Compsee apex II Owner's manual

Compsee 1
Apex-0698-Part 2: Apex-trak Part 2
Apex II ™
By
PORTABLE DATA
COLLECTION TERMINAL
Manual #: COAMIIUG0000
Opertaions & Programming Manual
PART 2 – Apex-Trak
COMPSEE
All rights reserved. No part of this manual, including illustrations and specifications, may be reproduced or used in
any form or by any means without permission in writing from Compsee.
The material contained in this manual is for informational purposes only and subject to change without notice.
©Compsee 1997
Printed in USA Revision 1.2

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Apex-0698-Part 2: Apex-trak Part 2
Table of Contents
1 INTRODUCTION.....................................................................................3
Using This Manual ...............................................................................4
How This Manual Is Organized............................................................ 4
2 INVENTORY AND TRACKING PROCEDURES
AND THE Apex II............................................................................. 4
Using Apex-Trak In Item Tracking and Inventory Systems.................6
Apex II Physical Description - Controls and Indicators....................... 6
Apex-Trak Main Menus .......................................................................8
3 OVERVIEW OF Apex II Apex-Trak PROCEDURES............................. 9
Asset Inventory................................................................................... 10
Item Track .......................................................................................... 12
Physical Inventory..............................................................................13
4 GENERAL Apex II AND Apex-Trak PROCEDURES.......................... 14
Power the Apex II On and Off ...........................................................14
Adjust the Contrast Level...................................................................15
Reboot the Apex II ............................................................................. 16
Apex-Trak Main Menu Procedures.................................................... 16
Access Asset Inventory, Item Track, or Physical Inventory........... 17
Navigating Through Apex-Trak Menus and Options.....................17
Using the <ALT> Key....................................................................18
Set Date and Time ..........................................................................18
View the Amount of Free Memory ................................................19
Read Bar Codes..............................................................................19
View the Compsee Introduction.....................................................20
Apex-Trak General Procedures.......................................................... 21
Quit the Current Program............................................................... 21
Set Options ..................................................................................... 22
Transfer Data To a PC....................................................................27
Other LinkMaster Procedures......................................................... 31
5 ASSET INVENTORY PROCEDURES.................................................. 36
Quit To Main Menu............................................................................37
Collect Asset Inventory Data..............................................................37
View And Edit Inventory Data........................................................... 39
Transfer Asset Inventory (AIfile) Data...............................................40
Set Options ......................................................................................... 40
6 ITEM TRACK PROCEDURES.............................................................. 43
Quit To Main Menu............................................................................43
Issue Item............................................................................................ 44
Return Item......................................................................................... 45
Stock Item........................................................................................... 46
Transfer Item Track (ITFILE) Data.................................................... 47
Set Options ......................................................................................... 47
7 PHYSICAL INVENTORY PROCEDURES .......................................... 49
Quit To Main Menu............................................................................50
Collect Data........................................................................................ 50
Transfer Physical Inventory (PIFILE) Data .......................................54
Set Options ......................................................................................... 54

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Apex-0698-Part 2: Apex-trak Part 2
List of Figures
Figure 2-1. Typical Asset Tracking/Inventory Process............................... 5
Figure 2-2. Typical Item Tracking System.................................................. 5
Figure 2-3. Typical Physical Inventory Procedure......................................5
Figure 2-4. Apex II (Without Scanner) Controls and Indicators................. 7
Figure 2-5. Apex-Trak Main Menu.............................................................8
Figure 2-6. Main Menus For Apex-Trak Inventory/
Tracking Programs..................................................................9
Figure 3-1. Typical ASCII File For Asset Inventory................................. 11
Figure 3-2. Typical ASCII File for Item Track ......................................... 13
Figure 3-3. Typical ASCII File for Physical Inventory............................. 14
List of Tables
Table 2-1. Apex II Controls and Indicators.................................................7
Table 3-1. Quick Reference To Apex-Trak Procedures............................ 10
Table 3-2. Asset Inventory Data Field Descriptions .................................11
Table 3-3. Item Track Data Field Descriptions .........................................12
Table 3-4. Physical Inventory Data Field Descriptions............................. 13
Table 4-1. Apex-Trak General Procedures................................................ 21
1INTRODUCTION
This is the second of four parts of the Apex II Portable Data Collection Terminal Manual. This part of the manual
describes the hardware and human/computer interface procedures. In this part, the term “operator” applies to all
levels of personnel who operate the Apex II and Apex-Trak to collect data.
The Apex II contains Apex-Trak factory installed software. Apex-Trak includes the Asset Inventory (AI), Item
Track (IT), and Physical Inventory (PI) programs.
Since the programs are factory installed, the novice can begin using the Apex II immediately. The novice can read
this manual to become familiar with automated tracking and inventory procedures as well as the Apex II and Apex-
Trak features.
Apex-Trak streamlines and expedites the collection of data into files that are later transferred to the operator’s PC.
The Apex II travels with the operator to where inventory items are located. Since the need for writing and editing
data on paper is eliminated, productivity is increased and errors are reduced. If scanning capability is added, both
productivity and error reduction improve dramatically.
The Apex II and Apex-Trak support the scanning of bar codes and identifying bar code symbology. This is
accomplished by purchasing one of the Apex II models that include a standard or long range scanner, or by
attaching another scanning unit to the Apex II.
An experienced operator can use this manual to learn about the Apex II and Apex-Trak features. Computer
software designers and programmers can use this manual to learn about and evaluate the functionality of Apex-
Trak.
While these programs accommodate a variety of data collection application needs, the code can be modified to meet
any data collection requirements. Programmers can modify the delivered code, or can purchase the optional
Compsee Apex II Program Generator to facilitate the process.

