Argox PA-20 User manual

User’s Manual
PA-20 Portable Data Terminals
DOC NO. UM-P2005-01
Sep. 2009
Version 1.1
Empower the Bar Code

II
CAUTION: This user’s manual may be revised or withdrawn any time without prior
notice.
Copyright 2008, Argox Information Co., Ltd.
All rights reserved.
This manual may not, in whole or in part, be copied, photocopied, reproduced,
translated or converted to any electronic or machine readable form without prior
written consent of Argox.
Limited warranty and disclaimers
By opening the package of this product you agree to become bound by the liability and
warranty conditions as described below.
Under all circumstances this manual should be read attentively before installing and or
using the product. In no event, Argox will be liable for any direct, indirect,
consequential or incidental damages arising out of use or inability to use both the
hardware and software, even if Argox has been informed about the possibility of such
damages.
A series number appears on all Argox products. This official registration number is
strictly related to the device purchased. Make sure that the serial number appearing on
your Argox device has not been removed. Servicing by our service department can
only be carried out under warranty.
All Argox products are warranted for the legal warranty period after purchase,
covering defects in material and workmanship. Argox will repair or, at its opinion,
replace products that prove to be defective in material or workmanship under proper
use during the warranty period.
Argox will not be liable in case modifications are made by the customer. In such case
the standard repair charge will be applicable. The standard charge for repair will also
be applicable in case no defect is found at all. These rules also apply for products that
are still under warranty. Therefore, you are advised to have the product specifications
always at hand.
Trademarks used are property of their respective owners.
The general use and functioning of the terminal together with the cradle will be
described in this manual.
The exact behaviour of the terminal depends on the user application that is running.
For instructions about applications please consult the documentation of that software.
Please read this manual carefully before using the terminal, to maximize the
efficiency of this terminal.

III
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
INTERFERENCE STATEMENT
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class
B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off
and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more
of the following measures:
-Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
-Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
-Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which
the receiver is connected.
-Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/ TV technician for help.
CAUTION:
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the grantee of this
device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
RF exposure warning
This equipment must be installed and operated in accordance with provided
instructions and the antenna(s) used for this transmitter must be installed to
provide a separation distance of at least 20 cm from all persons and must not
be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
End-users and installers must be provide with antenna installation instructions
and transmitter operating conditions for satisfying RF exposure compliance.

IV
Table of Content
1. INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................1
1.1 ABOUT THIS MANUAL.....................................................................................1
1.2 USER AND PRODUCT SAFETY .........................................................................2
1.3 SPECIFICATIONS .............................................................................................4
2. GETTING STARTED...........................................................................................6
2.1 CHECK THE PACKAGE ....................................................................................6
2.1.1 PDT Package .......................................................................................6
2.1.2 Cradle Package....................................................................................7
2.2 DETAILED VIEW .............................................................................................8
2.2.1 Terminal...............................................................................................8
2.2.2 Cradle ..................................................................................................9
2.3 ASSEMBLY.....................................................................................................10
2.3.1 Terminal.............................................................................................10
2.3.2 Cradle ................................................................................................11
2.4 INSTALLING,REPLACING AND CHARGING BATTERIES...............................12
2.4.1 Installing / Replacing the Battery Pack..............................................13
2.4.2 Charging the Battery Pack with Cradle.............................................15
2.5 INSTALLING IN A SYSTEM.............................................................................16
3. OPERATION OF THE TERMINAL.................................................................17
3.1 SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION.............................................................................17
3.2.1 LCD Screen Description....................................................................18
3.2.2 Keypad Description............................................................................19
3.2.3 Power Management ...........................................................................21
4. CONFIGURATION.............................................................................................22
4.1 SYSTEM MENU..............................................................................................23
4.1.1 Communication..................................................................................23
4.1.2 File Manager .....................................................................................23
4.1.3 Setting ................................................................................................23
4.1.4 Test.....................................................................................................24
4.1.5 Information ........................................................................................24
4.2 SUPERVISOR MENU.......................................................................................25
4.2.1 Communication..................................................................................25
4.2.2 Format Disk .......................................................................................25
4.2.3 Setting ................................................................................................25
4.2.4 Barcode..............................................................................................25
4.2.5 Information ........................................................................................26
4.3 APPLICATIONS ..............................................................................................27
4.4 UPLOAD /DOWNLOAD BY PTFILE MANAGER..............................................28
5. SCANNING ..........................................................................................................29
5.1 HOW TO READ THE BARCODE.......................................................................29
5.2 BARCODE READING PROBLEMS....................................................................30
6. COMMUNICATIONS.........................................................................................31
6.1 CRADLE COMMUNICATION..........................................................................31
6.2 BLUETOOTH COMMUNICATION ...................................................................32

