Non-Touch And Touch Screens; Data Capture; Scanning Considerations; Scanning Bar Codes - Motorola MC17 Product Reference Manual

Non-Touch and Touch Screens

The MC17 and MC17A configurations do not have touch screens. All interactions are preformed using the
keypad. The MC17T and the MC17U configurations have touch screens. Interactions are performed either with
the keypad or by tapping on the screen.
Throughout this guide, the procedures are listed using the keypad for actions. On the MC17T and the MC17U
these same procedures can be completed by tapping the buttons or menus on the display whenever
supported.

Data Capture

The MC17 series uses a laser scanner to allow collection of data by scanning one dimensional bar codes.
The scanner has the following features:
•
Reads a variety of bar code symbologies, including the most popular linear, postal, and 1-D code types.
•
Contains advanced intuitive laser aiming for easy point-and-shoot operation.

Scanning Considerations

Typically, scanning is a simple matter of aim, scan/decode and a few quick trial efforts master it. However, two
important considerations can be used to optimize any scanning performance:
•
Range
Any scanning device decodes well over a particular working range — minimum and maximum distances
from the bar code. This range varies according to bar code density and scanning device optics.
Scanning within range brings quick and constant decodes; scanning too close or too far away prevents
decodes. Move the mobile computer closer and further away to find the right working range for the bar
codes being scanned. However, the situation is complicated by the availability of various integrated
scanning modules. The best way to specify the appropriate working range per bar code density is through
a chart called a decode zone for each scan module. A decode zone simply plots working range as a
function of minimum element widths of bar code symbols.
•
Angle
Scanning angle is important for promoting quick decodes. When laser beams reflect directly back into the
scanner from the bar code, this specular reflection can "blind" the scanner.
To avoid this, scan the bar code so that the beam does not bounce directly back. But don't scan at too
sharp an angle; the scanner needs to collect scattered reflections from the scan to make a successful
decode. Practice quickly shows what tolerances to work within.
NOTE Contact the Motorola Solutions Global Customer Support if chronic scanning difficulties develop.
Decoding of properly printed bar codes should be quick and effortless.

Scanning Bar Codes

Ensure that a scan enabled application is loaded on the mobile computer.
1.
Aim the scan exit window at the bar code.
2.
Press the Scan key.
3.
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