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The Apex-Trak program includes a print driver for portable bar code label printers. Printers may be purchased
separately from Compsee.
Using This Manual
After reading and working through the procedures in this manual a few times, you will be comfortable with Apex-
Trak. You will probably only use this manual as a reference.
When problems and questions arise, you can refer to the Table of Contents of the manual to quickly find the
appropriate topic.
Within this manual, the following typographic conventions are followed:
Bold type is used for headings.
< > Angular brackets are used to enclose hard keys (keys whose name and function do not change) located on
the Apex II or PC, such as <ALT> and <Enter>.
Underlined type is used for titles that refer to manuals.
Important points are included as notes. Note headings are printed in bold italic typeface. Notes are centered on
the page.
Caution and warning messages provide information which, if not observed, could result in equipment damage,
data loss, or personal injury. Caution and warning messages are shown in boxes.
How This Manual Is Organized
This manual is designed for:
Initial self-instruction
Quick reference for procedures that are performed only occasionally
Chapters 1 and 2 introduce you to this manual and the Compsee Apex-Trak programs installed in the Apex II
portable collection terminal.
Chapter 3 is an overview of the Apex II Apex-Trak Operations, including a description of the hardware and
software controls and indicators.
Chapter 4 walks you through step-by-step Apex II Apex-Trak General Operations such as powering the unit on and
off, navigating through the Apex-Trak menus, and setting Apex-Trak options.
Chapter 5 walks you through step-by-step Asset Inventory Procedures.
Chapter 6 walks you through step-by-step Item Track Procedures.
Chapter 7 walks you through step-by-step Physical Inventory Procedures.
2INVENTORY AND TRACKING PROCEDURES AND THE Apex II
Inventory procedures involve finding and counting assets, supplies, tools, data, or other items that can and are
accounted for in an organization. Tracking follows the course and progress of an item as it circulates through an
organization. Figure 2-1, Figure 2-2 and Figure 2-3 illustrate typical inventory and tracking processes.

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Assign
Unique
Numbers
to Assets
Affix Asset
Tags to
Assets
Record
Division
controlling
Asset
Record
Numbers
Of Assets
Inventoried
Record
descriptive
Information
For Assets
Check Assets
Against
Master Asset
Inventory List
Transfer
Data To
PC
Figure 2-1. Typical Asset Tracking/Inventory Process
Record When Items Are
Issued
(To Internal Customer)
Record When Items Are
Returned
(From Internal Customer)
Assign Numbers
and Tags To Items Record When Items Are Restocked
Figure 2-2. Typical Item Tracking System
Record Location
Of Inventory
Transfer Inventory
Data to PC
Record Item Control
Numbers And Count
For Each Item
Check Inventory
Against Master List
Figure 2-3. Typical Physical Inventory Procedure