V
7. CABLE PIN-OUT................................................................................................34
7.1 RS232 CABLE FOR CRD-22 CRADLE (9-PIN TO 9-PIN)...............................34
7.2 USB CONNECTOR FOR CRD-22 CRADLE....................................................34
8. TROUBLE SHOOTING .....................................................................................35
8.1 GENERAL CHECKS........................................................................................35
8.2 COMMUNICATION PROBLEMS......................................................................36
8.3 READ OPERATION PROBLEMS .....................................................................37
8.4 TERMINAL PROBLEMS..................................................................................38

1
1. Introduction
The PA-20 series portable data Terminal (PDT) is well suited for a variety of portable
applications. It has a built-in CCD scanning engine that can scan all popular bar code labels at
varying distance (up to 13 inches).
User’s applications can be downloaded to the terminal to adapt the terminal to the user’s
situation.
The operation power is supplied by the main battery (rechargeable Li-Polymer battery pack
for Terminal, and a rechargeable Li-ion battery pack for Gun configuration).
The CRD-22 cradle is a communication and charging station for data transmission between
the (host) terminal system and the terminal. It communicates with the terminal through RS-
232 serial or USB interface. The CRD-22 cradle will charge the rechargeable battery pack in
the terminal through the electrical contacts. And it also provides an extra charging slot for a
spare battery pack if necessary.
1.1 About this Manual
The chapters contained in this manual are:
Chapter 1: Introduction –Presents general information about the PA-20
Chapter 2: Getting started –Describes basic use of the PA-20
Chapter 3: Operating the terminal –Describes customizing the PA-20
Chapter 4: Configuration
Chapter 5: Scanning
Chapter 6: Communication
Chapter 7: Cable Pin-out
Chapter 8: Trouble Shooting

2
1.2 User and Product Safety
Never use strong pressure on the screen or subject it to severe impact, as the LCD
panel can crack and possibly cause personal injury. If the LCD panel is broken,
never touch the liquid inside, for such contact can irritate the skin.
Although the PA-20 mobile terminal meets IP54 standards for water and dust
resistance, avoid prolonged exposure to rain or other concentrated moisture.
Conditions exceeding IP54 standards could result in water or other contaminants
entering the PA-20.
Use only the approved AC Adapter with the PA-20. Use of an unapproved AC
Adapter could result in electrical problems, or even cause a fire or an electrical
shock to the user.
Be sure that only authorized suppliers are allowed to disassemble and reassemble the
device. If the device or parts are damaged due to wrong handling, the product and
parts warranty is void.
Always make back-up copies of all important data. This is easily done using single
cradle (optional) to transfer data to the terminal. The manufacturer is not liable for
any data damage or data loss caused by deletion or corruption while using this
device, or due to a drained battery.
Lithium-ion battery packs may get hot, explode, ignite and/or cause serious injury if
abused. Please follow the safety warnings listed below.
Warnings:
Do not place the battery pack in fire or heat the battery.
Do not install the battery pack backwards so the polarity is reversed.
Do not carry or store battery pack together with metal objects.
Do not pierce the battery pack with nails, strike the battery pack with a
hammer, step on the battery pack or otherwise subject it to strong impacts or
shocks.
Do not solder directly onto the battery pack.
Do not expose battery pack to liquid, or allow the battery contacts to get
wet.
Do not disassemble or modify the battery pack. The battery pack contains
safety and protection devices, which, if damaged, may cause the battery
pack to generate heat, explode or ignite.
Do not discharge the battery pack using any device except for the specified
device. When it is used in devices other than the specified devices, the
battery pack can be damaged or its life expectancy reduced. If the device
causes any abnormal current to flow, it may cause the battery pack to
become hot, explode or ignite and cause serious injury.
In the event the battery pack leaks and fluid gets into the eyes, do not rub the
eyes. Rinse well with water and immediately seek medical care. If left
untreated, the battery fluid could cause eye damage.

