GLOSSARY

Barcode

A pattern of variable-width bars and spaces which represents numeric or alphanumeric data in machine-readable form. The general format of a barcode symbol consists of a leading margin, start character, data or message character, check character (if any), stop character, and trailing margin. Within this framework, each recognizable symbology uses its own unique format.

BIOS

Basic Input Output System. A collection of ROM-based code with a standard API used to interface with standard PC hardware.

Bit

Binary digit. One bit is the basic unit of binary information. Generally, eight consecutive bits compose one byte of data. The pattern of 0 and 1 values within the byte determines its meaning.

Bits per Second (bps)

Number of bits transmitted or received per second.

Byte

On an addressable boundary, eight adjacent binary digits (0 and 1) combined in a pattern to represent a specific character or numeric value. Bits are numbered from the right, 0 through 7, with bit 0 the low-order bit. One byte in memory can be used to store one ASCII character.

Decode

To recognize a barcode symbology (e.g., Codabar, Code 128, Code 3 of 9, UPC/EAN, etc.) and analyze the content of the barcode scanned.

EEPROM

Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory. An on-board non-volatile memory chip.

Flash

Non-volatile memory for storing application and configuration files.

Host

A computer that serves other terminals in a network, providing services such as network control, database access, special programs, supervisory programs, or programming languages.

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