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Using Apex-Trak In Item Tracking and Inventory Systems
Apex-Trak includes many features to streamline data entry into inventory and tracking systems. With Apex-Trak,
you can:
Automatically, electronically record the date and time each item was inventoried, a data record was
updated, or the movement of an item was recorded.
Use multiple portable data collection terminals to enter data.
Store approximately 3,000 items in each terminal (refer to page 9 for more specific information).
Transfer data through an RS-232 cable to a host system, either directly to an ASCII file on the PC or via a
Compsee Wedge.
Modify the names and lengths of fields.
The following optional features are available if the associated hardware is purchased for the Apex II Apex-Trak
system.
Scan commercial and Apex-Trak bar codes.
Collect tracking data by scanning bar codes on items.
Use multiple scanning devices to enter data.
Print barcoded tags from a portable bar code printer.
With the Asset Inventory Apex-Trak program, you can:
Add, view, and edit data records during inventory.
Use a minimum of 4 fields and maximum of 8 fields of data for each asset being tracked.
Record observable information (such as physical description, remarks, condition) electronically as
inventory is being performed.
With the Item Track Apex-Trak program, you can:
Record when an item is issued, returned, and restocked electronically as the event occurs.
Record the individual or group to whom the item is issued and the number of days the item is checked out
for.
Use either 5 or 6 fields of data for each item being tracked.
With the Physical Inventory Apex-Trak program, you can:
Record locations that are inventoried, items found in each location, and the count for each item.
Use either 4 or 5 fields of data for each item being inventoried.
Apex II Physical Description - Controls and Indicators
Figure 2-4 illustrates, and Table 2-1 describes, the Apex II controls and indicators used in Apex-Trak procedures.
The <ALT> key is used in combination with some of the other keys to perform special procedures, described in
Chapter 4.
Only keys used with Apex-Trak are described here. Refer to Part 1, User’s Manual, for descriptions of how these
keys are used when the Apex II is in other modes of operation.

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Apex5drw
Figure 2-4. Apex II (Without Scanner) Controls and Indicators
Table 2-1. Apex II Controls and Indicators
No. Control/
Indicator General Function
1. Scanner Port Nine pin connector for scanning device. On the model with the Apex II Scanner, the factory
installed scanner covers this port.
2. LCD Screen Displays data entered by operator and data sent to the operator from the Apex II programs.
3. F1/F2/F3/F4
Function Keys In the Compsee Introduction, F1 pauses the screen and F4 advances to the next screen after it has been paused. F2 and F3 are not used in the Apex-Trak factory installed programs.
4. <SCAN> key Green in color. When a scanner is attached to the Apex II, turns on the scanning (infrared) beam.
5. Numeric
Keypad Used for keypad entry of numeric data (0-9) and responses to prompts from the Apex II programs.
6. <.> (period)
key On the numeric keypad. Not used in the Apex-Trak factory installed programs. It can be defined to be used as a decimal point.
7. <SPC> Key On the numeric keypad. Functions like the Spacebar on a typewriter or PC.

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No. Control/
Indicator General Function
8. <ENTER>
Key Green in color. Used to accept keypad entry as input into the Apex-Trak programs.
9. Arrow Keys When pressed, scroll through option menus that are too long to display completely at one time on
the LCD screen.
10. Alpha Keypad Used for keypad entry of data (A-Z) and responses to prompts from the Apex II programs.
11. <ALT> Key By itself, enables or disables the cursor. Used in conjunction with other keys to perform some
functions (see Chapter 4).
12. <BKSP> Key Functions like the Backspace key on a typewriter or PC.
13. Power On/Off
Button Red in color. Used to turn the Apex II on and off.
14. RS-232 Port RJ 10 (phone) connector for cable connecting the Apex II to the PC.
Apex-Trak Main Menus
Procedures from the menus shown on this page are described in Chapters 3 through 7.
Apex-Trak’s main menu contains eight options (Figure 2-5).
The main menu is longer
than the LCD screen.
=== Apex II ===
A)sset Invent
I)tem Track
P)hysical Invent
The operator presses the
arrow keys to display
more of the menu.
=== Apex II ===
S)et Date & Time
F)ree Memory
R)ead Bar Codes
=== Apex II ===
C)ompsee Intro
Q)uit= Power Off
Figure 2-5. Apex-Trak Main Menu
When the operator selects one of the first three main menu options, the associated submenu is displayed. Pressing
the key for the first letter of an option selects it.

