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Operating the MC3000 2-19
Imaging
The imager version of the mobile computer has the following features:
• Omnidirectional reading of a variety of bar code symbologies, including the most popular linear, postal, PDF417 and 2-D
matrix code types.
• The ability to capture and download images to a host for a variety of imaging applications.
• Advanced intuitive laser aiming for easy point-and-shoot operation.
Imager
The imager uses digital camera technology to take a digital picture of a bar code, the image is stored in memory and software
decoding algorithms are executed to extract the data from the image. A typical bar code decoding process is as follows:
1. Aim the mobile computer at a bar code and press the scan button or trigger.
2. The red laser aiming pattern turns on to assist in aiming the mobile computer.
3. The mobile computer turns on the secondary white LEDs to illuminate the target bar code.
4. The mobile computer takes a digital picture (image) of the bar code and stores it in memory for decoding. A beep sounds to
indicate that the bar code was properly decoded.
5. Release the scan button.
This process usually occurs instantaneously. Steps 2 - 4 are repeated on poor or difficult bar codes as long as the scan button remains
active.
Operational Modes
Mobile computers with an integrated imager have three modes of operation: Decode Mode, Pick List Mode and Image Capture Mode.
All modes are activated by pulling the trigger or pressing the Scan button.
Decode Mode
This mode allows the user to decode a bar code when a single bar code in the mobile computer’s field of view. In this mode the Imager
attempts to locate and decode enabled bar codes within its field of view. The Imager remains in this mode as long as the trigger is
pulled, or until a bar code is decoded.
Pick List Mode
Pick List mode allows the user to selectively decode a bar code when more than one bar code is in the mobile computer’s field of view.
By moving the aiming crosshair over the wanted bar code the user can selectively read only the required bar code. This feature is
particularly valued for pick lists containing multiple bar codes and manufacturing or transport labels containing more than one bar
code type (either 1D or 2D).
Aiming the Mobile Computer
The imager version of the mobile computer projects a laser aiming pattern (shown below) similar to those used on cameras. The
aiming pattern is used to position the bar code or object within the field of view.
Figure 2-16. Laser Aiming Pattern