Re: Using Barcode Reader

[DAsmussen@xxxxxxx]

Kusman,

In a message dated 12/27/99 10:02:41 PM Eastern Standard Time, 
KUSMAN@TAKEDA-ID.com writes:

> Since I join this mailing list. I was looking for the conversation for
>  using Barcode reader for user entry.
>  I am not so familiar using bpcs to capture data from external device
>  like barcode reader. Please advice me.
>  
>  I was thinking how to use this device (Barcode reader) to transfer data
>  in warehouse especially in manufacturing process.

There are many ways to do this, from the simple to the extremely complex.  On 
the simple side, you can purchase a "Wedge" to read barcode.  A "Wedge" is a 
simple device that fits between a keyboard and whatever device it is attached 
to (PC or terminal) that allows a scanned bar code to be read into a standard 
data entry screen as if the user had keyed it in.  "Wedge's" are cheap, and 
their only drawback is that the cursor has to be positioned on the proper 
field when you scan.  Automated readers on the line can be used as well, but 
require a great deal more work and expense.  RF terminals on forklifts with 
barcode scanners are an expensive, but often more practical, solution than 
the latter.

Printing barcode is usually more problematic, as the solutions are as varied 
as they are different to implement.  There are label printers, IBM AFP 
printers, and ASCII host print transform in transparent mode to laser 
printers with barcode font cartridges installed.  There are also several 
third parties such as T.L. Ashford that provide "middleware" for printing 
barcode.

I would be able to provide more specific help if I knew what you were trying 
to accomplish.  What are your goals for implementing barcode?  What should be 
the end result of a barcode implementation.  What business process will be 
improved by using barcode, and why?  Budget?  Just a few questions there!

Some would recommend the BPCS CIMPath product, but that forces you into 
specific hardware and software.  I won't recommend it for that reason and the 
fact that the product has been discontinued with no replacement in V6.1.00.

HTH,

Dean Asmussen
Enterprise Systems Consulting, Inc.
Fuquay-Varina, NC  USA
E-mail:  DAsmussen@aol.com

"I'd rather be a failure at something I enjoy than a success at something I 
hate." -- George Burns
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