How to Connect a Barcode Reading Device in VB.NET

Barcodes can be deciphered using a barcode scanner and a computer software program.

Barcodes are encoded symbols that contain information about the item onto which they are attached. Barcodes are typically used to speed up information processing by means of instantly uploading data into a computer software program, using a barcode reading device or barcode scanner. Software is programmed using various programming languages, such as Visual Basic .NET (VB.NET). Plugging a barcode scanner into your computer and scanning a barcode will instantly upload the digital information encoded in the barcode onto software programmed with VB.NET language.

Things You'll Need

• Barcode scanner

Instructions

1. Turn off the power to your computer. Look at the type of connector at the end of your barcode scanner patch cord and locate the connector's matching port at the back of your computer. Most barcode scanners plug into a serial or USB port.

2. Turn on your computer. Inserting the CD that contains the software program running on VB.NET programming language into your computer. Run the program.

3. Scan the barcode by holding the scanner 6 inches away from the barcode and pressing the barcode switch to activate the scanner and upload the digital information into the computer program. View your computer to see if the data was properly uploaded.

References

• Carolina Barcode: How Barcode Scanners Work
• Barcodereaders.com: How to Connect the Eagle II Barcode Reader
• Idautomation.com: Scanning Data Directly into the Field on the Form

Resources

• Consumerschoicepos.com: Handheld Barcode Scanner