3
To avoid malfunctions and to ensure years of trouble-free operation, pay attention to the
following:
General Use
Do not expose the mobile terminal to areas subject to extreme heat such as direct
sunlight, near a heater, or in a car –or in areas that are very cold, humid, moist, or
dusty.
Do not expose the product to rain or water
Do not subject the product to strong impact, or throw or drop the mobile terminal
from large heights. Do not allow other mechanical shocks to the product.
Cleaning Instructions
Clean the exterior by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use much water.
Do not use thinner, white spirit or other solvents. These can discolor the case and
the keys and it has a negative effect on the lifetime of the keys.
Cleaning the Mobile Terminal
Clean the scan window periodically for better reading performance, but pay
attention to not scratching the window
Cleaning the Cradle
Avoid touching the contacts in the cradle. The contacts must stay as clean as
possible to maintain optimal charging capacity. Do not use water when cleaning
the cradle. This can cause malfunction of the chargers.
Using the Mobile Terminal
Avoid temperature changes. Sudden temperature changes can cause condensation
to form on the mobile terminal. Using the mobile terminal while condensation is
present can cause malfunction. Always wait until the condensation clears naturally
before attempting operation.
Do not leave the mobile terminal in an area where static charge is accumulated or
near devices where electromagnetic emission is generated.
Do not place any object on top of the mobile terminal. Do not lay the mobile
terminal face down. Doing so can cause accidental operation of the power key or
[ENT] key, which can discharge your batteries or change settings you do not want
changed.
Using the Cradle
Do not place any product other than the PA-20 mobile terminal in the cradle.
Maintenance
There are no user-serviceable parts inside the mobile terminal or the cradle. So do
not try to take it apart. The manufacturer will not be liable for any damage caused
by customers. In case of a malfunction that can not be solved by the trouble-
shooting instructions in this manual, please consult our service department.

4
1.3 Specifications
Model
PA-20
PA-2010
General Characteristics
OS
Proprietary
CPU
ARM9 Core 533MHz
RAM
16MB
FLASH
20MB
Display
2.4” LCD TFT Transmissive,
240 x320 QVGA 65K colors
LED
Blue, Green and Red
Keypad
29 Numeric
Alert
Buzzer, Vibrator
Power
Operating power
Terminal: Rechargeable 3.7V 1950mAh Li-Polymer Battery
Gun type: Rechargeable 3.7V 5000mAh Li-ion Battery
Working hour
(scan / 5 sec)
> 18 hours (1950mAh)
> 47 hours (5000mAh)
> 15.5 hours(1950mAh)
> 40 hours(5000mAh)
Data retention
15-min data retention
Data retention
2.5 days
Scanner
Scanner system
Long Range CCD scanner 2048 pixels
Resolution
0.127mm (5mil) at PCS 90%
Depth of field
600mm (code 39, 20mils, PCS 90%
Scanning rate
400 scans /sec
Readable barcode
Code 11, Code 39, Code 93, Code 128, Codabar, EAN-8, Ean-
13, Industrial-2/5, Interleaved-2/5, Standard-2/5, MSI/Plessey,
UK/Plessey, Telepen, UPCA, UPCE, Matrix 2/5, China Post,
GS1 databar, Italian Pharmacy ,
Wireless Communication
WPAN
Bluetooth Class2

5
Environment
Operating Temperature
-10℃to 60℃/ 14℉to 140℉
Storage Temperature
-20℃to 70℃/ -4℉to 158℉
Humidity
Operating: Non-condensed 10% to 90%
Storage: Non-condensed 5% to 95%
Impact resistance
1.2M/4ft (Terminal) 0.9M (Cradle)
IP54
Electrostatic discharge
+/- 15 KV air discharge
+/- 8 KV direct discharge
EMC Regulation
FCC, CE, BSMI,
Developing tools
Software
Windows based application generator: Architect
Software Development Kit (SDK)
Program Language
C language(SDK), Basic(Architect)
Accessory
Charging & Communication Cradle
Pistol Grip, C&C cable, Holster

