Datalogic ADC PWRSCAN-BS Powerscan RF Base Station User Manual

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Systems Manual

PSC Scanning, Inc.

959 Terry Street

Eugene, Oregon 97402

Telephone: (541) 683-5700

Telefax: (541) 345-7140

PSC, the PSC logo, Quadralogic and PowerScan are registered trademarks of PSC Inc. All

other trademarks and trade names referred to herein are property of their respective owners.

therein may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written

permission of PSC Inc. Owners of PSC Inc.’s products are hereby granted non-exclusive,

revocable license to reproduce and transmit this documentation for the purchaser’s own inter-

nal business purposes. Purchaser shall not remove or alter any proprietary notices, including

any reproductions of the documentation.

Should future revisions of this manual be published, you can acquire printed versions by con-

tacting PSC Customer Administration. Electronic versions will either be downloadable from the

PSC web site (www.pscnet.com) or provided on appropriate media. If you visit our web site

and would like to make comments or suggestions about this or other PSC publications, please

let us know via the “Contact PSC” page.

Disclaimer

Reasonable measures have been taken to ensure that the information included in this

manual is complete and accurate. However, PSC reserves the right to change any

specification at any time without prior notice.

Systems Manual i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction................................................................................................................................1

About This Manual ..................................................................................................1

References ..............................................................................................................1

Product Description .................................................................................................2

Laser Cautions ..............................................................................................................4

Radio Frequency Interference .......................................................................................5

Quick Start Instructions ............................................................................................................6

Unpacking and Inspecting the Base Station ...........................................................6

Installation Procedures ...........................................................................................6

Installing the Battery ......................................................................................................7

Verifying Scanner Operation .........................................................................................8

Connecting the Base Station to the Host Terminal ........................................................8

Linking the Scanner to a Base Station ........................................................................10

Verifying Scanner-to-Base Station Communications ............................................10

Using the PowerScan RF System ..........................................................................................11

Battery Charging and Maintenance .............................................................................11

Tips for Extending Battery Life ..............................................................................12

Disposing of Batteries ...........................................................................................13

Four Station Charger ............................................................................................13

How to Scan ................................................................................................................15

Depth of Field ........................................................................................................16

Active Symbologies ...............................................................................................20

Enhanced Scanning for Hard-to-Read Bar Codes ................................................20

LED and Beeper Indications ........................................................................................21

Maximizing Signal Range ............................................................................................25

Three-Position Lock ..............................................................................................26

Mounting the Base Station .....................................................................................................27

Horizontal (Table or Countertop) Mounting ...........................................................27

Vertical (Wall) Mounting ........................................................................................29

Post or Forklift Mounting .......................................................................................30

RF Programmable Features....................................................................................................31

Programming Overview ........................................................................................32

What Is Programming Mode? ...............................................................................33

The Programming Session ...................................................................................34

Programming Sequence .......................................................................................36

ii PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Scanner vs. Base Station Features ...................................................................... 38

Interface (I/F) Selection ........................................................................................ 39

Universal Keyboard Wedge I/F Selection ............................................................. 42

Terminal/Keyboard Settings ................................................................................. 43

RF Beeper Settings ..............................................................................................44

RF When to Beep ................................................................................................. 45

RF When to Beep Options (continued) ................................................................. 46

Radio Transmit Power .......................................................................................... 50

RF Channel Selection ........................................................................................... 51

Transmission Retries Before Message Time-out ................................................. 53

Wait Time for ACK ................................................................................................ 56

Wait Time For Scanner Power Shutdown ............................................................ 57

Wait Time Between Retries of Failed Transmission .............................................58

HACK Transmit Options ....................................................................................... 60

Wait Time For HACK From Host .......................................................................... 62

Drop Links on Reset Option ................................................................................. 63

Drop Oldest Links Option .....................................................................................64

Common Configuration ......................................................................................... 65

Set Maximum Linked Scanners ............................................................................ 67

Source-Radio Identification (ID) ...........................................................................69

Low Battery LED Indication .................................................................................. 71

Maintenance and Troubleshooting........................................................................................ 72

Scanner Maintenance ........................................................................................... 72

Base Station Maintenance .................................................................................... 72

Four Station Charger Maintenance ......................................................................72

Troubleshooting .......................................................................................................... 73

If the Scanner Fails to Link with the Base Station ................................................ 74

Standard Warranty .................................................................................................................. 78

Exclusions ...................................................................................................................78

Limitations of Liability ..................................................................................................78

Assignment ................................................................................................................. 78

Risk of Loss .................................................................................................................78

Appendix A: Sample Bar Codes ......................................................................................... A-1

Appendix B: Number Pad .................................................................................................... B-1

Systems Manual 1

Introduction

About This

Manual

This systems manual provides information and instructions to connect

and configure your PowerScan™ RF system. The following sections are

included in the manual:

•Introduction presents general information about the contents of

this manual and about the system.

•Quick Start Instructions provide easy to follow procedures for

installing your system quickly.

•Using the PowerScan RF System provides details about scanning

basics, system controls and indicators.

•Mounting the Base Station demonstrates ways to securely attach

the Base Station to various work surfaces.

•RF Programmable Features is a set of procedures detailing sys-

tem configuration that is unique to the RF system.

•Maintenance and Troubleshooting provides solutions for prob-

lems that may be encountered during installation and use of

the system.

• is a statement describing the warranty policy covering the sys-

tem.

References Other manuals are available for this product. Printed copies can be

ordered through your distributor. Some manuals can be downloaded at

our website address listed on the back cover of this manual. Read the

print the most current manual(s) from the internet.

Configurator Express™ On-Screen Programming offers a convenient way

to program your scanner using your PC. Information about ordering a

kit (includes software, adapter and cable) for your RF scanner can also

be accessed from our website (see the back cover of this manual).

2PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Product

Description

The PowerScan™ RF scanner is designed for durability, with high

impact-resistant material and protective rubber cushioning at every

point of impact, and it also provides the unleashed freedom of Radio

Frequency (RF) communication with your host system. Scanner and

Base Station nomenclature and labeling are shown in Figure 1 and

Figure 2 below.

Figure 1. Scanner Labels and Nomenclature

1. Trigger 4. Tether Hook

2. Scan Window 5. Yellow LED

3. Green LED 6. Battery

NOTE

Figure 1 and Figure 2 show label placement ONLY.

For actual regulatory, patent and other applicable

information, view the labels on the product itself, or

call your nearest sales or service representative.

CAUTION—LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN. AVOID EXPOSURE TO BEAM.

COVERED

BY ONE OR MORE OF THE

FOLLOWING PATENTS:

4,387,297 • 4,409,470 • 4,460,120

4,593,186 • 4,652,750 • 4,673,805

4,736,095 • 4,816,660 • 4,845,350

4,861,972 • 4,866,257 • 4,879,456

5,179,270 • 5,180,904 • 5,237,161

5,247,161 • 5,247,162 • 5,258,604

5,260,554 • 5,298,728 • 5,311,000

5,330,370 • 5,468,949 • 5,475,206

5,481,098

Other patents pending

Systems Manual 3

Figure 2. Base Station Labels and Nomenclature

1. Antenna 8. Interface (I/F) Connector

2. Transmit/Receive

(TX/RX)/ Diagnostics LED

9. Cable Retainer

3. Charge LED 10 Power Connector

4. Power LED 11. Power Supply - (a) AC Adapter or

(b) Forklift DC Converter

5. Base ID Bar Code 12. Interface (I/F) Cable

6. Charging Pins 13. Mounting Key Slots (3)

7. 3-Position Lock 14. Mounting Flanges (4)

BASE ID

TX/RX

CHARGE

POWER

PSC

INC.

959 Terry Street

Eugene, OR 97402 U.S.A.

MODEL: PowerScan RF Base Station

CLASS No.

SERIAL No.

FREQ:

ACN

N263

Use ONLY PSC

AC/DC Power Supply

Input: +6.5V to +14V

Power: 13.9 Watts (max)

CUS

LISTED

NWGQ 2Z78

FCC ID: O9NPWRSCAN-BS

CanadaXXXXXXXXX

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.

Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference.

2. This device must accept any interference, including

interference that may cause undesired operation.

Applicable patents are listed on label inside handheld unit.

4PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Laser Cautions

The PowerScan RF bar code scanner is certified in the U.S. to conform

to the requirements of DHHS/CDRH 21CFR Subchapter J for Class II laser

products. Class II products are not considered to be hazardous. The

scanner contains a Visible Laser Diode (VLD) at a wavelength of 650-

670 nanometers and is designed so that there can be no human access

to harmful levels of laser light during normal operation, user mainte-

nance, or during prescribed service operations.

