SUBJECT: Demonstrating 2D Bar Code Scanning with the Apex II¨
COMMUNIQUE: 209
DATE: 03-11-98

The following instructions explain what is needed and how to demonstrate two dimensional (2-D) barcode scanning using either:

• A Welch Allyn ST-3400PDF 2-D CCD bar code reading device connected to the Apex II's Wand (top) Port
  

or

• A Welch Allyn IT-4400 connected to the Apex II's RS 232 (bottom) Port

GENERAL

1. The Apex II must be configured with a 512 K Flash memory
2. The Apex II Operating Systems must be version 2.11 Operating System or newer
3. IT-4400 to the Apex II RS 232 Port requires an Adapter Cable (Part Number 0223024)

DISPLAY CONSIDERATIONS

• Linear Codes
  When scanning linear bar codes the data will be displayed, and the type of bar code will be identified.
• 2-D Codes
  If the bar code scanned is a PDF-417, Data Matrix, MaxiCode, Aztec, or another recognizable 2-D code, it will be presented and displayed for approximately 5 seconds before screen clearing and scrolling to the next screen of data. Scrolling and holding for 5 seconds is automatic until all of scanned symbol's data is displayed.

  Notes:
  

  1. If you wish to manually scroll the screens faster than the five second hold interval, you may press the (F1) key to manually advance the data as desired.
  2. Pressing the "Q" key will stop scrolling, clear the screen and return ready to scan a new symbol.

SCANNER PROGRAMMING

Some scanner programming is necessary to synchronize communications between the Apex II and the particular scanning device that you wish to demonstrate.
Note: It is possible to connect two scanners simultaneously to the Apex II, one to the Wand Port and the other to the Serial Port. However, you may only scan and display from one selected scanning device at a time.
• Programming for the Welch Allyn ST3400-PDF - TTL Level RS 232 connected to the Apex II Wand Port
  • Communication set to 19200,E,8,1
  • Prefix set to<00><00><80>
  • Suffix set to<04>
  • Enable CTS/RTS

• Programming for the Welch Allyn IT-4400 connected to the Apex II RS 232 Port
  • Communication set to 19200,N,8,1 (User's Guide, page 2-12 & 2-13)
  • Enable Bar code ID (User's Guide, page 2-5)
  • Disable CTS/RTS (User's Guide, page 2-14)

Note: Requires an Adapter Cable (Part Number 0223024) for Apex II RS-232 port connection)

DEMO PROGRAM

A BASIC demo program for the Apex II is available on the Compsee web site that simply allows the user to scan and display the scanned data. No data is saved to memory for sake of brevity in programming This file can be downloaded for free from the Compsee Web Site.

Web Site = www.compsee.com
Location = Shareware
Zip File = 2D-Demo.zip
Program Filename = PDF_W232.APX

Loading the Apex II PDF_W232.APX program: (this program works with either port)
1. Reset the Apex II terminal as follows:
• Turn unit off
• Simultaneously depress and hold the (ALT) and period key "."
• While holding (ALT) and period press the red power button to turn unit on, then release (ALT .).
• Unit will reboot and display Compsee, Inc. copyright w/ Flash size and Memory size

2. Connect Apex II to your PCs' Com port 1 using Apex II cable.
3. We have provided a batch file to load the PDF_W232.APX Program. Simply run the "LOAD.BAT" file to load and start the program in the Apex II memory. Then follow the instructions as displayed on the Apex II screen.

If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact either:
Your Compsee Sales Representative
Compsee's Technical Support Department at (800) 768-5248
Compsee's Customer Service Department at (800) 628-3888