Socket Cordless Ring Scanner Series 9 User manual

Cordless Ring Scanner Series 9
with Bluetooth®Wireless Technology
Featuring a “Hands-Free” wearable bar code scanner that
captures and sends data wirelessly to Bluetooth enabled
computers running Windows Mobile, XP or XP Tablet Edition.
User’s Guide

9/2006 Document # 6410-00273 G
Copyright Notice
Copyright © 2006 Socket Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.
Socket, the Socket logo and Battery Friendly are registered trademarks of
Socket Communications, Inc. Cordless Ring Scanner with Bluetooth
Wireless Technology, SocketScan, Connect!Agent, Error Proof Protocol
and Mobility Friendly are trademarks of Socket Communications, Inc.
Bluetooth and the Bluetooth logos are trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG,
Inc., U.S.A. and licensed to Socket Communications, Inc. All other brand
and product names are trademarks of their respective holders.
The Socket Cordless Ring Scanner includes technology licensed under
United States Patent No. 5,902,991.
Reproduction of the contents of this manual without the permission of
Socket Communications is expressly prohibited. Please be aware that the
products described in this manual may change without notice.
Feel free to contact SOCKET COMMUNICATIONS at:
Socket Communications, Inc.
37400 Central Court
Newark, CA 94560
Other than the above, Socket Communications can assume no responsibility
for anything resulting from the application of information contained in this
manual.
Please refrain from any applications of the Socket Cordless Ring Scanner
that are not described in this manual. Please refrain from disassembling the
Cordless Ring Scanner. Disassembly of this device will void the product
warranty.
You can track new product releases, software updates and technical
bulletins by visiting Socket’s web page at: www.socketcom.com.

Table of Contents
COPYRIGHT NOTICE 2
1 | INTRODUCTION 5
About the Software 5
About Combining Scanning with Bluetooth 6
System Requirements 7
Package Contents 7
Product Registration 7
Hardware and Software Indicators 8
Scanning Tips 9
About the Cable Break Away 10
2 | HARDWARE PREPARATION 11
Charging and Installing the Battery 11
Assembling and Putting on the CRS 12
3 | SETUP FOR WINDOWS MOBILE 15
STEP 1: Install the Software 16
STEP 2: Configure Scanner Settings 18
STEP 3: Connect CRS to Host Device with Bluetooth 20
STEP 4: Assemble and Put on the CRS 22
STEP 5: Scan Data into Your Application 22
OPTIONAL: Select Symbologies 24
OPTIONAL: Configure Prefix/Suffixes 25
OPTIONAL: Configure Sound 26
OPTIONAL: Run Scan Demo 27
4 | SETUP FOR WINDOWS XP 28
STEP 1: Install the Software 29
STEP 2: Configure Bluetooth Settings 31
STEP 3: Configure Scanner Settings 37
STEP 4: Start SocketScan and Connect to CRS 39
STEP 5: Assemble and Put on the CRS 40
STEP 6: Scan Data into Your Application 40
OPTIONAL: Assign Sound and Prefix/Suffix Settings 42
OPTIONAL: Configure Advanced Bluetooth Settings 43
OPTIONAL: Assign a Remote Trigger Button 45
OPTIONAL: Select Symbologies 46
TABLE OF CONTENTS 3

APPENDICES
A | SPECIFICATIONS 47
B | SAFETY AND USAGE TIPS 49
C | BAR CODE LABEL SPECIFICATIONS 51
D | ENABLING OR DISABLING SYMBOLOGIES 52
E | DECODE ZONE 55
F | TROUBLESHOOTING 56
G | TECHNICAL SUPPORT 59
LIMITED WARRANTY 60
REGULATORY COMPLIANCE 62
4

1 | Introduction
If you need to collect bar coded data but don't want to be tied to your
mobile or desktop computer, the Socket Cordless Ring Scanner (CRS)
Series 9 with Bluetooth wireless technology is just what you're looking for.
This innovative device combines the power of laser bar code scanning with
the convenience of Bluetooth wireless technology in a compact, lightweight
device that is ergonomically designed to fit comfortably on your hand.
Bluetooth wireless technology transforms how devices connect with each
other, offering new possibilities for using a mobile computer with other
devices. With the CRS, you can scan bar codes while connected to a PDA in
your pocket or a Windows XP system located up to 300 feet away — all
without the hassle of cables or the awkwardness of a protruding antenna.
The CRS was designed with an exclusive Liquidmetal®construction that is
twice as strong as titanium, extremely durable and scratch-resistant. The
Battery Friendly® CRS uses minimal power, so you can scan over 11,000
times in normal operating conditions without having to recharge.
Scanner Versions
The CRS Series 9 includes two versions of the scanner, The Mid-range
CRS 9M has a Class 1 laser scanner and a Class 2 Bluetooth with a
maximum range of 30ft (10m). The Performance CRS 9P features a Class 2
laser scanner with a Class 1 Bluetooth with a maximum range of 300ft
10m).
(
About the Software
SocketScan™enters scanned data directly into any open
Windows program, as if the data were manually typed, so you
can use the CRS with your favorite application. Included is a
utility that enables you to configure Prefix/Suffixes, sounds,
and other special settings for the CRS.
Connect!Agent™(patent pending) simplifies the Bluetooth by automatically
setting up and managing the Bluetooth connection. Connect!Agent runs in the
background, requiring no user interaction.
For software updates, please visit: www.socketcom.com/support/support_bar.asp
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION 5

