How to Connect the 2D Data Matrix Scanner

The UII marking of items are the efficient item management process of Government and private organizations. The UID data is engraved on the item or labels in the form of 2D data matrix symbols. The symbols are machine-readable codes and need to be decoded with a 2D data matrix scanner. The 2D data matrix scanner is an electronic device meant to interpret the printed barcodes on the items. Technologically, the device is developed with decoder circuitry that analyses the image data of the barcode and sends the interpreted data to the output port of the scanner.

Use of 2D data matrix scanner became widespread due to the use of 2D barcode symbols in the UII of the items. There are different methods of connection of the device depending on the usage.

Earlier, the barcode scanners of all formats used RS232 serial interface. The simple and electrical means of connection use easy and simple software, it needs to be written for particular computers and their serial ports though.

Proprietary interfaces are less common interfaces and were used with dedicated hardware. Wand emulation is another kind of output that decodes the raw wave. It can also convert the unrecognized symbologies into another kind of symbology that is easily recognized by the host device.

With the advent of innovative technologies, PCs has become the popular device. PCs and its standard keyboard interfaces are becoming convenient for any kind of user as they are easier to connect with physical hardware. With the commercial and general demand of reducing the complications of the associated software the ‘Keyboard Wedges' have been introduced for connecting the 2D data matrix scanner. The ‘Keyboard Wedges' is a hardware with characters from the barcode scanner appearing as if typed in through the keyboard and is attached between PC and its keyboard. This type of connection of the 2D data matrix scanner has simplified the use of the device. However, it has limitations in handling the content of the data matrix code.
Of course, these days, the USB connectors have replaced the keyboard ports for it is a more convenient hardware option. The easy integration of the scanner is retained by using a ‘software wedge' in place of ‘keyboard wedge'.

PS/2 or USB cables are the becoming popular these days for connecting barcode scanners. The cables are connected with the 2D data matrix scanner at one end and the PS/2 keyboard port with another end. The data matrix codes are received by the host computer and converted keyboard input. Many scanner support the USB. Choices for the USB interface types are provided by many scanners. For instance, some of the devices have powered USB.

These days, most of the devices are being connected with wireless networking. The modern 2D data matrix scanners are also available with such facilities. The wireless enabled scanners are operated with the help of Bluetooth and WLAN. However, such devices use battery or rechargeable battery for their function which limit their time of operation.

With the changing technology the methods of connection of the 2D data matrix scanner is improving and being more user friendly.