CAUTION

In the unlikely event that a bright laser spot is expe-

rienced rather than a scan line, do not stare into the

beam or attempt to repair the unit. Discontinue

operation and return the unit to your dealer. Note

that when using Marker Beam Mode, a single aim-

ing dot is projected momentarily preceding a scan

line and is not considered a malfunction.

CAUTION

Do not open or otherwise service any components

in the optics cavity. Opening or servicing any part

of the optics cavity by unauthorized personnel may

violate laser safety regulations. The optics system

is a factory only repair item.

NOTE

The PowerScan™ RF scanner is required to be used

in conjunction with the PSC Base Station, Model:

PowerScan RF Base Station.

Systems Manual 5

Radio Frequency Interference

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is sub-

ject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and

2. This device must accept any interference received, including

interference that may cause undesired operation.

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian

Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Cet appareil numerique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du

Reglement sur le material broilleur du Canada.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits

for a Class B 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 these instructions, may cause harmful interfer-

ence to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that

interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment

does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which

can be dertermined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is

encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the fol-

lowing measures:

•Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

•Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

•Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different

from that to which the receiver is connected.

•Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for

help.

6PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Quick Start Instructions

Unpacking and

Inspecting the

Base Station

After unpacking your new Base Station, check the contents of the ship-

ping carton to ensure all the items you ordered are included:

•PowerScan™ Scanner Base Station

•Interface Cable

•Power Supply (AC Adapter or Forklift DC Converter)

•Systems Manual (this manual)

•Programming Guide

•Optional Accessories that you ordered. (The Base Station can

be purchased with or without accessory kits.)

If your package contains wrong or missing components, contact your

place of purchase. If there are damaged components, immediately file a

claim with the carrier. You may want to save your packing material in

case you need to ship the scanner at some later time.

Installation

Procedures

The basic steps below must be performed to set up the RF scanner.

Each of these steps is detailed in this section.

•Installing the Battery

•Verifying Scanner Operation

•Connecting the Base Station to the Host Terminal

•Linking the Scanner to a Base Station

•Verifying Scanner-to-Base Station Communications

•Using the PowerScan RF System

NOTE

Other manuals for this product are available on our

internet website. See the back cover for our internet

address.

Systems Manual 7

Installing the Battery

Orient the battery as shown in Figure 3, then push it into the scanner

until it snaps in place. To remove the battery, push in on the release tabs

on both sides of the battery’s base and pull it straight out of the scan-

ner.

Figure 3. Installing the Battery

NOTE

To assure maximum usage, batteries should always

be fully charged before their initial use. (See Battery

Charging and Maintenance on page 12.)

1. Battery Release Tabs

8PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Verifying Scanner Operation

Once a charged battery has been installed in the scanner, scan the sam-

ple bar codes in Appendix A that correspond to the symbologies your

scanner is programmed to read. If unsure how to do this, see the sec-

tion on How to Scan in this manual. The system may signal with one or

a combination of indicators depending upon how the scanner and Base

Station are programmed to respond (see LED and Beeper Indications for

details). If your scanner fails to read a sample bar code of a symbology

it’s programmed to read, turn to the section titled, Maintenance and

Troubleshooting.

Connecting the Base Station to the Host Terminal

1. Connect the I/F cable to the Base Station (see Figure 4A). The

I/F cable is inserted into the connector and the cable retainer

clip is rotated over the cable overmold until the retainer snaps

in place (see Figure 4B). To disconnect the cable, push in on the

retainer (away from the catch on the plastic wall) to release it

and enable it to swing upward, allowing the cable to be pulled

free (see Figure 4C).

Figure 4. Connecting/Disconnecting the Interface (I/F) Cable

NOTE

It is important that the interface (I/F) cable be con-

nected to the Base Station prior to applying power

to the system. This is because the interface type

(RS-232, IBM, Keyboard Wedge, etc.) is selected by

the Base Station subject to the I/F cable it is con-

nected to at the time of power-up.

Systems Manual 9

2. Consult your Host Terminal manual to determine the required

communication parameters for the Host Terminal (e.g., baud

rate, parity, etc.) and, if necessary, modify the programmed

parameters to be compatible with those requirements. Scanner

and Base Station programming is performed using one of the

following:

- Configurator Express™ Programming Software

- PowerScan™ Bar Code Scanner Programming Guide

3. Connect the I/F cable to the proper port on the Host Terminal

(check your Host Terminal manual to determine hardware

requirements).

4. Connect the AC Adapter’s power cord at the Base Station and

plug the AC/DC adapter in at the wall outlet (see Figure 5).

The Base Station’s POWER LED should be illuminated when

the unit is properly connected to power.

NOTE

See References for more information about how to

obtain software and manuals for this product.

CAUTION

The Host Terminal manual should also be consulted

as to whether power must be turned off before con-

necting peripheral devices. Ensure that the correct

procedure is followed to avoid damage to equip-

ment or interruption of system functions.

10 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Figure 5. Connecting Power to the Base Station

5. Apply power to the Host Terminal.

6. Verify communication with the Host Terminal by aiming the

linked scanner at a sample bar code from Appendix A, and

pulling the trigger (see How to Scan for tips about scanning bar

codes). Confirm that the scanner/Base Station sent the data to

the host terminal. If not, see the section, Maintenance and Trou-

bleshooting. Once all communications are verified, the system is

ready for use.

Linking the Scanner to a Base Station

To link a scanner to a Base Station, simply scan the Base Station ID bar

code located on the top of the desired Base Station (see Figure 2). As the

scanner searches for the Base Station, a short beep is heard as it seeks

for the correct channel. When the Base Station responds to the request,

the scanner’s beeper will either sound a "Link Granted," or "Link

Denied" signal (see the section, LED and Beeper Indications for more

information).

Systems Manual 11

The existing Base Station system configuration can be automatically

downloaded to the scanner. This automatic download feature is config-

urable and can be disabled. See the section, Common Configuration for

more information about this feature. If downloading occurs, a slight

delay with link verification announcement will occur.

Verifying

Scanner-to-Base

Station

Communications

Point the linked scanner at a sample bar code from Appendix A, and

pull the trigger (see How to Scan for tips on scanning bar codes). Watch

the TX/RX (transmit/receive) indicator LED on the Base Station and/

or scanner green LED while scanning the bar code. The LEDs should

flash momentarily as the two devices communicate. If no communica-

tion is indicated, see the section titled, If the Scanner Fails to Link with the

Base Station.

When the scanner is programmed to do so, communication can also be

indicated by a second "acknowledgement" tone1 that is sounded after a

"good read" tone. If a transmission error beep (warble) is heard follow-

ing a "good read" tone instead of the single acknowledgement tone,

communication between the devices may have failed2. Refer to the sec-

tions Using the PowerScan RF System, and Maintenance and Troubleshoot-

ing for possible remedies, should this occur.

Using the PowerScan RF System

This section covers the following topics:

•Battery Charging and Maintenance

•How to Scan

CAUTION

Since a new/replacement scanner may have been

shipped with a custom configuration or may have

been modified with other special programming, it

may not be desirable to download a potentially

older configuration from an existing Base Station.

In this case, reference the RF Programmable Fea-

tures section of this manual, or the Configurator

Express™ On Screen Programming Software and

consider uploading the scanner’s newer configura-

tion to the Base Station prior to linking.

1. See LED and Beeper Indications for more details about beeper signals.

2. Other reasons for a "warble" are that the Base Station may be configured differently than the scan-

ner, or that the system’s interface doesn’t support the symbology (bar code type) you’re trying to

scan.

12 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

•LED and Beeper Indications

•Maximizing Signal Range

•Three-Position Lock

Battery Charging and Maintenance

Seat the scanner in the Base Station as shown in Figure 6, ensuring that

the battery fully engages the station’s metal contacts. The CHARGE

LED on the Base Station should flash, indicating the battery is charg-

ing.

Figure 6. Charging the Battery

Rapid flashing indicates that charging is taking place. Rapid charging

occurs when the battery temperature is between 10°C (50°F) and 46°C

(115°F), and/or voltage of the battery is between 2.0 and 3.2V. Charge

time is less than 4.2 hours. Rapid charge ends with the battery at

approximately 90 to 95% capacity. The CHARGE LED remains on

steady when trickle charging or after the charge cycle is complete.

NOTE

When the scanner is in use, a low battery condition

is indicated by a repeated two-flash signal from the

scanner’s green LED every time the trigger is pulled

before the laser is enabled. This indicator may have

been disabled via custom programming. See LED

and Beeper Indications for more information.

NOTE

A scanner may be charged simultaneously while

other scanners are in use with the Base Station.

Systems Manual 13

Tips for

Extending

Battery Life

Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries will better hold a charge if

allowed to discharge at least once a week. The chemical reactions that

correspond to charge and discharge in a rechargeable battery should

occur to obtain the maximum number of charge/discharge cycles in

the battery. If a battery is removed from the scanner and stored, it

should be fully charged when stored. Batteries will lose the ability to

hold a charge when stored for long periods of time (weeks, months, or

longer).

