TriCoder Portable Bar Code Reader User manual

Owner’s Guide
™
A battery
operated
Portable Batch
Reader with
Voice Messages
for PC, Mac,
etc.
Portable Bar Code Reader
TriCoderTM

Warning: This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy. If not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, it
may cause interference to radio communications. It has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class A computing device pursuant to Subpart J of
Part 15 of FCC Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable protection
against such interference when operated in a commercial environment.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause interference in
which case the user, at his own expense, will be required to take whatever
measures may be required to correct the interference.
Certain models of this product have a laser scanner integrated with it as one unit.
The laser used is a Class II Laser Product and has a 1.0 Milliwatt Maximum
Output.
To operate the laser scanner, aim the top of the case at a bar code and press the
“Scan Key” on the keyboard of the TriCoder™. The light source will turn off once
a successful scan has occurred or 2.5 seconds has elapsed, whichever is first. Do
not look directly into the laser light source with the “Scan Key” depressed;
avoid direct eye contact with the laser light source.Warning labels to AVOID
DIRECT EYE EXPOSURE, DANGER are located according to the diagram
below:
The LT54 models of the TriCoder as well as
the LZ300 and LZ400 Laser Scanners are
covered by one or more of the following U.S.
Patents:
There are no user adjustments or maintenance
operations to be performed on the integrated
laser scanner.
Caution - use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures
other than those specified herein may result in hazardous laser light
exposure.
Patent # 4,360,798 4,369,361 4,387,297 4,460,120
4,496,831 4,593,186 4,603,262 4,607,156 4,652,750
4673,805 4,736,095 4,758,717 4,816,660 4,845,350
4,896,026 4,897,532 4,923,281 4,933,538 4,992,717
5,015,833 5,017,765 5,021,641 5,029,183 5,047,617
5,103,461 5,113,445 5,140,144 5,142,550 5,149,950
5,157,687 5,168,148 5,168,149 5,180,904 5,229,591
5,230,088 5,235,167 5,243,655 5,247,162 5,250,791
5,250,792 5,262,627 5,280,163 5,280,164 5,280,498
5,304,786 5,304,788 5,321,246 5,377,361 5,367,151
5,373,148 5,378,882 5,396,053 5,396,055 5,399,646
5,408,081 5,410,139 5,410,140 5,412,198 5,418,812
4,420,411 5,436,440 5,444,231 5,449,891 5,449,893
5,468,949 5,479,000 5,479,002 5,479,441 5,504,322
5,528,621 5,532,469 5,543,610 5,545,889 5,552,592
5,578,810 5,589,680 5,612,531

Table of Contents
How to Use this Manual........................................................................................i
TriCoder Quickstart .............................................................................................ii
Chapter 1 Program #0 Quickstart.........................................................1-1
Getting into Data Collection Mode...................................... 1-1
Collecting Data .................................................................... 1-2
Uploading Data.................................................................... 1-3
Chapter 2 Program #1 Quickstart.........................................................2-1
Collecting Data .................................................................... 2-1
Reviewing and Editing Data................................................ 2-3
Uploading Data.................................................................... 2-5
Chapter 3 Non Portable Mode...............................................................3-1
Getting in and out of NON PORTABLE mode............ 3-1
Establishing communication in Non Portable Mode.... 3-2
USB Keyboard Interface and Keyboard Wedge.................. 3-2
Testing Fast USB Data Upload and PC Serial Interface...... 3-4
Chapter 4 Uploading Data.....................................................................4-1
Uploading into Excel ........................................................... 4-1
Data Upload ......................................................................... 4-1
File Formats ......................................................................... 4-6
Chapter 5 TriCoder Connection............................................................5-1
USB Interface – PC and Mac............................................... 5-1
Serial Interface..................................................................... 5-3
Connecting the Hardware ............................................. 5-3
Serial Installation on a PC ............................................ 5-3
Configuring the TriCoder ............................................. 5-4
Testing Communication ............................................... 5-6
Keyboard Wedge Interface (not USB)................................. 5-6
Connecting the Hardware ............................................. 5-6
PC Keyboard Wedge Installation ................................. 5-7
Configuring the TriCoder for Keyboard Wedge .......... 5-7
Testing Communication................................................ 5-9
Chapter 6 TriCoder Setup......................................................................6-1
Using the bar code TriCoder Setup Menu ........................... 6-1
Using the keypad to setup the TriCoder .............................. 6-1
Using the TriCoder Utilities and USB to change Setup ...... 6-3
Cloning from one TriCoder to another ................................ 6-4
TriCoder Setup Parameters.................................................. 6-8
Beep Tone..................................................................... 6-8
Speaker Volume............................................................ 6-8
Code 3 of 9 (Code 39) .................................................. 6-8
UPC/EAN ..................................................................... 6-9
Codabar....................................................................... 6-10
2 of 5 Code.................................................................. 6-11
2 of 5 Length............................................................... 6-11
MSI/Plessey ................................................................ 6-12

