To use the MW-400 you will need the following:
- PDA or other portable computing device supported by MW-400
- PDA Application Software With Support for MW-400 Such as MobileScanm
* Many popular PDA applications include MW-400 support "off-the-shelf'. If you need help in locating these products, contact TPS Electronics. Note that communications software may also be required to install the PDA software.
Hardware installation is very straightforward.
1) Open the protective cover (if any) on the communications (serial) port of the PDA.
2) If you have not already done so, install the appropriate adapter (if any) on the end of the MW-400 cable.
3) Align the connector on the MW-400 with the serial connector on the PDA.
4) Push the MW-400 connector firmly into place until it seats.
The MW-400 should now be ready for use.
General Scanning Tips
How you hold the MW-400 reader is important You can optimize performance by using the correct wand position with respect to the bar code label.
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Best Orientation
When the bars of a bar code are vertical like a picket fence, the best orientation for the wand is when the labels on the wand are facing left and right, and the wand is tilted about 16 to 30 degrees towards you. |
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Here are some helpful hints to improve bar code scanning:
1- Hold the wand in the best orientation and place the tip onto the white space on either side of the bar code label.
2- Move the wand smoothly and lightly over the bar code from start to finish. The best type of motion to use is that of "drawing a line through the bar code with a pencil."
3- Press down lightly while scanning.
4- The speed should be brisk, but comfortable. Faster speeds usually work better than slower speeds
5- When the MW-400 reader reads a label, it should flash the LED. If it does not, try again. Here are some suggested variations that may improve the read rate:
a- Try a different path through the label, taking advantage of the vertical redundancy inherent in bar codes.
b- Try tilting the wand at a different angle.
c- Try scanning at a different speed.
If you have no positlve results after several tries, check the following items:
1- Is the MW-400 reader powered? The MW-400 should have a small red light visible on the sapphire tip.
2- Is the wand firmly connected to the FDA?
3- Does the wand light wavelength match the bar code symbol printing?
4- 1s the bar code symbol excessively damaged, dingy, or worn?
5- Is a suitable bar code scanning application installed and running on the FDA?
6- lf the wand still does not read, refer to Appendix A, Troubleshooting.