Batteries will typically have about 30% charge capacity when shipped.

To assure maximum usage, the battery should be fully charged before

use.

Store your battery in a cool dry place. Do not leave your battery

exposed to direct sunlight or temperatures below 0°C (30°F) and above

38°C (100°F).

Disposing of

Batteries

There presently are no US, North America or World disposal require-

ments for NiMH batteries, so when they won't hold a charge anymore,

the batteries can be disposed of, preferably through a recycling center.

Four Station

Charger

If you have a Four Station Charger, batteries are inserted for charging

as shown in Figure 7. A 90% rapid charge can be achieved in only two

hours when using this optional accessory; half the time than when a

Base Station is used for charging. The LEDs at each battery station

operate the same as the CHARGE LED on the Base Station, with rapid

flashing indicating that rapid charging is taking place and on steady

during trickle charging or when the rapid charge cycle is finished.

NOTE

Batteries will not charge if their temperature is

below 0°C (30°F). If a battery that is too cold is

inserted into the Base Station, the Charge LED will

not illuminate.

NOTE

If you insert a battery into the Four Station Charger

and no LEDs illuminate, the battery may be too

cold. Batteries must be at 0°C or higher to charge.

Do not attempt to charge cold batteries, since plac-

ing them in the charger will curtail the charging of

other batteries already present in the unit.

14 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Figure 7. Using the Four Station Charger Accessory

1. Device Power LED 2. Station Charge LEDs

Systems Manual 15

How to Scan

Figure 8 illustrates some tips to help get the best scanning results:

1. The scanner must be pointed at a slight angle to the bar code.

Do not hold the scanner perpendicular to the bar code.

2. The laser beam must cross the entire bar code. The scanner

cannot correctly read if the entire bar code is not scanned.

Figure 8. Scanning Tips

16 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Depth of Field There are currently four different range models for the RF scanner.

Depending upon the model type of your scanner, you’ll need to hold

the unit at a given distance from the bar code to achieve optimum scan-

ning results. The following diagrams provide depth of field informa-

tion for each of the models when scanning grade A, Code 39 bar codes:

Standard Range (SR), High Density (HD), Long Range (LR) and Extra

Long Range (XLR).

Definition of

a "mil"

A "mil" is equal to 0.001 inches. In the context of the illustrations in this

section, a mil represents the minimum bar code element width. Thus a

5 mil bar code would have a minimum element width of 5 mils (or

0.005 inches).

Figure 9. Depth of Field (SR)

NOTE

Measurements are based on SR models set with the

standard 28° scan width (as opposed to the Half

Angle setting of 14°). Reference the Programming

Manual for more information about the Half Angle

feature.

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Depth of Field

Paper Labels (SR decoded model, Code 39)

20 mil

15 mil

10 mil

5 mil

CENTIMETERS

FEET

FRONT OF SCANNER

12345

20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170

40 mil

7.5 mil

55 mil

Systems Manual 17

Figure 10. Depth of Field (HD)

NOTE

See the section titled, Definition of a "mil" for more

information about reading this chart. Measurements

are based on HD models set with the standard 28°

scan width (as opposed to the Half Angle setting of

14°). Reference the Programming Manual for more

information about the Half Angle feature.

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Depth of Field

Paper Labels (HD decoded model, Code 39)

7.5 mil

5 mil

4 mil

3 mil

INCHES

FRONT OF SCANNER

CENTIMETERS

1 234 5678

10 15 20

10 mil

20 mil

18 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Figure 11. Depth of Field (LR)

NOTE

See the section titled, Definition of a "mil" for more

information about reading this chart. Measurements

are based on LR models set with the a 14° scan

width (as opposed to the alternate Full Angle set-

ting of 28°). Reference the Programming Manual for

more information about the Half Angle feature.

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Depth of Field

Paper Labels (LR decoded model, Code 39)

40 mil

20 mil

15 mil

7.5 mil

CENTIMETERS

FEET

FRONT OF SCANNER

12345

20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150 160

6789

170 180 190 200 210 220 230 240 250 260 270 280

10 mil

55 mil

Reflective Labels (LR decoded model, Code 39)

70 mil

55 mil

40 mil

CENTIMETERS

FEET

FRONT OF SCANNER

6706506306105905705505305104904704504304103903703503303102902702502302101901701501301109070503010

2345678910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

100 mil

Systems Manual 19

Figure 12. Depth of Field (XLR)

NOTE

See the section titled, Definition of a "mil" for more

information about reading this chart. Measurements

are based on XLR models set with a 10° scan angle

width.

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Depth of Field

Paper Labels (XLR decoded model, Code 39)

40 mil

20 mil

15 mil

CENTIMETERS

FEET

FRONT OF SCANNER

12345678910 11 12 13 14 15

45040035030025020015010050

55 mil

Reflective Labels (XLR decoded model, Code 39)

70 mil

40 mil

CENTIMETERS

FEET

FRONT OF SCANNER

11001050100095090085080075070065060055050045040035030025020015010050

2345678910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36

100 mil

20 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Active

Symbologies

The active (enabled) bar code symbologies in the standard factory

defaults are:

•Code 39 (C39)

•Code 128 (C128)

•Interleaved 2 of 5 (I 2 of 5)

Your scanner should be pre-programmed with these standard factory

default settings, unless...

...it was shipped to you programmed with unique, customer con-

figuration settings.

...you or another user have made changes to scanner program-

ming.

Enhanced

Scanning for

Hard-to-Read

Bar Codes

Decoded scanners can be programmed to decode extremely poor qual-

ity bar codes by activating advanced Quadralogic™ Decoding. To

select this feature, see the Programming Guide.

Scanner programming can also be performed using your PC and the

Configurator Express™ On-Screen Programming Kit.

NOTE

Information about manuals, kits and programming

software for this product are available at our web-

site. See the back cover for our web address.

Systems Manual 21

LED and Beeper Indications

The Base Station LED indicators and the scanner’s LEDs and beeper

are used to announce system status and perform other useful signals.

The tables below list the default function of each of the various indica-

tors.

Table 1. Scanner GREEN LED Functions

NOTE

Some LED and beeper indications can be disabled

or modified via scanner programming. The tables

indicate the default behavior of the indicators, with

shaded rows representing features that are pro-

grammable.

LED

INDICATION DURATION COMMENT

Disable

Indication

100ms on, 900 ms off Indicates the scanner has

been disabled.

Good Read

Indication

500 ms on Indicates a bar code has

been read and decoded.

Program Mode

Indication

500 ms on, 500 ms off

Continuous flashing Indicates the scanner is in

Programming Mode.

Field Replace-

able Unit (FRU)

Indications

Varies. Consists of a long flash

followed by multiple short

flashes.

Enables service techni-

cians to identify Field

Replaceable Unit (FRU)

errors.

Low Battery

Indication

Two flashes at 100 ms on, 350

ms off.

Occurs at trigger pull before

the laser is enabled. Indi-

cates the battery is in need

of recharging.

22 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Table 2. Scanner YELLOW LED Functions

Table 3. Scanner BEEPER Functions

LED

INDICATION DURATION COMMENT

Laser on indica-

tion

On Steady The yellow LED illuminates

whenever the laser is on.

SPEAKER

INDICATION DURATION COMMENT

Scanner Not

Currently

Linked

Six beeps consisting of 20 ms

on, 20 ms off

Indicates a bar code was

read before the scanner

was linked to a Base Sta-

tion.

Good Read

Beep

100 ms on (short)

250 ms on (medium)

500 ms on (long)

Three programmable func-

tions are available. This

indicates a bar code has

been read and decoded.

Partial Read

Bip

20 ms on

A very short beep ("bip") is

sounded when one bar

code of a two-bar code pair

has been successfully

decoded.

Base Station

Acknowledge-

ment Beep

100 ms on (short)

250 ms on (medium)

500 ms on (long)

Indicates a successful bar

code transmission to the

host (configurable), a suc-

cessful change of channel,

or a successful transmis-

sion of a new configuration

to the host.

Systems Manual 23

Transmission

Error Beep

High, then low, then high, then

low. Indicates unsuccessful

transmission to the host.

Link Beep

Low, then medium, then high. Indicates a scanner has

been successfully linked to

a base station.

Unlink Beep

High, then medium, then low. Indicates a scanner has

been successfully unlinked

from a base station.

Field Replace-

able Unit (FRU)

Indications

Varies. Consists of a long tone

followed by multiple short

tones.

Enables service techni-

cians to identify Field

Replaceable Unit (FRU)

errors.

SPEAKER

INDICATION DURATION COMMENT

24 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Table 4. Base Station LED Functions

LED

INDICATION DURATION COMMENT

TX/RX (Trans-

mit/Receive)

Lit for variable timea

a. The LED remains on while the unit is actively processing code which

requires a TX/RX to occur. The duration of the LED is dependent upon

the length of the message.