Code 128..................................................................... 6-12
Code 93....................................................................... 6-13
RSS-14........................................................................ 6-13
Preamble and Postamble............................................. 6-13
Terminator Character.................................................. 6-15
Computer Interface ..................................................... 6-16
Intercharacter Delay.................................................... 6-18
Speaker / Batteries ...................................................... 6-18
Scanner Options.......................................................... 6-19
Aiming Dot Duration.................................................. 6-19
Keyboard Country ...................................................... 6-20
Operation Mode.......................................................... 6-21
Voice Messages .......................................................... 6-22
Set Date....................................................................... 6-22
Set Time...................................................................... 6-22
Alternative Date and Time formats ............................ 6-23
Single Cycle Transmit ................................................ 6-23
EOF String.................................................................. 6-23
Shut Down Time......................................................... 6-24
Partitions..................................................................... 6-24
Characters ................................................................... 6-25
Data Security Features................................................ 6-25
Protocol....................................................................... 6-26
Baud Rate.................................................................... 6-28
Parity........................................................................... 6-28
Data Bits ..................................................................... 6-28
Stop Bits...................................................................... 6-29
Dialing String.............................................................. 6-29
Set ID Character ......................................................... 6-29
Host Response Delay.................................................. 6-30
Transmission Mode .................................................... 6-30
Modem Redial Delay.................................................. 6-30
Chapter 7 Using the TriCoder Utilities .................................................7-1
Installing the TriCoder Utilities........................................... 7-1
Running the TriCoder Utilities program.............................. 7-1
Using the Table Editor......................................................... 7-3
Uploading from TriCoder to your Computer....................... 7-4
Downloading from the computer to your TriCoder................. 7-8
Chapter 8 Creating a custom program..................................................8-1
If you are using KwikAsset™.............................................. 8-1
Program Statements ............................................................. 8-1
Program Name.............................................................. 8-3
Statement Entry Types.................................................. 8-3
Data............................................................................... 8-4
Branch........................................................................... 8-4
Question........................................................................ 8-5
Date and Time Stamp ................................................... 8-6
Time Stamp................................................................... 8-6
Date Stamp.................................................................... 8-7
Xtra ............................................................................... 8-7
None.............................................................................. 8-8
Data AND Immediate Output....................................... 8-9
Compare........................................................................ 8-9
Printer Output ............................................................. 8-10

