2 - 10 MC1000 with Windows CE 4.2 User Guide

Figure 2-8
Laser Aiming
Optimal scanning distance varies with bar code density and scanner optics.
•Hold the scanner farther away for larger symbols.
•Move the scanner closer for symbols with bars that are close together.

Scan Indicator LED

Table 2-4 lists the Scan LED indicator status.
Scanning Considerations
Scanning is a simple matter of aim, scan and decode. However, to optimize scanning performance consider the
range and the scanning angle:
•
Range
Any scanning device decodes well over a particular working range — minimum and maximum distances from
the bar code. This range varies according to bar code density and scanning device optics.
Scanning within range brings quick and constant decodes; scanning too close or too far away prevents
decodes. Move the scanner closer and further away to find the right working range for the bar codes being
scanned. However, the situation is complicated by the availability of various integrated scanning modules.
The best way to specify the appropriate working range per bar code density is through a chart called a
decode zone for each scan module. A decode zone simply plots working range as a function of minimum
element widths of bar code symbols.
•
Angle
Scanning angle is important for promoting quick decodes. When laser beams reflect directly back into the
scanner from the bar code, this specular reflection can “blind” the scanner.
To avoid this, scan the bar code so that the beam does not bounce directly back. But don’t scan at too sharp
an angle; the scanner needs to collect scattered reflections from the scan to make a successful decode.
Practice quickly shows what tolerances to work within.
Wrong
Right
NOTE Scanning procedures depend on the application and mobile computer configuration. An application may
use different scanning procedures from the one above.
Table 2-4
Scan LED Indicator
LED Status Indication
Off Not scanning.
Solid Red Laser enabled, scanning in process.
Solid Green Successful decode.
NOTE Contact the Motorola Enterprise Mobility support if persistent scanning difficulties develop. Decoding
properly printed bar codes should be quick and effortless.