Indicates communications

activity to or from the Base

Station.

Continuous rapid

flashing at power-up Indicates a broken radio.

Varies. Consists of a long flash

followed by multiple short

flashes.

Enables service techni-

cians to identify Field

Replaceable Unit (FRU)

errors.

Charge

(Battery)

Continuous flashing

When a scanner is nested

in the station, this indicates

its battery is being quick

charged.

Lit Constantly

When a scanner is nested

in the station, this indicates

its battery is at or near full

charge.

Not Lit

A scanner is not present or

incorrectly inserted into the

station. It can also mean

the battery is below 0°C

(too cold for charge)

Power Lit Constantly Indicates that power is on.

Systems Manual 25

Maximizing Signal Range

Here are a few tips about how you can optimize your system installa-

tion to allow the scanner greater roving distance from its linked Base

Station while maintaining clear communication between the devices.

•Minimize obstructions between the scanner and its Base Sta-

tion. While the system is capable of communicating through

walls, a clean line of sight will always increase the scanner’s

signal range from the Base Station.

•Never place or install the Base Station in a metal-lined area or

enclosure, or near large metal objects.

•Position the Base Station and experiment at various elevations,

orientations, etc. to achieve better communications between

devices. The system usually works best at heights of one meter

or more off the ground. Usually the scanner and Base Station

work optimally when operating at about the same height.

•Ensure that programmable features are set to maximize radio

transmission. For example, if the feature Radio Transmit Power

is set to low, set it to high. Selecting a different channel using

the options under RF Channel Selection might also help. See the

section titled, RF Programmable Features, for more information

about these features.

•Consider using a Four Station Charger accessory to charge bat-

teries as opposed to using the Base Station for this function. It

offers faster charging (about half the time to a 90% charge as

Base Station charging).

26 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Three-Position

Lock

The Base Station is equipped with a three-position lock to allow a scan-

ner to be secured in the Base Station in horizontal, vertical, and forklift

installations.

Figure 13. Using the Three-Position Lock

1. Top position:

Vertical Forklift Mount Lock

3. Bottom position:

Unlocked

2. Middle position:

Vertical (Wall) Mount Lock

Systems Manual 27

Mounting the Base Station

The Base Station can be secured to varying surfaces to ensure a perma-

nent, stable installation. Several options are available.

Horizontal

(Table or

Countertop)

Mounting

Using Key

Slots

Refer to Figure 14 and follow these steps:

1. Once you have identified the desired area for permanent Base

Station installation, use the mounting template included with

this manual to mark the position of its "key slot" mounting

screws.

2. Install three #8 x 1" (4.1mm x 25.4mm) pan head, self-tapping

screws in the marked positions until completely threaded into

the mounting surface, then back the screws off two to three full

turns.

3. Ensure that power and interface cables are securely connected

and routed in the channels provided in the bottom of the Base

Station.

4. Align the Base Station key slots (wide end) with the screws,

then slide the Base Station to position the screws in the smaller

ends of the key slots. Adjust the height of the mounting screws

if needed for a secure fit. The Base Station is now secured to the

table or countertop.

28 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Figure 14. Mounting Using Key Slots

Using

Mounting

Flanges

Refer to Figure 15a and follow these steps:

1. Once you have identified the desired area for permanent Base

Station installation, hold the unit in place and mark the posi-

tion of screws using the "mounting flanges."

2. Start and remove four screws (provided) at the marked posi-

tions in the mounting surface.

3. Ensure that power and interface cables are securely connected

and routed in the channels provided in the bottom of the Base

Station.

4. Secure the Base Station to the surface by installing the four

screws into the mounting flanges. Base Station attachment is

now complete.

1. Key Slots 2. #8 x 1" (4.1mm x 25.4mm) Pan

Head Screw

BASE ID

TX/RX

CHARGE

POWER

Systems Manual 29

Figure 15. Mounting Using Flanges or Two-sided Tape

Mounting

Using Two-

Sided Tape

You can also affix the Base Station to a surface using the two-sided tape

strips provided with the unit. Simply remove the backing from one

side of the strips and apply them to the bottom of the Base Station as

shown in Figure 15b. Remove the remaining backing from the tape,

then position and firmly press the unit against a smooth, clean surface

in the orientation desired.

Vertical (Wall)

Mounting

The Base Station can be mounted vertically using the same methods as

horizontal mounting (see previous section):

•Using Key Slots

•Using Mounting Flanges

•Mounting Using Two-Sided Tape 1

1. Mounting Flanges (4) 3. Two-sided Tape Strips

2. 4 Screws (provided) 4. Backing

BASE ID

TX/RX

CHARGE

POWER

1. Since mounting using this method offers less secure attachment, verify that your tape installation

is robust enough for your application.

30 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Post or Forklift

Mounting

To secure the Base Station to a post or forklift frame, refer to Figure 16

and follow these steps:

1. Verify that the desired mounting area offers sufficient space for

safe forklift operation and will not present a hazard for opera-

tors or potentially damage the mounted device(s).

2. Ensure that power and interface cables are securely connected

and routed in the channels provided in the back of the Base

Station.

3. Using tie-wraps or a similar strapping material, secure the

Base Station (through the mounting flanges) to a post or frame.

Tighten and adjust as needed to assure a secure installation.

Figure 16. Post or Forklift Mounting

1. Tie Wraps

Systems Manual 31

RF Programmable Features

Use the special programming bar codes contained in this section to set

features that are unique to RF models of PowerScan™ bar code scan-

ners. To program other features that are common to all models, use one

of the following:

- Configurator Express™ On-Screen Programming Kit

- PowerScan™ Programming Guide

Programming features included in this manual are:

•RF Beeper Settings

•Radio Transmit Power

•RF Channel Selection

•Transmission Retries Before Message Time-out

•Wait Time for ACK

•Wait Time For Scanner Power Shutdown

•Wait Time Between Retries of Failed Transmission

•HACK Transmit Options

•Wait Time For HACK From Host

•Drop Links on Reset Option

•Drop Oldest Links Option

•Common Configuration

•Set Maximum Linked Scanners

•Source-Radio Identification (ID)

•Low Battery LED Indication

NOTE

See References on page 1 for more information

about how to obtain kits, software and manuals for

this product.

32 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Programming

Overview

The RF system’s programmable feature settings can be modified to

accommodate your unique requirements. Listed below are the various

methods to configure scanner and Base Station units:

Scanner

1. The Base Station’s configuration files can be automatically

downloaded to the scanner at the time of linking. See the sec-

tions, Linking the Scanner to a Base Station and Common Configu-

ration for more details.

2. The easiest, most comprehensive way to program the scanner

is to use the Configurator Express™ On-Screen Programming

Kit. See References for more information about this product.

3. The scanner can be configured using special programming bar

codes like those contained in this section. For the most part, the

programming instructions and bar codes on the following

pages address this method of scanner configuration.

NOTE

Base Stations and the scanners linked to them must

possess compatible configuration files.

NOTE

If you program the scanner using any of the

methods above, the scanner will store the changes

until reprogrammed or returned to factory defaults.

Systems Manual 33

Base Station

Base Station configuration is primarily performed by first program-

ming a scanner with the desired options, then downloading the config-

uration to the Base Station from that scanner.

Use the bar code below to overwrite a Base Station’s configuration file.

What Is

Programming

Mode?

The scanner must be placed into the Programming Mode state in order

to accept programming commands. When programming using the bar

code labels in this manual, the scanner is placed in Programming Mode

by scanning the "SET" label at the top of most programming feature

pages.

While in Programming Mode, the scanner only recognizes special pro-

gramming bar codes. See the section, LED and Beeper Indications for

information about scanner indications while in Programming Mode.

CAUTION

Verify that the scanner and Base Station host inter-

face types (RS-232, Keyboard Wedge, etc.) are

matched before attempting to download any config-

uration files or perform any custom programming

sessions. Go to Interface (I/F) selection on page x

and set the scanner to the Base Station’s I/F type.

CAUTION

After the Base Station receives the entire configura-

tion, it will drop all links to scanners other than the

scanner transmitting the new configuration. This

will require the user to relink all other scanners (see

Linking the Scanner to a Base Station). Prior to the

time of relinking, it is advisable to consider

enabling the feature, Common Configuration,

ensuring that the Base Station will attempt to share

the new configuration with scanners as they are

linked.

Transmit Scanner

Configuration to Base

Station ---------

34 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

The

Programming

Session

Scanner programming allows you to customize the scanner’s configu-

ration to match your specific needs. A typical programming session is

conducted as follows:

1. Scan the SET bar code at the top of the page. The scanner will

emit one beep, indicating it has read the bar code and the green

LED will flash on and off slowly while the scanner remains in

Programming Mode. Normal scanning functions are disabled.

