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Bar code reader operable as remote scanner or with fixed terminal

  • US 5,189,291 A
  • Filed: 09/30/1991
  • Issued: 02/23/1993
  • Est. Priority Date: 05/01/1989
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A system for reading bar code symbols, comprising:

  • (a) a hand-held scanning unit in a lightweight, portable housing operating in a remote mode uncoupled from a terminal unit and operating in a coupled mode engaging a terminal unit, said scanning unit including;

    symbol-detection means for generating a light beam directed toward a symbol to be read, and for receiving reflected light from such symbol to produce electrical signals corresponding to data represented by the symbol;

    data transfer means for transferring the data represented by the symbol externally of said scanning unit and for receiving information from a source external to said scanning unit, by first coupling means requiring no direct electrical connection when in said coupled mode;

    read-control means to actuate said symbol-detection means to initiate reading of a symbol; and

    a rechargeable power supply in said scanning unit for supplying electrical power to said scanning unit, said power supply including second coupling means for receiving power for recharging; and

    (b) a terminal unit operating remotely from said scanning unit when in said remote mode and operating coupled to said scanning unit when in said coupled mode, said terminal unit including;

    data input means for receiving the data transferred from the data transfer means of said scanning unit by transmission without direct electrical connection when the scanning unit engages the terminal unit via said first coupling means in said coupled mode, and data output means for transmitting information to said scanning unit via said first coupling means, to thereby receive data from and transfer information to said scanning unit without direct electrical connection;

    means for displaying and storing the data transferred from said scanning unit; and

    means for transferring power to said second coupling means by power transmission without direct electrical connection for recharging said rechargeable power supply of said scanning unit when said scanning unit engages said terminal unit in said coupled mode;

    said scanning unit by said symbol-detection means generating said laser beam and receiving said reflected light when in said coupled mode in response to said information transferred from said terminal unit.

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