is the insertion of zeros to make up the maximum length of a variable application record data field, except for the last field which does not require padding. When enabled, padding is included. When disabled, padding is omitted. Serial Cmd: Default: Options: Note: Padding is never added to fixed length fields or to the last data field of a symbol. Enabling or disabling Record Padding will have no effect on these.
Code 93 Code 93 Definition: Usage: Code 93 is a variable length, continuous symbology employing four element widths. Each Code 93 character has nine modules that may be either black or white. Each character contains three bars and three spaces. Used occasionally in clinical industry.
Chapter 5 Symbology Pharmacode Definition: The bar code encodes up to five different numbers, each with its own color which may be entered in decimal or "binary" format with a 1 represented by a thick bar and a 0 represented by a thin bar. Bar width is independent of height. In decimal format, each part can be up to 999999. Usage: In binary format, each input have up to 19 ones and zeros. Pharmacode is used mostly with packaging for the pharmaceuticals industry.
Pharmacode Bar Widths (Pharmacode) Serial Cmd: Default: Options: Mixed 0 = Mixed 1 = Narrow 2 = Wide Forward/Reverse Decoding Direction (Pharmacode) Definition: Serial Cmd: 5–Symbology Default: Options: Specifies the direction that a bar can be read.
Chapter Matchcode 6 Chapter Contents This section explains the matchcode output functions and the master symbol database setup. Note: The characters NULL <> and , can only be entered through embedded menus, not through ESP or serial commands. Note: You can learn the current setting of any parameter by inserting a question mark after the number, as in To see all “K” commands, send . MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual 6-1 6–Matchcode Overview of Matchcode .....................................
Matchcode by Serial Command Command Title Format Master symbol database size Matchcode Enable New Master Pin Enter data to database Request all Master Symbol information Request Master Symbol information Delete Master Symb
Chapter 6 Matchcode Matchcode by Embedded Menu For information on accessing the embedded menus, see “Embedded Menus” on page A-22.
Overview of Matchcode Overview of Matchcode With Matchcode you can store master symbol data in the scanner’s memory, compare this data against the scanned bar codes, and define how symbol data and/or discrete signal output will be directed. A master symbol database can be set up for up to 10 master symbols. See “Master Symbol Database” on page 6-11.
Chapter 6 Matchcode Using Master Symbols 1. Set Triggering Mode to External or Serial (see “Trigger Mode” on page 4-4). 2. Chose the method of symbol comparison that fits your application (see “Matchcode Type” on page 6-6). 3. Enable Matchcode (see “Matchcode” on page 7-6). 4. Define the output you want with your matchcode setup: a) Symbol output (“Symbol Output Status” on page 8-4). b) Discrete output (see Chapter 8, “Output Conditions”)). 5.
Matchcode Type Matchcode Type Note: When Matchcode is set to Enabled, Wild Card or Sequential, Number of Symbols will default back to 1 (if set to any number greater than 1). Definition: Allows the user to choose the way that master symbols will be compared with subsequently scanned symbols. Note: First set Triggering Mode to External or Serial.
Chapter 6 Matchcode Match Start Position Match Start Position determines the portions of symbols that will be matched by defining the first character in the symbol (from left to right) that will be compared with those of the master symbol, when Matchcode Type is set to Enabled or Sequential.
Matchcode Type The maximum character length for master symbols is 128. When more than one master symbol is enabled, the maximum number for each additional symbol diminishes as shown here: # of Symbols: Maximum characters: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 128 64 42 32 25 21 18 16 14 12 6–Matchcode Wild Card Character Definition: Wild Card Character allows a user to define a wild card character as part of the master symbol.
Chapter 6 Matchcode Sequence On Noread Definition: When Sequence On Noread is Enabled and Matchcode is set to Sequential, the scanner sequences the master symbol on every match or noread. When disabled, it does not sequence on a noread. Usage: Sequence On Noread is useful when the scanner needs to stay in sequence even if no decode occurs.
Matchcode Type Sequence On Mismatch Note: Matchcode must be set to Sequential for this command to function. Definition: When set to Enabled, the master symbol sequences on every decode, match or mismatch. When set to Disabled, the master symbol will not sequence whenever consecutive mismatches occur. Usage: Enable this parameter if every trigger event should have a decode and more than one consecutive mismatch may occur.
Chapter 6 Matchcode Master Symbol Database Important: Master Symbol Database is used only for comparing entire bar codes, when Sequential and Wild Card are NOT enabled, and Start Position is equal to 0. Master Symbol Database Overview Definition: Allows you to define up to 10 master symbols as the master symbol database, which can be entered by keyboard, scanned in, displayed, or deleted by serial commands.
