Access db and barcode reader (1 Viewer)

  • Thread starter Thread starter Garyj
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Garyj

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Does anyone know if an Access db can be used in conjunction with a barcode reader? If so, how? A sample would be helpful.

Thanks
 
I've seen a font advertised that will display a number to a bar code. I've tried it in Access to create bar codes on output and it works fine.

I have no idea how to get barcodes into Access, but assume it can be done. I'll watch and listen.
 
Garyj

the short answer is yes...

but, please give us more specific info. do you want to create or read barcodes?

if read, what kind of barcode reader will you be using? a kb wedge or a hand-held data collection device?

al
 
Access db and barcorde

Since this very new to me I don't have all the specifics yet. I can say I want to use a hand held device to read and possibly input the information into a table. I am not sure which hand held barcode device to purchase. Can you suggest a good model?

The concept that I am trying to reach is the user will use a hand held barcode device and scan the barcode on equipment and in turn this information is transmitted to a table where reports can be ran. Also, letting the user now when inventory is low. If this is possible I would appreciate any assistance.

Thanks
 
i can't suggest a specific model, as many factors will play a role: price, desired reading distance, symbology, etc.

in general, the portable device will output a text file to the pc via an rs232 connection or a keyboard wedge. your application program will simply import this text file to a table in your db.

there is really no special processing you will need to do in Access other than importing the downloaded text file.

al
 
I've used a hand-held device before with a db. In my case, when the user opened up the data entry form...it set the focus to my key field. When the user scanned the barcode, it went straight from the reader to the db form(no text file or intermediary step).

I was using a symbol technologies reader to read 3of9 barcodes. It came with dll's to do all the reading of the barcodes. Otherwise, you may have to buy this.

Check out this page for tons of useful info:

http://www.adams1.com/pub/russadam/reading.html

HTH,
Vetter
 
I've used a hand-held device before with a db. In my case, when the user opened up the data entry form...it set the focus to my key field. When the user scanned the barcode, it went straight from the reader to the db form(no text file or intermediary step).

I was using a symbol technologies reader to read 3of9 barcodes. It came with dll's to do all the reading of the barcodes. Otherwise, you may have to buy this.

Check out this page for tons of useful info:

http://www.adams1.com/pub/russadam/reading.html

HTH,
Vetter
 
(Many) years ago, I did a FoxPro db using bar coded part numbers. We selected PSION hand held units to scan the bar code. The PSION hand held came with necessary software to output the PNs to a text file delimited to our spec (","). From there, it was a snap. Note: We downloaded the data from The PSION via a serial port. I'm sure it is much easier now. Have fun!
 
Hi,

Here is my experience on using barcode readers in Access.

The barcode reader (or called scanner) is just a subsitute for the keyboard. When the scanner reads a barcode it's just the same as inputing the text or number from the keyboard. There is no driver required, just plug in the scanner before you switch on the computer.

There used to be scanners that connects to the serial port, or to your keyboard through a special connector. Nowadays I've seen some ads about USB scanners but haven't tried because my old one still works well (9 years old).

I don't know if all handheld barcoder scanners are the same. I just asked for the simplest one that cashiers use in superstores. Check with the reseller if the scanner reads 3of9 Codes (or called Code 39) as well, because most stores use UPC codes. Code 39 includes ASCII characters while UPC codes are for indentification of products in the market.

Read the instructions regarding the programming of the scanner. You can program it to stay in the same field after or to jump to the next field after reading a barcode.

If you only want to READ barcodes then you don't need to buy any software. If you want to print barcodes you need Barcode Fonts for Windows. You can install the fonts in the usual way (Control Panel - Fonts - Install New Fonts...). There are barcode fonts available in the internet, just search for "barcode fonts". To use barcodes just select the barcode font in the Font Name field of the text box's property window. There are softwares too for printing barcodes, but not as convenient as Windows fonts. With Windows fonts you can apply barcodes to any application like Excel, Word..any program that lets you select fonts.

Hope the information helps.

Peter Lai
 

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