bar-code reader with I4GL

Forwarded from kjj@phx.mcd.mot.com: > I am looking for some help regarding the use of bar code readers as input > device in Informix 4GL applications. > > I wanted to find out if certain things will work before I go any further > in my development plans. > > What I know so far about bar code readers is: > > 1. They can be hooked up to a serial line with a tee device. When reader > is triggered it sends out string of ascii characters followed by CR > (this is configurable). > > 2. They can be hooked up to AUX port on an ascii terminal. Program would > at the appropriate point send a command to the terminal to set the read > on for the AUX port. Bar code reader would then send ascii string. Program > could then turn off the read for the AUX port. > > If hooked up as in 1, it seems that INPUT statement would work just fine > provided you used the reader at the right field. > > If hooked up as in 2, it seems that some interface programs need to be > written to control the terminal. > > Any thoughts from Informix users would be appreciated. Hmmm... Both #1 and #2 seem too cludgey... I'm using some Computer Identics Model 100 Barcode 'Wedges'. They go between the host and the ASCII terminal. When something is barcoded in it appears to the host as if it was typed in at the terminal (ie. completely transparent to the application). My users then use the terminal for things like menu navigation, etc. and use the barcode reader when they want to wand in a serial number off of a circuit board. All in all it's pretty slick... I've had ZERO problems integrating them into my setup - I merely hook them up, wand in a configuration, then tell the users that anywhere they are prompted for a serial number they can wand it in off of the board. Hope this helps... -- #include <standard_disclaimer> '"Arf", she said' - Mr. Frank Zappa .-----------------------------------------------------------------------------. | Kevin Johnson ...!mcdphx!QIS1!kjj | | QIS System Administrator Motorola MCD kjj@phx.mcd.mot.com |