Master Symbol Database Caution: Since the total number of characters available for the master symbol database is 128, changes to the Master Symbol Database Size will re-allocate the number of characters available for each master symbol and could cause existing master symbols to be deleted (except master symbol #1 unless it also exceeds the size limitation).
Chapter 6 Matchcode Delete Master Symbol Data Definition: Delete Master Symbol Data allows you to delete an enabled master symbol. Serial Cmd: Send to delete the master symbol. Options: 1 to 10 Store Next Symbol Scanned as Master Symbol Definition: After you’ve set the size in the database, you can order the scanner to scan-in the next symbol as the master symbol for any given master symbol number.
New Master Pin New Master Pin Definition: After New Master Pin is enabled, a pulse can be received on the new master pin which will cause the scanner to record the next decoded bar code symbol(s) as the new master symbol(s). 6–Matchcode It is important to note that the enabling New Master Pin does not in itself cause a master symbol to be recorded. The master pin must then be activated momentarily (for a minimum of 10 ms) before a master symbol can be scanned into memory. (See “© Microscan Systems, Inc.
Chapter Scanner Setup 7 Chapter Contents This section includes general scanner setup relating to the specific needs of the scanning application and environment. Note: The characters NULL <> and , can only be entered through embedded menus, not through ESP or serial commands. Note: You can learn the current setting of any parameter by inserting a question mark after the number, as in To see all “K” commands, send . MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual 7-1 7–Scanner Setup Scan Speed ...........
Scanner Setup by Serial Command Command Title Scan Speed Laser Controls 7–Scanner Setup Automatic Gain Control Transition Counter Bar Detection Format 7-2 MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual
Chapter 7 Scanner Setup Scanner Setup by Embedded Menu For information on accessing the embedded menus, see “Embedded Menus” on page A-22.
Scan Speed Scan Speed (factory setting) Definition: Allows the user to set the number of scans per second by controlling the spinning mirror motor speed. Usage: To ensure a minimum number of scans, faster scan speeds are typically used for fast moving symbols and/or longer symbols with larger bar widths. See “Formulas for Number of Decodes” on page A-27. Note: Scan beams move faster across symbols further out in the scan range since the moving beam is being projected from a spinning mirror.
Chapter 7 Scanner Setup Laser On/Off Status Definition: When enabled, the laser is ON only during the read cycle. When disabled, the laser operates continuously. Usage: Laser On/Off extends the life of the laser. It is useful where there are significant time gaps between symbols. It also provides visual confirmation of a read cycle duration and minimizes laser exposure to people.
Laser Framing Laser Framing Usage: Useful in avoiding highly reflective objects, for filtering out unwanted signals, or avoiding the wrong symbols. Definition: Sets the percentage of the scan arc that the laser is ON for each scan. 7–Scanner Setup Laser Framing Status Definition: When Laser Framing is disabled, the laser is ON for 100 percent of the full scan. When enabled, the extent of the laser arc is determined by the Laser On Position and Laser Off Position settings.
Chapter 7 Scanner Setup Laser On Position Percentage of the full scan arc that the scan beam moves through before the laser turns ON. For example, if set for 30, the laser will be off during the first 30 percent of the scan. LASE R When Laser Framing is disabled, the laser is ON for 100 percent of the full scan.
Laser Framing Laser Off Position Definition: Percentage of the full scan arc that the scan beam moves through before the laser turns OFF. Laser Off Position Notes: The combined values of Laser On Position and Laser Off Position cannot exceed 100 percent, the total arc of one scan. MS-3 Laser Off Position must always exceed the value of Laser On Position for an actual laser scan to take place.
Chapter 7 Scanner Setup Laser Power Definition: Allows the user or calibration routine to select laser power setting.
Automatic Gain Control Automatic Gain Control AGC is the acronym for Automatic Gain Control. AGC increases the depth of field by attempting to maintain signal strength at a constant level regardless of the range of the bar code label. Gain Adjustment (factory setting) Definition: Sets a voltage amplitude value for the analog circuitry. Usage: Can be useful for fine-tuning gain or when portions of analog signals spike, as in the case of specular reflection or extraneous noise.
Chapter 7 Scanner Setup Leading Edge Definition: Finds the leading edge of a symbol by looking for a 40µS quiet zone followed by the number of transitions set in “Transition Counter Threshold” on page 6-8, stores the highest value of the samples, and adjusts the AGC accordingly at the end of the scan. Usage: Leading Edge is rarely used, but in some cases can improve scan rates when labels are skewed and the leading edge of a label is difficult to locate.
Transition Counter Transition Counter Used for both AGC and symbol detection routines (see “No Symbol Message” on page 8-10 and “Minimum Bar Transitions” on page 7-13. Definition: During the read cycle, the scanner counts the number of bar and space transitions that have been defined in the Transition Counter Threshold. If the count matches or exceeds the threshold, the scanner will perform AGC routines. Transition Counter Status 7–Scanner Setup Note: This command is currently unavailable in ESP.