2. Scan the programming bar codes(s) to make the desired

changes. With few exceptions, the scanner will emit a triple

beep each time you scan a valid programming bar code..

3. Scan the END label at the bottom of the page to save any new

settings and exit Programming Mode. The scanner will sound

a beep and reset upon exiting Programming Mode, and the

green LED will return to its usual state (on steady or off).

The scanner will not exit Programming Mode unless the END

bar code is scanned or the scanner’s battery is removed.

Removing power during Programming Mode, before scanning

the END label, will cause all new settings to be ignored. On

power-up, the scanner will return to previous settings.

NOTE

Not all features are available for all interfaces. The

scanner will sound an error tone when scanning

programming bar codes for features that cannot be

used with the currently active interface. Only fea-

tures supported by the currently active interface

will be implemented.

NOTE

If you are enabling a different interface (I/F), we sug-

gest/recommend that you change the I/F designa-

tion first and then proceed with other changes.

Once a bar code is scanned that changes the scan-

ner’s I/F, all previous I/F configuration items

scanned in the programming session are lost.

Systems Manual 35

4. Maintain a record of all changes made to ensure that you

know if the original factory settings have been changed. Use

the following table to log your custom configuration changes.

Programmable

Feature

Factory

Default

Setting

Your

Setting Comment

RF When to Beep Option 7

RF Beeper Volume Vol 3

RF Beeper Frequency High

RF Beep Duration 50ms

Radio Transmit Power High

RF Channel Selection Channel 1

Transmission Retries

Before Message Time-

out

3 Retries

Wait Time for ACK 200ms

Wait Time for Scanner

Power Shutdown 1 Second

Wait Time Between

Retries of Failed Trans-

mission

90ms

HACK Transmit Options

HACK upon

Base Station

transmission to

host

Wait Time for HACK

From Host 1 Second

Drop Links on Reset

Option Disable

Drop Oldest Links

Option Enable

36 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Programming

Sequence

To modify a scanner feature (item), the programming bar codes con-

tained in this manual must be scanned in a given sequence depending

upon the feature being programmed (as shown in Table 5). There are

three possible programming sequences:

A. Programming sample A (the most commonly used format)

demonstrates how three bar codes are scanned in sequence to

do the following:

1. Place the scanner in Programming Mode (SET bar code).

2. Scan the Item Tag1 that will enable the new feature.

3. End the programming session and reset the scanner (END

bar code).

B. Sample B provides an example of a programming feature

requiring the entry of a range value. Like sample A, the scan-

ner is placed in Programming Mode and an Item Tag1 is

scanned. Then, a value must be entered before ending the pro-

gramming session. In the example, three digits must be

scanned from the number pad in Appendix B. This type of for-

mat, requiring a total of as many as six programming bar

codes, is necessary to allow flexible programming with larger

item value numeric ranges.

C. The programming sequence shown in example C requires

scanning of a single, extended length bar code. This special

programming bar code contains all the data necessary to enter

Programming Mode, set the Item Tag1 and Item Value, and exit

Programming Mode (all in one step).

Common Configuration Disable

Set Maximum Linked

Scanners 8

Source-Radio Identifi-

cation (ID) Don’t Include

Low Battery LED Indi-

cation Enable

1. An “Item Tag” is a term used to describe an assigned number, which is encoded in a programming

bar code, that toggles (selects, enables, disables, etc.) a specific programming feature.

Systems Manual 37

Table 5. Programming Sequence

123456

SET

ENABLE

NEW FEATURE

ENABLE NEW

FEATURE

USING THE

FOLLOWING

SETTINGS...

END

SET END

ITEM TAG ITEM VALUE END/RESET

ONE BAR CODE CONTAINS SET + ITEM TAG + ITEM VALUE + END

38 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Scanner vs.

Base Station

Features

Some programming features are specific to either the scanner (hand-

held unit) or the Base Station, while others are applicable to both. Each

feature in this manual is marked with an indicator as to which unit(s) it

is applicable.

Feature is specific to scanner ONLY

Feature is specific to Base Station ONLY

Feature is applicable to scanner and Base Station.

NOTE

When programming using bar codes via the scan-

ner, it is important to remember that features affect-

ing the Base Station WILL NOT be enabled until the

new configuration is downloaded to the Base Sta-

tion using the feature Transmit Scanner Configura-

tion to Base Station on page 33.

Systems Manual 39

Interface (I/F)

Selection

It is very important that the scanner and Base Station are each config-

ured to operate with the same interface (I/F) type as the host terminal.

NOTE

The Base Station uses a “smart” cable, which auto-

matically sets the Base Station to the correct I/F

upon power-up and connection to the appropriate

host.

SET -------------------------------------------

Enable Wand Emulation ---------

Enable Standard

RS-232 ---------

Enable Wincor Nixdorf

RS-232 ---------

Enable IBM Port 5B ---------

Enable IBM Port 9B ---------

Enable IBM Port 17 ---------

Enable IBM Port E ---------

40 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Enable Keyboard Wedge

Type Aa ---------

Enable Keyboard Wedge

Type B ---------

Enable Keyboard Wedge

Type C ---------

Enable Keyboard Wedge

Type D ---------

Enable Keyboard Wedge

Type E ---------

Enable Keyboard Wedge

Type F ---------

Enable Keyboard Wedge

Type G ---------

Enable Keyboard Wedge

Type H ---------

Enable Keyboard Wedge

Type I ---------

Enable Keyboard Wedge

Type J ---------

END ------------------------------------------

a. See Table 6 for the specific interfaces supported by each of the keyboard

types listed above. See the following section Universal Keyboard Wedge

I/F Selection to enable that interface type.

Systems Manual 41

Table 6. Keyboard Wedge I/F Selection

I/F Type PCs Supported

A PC/XT w/Alternate Key Encoding

BAT, PS/2 25-286, 30-286, 50, 50Z, 60, 70, 80, 90 & 95

w/Alternate Key Encoding

C PS/2 25 and 30 w/Alternate Key Encoding

D PC/XT w/Standard Key Encoding

EAT, PS/2 25-286, 30-286, 50, 50Z, 60, 70, 80, 90 & 95

w/Standard Key Encoding

F PS/2 25 and 30 w/Standard Key Encoding

G IBM 3xxx w/122 keyboard

H IBM 3xxx w/102 keyboard

I PS/55 5530T w/104 keyboard

J NEC 9801

42 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Universal

Keyboard

Wedge I/F

Selection

To activate the Universal Keyboard Wedge interface, follow these

instructions:

1. Scan the START bar code.

2. Determine the I.D. of the terminal/keyboard. This information

is available in the Universal Keyboard Wedge Connectivity

Guide (R44-2039), or refer to the Terminal/Keyboard Settings sec-

tion below for a listing of the most common keyboard I.D.s.

3. Scan the ACTIVATE UNIVERSAL KEYBOARD WEDGE

INTERFACE bar code on the following page.

4. Using the "number pad" in Appendix B, scan in the digits for

the keyboard I.D. number you determined in step 2.

5. Scan the END bar code.

SET -------------------------------------------

Activate Universal Keyboard

Wedge Interface ---------

Scan the digit(s) representing the desired keyboard interface type

using the Number Pad in Appendix B, then scan the END bar

code.

END ------------------------------------------

Systems Manual 43

Terminal/

Keyboard

Settings

The list below contains the most common terminal/keyboard types. If

your specific system is not listed below, consult the Keyboard Wedge

Connectivity Guide (P/N R44-2039) for a detailed listing of terminal/

keyboard types. A copy of the guide can be obtained from the internet

at www.pscnet.com, or call your dealer for customer support informa-

tion.

Keyboard Terminal I.D.

PC XT 10

PC AT, PS2 11

MAC 25

44 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

RF Beeper

Settings

The RF version of the scanner exhibits different beeper behavior than

standard (non-RF) models. For more information about RF beeper indi-

cations, see the section, LED and Beeper Indications.

Good Read Beep — When good read beep is enabled, this beep sounds

at the time the scanner successfully reads a bar code. Selectable settings

for the good read beep include:

•RF When to Beep

•Beeper Volume

•Good Read Beep Frequency

•Beep Duration

ACK Beep — The scanner can sound an acknowledgement (ACK)

beep to indicate when the Base Station has acknowledged to the scan-

ner that is has received a successful data transmission from the scanner.

This beep is also sounded upon a successful channel change sequence

or a successful configuration transmission.

Transmission Error Beep — Another selectable indicator beep is the

transmission error beep. This beep sounds to indicate an error in trans-

mission between the RF devices.

Link Beep — The handheld scanner will sound a special link beep

upon successfully linking with a Base Station. This indication cannot be

disabled and is not programmable, other than that it shares the same

Beeper Volume setting as other beeper indications set using that fea-

ture.

