Installation and Configuration

American Barcode and RFID (AB&R) offers the ability for our customers to take any piece of equipment out of the box, plug it in and begin working. We regularly configure scanners, mobile computers, terminals and printers. We will activate sim cards, upload images, install and configure software, as well as burn in and test the equipment to your specifications. After the equipment arrives,we can help by installing your hardware and applications.

Frequently Performed Configurations

Typically, a keyboard wedge, usb, or any other type of scanner needs to be configured before it can begin to be used. A user who scans into notepad would not likely need to configure the scanner as it reads and writes straight information. For users who are scanning into business systems like SAP or Quickbooks need to ensure the scanned data is entered into the proper fields automatically without having to tab or click the mouse.

Scanners that will be connected to a computer via serial port or RS232 need to be configured so the port settings on the scanner match the settings of the computer it will be plugged into. Common configurations that require adjustment are Baud Rate (bits per second), Data Bits (start and stop bits), and Flow Control (hardware, software). Unlike a keyboard wedge or usb type scanner RS232 requires proper settings in order for any data to be shared between the device and your computer. Having AB&R perform these configurations before we ship the product will deliver a unit that will truly plug and play.

Handheld devices such as a PDA's, portable data terminals, mobile computers, or any scanner with a screen, require configuration before they can be used. Wireless devices require the registration of an IP address, SSID, Encryption, and any other common network settings common to a standard computer. Device drivers, firmware and installed software applications all must be configured prior to use.

HELPFUL TIP: A battery maintenance program for handheld/mobile devices provides longer equipment uptime and greater battery life.

Printers require configuration of just about all of the items listed above such as network and serial port settings, firmware, and wireless or wired settings. The media sensor on a printer senses the mark on the label such as a gap, notch or a “black mark”. Adjustments must be made to the printer to ensure barcodes print at the correct locations on each label. A thermal transfer printer uses heat to transfer ink to the labels; if the heat is set incorrectly (hot or cold) the printer may print unreadable labels and if too hot may “break” ribbons. Some printers require proper pressure settings on the printhead to produce readable labels.