Chapter 7 Scanner Setup Bar Detection Minimum Bar Transitions Definition: Allows the user to define the minimum number of bar transitions at which a symbol will be detected. Serial Cmd: Default: 38 (bars) Options: 5 to 255 Maximum Element Maximum Element represents the maximum bar element width, as measured in micro seconds, that’s allowed before a video reset occurs (default to white).
7–Scanner Setup Bar Detection 7-14 MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual
Chapter Data Outputs 8 Chapter Contents This section includes instructions for setting up conditions for data outputs. Note: The characters NULL <> and , can only be entered through embedded menus, not through ESP or serial commands. Note: You can learn the current setting of any parameter by inserting a question mark after the number, as in To see all “K” commands, send . MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual 8-1 8–Data Outputs Symbol Output ...................................................
Output Conditions by Serial Command Command Title Symbol Output Noread Message Bad Symbol Message No Symbol Message Serial Verification 8–Data Outputs Quality Output Partial Output Beeper Output Format
Chapter 8 Data Outputs Output Conditions by Embedded Menus For information on accessing the embedded menus, see “Embedded Menus” on page A-22.
Symbol Output Symbol Output Note: Symbol Output relates to data and should not to be confused with Discrete Outputs listed in the Chapter 8, “Data Outputs” which describe output states and functions. Symbol Output Status Definition: Defines the conditions under which decoded symbols are transmitted to the host. Usage: Useful when the host needs bar code data only under certain conditions.
Chapter 8 Usage: Data Outputs Match is used in an application that requires specific symbol information and needs to sort, route or verify based on matching the specific symbol data. Mismatch Definition: With Mismatch enabled, the scanner transmits symbol data whenever the symbol data information does NOT match the master symbol. Note: A noread can still be transmitted if enabled.
Symbol Output As Soon As Possible Definition: Enabling As Soon As Possible causes symbol data to be sent to the host immediately after a symbol has been successfully decoded. Note: More than one decode might in fact be required to qualify as a good decode, depending on how Decodes Before Output is set. Usage: As Soon As Possible is useful in applications in which symbol data needs to be moved quickly to the host, typically when the host is making decisions based on symbol data.
Chapter 8 Data Outputs Message Output The following flow chart explains the logic paths taken for Noread, Bad Bar Code and No Bar Code outputs. Note: When Transition Counter Status is enabled, the scanner will test for a minimum number of bar and space transitions. If that minimum threshold is met, a Bad Bar Code message is sent; otherwise a No Bar Code message is sent.
Message Output Noread Message Noread Status Definition: When enabled, and if no symbol has been decoded before timeout or the end of the read cycle, the noread message will be transmitted to the host. Usage: Used in applications where the host needs serial verification that a symbol has not been read and especially useful in new print verification.
Chapter 8 Data Outputs Bad Symbol Message Definition: When enabled, a message is sent to the host when a symbol is detected but not decoded. See “Transition Counter Threshold” on page 6-8. The Bad Bar Code output is tied to the transition counter. If during a read cycle no symbol is decoded and the required setting for the Transition Sample Threshold is met, a user defined message will be sent to the host. See “Output Message Flow” on page 9-8.
Message Output No Symbol Message Definition: When enabled, sends a message to the host whenever an object is detected but no bar code symbol is detected. The No Symbol output is tied to the transition counter. If during a read cycle no symbol is decoded and the required setting for the Transition Sample Threshold is NOT met, a user defined message will be sent to the host. See “Minimum Bar Transitions” on page 6-13. Usage: Useful in determining if an object has an attached bar code symbol.
Chapter 8 Data Outputs Serial Verification Definition: Allows the user to verify configuration command status. Usage: These commands are useful in removing any doubt about the scanner’s acceptance and response to host configuration commands. For example, if the current preamble is “SOM” and is entered, the scanner will echo back since the attempted entry “START” exceeds the four character limit for that command.
Serial Verification Serial Cmd: Default: Disabled Options: 0 = Disabled 1 = Enabled Control/Hex Output Definition: Determines the response to a Serial Command Echo or status request command. When set to Control, two characters are transmitted to represent a non-displayable character. For example, a carriage return will be shown as the two characters: ^M. 8–Data Outputs When set to Hex, the output is the hex character.
Chapter 8 Data Outputs Quality Output Definition: Usage: Allows the host to track the number of good reads per trigger by appending a five digit numeric field to the end of bar code symbol data. When enabled, bar code data is followed by a separator, followed by the five digits in the form of 00000.