Unlink Beep — When a scanner is successfully unlinked from a Base

Station, a unique unlink beep is sounded. This beep is not programma-

ble, and also sounds at the same volume set for Beeper Volume.

NOTE

The following descriptions highlight configurable

beeper functions that are unique to RF handheld

scanners. All other beeper functions supported by

the standard version of the scanner are supported

by RF models.

Systems Manual 45

RF When to

Beep

Several options are available to specify how the RF handheld scanner

will beep to indicate a good read. Settings are based on the enable/dis-

able status desired for three selectable beep indications:

•Good Read Beep

•Acknowledgement (ACK) Beep

•Transmission Error Beep

The available options are described and numbered in Table 7 to corre-

spond with the programming bar codes provided for this feature.

Table 7. RF When to Beep Options

Feature is specific to scanner ONLY

NOTE

These settings supersede any settings made using

the generic "When to Beep" feature listed in the

PowerScan Programming Manual.

#Good Read

Beep ACK Beep Transmission Error

Beep

0Disabled Disabled Disabled

1Disabled Disabled Enabled

2Disabled Enabled Disabled

3Disabled Enabled Enabled

4Enabled Disabled Disabled

5Enabled Disabled Enabled

6Enabled Enabled Disabled

7Enabled Enabled Enabled

46 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

RF When to

Beep Options

(continued)

SET -------------------------------------------

When to Beep

Option #0 ---------

When to Beep

Option #1 ---------

When to Beep

Option #2 ---------

When to Beep

Option #3 ---------

When to Beep

Option #4 ---------

When to Beep

Option #5 ---------

When to Beep

Option #6 ---------

When to Beep

Option #7 ---------

END ------------------------------------------

Systems Manual 47

RF Beeper

Volume

The volume at which the beeper sounds for ACK, transmission error,

link, or unlink beeps (but not the good read beep1) are all affected by

this setting. Select volume #1 (25% duty cycle), volume #2 (35% duty

cycle), or volume #3 (50% duty cycle).

Feature is specific to scanner ONLY

1. Good read beep volume is selectable via the features available in the PowerScan Programming

Manual (P/N R44-1840). See References for information about acquiring other manuals.

SET -------------------------------------------

RF Beeper Volume #1 ---------

RF Beeper Volume #2 ---------

RF Beeper Volume #3 ---------

END ------------------------------------------

48 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

RF Beeper

Frequency

This setting affects the frequency at which the ACK beep is sounded,

and is independent of the frequency setting for the good read beep.

When the ACK beep is sounded at a different frequency than the good

read beep, this can provide a clearer distinction between the tones.

Select low frequency (760Hz), medium frequency (1250Hz), or high fre-

quency (2400Hz).

Feature is specific to scanner ONLY

SET -------------------------------------------

RF Beeper Low

Frequency ---------

RF Beeper Medium

Frequency ---------

RF Beeper High

Frequency ---------

END ------------------------------------------

Systems Manual 49

RF Beep

Duration

The duration of time that an ACK beep is sounded is selectable using

this setting. RF beep duration can be set in increments of 10 ms (toler-

ance of +/- 10%) from 0 to 2.55 seconds.

Feature is specific to scanner ONLY

SET -------------------------------------------

Set RF Beep Duration ---------

Scan three digits representing the desired duration using the

Number Pad in Appendix B, padded with leading zeros (example:

008 = 80ms, 025 = 250ms, 100 = 1 second, etc.), then scan the

END bar code.

END ------------------------------------------

50 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Radio Transmit

Power

The power level at which the radio signal is transmitted between the

devices is selectable to be either low or high. This setting allows adjust-

ment to a low setting to minimize potential radio interference caused

by communication between the devices, or provides a high setting to

increase the signal power which would enable clearer communication

over longer distances.

Feature is applicable to scanner and Base Station.

NOTE

Remember, programming changes to the Base Sta-

tion have no effect until the new configuration is

downloaded via the feature Transmit Scanner Con-

figuration to Base Station on page 33.

SET -------------------------------------------

Radio Transmit Power =

Low ---------

Radio Transmit Power =

High ---------

END ------------------------------------------

Systems Manual 51

RF Channel

Selection

Radio communications between the handheld scanner and its linked

Base Station can be carried over one of ten different allowable frequen-

cies (channels). Select alternate channels to improve communications

between devices in noisy RF environments.

When a new channel is selected, the scanner sends a change-of-channel

message to the Base Station. After the Base Station has acknowledged

receipt of the message, both the scanner and the Base Station switch

their radio channels to the new channel (reference LED and Beeper Indi-

cations for information regarding scanner and Base Station acknowl-

edgement signals at this point). All further communication is done on

the new channel.

Feature is applicable to scanner and Base Station.

NOTE

Channel selection bar codes are of the type C pro-

gramming sequence category (see Programming

Sequence on page 36), and do not require you to

scan accompanying SET or END bar codes.

NOTE

Available channel frequencies will vary according to

the country/model of the scanner.

NOTE

Any other scanner that happens to be linked to that

Base Station will be unable to communicate with

the Base Station until it has switched to the new

channel. To accomplish this, scan the Base ID label

with each scanner you desire to be linked to the

Base Station. This action will automatically set each

scanner to the correct new channel.

52 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Select Radio

Channel 0 ---------

Select Radio

Channel 1 ---------

Select Radio

Channel 2 ---------

Select Radio

Channel 3 ---------

Select Radio

Channel 4 ---------

Select Radio

Channel 5 ---------

Select Radio

Channel 6 ---------

Select Radio

Channel 7 ---------

Select Radio

Channel 8 ---------

Select Radio

Channel 9 ---------

Systems Manual 53

Transmission

Retries Before

Message Time-

out

When the scanner attempts to transmit data to the Base Station, com-

munication may not always occur on the first try due to interference,

signals from other scanners in the queue, etc.. This setting defines the

number of transmission retries the scanner/Base Station will attempt

before the message gives up tryng to successfully resend/transmit the

message (times out). If the specified retry count is exceeded, the scan-

ner will sound a transmission error beep (when transmission error

beep is enabled).

In a noisy RF environment, a large number of retries may allow a trans-

mission to get through to the Base Station, but at the cost of increased

time-out (should the transmission fail). To maximize battery life, set

this feature to the lowest optimal number of retries.

Selectable range for this setting is 0-15 retries.

Feature is applicable to scanner and Base Station.

NOTE

Remember, programming changes to the Base Sta-

tion have no effect until the new configuration is

downloaded via the feature Transmit Scanner Con-

figuration to Base Station on page 33.

SET -------------------------------------------

0 Retries ---------

1 Retry ---------

54 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

2 Retries ---------

3 Retries

(recommended) ---------

4 Retries ---------

5 Retries ---------

6 Retries ---------

7 Retries ---------

8 Retries ---------

9 Retries ---------

Systems Manual 55

10 Retries ---------

11 Retries ---------

12 Retries ---------

13 Retries ---------

14 Retries ---------

15 Retries ---------

END ------------------------------------------

56 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Wait Time for

ACK

This setting defines a time period allowed once the scanner has sent

data to the Base Station for that Base Station to send an acknowledge-

ment (ACK) back to the scanner, signalling receipt of the data. This fea-

ture is used to streamline the scanning speed of your system.

The range for this delay is 0.08 - 2.55 seconds in 10ms increments.

Feature is applicable to scanner and Base Station.

NOTE

Remember, programming changes to the Base Sta-

tion have no effect until the new configuration is

downloaded via the feature Transmit Scanner Con-

figuration to Base Station on page 33.

NOTE

Selecting longer values for this feature will

decrease the battery life between charges.

SET -------------------------------------------

Set Wait Time for ACK ---------

Scan three digits representing the desired delay using the Num-

ber Pad in Appendix B. Be sure the number is padded with lead-

ing zeros (example: 008 = 80ms, 025 = 250ms, 100 = 1 second,

etc.), then scan the END bar code.

END ------------------------------------------

Systems Manual 57

Wait Time For

Scanner Power

Shutdown

To conserve battery life, the handheld scanner can be automatically

shut down when it has not been in use for a given period. A trigger

pull or other stimulus will then be required to reactivate the scanner.

The idle duration determines how long the scanner stays on/active

after each use. Range for this feature is a setting of 1 to 120 seconds in

one-second increments. A setting of one second is recommended.

Feature is specific to scanner ONLY

NOTE

Selecting higher values for this feature will effect

the length of battery life.

SET -------------------------------------------

Set Wait Time for Scanner

Power Shutdown ---------

Scan three digits representing the desired delay using the Num-

ber Pad in Appendix B. Be sure the number is padded with lead-

ing zeros (example: 001 = 1 second, 025 = 25 seconds, 100 = 100

seconds, etc.), then scan the END bar code.