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The other main menu options do not have submenus. When these options are selected, a procedure begins. Figure
2-6 shows the first three main menu options and the submenus displayed when each is selected.
=== Apex II ===
A)sset Invent
I)tem Track
P)hysical Invent
== Asset Invent ==
C)ollect Data
V)iew and Edit
T)ransfer Data
===Item Track===
I)ssue
R)eturn
S)tock
===Phy Invent===
C)ollect Data
T)ransfer Data
O)ptions
== Asset Invent ==
O)ptions
Q)uit
===Item Track===
T)ransfer Data
O)ptions
Q)uit _
===Phy Invent===
Q)uit
Figure 2-6. Main Menus For Apex-Trak Inventory/Tracking Programs
3OVERVIEW OF Apex II Apex-Trak PROCEDURES
Apex-Trak is a commercial, off-the-shelf, general use inventory and tracking software product. As such, Apex-
Trak does not showcase the sophisticated programming capabilities of the Apex II.
However, all three programs are straightforward and easy to learn. These simple programs are designed for
collecting all the data necessary for most inventory and tracking needs. An experienced programmer can easily
modify the installed code to meet any custom program design needs.
During the scanning process, location and item bar codes can be printed from the Apex II using a portable bar code
printer. With the communication software provided, the data collected can easily be exported to a host PC for
processing and reports.
One Apex II unit can be used to collect data in all three programs, or multiple Apex II units can be used. The
number of records an Apex II can hold depends upon the Apex II model; the data collection programs you use; the
number of fields you use; and the length of the fields. The following tables give the capacity for each program
installed in each size terminal.
128 K Terminal 512 K Terminal
Asset Inventory 400 Records Asset Inventory 3000 Records
Item Track 1000 Records Item Track 9000 Records
Physical Inventory 1000 Records Physical Inventory 9000 Records
1 Meg Terminal
Asset Inventory 9000 Records
Item Track 18000 Records
Physical Inventory 18000 Records
For example, the tables show that if you are collecting only Item Track and Physical Inventory data on a 512 K
terminal, you can hold 9000 total records on the Apex II. You would need to upload the data to a PC and erase the
data on the Apex II before adding more data.
If you are collecting an equal amount of all three kinds of data on a 512 K terminal, the data capacity would be
about 7000 records (the average of 3000, 9000, and 9000).

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Table 3-1 lists and describes Apex-Trak procedures in alphabetical order. The table also lists the page on which
each procedure begins.
Table 3-1. Quick Reference To Apex-Trak Procedures
To Do This Procedure Proceed To
Page
Access Asset Inventory, Item Track, or Physical Inventory 17
Adjust the Contrast Level 15
<ALT> Key, Using 17
Collect Inventory Data (Asset Inventory) 37
Collect Data (Item Track) 43
Collect Data (Physical Inventory) 50
Erase Data File 26
Field Options
Asset Inventory 40
Item Track 47
Physical Inventory 54
Issue Item 44
Navigating Through Apex-Trak Menus 17
Other LinkMaster Procedures 31
Power the Apex II On and Off 14
Printer Options 23
Quit the Current Program (Asset Inventory, Item Track, or Physical Inventory) 21
Read Bar Codes 19
Reboot the Apex II 16
Restock Item 46
Return Item 45
Set Date and Time 18
Set Options 22
Transfer Data To a PC 27
Upload Options 24
View and Edit Inventory Data (Asset Inventory) 39
View the Amount of Free Memory 19
View the Compsee Introduction 20
Asset Inventory
This program streamlines and expedites the collection of asset inventory data. It is used with equipment, furniture,
and other assets that organizations periodically account for and inventory.
The operator goes to the various places where the assets are located. The operator scans or keys the asset numbers
displayed on tags physically attached to the assets. The operator enters data by major and minor divisions, which
represent regions, buildings, rooms, or other useful divisions describing the physical location or department control
of assets. In addition, the operator may enter a description, remarks, and the condition of each asset.
The data is then uploaded to a host program to be used in an asset tracking/inventory database system.

