How to Connect a Barcode Scanner
A barcode scanner or reader is an electronic data entry device used for scanning or reading printed barcodes. It has a light source and a light sensor that translates electrical impulses to electronic ones. There are many types of barcode scanners, but handheld barcode scanners that you see in supermarket checkout counters are the most popular ones. Barcode scanners are connected to a computer that receives and processes the data to be used by a barcode software program. Learn how to connect a barcode scanner and take advantage of this wonderful technology.
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Instructions
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Turn off your computer. Look at your scanner and identify the type of connector that is attached to the end of the scanner cable. Various types of scanners have different connectors depending on the manufacturer and scanner model.
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Look at the back of your computer and locate the USB port, keyboard port and serial port. Plug the USB connector into the USB port at the back of your computer if the scanner cable terminates with a USB plug.
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Insert a Y-key dual-keyboard adapter into the keyboard port at the back of your computer if your scanner cable terminates with a keyboard connector. Insert the keyboard connector of your scanner into one side of the Y-key dual keyboard adapter and insert the connector of your keyboard into the other side of the adapter. The Y-key dual keyboard adapter allows you to use both the scanner and the keyboard at the same time.
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Plug the serial connector into the serial port if your scanner cable terminates with this type of a connector. Some barcode scanners use the RS-232 cable because it allows for more control over the data from the barcode scanner.
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Turn on your computer after making sure that the barcode scanner connector is properly plugged and seated into its port. Use the barcode scanner in order to test the connection.
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References
- Photo Credit pencil and barcode image by Anatoly Tiplyashin from Fotolia.com