END ------------------------------------------

58 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Wait Time

Between

Retries of

Failed

Transmission

In conjunction with the previous feature, TRANSMISSION RETRIES

BEFORE MESSAGE TIME-OUT, this feature defines the duration of

time the system must wait before re-trying a transmission of data

between the scanner and the Base Station. Consideration for this set-

ting would be to ensure that enough time elapses between tries to

avoid encountering the source of the original transmission conflict,

while being short enough to avoid causing a substantial increase in the

time required to successfully transmit the message.

Wait range can be set from 5ms to 255ms in one-millisecond incre-

ments, and is multiplied by the amount of retries selected via the fea-

ture, TRANSMISSION RETRIES BEFORE MESSAGE TIME-OUT

(TRBMTO) to determine the total duration. For example if this feature

(WAIT TIME BETWEEN RETRIES OF FAILED TRANSMISSION) is

selected to be 80 ms, and TRBMTO feature is selected to be 3, the result-

ing total duration between retries would be 80 x 3, or 240ms total.

Feature is applicable to scanner and Base Station.

NOTE

Remember, programming changes to the Base Sta-

tion have no effect until the new configuration is

downloaded via the feature Transmit Scanner Con-

figuration to Base Station on page 33.

Systems Manual 59

SET -------------------------------------------

Set Wait Time Between Retries

of Failed Transmission ---------

Scan three digits representing the desired delay using the Num-

ber Pad in Appendix B. Be sure the number is padded with lead-

ing zeros (example: 005 = 5ms, 065 = 65ms, 250 = 250ms, etc.),

then scan the END bar code.

END ------------------------------------------

60 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

HACK Transmit

Options

A Host Acknowledgement (HACK) message is a signal sent to the

scanner via the Base Station indicating the host has received bar code

data previously transmitted by that scanner. This feature determines

when the Base Station should send the HACK to the scanner. Choices

are:

•Send HACK as soon as the Base Station receives the scanner’s

transmission. This option is recommended for installations

where multiple scanners are linked to one Base Station.

•Send HACK as soon as the Base Station completes transmis-

sion to the host. This option is recommended for installations

where only a single scanner is linked to one Base Station.

•Send HACK after the host transitions the CTS line from inac-

tive to activate (using CTS scan control). RS-232 ONLY.

•Send HACK after host returns ACK to Base Station. RS-232

with ACK/NAK turned on ONLY.

Feature is applicable to scanner and Base Station.

NOTE

Remember, programming changes to the Base Sta-

tion have no effect until the new configuration is

downloaded via the feature Transmit Scanner Con-

figuration to Base Station on page 33.

Systems Manual 61

SET -------------------------------------------

HACK upon receipt of scanner

transmission ---------

HACK upon Base Station

transmission to the host ---------

HACK after host transitions

CTS line (RS-232 ONLY) ---------

HACK after host returns ACK

(RS-232 ONLY) ---------

END ------------------------------------------

62 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Wait Time For

HACK From

Host

This setting specifies the time the scanner must wait to receive a HACK

message back from the host before giving up and registering a trans-

mission error. Selectable range for this wait time is 20ms to 5.1 seconds

in 20ms increments. It is recommended that this value be set at no less

than one second.

Feature is specific to scanner ONLY

NOTE

Host turnaround (ACK) time is variable. This item

(HACK) should be set based on settings for the fea-

tures Wait Time for ACK and Transmission Retries

Before Message Time-out. For example if ACK is set

to one second and retries are set to three, HACK

should be set at three seconds.

SET -------------------------------------------

Set Wait Time For

HACK ---------

Scan three digits representing the desired delay using the Num-

ber Pad in Appendix B. Be sure the number is padded with lead-

ing zeros (example: 001 = 20ms, 100 = 1 second, 255 = 5.1

seconds, etc.), then scan the END bar code.

END ------------------------------------------

Systems Manual 63

Drop Links on

Reset Option

When enabled, this option causes the Base Station to drop its links to

any and all scanners whenever power is reset/cycled. This provides a

simple way to ensure that when reconfiguring a system, scanners do

not need to be located and individually unlinked.

Feature is specific to Base Station ONLY

NOTE

Remember, programming changes to the Base Sta-

tion have no effect until the new configuration is

downloaded via the feature Transmit Scanner Con-

figuration to Base Station on page 33.

SET -------------------------------------------

Drop all links on reset

(ENABLE) ---------

Do not drop all links on reset

(DISABLE) ---------

END ------------------------------------------

64 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Drop Oldest

Links Option

This feature can be enabled to better manage the linking of new scan-

ners to a multi-point system. Here’s how it works: When a new scanner

is linked to a Base Station that is already linked to its maximum

amount of scanners, an earlier-linked scanner that has been inactive for

the longest period of time will be automatically unlinked from the sys-

tem to make room for the new scanner.

When this feature is disabled, scanners can be linked up to the maxi-

mum number set via the programming feature, Set Maximum Linked

Scanners, or the default maximum, which is eight scanners. Attempts to

link additional scanners beyond these limits will fail.

Feature is specific to Base Station ONLY

NOTE

Remember, programming changes to the Base Sta-

tion have no effect until the new configuration is

downloaded via the feature Transmit Scanner Con-

figuration to Base Station on page 33.

SET -------------------------------------------

Drop oldest links

(ENABLE) ---------

Do not drop oldest links

(DISABLE) ---------

END ------------------------------------------

Systems Manual 65

Common

Configuration

When this option is enabled, the Base Station attempts to share its con-

figuration with a scanner as that scanner links to the Base Station. If,

during linking, a scanner’s configuration file does not match the Base

Station’s current settings, the Base Station attempts to transmit to the

scanner and overwrite the configuration file with its own.

If the need is to share the scanner’s configuration files to the Base Sta-

tion, use the Transmit Scanner Configuration to Base Station bar code.

Base Station on page 33.

Feature is applicable to scanner and Base Station.

NOTE

Remember, programming changes to the Base Sta-

tion have no effect until the new configuration is

downloaded via the feature Transmit Scanner Con-

figuration to Base Station on page 33.

CAUTION

Since a new/replacement scanner may have been

shipped with a custom configuration or may have

been modified with other special programming, it

may not be desirable to download a potentially

older configuration from an existing Base Station.

In this case, consider uploading the scanner’s

newer configuration to the Base Station instead.

SET -------------------------------------------

ENABLE Common

Configuration ---------

66 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

DISABLE Common

Configuration ---------

END ------------------------------------------

Systems Manual 67

Set Maximum

Linked

Scanners

By default, as many as eight scanners can be linked to one Base Station.

This feature allows you to further limit allowable linked scanners. Des-

ignate a number of scanners that can link from one to eight.

Feature is specific to Base Station ONLY

NOTE

Remember, programming changes to the Base Sta-

tion have no effect until the new configuration is

downloaded via the feature Transmit Scanner Con-

figuration to Base Station on page 33.

SET -------------------------------------------

Maximum Linked

Scanners = 1 ---------

Maximum Linked

Scanners = 2 ---------

Maximum Linked

Scanners = 3 ---------

Maximum Linked

Scanners = 4 ---------

68 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Maximum Linked

Scanners = 5 ---------

Maximum Linked

Scanners = 6 ---------

Maximum Linked

Scanners = 7 ---------

Maximum Linked

Scanners = 8 ---------

END ------------------------------------------

Systems Manual 69

Source-Radio

Identification

(ID)

This feature allows you to include source-radio identification1 (repre-

sented by six ASCII bytes) along with bar code data transmitted to the

host. Enable this feature to identify the individual scanner sending a

given data transmission. Options for this feature are:

•Do not include source-radio ID

•Include source-radio ID as prefix

•Include source-radio ID as suffix

Feature is specific to Base Station ONLY

NOTE

Remember, programming changes to the Base Sta-

tion have no effect until the new configuration is

downloaded via the feature Transmit Scanner Con-

figuration to Base Station on page 33.

1. Each scanner has been pre-configured at the factory with its own unique six-character identifica-

tion (source-radio ID).

CAUTION

When included as a prefix or suffix, the source-

radio ID is displayed immediately adjacent to the

bar code data. If an additional prefix or suffix is

included (e.g., other global prefix or suffixes are

included), any source-radio ID prefix or suffix

remains adjacent to (and is considered part of) the

bar code data.

70 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

SET -------------------------------------------

Do not include source-

radio ID ---------

Include source-radio as

prefix ---------

Include source-radio as

suffix ---------

END ------------------------------------------

Systems Manual 71

Low Battery

LED Indication

If this feature is enabled and the battery power in the scanner is low,

the scanner’s green LED flashes twice every time the trigger is pulled.