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As installed, this program is straight forward, easy to use, and meets most data collection needs. A computer
programmer could modify Apex-Trak to meet any asset inventory requirements.
Table 3-2 lists and describes the Asset Inventory data fields. The operator enters data for all fields except the date
and time stamps. The Apex II Apex-Trak program automatically enters the date and time as a record entry is
completed. These fields are user definable in name and length. Fields which are not required can be turned off by
setting the field length to zero.
Table 3-2. Asset Inventory Data Field Descriptions
Fields Siz
e Type
Major Division* 8 Alpha/Numeric, Right justified, Zero filled.
Minor Division 8 Alpha/Numeric, Right justified, Zero filled.
Item Number* 16 Alpha/Numeric, Right justified, Zero filled.
Item Desc. 16 Alpha/Numeric, Left justified.
Remarks 16 Alpha/Numeric, Left justified.
Condition 16 Alpha/Numeric, Left justified.
Date* 6 Date, in the form YYYYMMDD (19950928).
Time* 5 Time, in the form HH:MM, in 24 hour format (23:30).
* Required fields are identified by an asterisk next to their names.
When data from the Asset Inventory program is transferred to the PC using procedures starting on page 27, the file
is named AIFILE. Characters for each record are in strings. Each record is separated by a carriage return. Fields
are padded with spaces to their defined length, but are not separated from other fields of a record by spaces or tabs.
Figure 3-1 illustrates a typical ASCII file for Asset Inventory. Columns in the table and figure are shaded to make
the ASCII file easy to read.
00000001 00000023 0000A 9302 83746 COMPUTER, IBM
M
ODEL NO 5559933
N
EW 19960205 10:41
00000001 00000023 0000A 9302 84029 EXECUTIVE DESK POOR 19960205 10:45
00000001 00000023 0000A 9302 83333 ROUND TABLE GOOD 19960205 10:47
00000001 00000023 0000A 9302 83777 STORAGE BIN NEW 19960205 10:49
00000002 00000023 0000A 9302 8186 COMPUTER, MAC MODEL NO 5422232 NEW 19960205 12:37
00000002 00000045 0000A 9302 8927 COMPUTER, DEC MODEL NO 9793737 FAIR 19960205 12:38
00000002 00000045 0000A 9302 8222 CHAIR, ERGONOM ON LEFT ARM REST SCRATCHED 19960205 12:39
00000002 00000045 0000A 9302 83157 FAX MACHINE OBSOLETE 19960205 12:45
Figure 3-1. Typical ASCII File For Asset Inventory

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Item Track
This program tracks the movement of items and creates an audit trail. It is used with documents and other items that
are stored in one location, checked out to individuals or groups, and returned to the storage location.
The operator scans or keys barcoded tracking tags physically attached to the items being tracked (paper documents,
boxes of documents, tape cassettes, evidence, tools, returnable supplies, or other items that are circulated within an
organization).
In addition, the operator keys the latest movement of the item: issued to an appropriate team or individual
(destination); returned to the team responsible for item tracking and control; or returned to stock in a designated
location.
The data is then uploaded to a host program to be used in an item tracking/inventory database system.
As installed, this program is straight forward, easy to use, and meets most data collection needs. A computer
programmer could modify Apex-Trak to meet any item tracking requirements.
Table 3-3 lists and describes the Item Track data fields. The operator enters data for all fields except the date and
time stamps. The Apex II Apex-Trak program automatically enters the date and time as a record entry is completed.
The fields are user definable in name and length. The Return Days field, which is not required, can be turned off by
setting its length to zero.
Table 3-3. Item Track Data Field Descriptions
Fields Size Type
Item Number* 8 Alpha/Numeric, Right justified, Zero filled.
Item Destination* 8 Alpha/Numeric, Right justified, Zero filled. This field is used for
destination when an item is Issued, and the location during the Stock
procedure. When an item is returned, Apex-Trak automatically fills this
field with XXXXs to indicate the item is returned to the controlling
department.
Return Days 3 Numeric, Right justified, Zero filled.
Movement Code* 1 Alpha.
Date* 6 Date in the form YYYYMMDD (19950928).
Time* 5 Time, in the form HH:MM, in 24 hour format (23:30).
* Required fields are identified by an asterisk next to their names.
When data from the Item Track program is transferred to the PC using procedures starting on page 27, the file is
named ITFILE. Characters for each record are in strings. Each record is separated by a carriage return. Fields are
padded with spaces to their defined length, but are not separated from other fields of a record by spaces or tabs.