Partial Output Partial Output Status Definition: When enabled, allows you to pre-select portions of labels to be transmitted by the scanner. Usage: In Multilabel mode, partial output is performed on each separate label.
Chapter 8 Data Outputs Beeper Output Definition: A beep is emitted either after each good read of a symbol or after each noread. Note: Beeper will also sound if any of the following occur: • the scanner is defaulted a send/save command from ESP or an Exit command from any embedded menu. • a , , , or command is sent Usage: Can be used as an audible verification that either a good read or a noread has occurred.
8–Data Outputs Beeper Output 8-16 MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual
Chapter Discrete I/O 9 Chapter Contents This section includes instructions for setting up conditions for changing input/output electrical transitions for control of internal and external devices. Input and output (in/ out) signals are electrical transitions (TTL) from one voltage level to another to allow can occur. For beeper and laser outputs, see Chapter 7, “Scanner Setup.” Note: The characters NULL <> and , can only be entered through embedded menus, not through ESP or serial commands.
Output Conditions by Serial Command Command Title Format 9–Discrete I/O Output 1 Output 2 Output 3 9-2 MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual
Chapter 9 Discrete I/O Output Conditions by Embedded Menus For information on accessing the embedded menus, see “Embedded Menus” on page A-22.
Output 1 Output 1 Definition: Sets the discrete output functions for specific user-selected conditions. Usage: This option provides switching to host software to control external devices such as PLCs and relays. It is useful for routing and sorting and to prevent mis-packaging and mis-routing. 9–Discrete I/O Output On Definition: Allows the user to set the conditions under which an output (or outputs) will be activated.
Chapter 9 Discrete I/O Noread Definition: Activates a discrete output whenever the symbol data is not decoded before the end of the read cycle. Output Polarity Definition: Sets the polarity of the discrete output. When set to Active Low polarity, and an output condition from the scanner is met, the output-1 pin on the scanner’s 15 pin connector go low for the time specified in Pulse Width. (See Table A-2, “MS-3 Laser Host Connector, 15-pin,” on page A-4.
Output 2 Output 2 Serial Cmd: Output 2 has the same parameters and default settings as Output 1. Output 3 Serial Cmd: 9–Discrete I/O Output 3 has the same parameters and default settings as Output 1.
Chapter Diagnostics 10 Chapter Contents This section describes warning and operating messages and their settings. Important: Since Warning Messages and NOVRAM Messages are not enabled by default, these messages will not be displayed. However, if you suspect that erroneous defaults are occurring, enable Warning Messages and NOVRAM Messages by sending . Note: The characters NULL <> and , can only be entered through embedded menus, not through ESP or serial commands.
Diagnostics by Serial Command Command Title Warning Message Status 10–Diagnostics Laser Overcurrent Laser Undercurrent Power-on/Resets Counts Time Since Last Reset Format returns: hours,minutes (read only) 10-2 MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual
Chapter 10 Diagnostics Diagnostics by Embedded Menu For information on accessing the embedded menus, see “Embedded Menus” on page A-22.
Warning Messages Overview Important Note: Warning Message Status must be enabled before any warnings in this menu can be displayed. Definition: Warning messages that relate to the environment and condition of the scanner can be defined and set to activate specific outputs. Note: When enabled, the error condition will override all other operational modes configured for the output.
Chapter 10 Diagnostics Warning Message Status Important Note: Warning Message Status must be enabled before any warnings in this menu can be displayed. Function: When enabled, warning messages will be transmitted to the host or any active port. Note: This option must be enabled before any other warning messages can be transmitted. Usage: Alerts the user to impending failures or conditions that may soon cause failures.
Laser High Warning Laser High Warning When enabled, a message is transmitted whenever the laser current exceeds a factory-calibrated reference value which cannot be altered. The message repeats once every 30 minutes until the condition is corrected. Laser High Status Definition: Enables the Laser High message. Usage: Alerts the user to impending laser failure. (Contact Microscan Service.
Chapter 10 Diagnostics Laser Low Warning When enabled, a message is transmitted whenever the laser current falls below a factory-calibrated reference value which cannot be altered. The message repeats once every 30 minutes until the condition is corrected. Laser Low Status Definition: Enables the Laser Low message. Usage: Alerts the user to impending laser failure. (Contact Microscan Service.
NOVRAM Corrupt Warning Status NOVRAM Corrupt Warning Status When enabled, a 7 character message is sent whenever the system detects a warning condition. Important Note: Warning Corrupt Message Status must be enabled before the NOVRAM message in this menu can be transmitted. Usage: Alerts the user to NOVRAM failure. (Contact Microscan Service.