About Combining Scanning with Bluetooth
The Cordless Ring Scanner represents an optimal combination of proven
laser bar code scanning technology and state-of-the-art Bluetooth
connectivity. Because of the problems inherent in the intermittent storage of
scanned data in on-board memory if the Bluetooth connection is lost, the
CRS is designed to operate only when connected to the host, with the
powerful Class 1 radio providing the maximum possible connection range.
The user is advised of the connection status with a single beep when the
CRS connects to the host and a double beep when the connection is closed
or lost. As with any wireless device, connectivity range can be affected by a
variety of environmental variables.
The most likely source of errors in any cordless scanning system is not in
the scanning and decoding process, but in the transmission of the data to the
host. To prevent such errors, the Cordless Ring Scanner features Socket’s
exclusive Error Proof Protocol™(patent pending), which ensures that
scanned data is correctly received by the host computer and allows for real-
time validation of data and notification to the user in case of errors.
The beeper and green LED signals provided by the CRS confirm not only a
successful scan but also the successful transmission of the scanned data to
the host. Users familiar with bar code scanning may notice a slight delay
between the successful scan and shut off of the laser, and the beep and
green LED from the CRS confirming completed transmission of the data. In
most instances, this delay is less than 300 ms (milliseconds), but may be
slightly longer as the connectivity range limit is approached.
Because of the two-way transmission verification process, it is possible to
cause communication problems by scanning bar codes as fast as possible.
When this occurs, all transmissions will stop for several seconds before
scanning can be resumed. To prevent this from happening, the user should
wait until the confirming beep is received before scanning the next bar
code.
6

System Requirements
Windows Mobile devices should satisfy these minimum requirements:
•Windows Mobile 2003, 2003SE or 5.0
•Any of the following Bluetooth stacks:
−Broadcom (Widcomm) v1.4
−Microsoft Bluetooth stack for Windows Mobile
−Socket Drakar v1.4 (from Socket SD/CF Connection Kits)
•Software installation requires ActiveSync 4.0 or greater.
Windows XP computers should satisfy these minimum requirements:
•Windows Mobile XP or XP Tablet Edition
•Any of the following Bluetooth stacks:*
−IVT BlueSoleil version 1.6.1.4 (from Socket CF/USB Connection Kits)
−Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2 Bluetooth stack
−Toshiba Bluetooth stack 3.03.06
−Broadcom (Widcomm) Bluetooth stack
−
*Other stacks may be compatible but have not been tested by Socket. For Windows XP, only the
IVT and Microsoft Bluetooth stacks are compatible with the optional Socket Connect!Agent
software.
Package Contents
The Socket Cordless Ring Scanner package includes:
•Ring scanner (C)
•Wrist unit (A) with attached cable (B)
•Wrist unit case (D)
•Finger strap (F)
•2 adhesive Velcro strips (G)
•Rechargeable 3.7V lithium-ion battery
•Battery charger
•CD with software and user documentation
Product Registration
Socket highly recommends that all customers register their Socket products.
Registered users receive the following benefits:
•Priority for technical support
•Special offers for future products and upgrades
•The latest new product information.
Register online at: www.socketcom.com/prodreg
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION 7

Hardware and Software Indicators
Ring Scanner LED
LED LED Activity Meaning
Good Read Green Data successfully scanned and sent to host device
Wrist Unit LEDs
LED LED Activity Meaning
Blinking blue
every second
Bluetooth radio is on, no connection
Bluetooth Status Blinking blue,
every 5 seconds Bluetooth connection
Blinking Red 20% battery capacity remaining
Solid Red 10% battery capacity remaining
Battery Status
Off Off or Good Battery status
Wrist Unit Beeps
Beep Pattern Meaning
1 beep Bluetooth connection to host device has begun or power on
2 beeps Bluetooth connection to host device has ended or power off
1 beep (optional setting) Data successfully scanned and sent to host device
3 beeps Cable disconnected from wrist unit
SocketScan Icon Bottom of Today screen when SocketScan is open. Tap for menu.
Icon Meaning
The CRS is not connected to the host device
The CRS is connected to the host device
Note: In the SocketScan software, the abbreviation “CS” stands for “cordless
scanner” and applies to both the Socket Cordless Ring Scanner and Socket
Cordless Hand Scanner.
8

