Opticon NFT 2100 - Manual (Page 13)

Manual No. 25-ULNFT2100-01; Mar, 2005 NFT 2100 CCD Fixed Mount Barcode
Scanner
Page 10
Measuring Scanner Performance
A method for properly positioning the unit is to program the scanner for Trigger Disable (S7) and
Continuous Read (S2) modes. The scanner will now be always on and will continuously read the same
bar code. Since the buzzer sounds each time the bar code is read, the sound of the buzzer can be used
like a “Geiger counter”. As the position of the scanner changes the sound of the buzzer will change. The
buzzer sound will be loudest and most continuous at the best reading position.
Application Notes
Tips for Achieving High Throughput
In some applications your primary objective may be to achieve the highest possible throughput rate. The
following list identifies the parameters and scanner settings that can maximize scanning and decode
throughput speed. Note, by emphasizing maximum throughput, other areas of performance may be
affected. For example, the number of non-reads could increase.
If high throughput is critical, consider some or all of these settings:
♦ Operate in the Trigger Disabled mode. Operation of the trigger creates delay before decoding
begins, slowing down throughput rate.
♦ Only enable those symbologies that you will be decoding.
♦ Eliminate all suffixes and prefixes to reduce transmission time.
♦ Minimize the number of redundant reads required before transmitting data.
♦ Transmit the decoded data at the highest baud rate.
♦ Disable buzzer functions.
Tips for Insuring Highest Data Integrity
There are several parameters that can enhance your confidence that the correct bar code data is
transmitted. Note that by emphasizing the accuracy and security of the data other areas of the scanner
operation may be affected, for example, you may not achieve the highest throughput.
If accuracy and data integrity are critical, consider some or all of these settings:
♦ Program the scanner to require a high number of redundant decodes prior to transmitting. For
example, program the scanner to decode a bar code exactly the same way three consecutive times
before transmitting the data. Then decoding the bar code the same way 2 out of 3 times or any 3
out of 4 times is not sufficient. It must obtain three consecutive, identical decodes.
♦ Utilize a predetermined, fixed-length of bar code. Program the scanner to only decode a bar code
of that length. Bar codes of any other length will be ignored.
♦ The quality of the printed bar code must be excellent.
♦ Use a bar code symbology that contains an internal check digit and program the scanner to
calculate that check digit for validity prior to transmitting.
♦ Do not use a symbology with poor internal verification, or subject to partial decodes, such as 2 of 5
or MSI/Plessey.
♦ Only enable those symbologies that you will be decoding.
♦ Transmit data at low baud rates to minimize communication errors.