Chapter 10 Diagnostics Power-on Count (These commands are READ ONLY.) Count Definition Returns the number of times the scanner has been re-powered or a watchdog reset occurs. Usage: Useful for detecting unwanted resets caused by power supply problems or ESD transients. Serial Cmd: Send Returns Read Only Ranges: 0 to 65,535 powerups, 0 to 65,535 resets. Resets Resets include watchdog reset, , , , and hardware defaults.
Time Since Last Reset Time Since Last Reset (This command is READ ONLY.) Definition: Records the number of hours and minutes of operation since the last system reset. Usage: Useful as a troubleshooting tool that can help pinpoint the cause of a reset. Serial Cmd: Send Returns 0 to 23 hours, 0 to 59 minutes.
Utilities Chapter 11 Chapter Contents Utility commands are generally commands that are performed during scanner operations to check read rates, determine read rates or perform miscellaneous operations on scanner hardware. Serial utility commands are not prefaced with a “K” and a numeric code, nor do they require an initialization command ( and ). They can be entered from within any terminal program.
Utilities by Serial Command Table 11-1 Summary of Utility Serial Commands Command Type Counter Request and Clear Part Number/ Checksum 11–Utilities Read Rate Device Control Code Types Trigger Default/Reset/Save 11-2 Command <#> <#b> <#a> Name Noread Counter Noread Counter Reset Trigger Counter Trigger Counter Reset Good Read/Match Counter Good
Chapter 11 Utilities Table 11-1 Summary of Utility Serial Commands Matchcode <)data)> <)> <))> Network Status Store next symbol scanned as specified master symbol. Request master symbol #1. Request all master symbol information. Also Request specified master symbol information.
Counters Counters Counter commands can be a numeric value from 00000 to 65,535. After reaching the maximum numeric limit of 65,535, the counter will automatically roll-over and start counting again at 00000. To obtain the cumulative total of counts after the roll-over has occurred, add 65,536 per each roll-over (the scanner does not keep track of the number of roll-overs) to the current count.
Chapter 11 Utilities Part Number You can send a request to the scanner for associated part numbers. By Serial Command Upon sending <#> the scanner returns software part numbers for application code <#a/__________> and boot code <#b/_________>. Individual part numbers for Application Code and Boot Code are returned when their respective commands <#a> and <#b> are sent.
Checksum Checksum A Checksum verifies a scanner’s flash memory. By Serial Command Upon sending the scanner returns two 4-digit hex numbers that are the check sums for boot code and the application code. 11–Utilities Individual checksums for Boot Code and Application Code and Raster Code are returned when their respective commands and are sent.
Chapter 11 Utilities Read Rate When in a read rate mode, the scanner will output a number preceding the symbol data. This number will represent either the number of decoded scans per second or the percentage of successful decoder per total number of scans. Make a note of the decode rate. It will be a useful reference when calculating the number of decodes (see “Formulas for Number of Decodes” on page A-46).
Device Control Device Control By Serial Command Enable Laser Scanning Sending caused the laser to be on continuously. Note: Enable Laser Scanning does not relate to Laser On/Off command. Disable Laser Scanning Sending will turn the laser off and end the current read cycle. This feature is useful during extended periods of time when no bar code symbols are being scanned or the scanner is being configured. Disabling laser scanning will not affect any downloaded commands to the scanner.
Chapter 11 Utilities Output 1 Sending pulses activates the link between Output 1(+) and Output 1 (–) of the host connector for the duration set by “Pulse Width” on page 8-18. (regardless of Master Symbol or Output 1 status). Output 2 Sending pulses activates the link between Output 2(+) and Output 2 (–) of the host connector for the duration set by “Pulse Width” on page 8-18. (regardless of Master Symbol or Output 2 status).
Symbol Type Symbol Type Sending
enables the scanner to decode all available symbol types without changing scanner configuration. Sending enables the scanner to decode Code 39 symbols without changing scanner configuration. Sending enables the scanner to decode Codabar symbols without changing scanner configuration. 11–Utilities Sending enables the scanner to decode I 2 of 5 symbols without changing scanner configuration.
Chapter 11 Utilities Defaulting/Saving/Resetting Understanding and controlling your reader’s active, saved, and default settings is critical to the operation of your reader.
Defaulting/Saving/Resetting Factory Default Parameters Factory defaults parameters are contained in the firmware that cannot be changed. Software Factory Defaults Factory default parameters can be recalled (loaded into current settings) with command or recalled and saved for power-on with the command. Hardware Factory Default If a software default reset is not possible, it may be necessary to reset the reader by shorting (connecting) specific pins.
Chapter 11 Utilities Code Types Enable Commands See also “Autodiscriminate” on page 5-26 for a discussion of Utility commands for Code Types and Autodiscrimination. Default: Code 39 (only) Options:
Enables most code types. Enable Code 39 only Enable Codabar only Enable I 2/5 only Master Symbol Database See Chapter 6, “Matchcode” for master symbol commands.