6
2. Getting Started
This chapter describes the PA-20 physical characteristics, how to install and charge the
batteries, how to remove and replace the strap assembly and how to start the PA-20 for the
first time.
2.1 Check the package
Carefully remove all protective material from around the PA-20 and save the shipping
container for later storage and shipping.
Depending on the configuration ordered, the PA-20 shipping container may include:
2.1.1 PDT Package
PA-20
Power supply
Battery pack
Quick Reference Guide
Hand strap
CD ROM
Figure 2-1 PDT Package
Battery pack
Power supply
Hand strap
Quick Reference Guide
CD ROM
PA-20
Power plug

7
2.1.2 Cradle Package
CRD-22
USB cable
Figure 2-2 Cradle Package
Inspect the package contents for damage. If any item is missing or damaged, please contact the
Argox Technical Support Center immediately.
USB cable
Cradle

8
2.2 Detailed View
2.2.1 Terminal
Dimensions of Terminal
168.8mm (L) x 70.1mm (W) x 34.0mm (H)
Details of Terminal
Left side
Front
Right side
Back
Top
Bottom
Figure 2-3 Terminal
1
Reading Window
Optical beam of LED for barcode reading will be
emitted from here
2
LED Indicator
Can be used to indicate results, for example bar
code reading / status of communication
3
LCD Display
For displaying information and battery status
4
Stroke keys
A total of 29 keys are provided to turn power ON
and OFF and for other operations.
5
Reset switch
Use a paper clip or other thin object to press the
RESET switch located inside the hole.
6
Hand strap hook
Used to install the hand strap
7
Buzzer
Outputs operation confirmation tones. Take care
to avoid blocking the buzzer holes and reducing
output sound volume. Never insert any thin,
pointed object into the buzzer holes. Doing so can
caused malfunction.
8
Main battery compartment
Holds main batteries
9
Main battery compartment lock
Locks the main battery compartment cover in
place. Terminal power is automatically cut if the
cover is removed.
10
Power Contacts
The terminal is used to supply power from
Cradle.
1
10
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

9
2.2.2 Cradle
Dimensions of CRD-22 Cradle
162.4mm (L) x 112mm (W) x 93.9mm (H)
Details of CRD-22 Cradle
Front
Back
Figure 2-4 The Details of the CRD-22
1
Terminal Slot
Put the terminal on the cradle through this slot
for data transmission or charging
2
Power LED Indicator
Power indicates
3
Charging LED Indicator
Indicates the charge status of the battery.
Green: no battery or charging complete
Red: battery is charging
4
Power and Communication
Contacts
To connect with the multiple function socket on
the terminal for data transmission and charging
5
Charging Slot
For charging a spare rechargeable battery pack
6
RS-232 Socket
For connecting to PC serial port through Argox
RS232 cable
7
USB Socket
For connecting to PC USB port through a
standard USB cable
8
DC Input Socket
Input for AC adapter
USB port
8
7
6
1
2
4
5
3

10
2.3 Assembly
Follow the next steps to make your terminal ready for installation in a system that is described
further in the manual.
2.3.1 Terminal
The hand strap protects the Terminal from being damaged as a result of it being dropped by
mistake during movement. Follow the procedure below to attach the hand strap.
To attach the hand strap
1. Fix the small cord of the strap around the pillar of the terminal.
2. Insert the handle of the strap in the thin loop.
3. The strap is fixed to the terminal.
4. Hold the hand strap around the wrist when carrying the terminal.
Figure 2-5 Hand strap
Start with a full battery
1. To be sure of proper operation, it is advised to start with a full battery, charge the
battery pack according to the instructions in the next chapter.
2. Click the battery pack into the terminal as instructed in the next chapter.
Important:
Do not swing the terminal around
1
2

11
2.3.2 Cradle
Power Connection
1. Attach the DC jack of the AC adapter into the socket of the cradle. Then connect
the AC adapter to the mains outlet. The LED on the cradle turns green.
Battery Charging
1. When the PA-20 terminal with the rechargeable battery pack is placed in the
cradle, the LED on the cradle turns orange first and turns green at once then it
starts to charge the terminal.
2. When the PA-20 terminal was removed from the cradle, the LED on the cradle
turns orange first and turns green at once.
Figure 2-6 Batter Charging
Terminal on cradle
Take notice that the PA-20 cradle is designed for the PA-20 terminal. No other type of
terminal can be placed into this cradle. This can cause damages to the connector on the cradle.
Figure 2-7 charging
Spare Battery
Charge LED

