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I'd love to hear from you! If you'd like to get the password to the BC-Scan source code, please send a postcard! (You can also ask for the password via e-mail, but I'd still like to get the postcard from you!) |
 BC-Scan
Internet's original free barcode decoder software.
Read Code 39 and Interleaved 2 of 5 barcodes with your PC!
The barcode reader wand is the same type of wand as you get with almost all barcode reader boxes. The "trick" of the $30 reader is that you essentially replace the decoder box with a PC and a joystick port running my decoder software.
A good source for the wand is Timeline Inc. They sell the HP HBCS2300 barcode wand for $25.00 + tax + s/h. Timeline's phone number is (800) 223-9977 or (310) 784-5488. When you order the wand from Timeline, please tell them specifically that you're calling about the "HP barcode wand mentioned on Joseph Chiu's BC-Scan web site." (They'll know what you mean.)
I don't have a financial interest in Timeline, per se, but brownie points with Ron translates to better deals for my schoolmates at Caltech when they buy parts for their class projects. So, please tell them that Joseph (or at least Caltech) sent you. Thanks!
Occasionally, you might find another source of these wands. The basic requirement is that the wand takes in 5 volts and outputs a TTL signal to indicate black/white areas. I used to have another one "Unitek BC-10" that I scavenged from somewhere else. They all seem to work rather similarly.
Finally, you will need a male DB15 connector (available from most electronic supplies store) to connect the wand to the PC. If you don't want to cut off the connector that comes with your barcode pen, you'll also need to buy the appropriate socket. For the HP HBCS wand, you need the DIN-5 240 degrees (as opposed to the 180 degrees) socket. Total cost for the connectors should be less than $5.
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