Scanner Status Requests Scanner Status Requests Scanner Status Byte The scanner responds to a status request with a two character hex value, for example . To determine the status: 1. Look up the binary conversion in Table 11-3. For example, the first 2 in binary would be 0 0 1 0 as read from binary digits 3 through 0; the second 2 the binary digits 7 through 4 which is also 0 0 1 0. 2. Next, enter your binary values in Table 11-4 in the “Binary” column next to the appropriate bit.
Appendices Chapter Contents MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual A-1 A–Appendices Appendix A General Specifications ............................................................ A-2 Appendix B Electrical Specifications .......................................................... A-4 Appendix C ADP Interface Box .................................................................. A-5 Appendix D Serial Configuration Commands............................................. A-6 Appendix E Serial Command Format........
Appendix A — General Specifications Mechanical Height: 0.85” (21.6mm) Width: 1.75” (44.5mm) Depth: 1.75” (44.5mm) Weight: 2.0 oz. (57g) .85" (21.6 mm) Environmental Enclosure rating: IP54 Operating temperature: 0° to 40°C (32° to 122° F) Humidity: Up to 90% (non-condensing) Operating life: 40,000 hours at 25°C Laser Beam .31" (7.8 mm) 1.75" (44.5 mm) Laser Light Semiconductor, visible laser diode (650nM nominal); CDRH Class II .85" (21.5 mm) .25" (6.3 mm) Scanning Parameters A–Appendices .
Chapter A Appendices Discrete I/O Trigger Inputs: 3 to 24V rated (10mA @24VDC) Read Ranges High Density High Density Ranges High Density Scan Width cm 20 15 in. 10 5 0 5 5 10 0 15 20 Symbol Density 5 .0075" .003" .005" 5 5 0 cm Scan angle typically 70 degrees .003" (.076mm) .005" (.127mm) .0075" (.191mm) 10 0 in. Range Inside mm inches Outside mm inches 58.4 2.3 68.5 2.7 50.8 2 78.7 3.1 50.8 1.3 102 3.
Appendix B — Electrical Specifications Maximum Operating Power: __ Watts Power Input: 5V, ___mV p-p max.
Chapter A Appendices Appendix C — ADP Interface Box Table A-3 Host 25-pin Connector Pin Table A-5 Power 5-pin Connector Function Pin Function 1 Chassis 1 Signal ground 2 Transmit data (RS-232) 2 Chassis ground 3 Receive data (RS-232) 3 +5 VDC 7 Signal ground 4 –12 VDC 8 Output 1 (TTL) 5 +12 VDC 9 +5 VDC Table A-6 Scanner 15-pin Connector 10 Trigger (NPN) 11 Default configuration (NPN) Pin Table A-4 Trigger 6-pin Connector Pin Function Function 1 +5 VDC 2 Transmit RS-
Appendix D — Serial Configuration Commands The following table is a list of all the available serial configuration commands (also called “K” commands) in alphabetical order. These commands are also listed at the beginning of each chapter, as applicable. For utility (operational) commands see Table 11-1, “Summary of Utility Serial Commands,” on page 11-2.
Chapter A Command Title Under-temperature Laser Overcurrent Laser Undercurrent Power-on/Resets Counts Time Since Last Reset Present Operating Temperature Narrow Margins/ Symbology ID Background Color Code 39 Codabar Interleaved 2 of 5 UPC/EAN UCC/EAN-128 Code 93 Pharmacode Scan Speed Bar Detection Gain/Tracking AGC Settings Focus Beeper Output Output 1 Output 2 Output 3 Format returns: hours,minutes (read only) ret
Appendix E — Serial Command Format Serial commands are of two types: utility and configuration. Rules that apply to both utility and configuration commands • A less than < and greater than > characters enclose the commands. • Commands and data are “case sensitive.” That is, characters must be entered as upper or lower case, as specified. Serial Utility Commands These are sent during operations and are not followed by a or . See Table 11-1, “Summary of Utility Serial Commands,” on page 11-3.
Chapter A Appendices Concatenating Configuration Commands Commands can be concatenated (added together) in a single string or data block. Serial Command Status Request To ensure that any command was received and accepted, you can send the Show Scanner Status command: . The status of a specific serial command can be requested by entering the command followed by a question mark, for example .