Scanning Tips
Practice to determine the best scanning angle and distance for your type of
bar code.
Scan Angle
For best results, position the scanner at an angle to the bar code, at least 15°
from perpendicular. Otherwise, light can bounce back into the scanner and
“blind” the sensing mechanism.
Aiming Beam
Aim the laser so that the red beam covers the entire width of the bar code.
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION 9

Scanning Distance
•The optimal scanning distance varies depending on the bar code size,
symbology, label media, W-N Ratio, and scan angle. In general, the
CRS can successfully scan 2.2 to 30+ inches from the bar code.
•The larger the bar code, the further away you should position the
scanner.
•The tighter the bars of the bar code, the closer you should position the
scanner.
About the Cable Break Away
The CRS is designed to break away from the hand if subjected to unusual
force. This break away feature is designed to reduce the possibility or extent
of injury to the body in the event the CRS becomes entangled in industrial
equipment.
If the cable breaks away from the ring scanner unit during use, simply plug it
back in to resume operation.
Note: Whenever the cable disconnects from the ring scanner, it will beep 3
times.
10

2 | Hardware Preparation
Charging and Installing the Battery
1. The battery must be charged before initial use,
using the included Socket charger. The
Charging LED will be yellow during charging.
After approximately 4 hours, the battery will
reach full charge, indicated by a green Charging
LED.
Do not use the charger with other types of batteries. A
fully charged battery should provide at least 10,000
scans and more than 8 hours of operation.
Battery Charger LEDs
LED LED Activity Meaning
Power Red Plugged into valid power source
Yellow Charging
Charging Green Battery is fully charged
You can also check the battery level by checking the CS HW screen of the
SocketScan settings utility. The utility will report the battery level only when the
CRS is connected to your mobile computer.
2. Slide the switch at the bottom of the wrist unit to unlock the battery door.
Insert the battery so that the battery contacts align with the contacts
inside the wrist unit, then close and lock the battery door.
WARNING: Do not insert the battery backwards or upside-down.
Damage may result.
CHAPTER 2: HARDWARE PREPARATION 11

Assembling and Putting on the CRS
You can put on the CRS either with or without the case. If you choose not to
use the case, the plastic parts of the wrist unit will be more susceptible to
abuse.
How to put on the CRS with the wrist unit case
1. Insert the wrist unit into the case, pulling the free end of the cable
through the hole in the top of the case. During insertion, you may hear a
beep and see the LED flicker because the power button was pressed,
however, the wrist unit will not turn on unless the button was pressed for
more than 2 seconds, and the LED continues to blink.
2. Connect the free end of the cable to the ring scanner.
3. Attach the finger strap to the bottom of the ring scanner. To insert the
clips, grasp it with the thumb and index finger. Insert one end of the clip
post into the slot, gently push down, and then push the other end of the
post in for a snug fit. To remove the finger strap, grasp the clips with the
thumb and index finger then pull one side of the clip out and remove. Do
not twist the clips upon insertion or removal—this may cause the
clips to break.
4. Put on the wrist strap. Adjust it for a secure and comfortable fit.
5. Put the ring scanner on your index finger, adjusting the finger strap for a
secure and comfortable fit.
12

6. Attach the wrist unit case to the wrist strap, by pressing the Velcro together.
CHAPTER 2: HARDWARE PREPARATION 13

How to put on the CRS without the wrist unit case
Note: After you stick the Velcro strips to the wrist unit, the wrist unit will no
longer fit in the case, unless the Velcro strips are removed.
1. Stick the 2 adhesive Velcro strips onto the back of the wrist unit. Do not
space the strips too far apart. Note the size of the Velcro on the wrist strap.
2. Connect the free end of the cable to the ring scanner.
3. Attach the finger strap to the bottom of the ring scanner.
4. Put on the wrist strap. Adjust it for a secure and comfortable fit.
5. Put the ring scanner on your index finger, adjusting the finger strap for a
secure and comfortable fit.
6. Attach the wrist unit to the wrist strap, by pressing the Velcro together.
14