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Figure 3-2 illustrates a typical ASCII file for Item Track. Columns in the table and figure are shaded to make the
ASCII file easy to read.
36827615 DEPT0651 030 I 19960105 12:31
69182605 DEPT0651 007 I 19960105 12:31
31849051 XXXXXXXX R 19960105 12:31
36170518 XXXXXXXX R 19960105 12:32
03651948 XXXXXXXX R 19960105 12:32
31958177 CABNIT01 S 19960105 12:33
61908524 CABNIT08 S 19960105 12:33
3319HGEM CABNIT55 S 19960105 12:33
Figure 3-2. Typical ASCII File for Item Track
Physical Inventory
This program expedites the simple physical inventory process. The operator goes to the physical storage locations
for inventory (office supplies, documents, tools, assets, or other items). The operator keys or scans the location
being inventoried; scans or keys the item numbers displayed on tags physically attached to the items; and then keys
the quantity of the scanned items.
The data is then uploaded to a host program to be used in an inventory/tracking database system.
As installed, this program is straight forward, easy to use, and meets most data collection needs. However, a
computer programmer could modify Apex-Trak to meet any physical inventory needs.
Table 3-4 lists and describes the Item Track data fields. The operator enters data for all fields except the date and
time stamps. The Apex II Apex-Trak program automatically enters the date and time as a record entry is completed.
The Item Location field, which is not required, can be turned off by setting its length to zero.
Table 3-4. Physical Inventory Data Field Descriptions
Fields Size Type
Item Number* 16 Numeric, Right justified, Zero filled.
Item Location 8 Numeric, Right justified, Zero filled.
Item Count* 3 Numeric.
Date* 6 Date, in the form YYYYMMDD (19950928).
Time* 5 Time, in the form HH:MM, in 24 hour format
23:30.
* Required fields are identified by an asterisk next to their names.

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When data from the Physical Inventory program is transferred to the PC using procedures starting on page 27, the
file is named PIFILE. Characters for each record are in strings. Each record is separated by a carriage return.
Fields are padded with spaces to their defined length, but are not separated from other fields of a record by spaces or
tabs.
Figure 3-3 illustrates a typical ASCII file for Physical Inventory Track.
Columns in the table and figure are shaded to make the ASCII file easy to read.
0000000036827615 CABNIT01 030 19960106 09:01
0000000069182605 DEPT0651 007 19960107 09:11
0000000031849051 CABNIT01 007 19960107 09:11
0000000036170518 CABNIT55 007 19960107 09:12
0000000003651948 CABNIT01 007 19960107 09:12
0000000031958177 CABNIT01 007 19960107 09:12
0000000061908524 CABNIT08 007 19960107 09:12
000000003319HGEM CABNIT55 007 19960107 09:13
Figure 3-3. Typical ASCII File for Physical Inventory
4GENERAL Apex II AND Apex-Trak PROCEDURES
The following paragraphs describe procedures that are not specific to one of the Inventory/Tracking programs.
These procedures control the Apex II and guide the operator through the Apex-Trak menus.
Power the Apex II On and Off
When the Apex II is first turned on, the Compsee Introduction is displayed. The Compsee Introduction is described
on page 20.
If the Apex II is turned off in the middle of procedures, the Apex II “keeps your place” in the program. The screen
displayed when the Apex II is turned off is displayed when the Apex II is turned on again.
Perform the following action to turn the Apex II on:
Press the red power on/off button in the lower left corner of the Apex II (Figure 2-4).
Perform one of the following actions to turn the Apex II off:
From the main menu press the <Q> key on the Apex II. See Apex-Trak Main Menu Procedures, page 16,
for navigating to and from the main menu.
OR
Press the red power on/off button in the lower left corner of the Apex II (Figure 2-4)
Note
The Apex II automatically transitions into a sleep mode after it is not used (no keys
pressed) for a specified time-out period (currently set at approximately two minutes).

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When the Apex II has automatically transitioned to the sleep mode, you can turn it back on by pressing the red
power on/off button as described above, or by performing one of the following actions:
Press the <SCAN> key.
OR
If a scanning unit with a trigger is attached to the Apex II, press the trigger.
Adjust the Contrast Level
Perform the following procedure to adjust the contrast on the Apex II LCD screen.
To increase the contrast (make the background darker):
1. Press the <ALT> key. The cursor on the LCD screen is disabled (frozen).
2. Press <I> until the contrast is at the desired level. The contrast increases until the <I> key is released.
To decrease the contrast (make the text lighter):
1. Press the <ALT> key. The cursor on the LCD screen is disabled (frozen).
2. Press <J> until the contrast is at the desired level. The contrast increases until the <J> key is released.
Alternatively, you can press <ALT> and then switch between pressing the <I> and <J> keys until the desired
contrast is reached.
If the contrast is increased to the maximum, the LCD screen is so dark that you cannot see the text (as illustrated
below).
If the contrast is decreased to the maximum, the text is so light that it becomes the same color as the background and
you cannot see it.
Caution
If you press the<ALT> key inadvertently the cursor is disabled and the <I> and <J> keys are enabled for
increasing and decreasing screen contrast.
If the Apex II is on and the screen looks blank, increase the contrast with the procedure above.
If the Apex II is on and the screen looks extremely dark as illustrated above, decrease the contrast with the
procedure above.