12
2.4 Installing, Replacing and Charging Batteries
Wrong use of batteries might cause serious damage to the terminal or to the cradle. In order to
avoid damage, it is very important to take notice of the instructions.
Caution:
Insert a fully-charged battery pack before use of the terminal.
Never remove the main batteries while the terminal is turned on.
Doing so may lose data in the terminal.
Use only recommended batteries.
When other batteries are used, defects or other problems can occur. Before
installing (new) batteries, please make sure you are using the recommended
batteries.
Use the right charger for batteries.
The rechargeable battery pack form Argox can be charged in the cradle when
either it is in the terminal or alone in the charging slot in the back of the cradle.
The life of a battery pack is limited, and charging a battery pack
causes it to gradually lose its ability to maintain a charge. If your
battery pack requires frequent charging, it probably means it is time
to purchase a new one.
Strictly follow the instructions for installing, charging, and removing
the batteries.
The products are not warranted for damage, defects, malfunction, or loss of
data, resulting from incorrect use of batteries.
Required batteries:
The terminal needs both main battery and backup battery for operation.
Main Battery
Terminal: Rechargeable 3.7V 1950mAh Li-Polymer Battery
Gun type: Rechargeable 3.7V 5000mAh Li-lon Battery

13
2.4.1 Installing / Replacing the Battery Pack
How to install or replace the main battery in the terminal
1Slide the main battery compartment
cover lock to the FREE position and
remove the cover
2Load a lithium-ion battery pack into the
main battery compartment in the
direction shown in the figure
3Attach the battery compartment cover to
the terminal and slide the main battery
compartment cover lock to the LOCK
position.
Figure 2-7 Installing / Replacing the Main Battery
Note:
Please follow the above procedure in reverse to reassemble the battery cover.
Be sure to turn the terminal OFF before you do this.

14
How to install or replace the main battery in the gun grip
1Attach the battery compartment cover to
the terminal and slide the main battery
compartment cover lock to the LOCK
position.
Figure 2-9-1 Installing /Replacing The Gun Grip Battery
2Attach the battery compartment cover to
the terminal and slide the main battery
compartment cover lock to the LOCK
position.
Figure 2-9-2 Installing /Replacing The Gun Grip Battery

15
2.4.2 Charging the Battery Pack with Cradle
Figure 2-10 Charging with Cradle
How to charge Argox rechargeable battery pack in the cradle
1. Make sure that the Argox rechargeable battery pack is inserted in the terminal. If the
terminal with the battery pack is placed in the cradle, the LED on the cradle will turn
Orange first and turn to Green at once. When the terminal is placed in the cradle, the
rechargeable battery pack will be charged automatically.
2. If you have a spare Argox battery pack, you can replace the empty battery pack with
a full battery pack for continuous terminal operation. And put the empty battery
pack in the charging slot of the cradle. The LED (CHG) on the cradle will turn to
Red in flashing and turn to Green again when the battery is full.
When to replace or recharge the main battery
There are two conditions that you need to replace the main battery.
1. As soon as possible after the battery indicator or “Battery Low” tip appears on the
display.
2. Before using the terminal again, in case it has not been used for an extended period.
Caution:
Ambient Temperature Ranges for the Battery Pack
Temperature ranges for battery pack use in the terminal, charging,
and storage is specified below. Temperatures outside these ranges
create the danger of deterioration of battery pack performance and
shortening of its service life, as well as fluid leakage and heat
generation.
Operating Temperature: -20 to 50℃
Charging Temperature 0 to 40℃
Storage Temperature: -20 to 60℃
If the battery pack charge indicator does not light during charging,
remove the battery pack and then re-attach it. If this does not solve
the problem, it means that the battery pack is defective and needs to
be replaced.
Use only the specified battery pack.
Battery packs naturally discharge even when they are not loaded in
the terminal. Use a battery pack as soon as possible after charging it.
For best charging results, keep the cradle, terminal and battery pack
contacts clean by periodically wiping them off with a cotton swab or
dry cloth.