Appendix F — ASCII Table A–Appendices Table A-8 ASCII Table with Control Characters Dec 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 A-10 Hex 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 0A 0B 0C 0D 0E 0F 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 1A 1B 1C 1D 1E 1F Mne NUL SOH STX ETX EOT ENQ ACK BEL BS HT LF VT FF CR SO SI DLE DC1 DC2 DC3 DC4 NAK SYN ETB CAN EM SUB ESC FS GS RS US Ctrl ^@ ^A ^B ^C ^D ^E ^F ^G ^H ^I ^J ^K ^L ^M ^N ^O ^P ^Q ^R ^S ^T ^U ^V ^W ^X ^Y ^Z ^[ ^\ ^] ^^
Chapter A Appendices Table A-9 Communication Protocol Commands Protocol Command Control Characters Hex (Mnemonic displayed (Entered in menu or Code on Microscan menu) serial command) Effect of Command RES ^D 04 Reset REQ ^E 05 Request EOT ^D 04 Reset STX ^B 02 Start of Text ETX ^C 03 End of Text ACK ^F 06 Acknowledge NAK ^U 15 Negative Acknowledge XON ^Q 11 Begin Transmission XOFF ^S 13 Stop Transmission A–Appendices MS-3 Laser Scanner User’s Manual A-11
Appendix G — Defaulting/Saving/Resetting Understanding and controlling your reader’s active, saved, and default settings is critical to the operation of your reader.
Chapter A Appendices Factory Default Parameters Factory defaults parameters are contained in the firmware that cannot be changed. Software Factory Defaults Factory default parameters can be recalled (loaded into current settings) with command or recalled and saved for power-on with the command. Hardware Factory Default If a software default reset is not possible, it may be necessary to reset the reader by shorting (connecting) specific pins.
Hardware Default Defaulting the scanner resets the configuration parameters to factory default values. Defaulting is necessary if: • You wish to quickly restore default settings to the configuration program after making some temporary changes.1 • Communications between the scanner and another device are interrupted because of incompatible settings (for example, a terminal is set to communicate at 9600 baud, but the scanner is configured at 38.4K baud).
Chapter A Appendices Reader Status Requests Reader Status Byte The reader responds to a status request with a two character hex value, for example . To determine the status: 1. Look up the binary conversion in table A-21. For example, the first 2 in binary would be 0 0 1 0 as read from binary digits 3 through 0; the second 2 the binary digits 7 through 4 which is also 0 0 1 0. 2. Next, enter your binary values in table A-22 in the “Binary” column next to the appropriate bit.
Appendix H — Symbol Configuration You can configure your scanner by presenting Code 128 symbols that the MS-3 scanner responds to as serial commands. Note: Your scanner does not need to be enabled for Code 128 in order to enter symbol configuration. Entering Symbol Configuration The symbol used to enter configuration is the 7-character code 128 symbol shown below. It is not required that the scanner be configured to read code 128 symbols to read this start symbol or the following configuration symbols.
Chapter A Appendices 3. A symbol that is presented to the scanner must be read 25 times consecutively to be used as a valid symbol. Once this is done the scanner will interpret the symbol data in the same fashion as it interprets serial data. 4. Any valid command may be entered via symbols including operational commands. Because the data is treated like serial input multiple symbols may be used to represent one command as long as the symbols are presented individually and in the correct order. 5.
Appendix I — Object Detector In a typical operation, a reader will wait for symbol data only during a triggered read cycle. A read cycle is initiated by a “trigger” and can be in the form of a serial command from the host (internal trigger) or a signal from an object detector (external trigger). When an object detector (also called a sensor, package detector, etc.
Chapter A Appendices Appendix J — Formulas for Number of Decodes To ensure reliable scanning, apply a minimum of five decodes to each symbol. Use the formulas below to calculate the number of decodes that your symbol will receive. If the number of decodes you derive from one of these calculations is less than the minimum for your application, plug in the minimum number of decodes (5) and solve for another parameter that might be changed, such as symbol speed or scans per second.
Angled Picket Fence Calculation Direction of symbol travel The number of complete scans for angled picket fence is calculated the same as that for picket fence, with the exception that the scan width is shortened in proportion to scan tilt. Scan Line Improving the Number of Decodes Figure A-4 Angled Picket Fence After changing any of the parameters described in this section, recalculate the number of decodes. Scan Rate A–Appendices Scan rate is a function of motor speed and is adjustable.
Chapter A Appendices Appendix K — Operational Tips Do: • Check inputs (symbol speed, length, height, etc.) to ensure the desired number of decodes per symbol. • For optimum decodes, mount scanner so that your symbols pass through the center of the depth-of-field (minimum/maximum range). You find the center by moving your symbol in and out during a read rate test. • Avoid excessive tilt, pitch, and skew of the symbol. • Check the symbol for readability by doing a decode rate test.