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Reboot the Apex II
This procedure is rarely performed by operators, and only when a problem cannot be mitigated in other ways.
Caution
The following procedure erases all data in the Apex II. It may also erase the Apex-Trak program. Do not
perform this procedure unless at least one of the following is true:
1. You are an experienced programmer and are familiar with parts 1 and 3 of this manual.
2. You are troubleshooting a problem and a software maintenance person tells you to reboot.
3. You do not need the data stored in the Apex II and you know how to reload Apex-Trak or another executable
program.
Perform the following action to reboot the Apex II, erase all data collected in all three programs, and erase the
Apex-Trak program if the program has not been saved to flash.
Press and hold the <ALT> and the <•>(period) key while you turn the Apex II on by pressing the red power on key.
Perform the following action to reboot the Apex II, erase all data collected in all three programs, and erase the
Apex-Trak program whether or not it has been saved to flash.
Press and hold the <ALT> and the <SPC> key while you turn the Apex II on by pressing the red power on key.
Apex-Trak Main Menu Procedures
When the Apex-Trak Main Menu is displayed, it fills three LCD screens.
Press the arrow keys to see more of the menu. === Apex II ===
A)sset Invent
I)tem Track
P)hysical Invent
More of the menu is displayed with each press of the arrow keys. === Apex II ===
S)et Date & Time
F)ree Memory
R)ead Bar Codes
A menu option does NOT have to be displayed in order to select it. === Apex II ===
C)ompsee Intro
Q)uit= Power Off
Perform the following action from the Apex-Trak to access the procedure you wish to perform.

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Apex-0698-Part 2: Apex-trak Part 2
Press the first letter of the desired option and proceed to the location identified in the following table.
If You Press
This Key Proceed to Page
A 36
I 43
P 49
S 18
F 19
R 19
C 20
Q 14
Access Asset Inventory, Item Track, or Physical Inventory
Perform one of the following actions, depending on which program you wish to access from the main menu:
a. Press the <A> key to access Asset Inventory (page 36).
b. Press the <I> key to access Item Track (page 43).
c. Press the <P> key to access Physical Inventory (page 49).
Note
The Physical Inventory program is the easiest to learn. If you are a novice, press <P>.
Physical Inventory procedures are described in Chapter 7.
Navigating Through Apex-Trak Menus and Options
When navigating down the Apex-Trak menus, press the alpha key associated with your menu choice.
When navigating up the Apex-Trak program:
Press the <Q> key if a menu is currently displayed. For example, use <Q> to display the Apex-Trak main
menu when you are currently in the Asset Inventory main menu described on page 36.
Press the <ALT> key and then the <Q> key if a data entry or non-menu option screen is currently displayed.
For example, use <ALT><Q> to display the Asset Inventory menu when the Data Collection screen, described
on page 37, is currently displayed.
If you press an invalid option, the Apex II beeps.
When a menu is displayed, press either one of the arrow keys to display more of the menu. For example, use the
arrow keys to scroll through the main menu as described on page 16.
When a non-menu option screen is displayed, press either one of the arrow keys to move the selection indication,
either a greater than symbol (>) or parentheses (), to another option.