Feature is specific to scanner ONLY

SET -------------------------------------------

ENABLE Low Battery LED

Indication ---------

DISABLE Low Battery LED

Indication ---------

END ------------------------------------------

72 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Scanner

Maintenance

The scan window will require occasional cleaning to remove smudges,

dust and other debris. To ensure optimal performance, clean the Scan

Window using a soft cloth or lens tissue dampened with isopropyl

alcohol (or equivalent). See Figure 17. The scanner body can also be

cleaned using this method.

Figure 17. Cleaning the Scan Window

Base Station

Maintenance

The Base Station requires no routine maintenance. If the antenna

becomes damaged, a kit is available for its replacement. Use only PSC

replacement antenna kits, since use of other antennas can adversely

affect performance. Repair or replacement of other items such as charg-

ing contact pins, internal components, etc. must be performed by an

authorized repair center.

Four Station

Charger

Maintenance

Four Station Charger battery contact replacement kits are available. See

the section, References, for information about attaining replacement kits.

Systems Manual 73

Troubleshooting

Troubleshoot your RF scanning system by performing the following

checks:

For the RF system, ensure that...

•the battery is charged. See Battery Charging and Maintenance on

page 12.

•the battery is properly installed. See Installing the Battery on

page 7.

•the scanner is linked to the desired Base Station. See Linking the

Scanner to a Base Station on page 10.

•the scanner is within reasonable operating range of the Base

Station, with no major obstructions between the radio units

such as thick walls or heavy machinery. (At the time of this

writing, maximum line-of-sight range is specified at 100 feet.)

•there is no local signal interference with other radio-operated

equipment. Consult RF Channel Selection on page 51 concern-

ing selection of alternate channels.

•the Base Station is powered-on. You can verify the Base Sta-

tion’s AC Adapter by using a known-good AC Adapter.

•the Base Station interface cable is securely attached to the host.

Consult your technical support manager or refer to your host

system manual to identify the proper cable connection for the

scanner. If necessary, verify interface cable function by using a

known-good interface cable.

If the problem is specific to scanning, verify that...

•the bar codes you are trying to scan are of satisfactory quality.

Bar code label verifiers are available from your dealer if you

need precise reporting of label details. Bar codes that are dam-

aged (wrinkled, smudged, or torn) may cause the scanner to

read poorly or not at all. If bar code quality seems to be the

problem, check to see if the scanner will read a barcode from

Appendix A.

•the programmable setting for advanced Quadralogic™ decod-

ing is set optimally for your system. (See Enhanced Scanning for

Hard-to-Read Bar Codes on page 20.)

74 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

If the Scanner

Fails to Link

with the Base

Station

Here are reasons why your scanner may not be linked with the Base

Station:

•There may be too many scanners attempting a link with the

same Base Station. A maximum of eight scanners may link

with one Base Station at a given time. Reference the section, Set

Maximum Linked Scanners for more information..

•Links may be dropped by the Base Station if it has been reset

(power cycled). It may be necessary to relink all scanners upon

system reset. See also, Drop Links on Reset Option.

CAUTION

The limit imposed for linked scanners is selectable

to either: 1) disallow any new, additional scanner to

be linked beyond the set limit (this is the default), or

2) drop the link with the scanner least recently used.

Be aware that in linking additional scanners to a

single Base Station, you may inadvertently unlink

another scanner from the Base Station.

Systems Manual 75

NOTES

76 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

NOTES

Systems Manual 77

NOTES

78 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

Standard Warranty

PSC warrants to Customer that PSC’s products will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a

period of two years from product shipment.

In order to obtain service under this Warranty, Customer must notify PSC of the claimed defect before the

expiration of the Warranty period and obtain from PSC a return authorization number for return of the product

to designated PSC service center. If PSC determines Customer’s claim is valid, PSC will repair or replace

product without additional charge for parts and labor. Customer shall be responsible for packaging and

shipping the product to the designated PSC service center, with shipping charges prepaid. PSC shall pay for

the return of the product to Customer if the shipment is to a location within the country in which the PSC

service center is located. Customer shall be responsible for paying all shipping charges, duties, taxes, and

any other charges for products returned to any other locations.

Warranty is subject to the limitations and exclusions set forth below. Warranty set forth above is in lieu of any

other warranties, expressed or implied, including merchantability and fitness.

Exclusions

Warranty coverage shall not apply to any claimed defect, failure or damage which PSC determines was

caused by: improper use of product; failure to provide product maintenance, including but not limited to

cleaning of the scan windows in accordance with product manual; installation or service of product by other

than PSC representatives; use of product with any other instrument, equipment or apparatus; modification or

alteration of product. External cables and replacement of scan windows due to scratching, stains or other

degradation will not be covered under the Warranty. Products returned for service must be accompanied by

the original external power supplies for performance of service.

Limitations of Liability

PSC repair or replacement of defective product as set forth above is the customer's sole and exclusive

remedy on account of claims of breach of warranty or product defect. Under no circumstances will PSC be

liable to customer or any third party for any lost profits, or any incidental, consequential indirect, special or

contingent damages regardless of whether PSC had advance notice of the possibility of such damages.

Assignment

Customer may not assign or otherwise transfer its rights or obligations under Warranty except to a purchaser

or transferee of product. No attempted assignment or transfer in violation of this provision shall be valid or

binding upon PSC.

Risk of Loss

Customer shall bear risk of loss or damage for product in transit to PSC. PSC shall assume risk of loss or

damage for product in PSC’s possession or product being returned to Customer by PSC, except such loss or

damage as may be caused by the negligence of Customer, its agents or employees. In the absence of

specific written instructions for the return of product to Customer, PSC will select the carrier, but PSC shall

not thereby assume any liability in connection with the return shipment.

Systems Manual A-1

Appendix A

Sample Bar Codes

Use these test bar codes to check the scanner’s ability to read the vari-

ous symbologies represented.

Code 128

Code 39

Interleaved 2 of 5

Standard 2 of 5

Codabar

Code 93

Code 128 . Tes t

CODE 3 9 . TE ST

0123456789

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0

A$99 . 95A

Code 93 . Tes t

A-2 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

MSI/Plessey

UPC-A

UPC-A with 2 digit Add-on

UPC-A with 5 digit Add-on

UPC-E

EAN-8

EAN-13

14476925 4

00112 23344

60992 01118

69000

08029 51041

0 998875 0

0021 0126

1 101234 567891

Systems Manual B-1

Appendix B

Number Pad

0 →

1 →

2 →

3 →

4 →

5 →

6 →

7 →

8 →

9 →

B-2 PowerScan™ RF Scanner

NOTES

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

PSC hereby declares that the Equipment specified below has been tested and

found compliant to the following Directives and Standards:

Directives: EMC 89/336/EEC

Low Voltage 73/23/EEC

Standards: ETS 300 683 ETS 300 220-1

EN60825 EN50082-1 EN60950

Equipment

Type: Bar Code Scanning Equipment

Product: PowerScan™ RF Bar Code Scanner

Nigel Davis

Vice President

Europe, Middle East & Africa

PSC Bar Code Ltd.

Axis 3, Rhodes Way

Watford, England

WD24YW

Charles W. Vanlue

Director, Corporate Quality

PSC, Inc.

959 Terry Street

Eugene, OR 97402

U.S.A.

Asia Pacific

PSC Hong Kong

Hong Kong

Telephone: [852]-2-584-6210

Fax: [852]-2-521-0291

Australia

PSC Asia Pacific Pty Ltd.

North Ryde, Australia

Telephone: [61] 0 (2) 9878 8999

Fax: [61] 0 (2) 9878 8688

France

PSC Sarl

LES ULIS Cedex, France

Telephone: [33].01.64.86.71.00

Fax: [33].01.64 46.72.44

Germany

PSC GmbH

Darmstadt, Germany

Telephone: + 49 (0) 61 51/93 58-0

Fax: + 49 (0) 61 51/93 58 58

Italy

PSC S.r.l.

Vimercate (MI), Italy

Telephone: [39] (0) 39/62903.1

Fax: [39] (0) 39/685496

Japan

PSC Japan K.K.

Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan

Telephone: 81 (0)3 3491 6761

Fax: 81 (0)3 3491 6656

Latin America

PSC S.A., INC.

Miami, Florida, USA

Telephone: (305) 539-0111

Fax: (305) 539-0206

United Kingdom

PSC Bar Code Ltd.

Watford, England

Telephone: 44 (0) 1923 809500

Fax: 44 (0) 1923 809 505

Corporate Headquarters

675 Basket Road

Webster, NY 14580-9787

Telephone: (716) 265-1600

Fax: (716) 265-6400

PSC Scanning, Inc.

959 Terry Street

Eugene, OR 97402-9150

Telephone: (541) 683-5700

Fax: (541) 686-1702

Printed on recycled paper

Datalogic ADC PWRSCAN-BS Powerscan RF Base Station User Manual

Datalogic ADC, Inc. Powerscan RF Base Station

R44 114 manual

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