Appendix L — Embedded Menus In addition to ESP, you can also use a communications menu such as Microsoft’s HyperTerminal to establish communication with Microscan’s embedded menus.1 1. With your host connected to Quadrus EZ, set your host communications settings as follows: 9600 baud, 7 Data Bits, 1 Stop Bits, and None Parity. 2. Set Flow Control to None. 3. Make the communications port selection. (Usually COM 1 for Windows OS.) A–Appendices Upon connection, send a command to bring up the main menu.
Chapter A Appendices Appendix M — Interface Standards Interface Standards, established by the Electronic Industries Association (EIA), specify such things as the signaling voltage levels, maximum cable lengths, and number of drivers. With Microscan devices, selection of interface is made by pin assignment and, in the case of the host communications, by software switching between RS232 and RS422. Microscan devices use RS232, RS422, and RS485 multidrop.
Appendix N — Multidrop Communications This appendix describes the rules for setting up a concentrator or controller to communicate with a scanner in standard Multidrop protocol. The diagram to the right shows a typical Multidrop network in which 1 to 50 scanners can communicate with a host via an intermediary device, a concentrator or a controller. Host Concentrator Polled Protocol Multidrop ONLY RS-485 Interface Scanner 01 Scanner 02 Scanner 03 A–Appendices Configure Your Scanner for Multidrop 1.
Chapter A Appendices Connect to Scanner via the Concentrator You will need a multidrop concentrator and the required power supplies and cabling to communicate with your scanner(s). 1. From the Communications drop down menu, select Configure Multidrop to bring up the Multidrop Settings dialog. 2. If necessary, change the default address to match the address of your multidropped scanner and click OK.
Polling Sequence Data that is transmitted to the host (symbol data, noread messages, counters, etc.) via concentrators is solicited by poll requests from the host. The polling sequence example is by poll address 1E (ASCII hex value for Scanner 02) and a REQ (request). The scanner responds by first transmitting its own address, 1E, followed by a STX (start of text) character, and then the data. Next it transmits an ETX (end of text) character and an LRC (longitudinal redundancy check) character.
Chapter A Appendices Select Sequence Unlike poll requests, select commands always originate from the host and consist of serial configuration or operation commands to devices that are configured in Multidrop. The scanner complies with the command when it is polled during the cycle.
Table A-13 Multidrop Addresses Multidrop Address A–Appendices 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 A-28 Poll Character ASCII HEX ^\ 1C ^^ 1E SP 20 " 22 $ 24 & 26 ( 28 * 2A , 2C .
Chapter A Appendices Appendix O — Glossary of Terms Active On (ION). An optoisolated input that’s logically “on” when current flows through the connection points. Active Off (IOFF). An optoisolated input that’s logically “on” when no current flows through the connection points. Analog Gain Adjustment (AGC). Adjustment to signal strength that seeks to maintain a constant level regardless of the range of the symbol. Application Record.
Delimited. A command or field that is bracketed by pre-defined characters. Decode Rate. The number of reads decoded per second by a scanner or 2D reader expressed in percentages. Depth of Field. The distance between the minimum and maximum range in which symbols have been read. Discrete I/O. Inputs and outputs characterized by discrete signal transitions from one voltage level to another so that digital switching can occur. Dynamic Setup. Testing and configuration done with symbols in motion. Edge.
Chapter A Appendices nect with a host and—using the RS232, RS422, or RS485 standards—pass data and serial commands from one device to another. Initialize. Implement serial configuration commands into the scanner’s active memory. Input. A channel or communications line. Decoded data or a discrete signal that is received by a device. See Output. Intercharacter Delay. The time interval in milliseconds between individual characters transmitted from the scanner to the host. Intercharacter Gap.
device addresses and the RS485 standard. Narrow-bar-width. The width of the narrowest bar of a specific bar code symbol, expressed in thousands of an inch (or mils) as defined by standard symbol types. Narrow Margins. Allows the scanner to read symbols with quiet zones less than 8 times the width of the narrow bar element. Non-delimited. A command that is not bracketed by pre-defined characters. Noread. A non-read.
Chapter A Appendices Raster. Multiple, stacked scans produced by a separate oscillating mirror or by a spinning mirror with varying facet angles. Read Cycle. A programmed period of time or condition during which the scanner will accept symbol input. Reader. (1) Traditionally, a bar code device that can read but not decode symbols. (2) Currently, a device that reads and decodes 2D matrix codes. Read Range. The distances in which a symbol can be reliably read, as measured from the front of the scanner.
Symbol. A bar code. A decodable graphic pattern containing information that is recognized by a bar code scanner or reader. Symbol Data. The information that is transmitted from a decoded bar code symbol. Symbol Height. Regardless of orientation, the measurement taken along the length of a symbol’s individual bars. Symbol Length. Regardless of orientation, the measurement taken across the symbol's bars from one end to the other, including the quiet zone. Symbol Speed.