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Apex-0698-Part 2: Apex-trak Part 2
Typical non-menu option screens are displayed on pages 39 and 52.
Using the <ALT> Key
Pressing the <ALT> key toggles between enabling and disabling the cursor on the LCD screen. Sometimes an
operator may inadvertently disable the cursor by pressing <ALT>.
If the cursor on the LCD screen becomes disabled (frozen) press the <ALT> key to enable the cursor again.
In addition to being used with the <I> and <J> keys to adjust the LCD screen contrast (refer to page 15), the <ALT>
key is used in programming the Apex II. Therefore, if you inadvertently press <ALT> and then other keys, you
may unintentionally perform a procedure that adversely affects your Apex-Trak operations.
Refer to Part 3 of this manual for more information on how the <ALT> key is used in programming the Apex II.
It is recommended that you use the <ALT> carefully.
Set Date and Time
Perform the following procedure from the Apex-Trak main menu to set the current date and time on the Apex II.
1. Press the<S> key.
The Date and Time screen is displayed with the cursor in the year field. The
currently set time is displayed.
Date and Time
________________
Enter New Date
1995/01/31
2. Press the number keys for the correct date in YYYY /MM/DD format.
Numbers are displayed as entered. After you enter the year, the cursor skips
the front slash (/) and moves to the month, then to the day.
Date and Time
________________
Enter New Date
1996/01/31
If the date is correct, press <ENTER>.
A screen displays the currently set time. Date and Time
________________
Enter New Time
15:53:45
3. Press the number keys for the correct time in 24 hour, HH:MM:SS format.
Numbers are displayed as entered. After you enter the hour, the cursor skips
the colon (:) and moves to the minutes, then to seconds.
Date and Time
________________
Enter New Time
23:53:45
If the time is correct, press <ENTER>.
The Apex-Trak main menu is displayed.

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Apex-0698-Part 2: Apex-trak Part 2
View the Amount of Free Memory
Perform the following procedure from the Apex-Trak main menu to view the amount of free memory currently
available for data collection on the Apex II.
1. Press the<F> key.
The free memory screen is displayed. 62389 Bytes
Available
Any Key Continue
2. If desired, note the amount of free memory for future reference. Then press any key.
The Apex-Trak main menu is displayed.
Read Bar Codes
The Apex II has the ability to scan bar codes and identify the bar code symbologies:
a. EAN – 8 g. Plessey
b. EAN – 13 h. Code 11
c. 3 of 9 i. UPC - A
d. 2 of 5 (14 characters) j. UPC - E
e. Codabar (5 characters)
f. 128
During Asset Inventory, Item Track, and Physical Inventory procedures, scanned bar codes are stored in one of
three data files to be later transferred to a PC. This procedure is used to simply read and verify a bar code number
and symbology.
Note
You cannot scan bar codes with the Apex II unless a scanning device is attached to it.
Perform the following procedure from the Apex-Trak main menu to scan a bar code without accessing one of the
Inventory/Tracking programs.
1. Press the<R> key.
The Verify Bar Codes screen is displayed with the cursor in the first blank of
the data entry field.
Verify Bar Codes
________________
Key to Print
ALT-Q to Quit
2. Press the <SCAN> button on the Apex II or press the trigger on the scanning device (if applicable).
OR
Key the bar code. Proceed to Step 3.
If you used the scanner, the Verify Bar Codes screen displays the scanned
bar code number and symbology.
Verify Bar Codes
01234567891234
Code I (2 of 5)
ALT-Q to Quit

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Apex-0698-Part 2: Apex-trak Part 2
Then the Verify Bar Codes screen is displayed again. Verify Bar Codes
________________
Key to Print
ALT-Q to Quit
3. If you keyed the bar code, the screen prompts you about printing the bar
code
Print Bar Code
Do you wish to
Print a tag?
Yes (No) _
Select yes or no. Parentheses toggle between being displayed around Yes
and No as the arrow keys are pressed.
Print Bar Code
Do you wish to
Print a tag?
(Yes) No _
If you selected yes, the bar code label for the keyed bar code is printed. The
Verify Bar Codes screen is again displayed.
Verify Bar Codes
________________
Key to Print
ALT-Q to Quit
Note
If a scanner is connected to the Apex II but it cannot read the scanned bar code, the
LASER BEAM ON
message is displayed on the LCD screen until the <SCAN> key or trigger on the
scanning device is released.
View the Compsee Introduction
Perform the following procedure from the Apex-Trak main menu to view the COMPSEE Introduction to the Apex
II, displayed on the LCD screen.
1. Press the<C> key.
The first screen in the introduction is displayed. After a moment, the next
screen is automatically displayed.
COMPSEE
Apex II
INTRODUCTION
================
A screen displays directions for the introduction. =SCREEN FLOW=
(F1) to Pause
(F4) to advance
(Q) to cancel
2. Press <F4>. The program automatically displays the screens.
Note
<F4> advances the screen after it has been paused. Pressing <F4> during the introduction has
no affect unless the screen has been paused by pressing <F1>.
3. When you are finished viewing the introduction, press <Q>.
The Apex-Trak main menu is displayed.