3 | Setup for Windows Mobile
This chapter explains how to install and use the
Cordless Ring Scanner (CRS) with a Bluetooth
enabled Pocket PC or other Windows Mobile-
based device.
Before you begin the instructions in this chapter,
make sure you have charged and installed the
battery as explained in Chapter 2, “Hardware
Preparation.”
Setup Summary
STEP 1: Install the software.
STEP 2: Configure scanner settings.
STEP 3: Connect CRS to host device with Bluetooth.
STEP 4: Assemble and put on the CRS.
STEP 5: Scan data into your application.
OPTIONAL:
•Select symbologies.
•Configure prefix/suffixes.
•Configure sound.
•Run Scan Demo.
CHAPTER 3: SETUP FOR WINDOWS MOBILE 15

STEP 1: Install the Software
You must install SocketScan, but installing Connect!Agent is optional.
Should I install Connect!Agent?
Connect!Agent simplifies Bluetooth by automatically setting up
and managing the Bluetooth connection. It runs in the background
and requires no interaction from the user. If you choose not to
install Connect!Agent, you will need to use your Bluetooth
software to manually configure and manage the Bluetooth
connection.
Software Installation
ADVANCED USERS: Refer to the README file for CAB installation
instructions.
1. Delete any bar code scanning software already installed in your device,
including software from other companies. Make sure the software is
closed. Tap Start | Settings | System tab | Remove Programs. Use the
utility to delete the software.
2. Use ActiveSync and a serial/USB cable or cradle to make an active
connection between the mobile computer and a host PC. ActiveSync
should say Connected, and the ActiveSync icon should turn green.
IMPORTANT: ActiveSync 4.0 or greater is required. You can
download it free from www.socketcom.com/activesync.
3. Insert the installation CD into your host PC.
4. Use My Computer or Windows Explorer to access your CD drive.
16

5. In the CD contents, open the SocketScanCE folder and click on
Setup.exe.
6. The installation wizard will automatically begin. Follow the wizard to
install the software.
7. After installing the software, a dialog on your Pocket PC will direct
you to soft reset. Tap ok.
8. Remove your device from the cable/cradle and perform a soft reset by
pressing the reset button. If you skip this step, some icons may not
appear correctly.
9. If desired, install Connect!Agent by opening the Connect!Agent folder in
the CD and clicking on Connect!AgentSetup.exe. Follow the wizard to
install the software.
CHAPTER 3: SETUP FOR WINDOWS MOBILE 17

STEP 2: Configure Scanner Settings
1. Tap Start | Programs | SocketScan.
2. Go to the Today screen by tapping Start | Today.
3. Tap the SocketScan icon at the bottom of the screen. In the pop-up
menu, tap Settings.
4. The Scanner Settings utility will appear. Tap on the CS tab at the bottom
of the screen.
5. Enter the following settings:
Enable Cordless Scanner support: Check this box. IMPORTANT!!!
Stack:
•Connect!Agent: Select if you installed Connect!Agent and would
like to use it.
•Built in: Select if your device has a built-in Bluetooth radio, and you
don’t want to use Connect!Agent. Your Bluetooth stack will be
reported (e.g., Widcomm).
•Socket: Select if using the Socket SD/CF Bluetooth card.
18

6. Tap on the CS HW tab. Enter the following settings:
•Trigger: Select whether you would like the CRS to scan only when a
Bluetooth connection to the device is detected. If you require the
CRS to detect a Bluetooth connection before each scan, scanning
will be a few milliseconds slower.
•Good Read Indicator: Select how you would like the CRS to indicate
that it has successfully read data.
•Battery Level: No progress bar should appear since you are not
connected to the CRS.
•Disable Auto Power Off mode: The CRS automatically shuts off if
there is no Bluetooth connection for 20 minutes. Check to disable.
7. Tap on the CRS tab. Select which button on the CRS you would like to
use to trigger the scanner.
8. After entering settings, tap ok to save the changes.
CHAPTER 3: SETUP FOR WINDOWS MOBILE 19

STEP 3: Connect CRS to Host Device with Bluetooth
**SocketScan supports a generic Bluetooth COM port and may be able to
connect to Bluetooth stacks on host mobile computers other than those
listed.
1. Turn on the Cordless Ring Scanner. Press the small power button on the
side of the wrist unit for at least 2 seconds, until you hear a beep. The
Bluetooth status LED on the wrist unit should be blinking blue.
2. Turn on the Bluetooth radio of your mobile device. Refer to your
device manual for instructions.
Note: Your Bluetooth software may be different than above.
3. If you did not install Connect!Agent, make sure a COM port is enabled
for outbound Bluetooth serial communication. Refer to the device
manual.
4. Tap Start | Programs | SocketScan.
Disregard the icons for Socket Trigger RFID,
Socket Trigger Scan, and Socket Trigger Select.
5. Tap on the SocketScan icon at the bottom of the screen. In the pop-up
menu, tap Connect CS.
20