Arithmatic................................................................... 8-10
Prompt Text ................................................................ 8-11
Voice Message Frequency.......................................... 8-12
Message Numbers....................................................... 8-12
Data ID........................................................................ 8-13
Data Type.................................................................... 8-16
Maximum Data Length............................................... 8-16
Minimum Data Length ............................................... 8-17
Input Device................................................................ 8-17
Yes/Next Statement .................................................... 8-17
No/End Statement....................................................... 8-18
Upload Prefix.............................................................. 8-19
Upload Suffix.............................................................. 8-22
Programming the TriCoder by scanning bar codes only .. 8-23
Finishing and checking your program ............................... 8-24
Reviewing and Modifying programs ................................. 8-25
Chapter 9 Creating TriCoder Programs on your PC .........................9-1
Installing the Virtual TriCoder Utility ................................. 9-1
Starting the Virtual TriCoder Utility.................................... 9-1
The Virtual TriCoder Utility Screen.................................... 9-2
Creating a program .............................................................. 9-5
Chapter 10 Transmitting and Receiving Programs and Setup............10-1
Receiving a program on the TriCoder or host ................... 10-1
Cloning to or from older TriCoders................................... 10-2
Chapter 11 Partitioning memory for data files and tables...................11-1
Partitioning Memory.......................................................... 11-1
Using Multiple Data Files.................................................. 11-1
Partitioning memory for tables .......................................... 11-4
Chapter 12 Tables and Pick Lists..........................................................12-1
Partitioning memory for table use...................................... 12-1
Data Validation using Tables............................................. 12-1
Data Maintenance using tables .......................................... 12-4
Downloading a table to the TriCoder................................. 12-7
Pick Lists............................................................................ 12-7
Chapter 13 Voice Messages...................................................................13-1
Why Use Voice Messages and Prompts? .......................... 13-1
Tips for Using Voice Prompts ........................................... 13-1
TriCoder's Voice Message Mapping.................................. 13-2
Accessing Voice Message Operations............................... 13-3
Recording and Playback of Voice Messages..................... 13-4
Voice Message Options ..................................................... 13-5
Default Voice Messages .................................................... 13-6
Cloning Voice Messages from TriCoder to TriCoder ....... 13-6
Chapter 14 Troubleshooting..................................................................14-1
Display and Error Messages .............................................. 14-1
General Troubleshooting ................................................... 14-6
Poor read rates…................................................................ 14-8
USB troubleshooting (for Windows Users)....................... 14-9
Keyboard Wedge mode troubleshooting ........................... 14-9
Serial mode troubleshooting ............................................ 14-10
Program troubleshooting.................................................. 14-12

Error messages for special consideration......................... 14-13
Fail-safe Re-initialization Procedure ............................... 14-15
Planning for success…..................................................... 14-16
If you have a problem… .................................................. 14-17
Appendix A Powering the TriCoder ........................................................A-1
Turning the TriCoder ON and OFF .................................... A-1
Battery Power and Wall Power........................................... A-1
Storing the TriCoder ........................................................... A-4
Appendix B Firmware and Model Upgrades ..........................................B-1
Firmware Updates................................................................B-1
Model Changes ....................................................................B-3
Appendix C How to scan a bar code........................................................C-1
Laser Scanners .....................................................................C-1
CCD Scanners......................................................................C-2
Appendix D Cable Pin-outs......................................................................D-1
Appendix E Optional Features ................................................................E-1
Appendix F Jumpers, Switches, and Adjustments..................................F-7
Appendix G USB Driver Installation Recovery ......................................G-1
Appendix H Specifications for Code 39.................................................. H-1
Appendix I Code 128 Specifications........................................................I-1
Appendix J Interleaved 2 of 5 Code.........................................................J-1
Appendix K UPC Specifications ..............................................................K-1
Appendix L Codabar Specifications........................................................L-1
Appendix M MSI/Plessey Specifications.................................................M-1
Appendix N Code 93 Specifications.........................................................N-1
Appendix O ASCII Code Equivalent Table.............................................O-1
Appendix P RS-422 .................................................................................. P-1
Appendix Q Polling and how it works .....................................................Q-1
Appendix R Modem Uploads ...................................................................R-1
Appendix S Buffered Terminal Mode..................................................... S-1
Appendix T Using the TriCoder as a Time Clock...................................T-1
Index.........................................................................................1
Revised - July 11, 2008

i
How to Use this Manual
The TriCoder™is an extremely versatile bar code reader. It functions as both a
portable data collection device as well as a fixed on-line bar code reader.
Although the TriCoder can perform complex data collection functions, it's true
value is in its simplicity. With very little instruction, a user can collect data
using one of the built-in programs, upload it and process the data.
This manual is provided with the intention of acting as a guide or reference.
Sometimes the best way to learn to use the TriCoder is to simply turn it on and
start following the prompts. Other times, more guidance is desired, especially if
the user wants to get up and running quickly.
Two data collection tutorials are provided as well as detailed instruction on
using the TriCoder as a fixed reader using NON PORTABLE mode. The first
Quickstart Tutorial uses the built-in Program #0, a simple one prompt (ITEM)
data collection program that is useful for simple inventory applications. The
second Quickstart Tutorial demonstrates Program #1, an editable program that
by default prompts the operator for an item number, then a quantity. To get
started quickly, we suggest using one of the Quickstart Tutorials, then move on
to the PROGRAMMING section if you find that neither Program #0 nor
Program #1 offers exactly what you need.
Although most people use the TriCoder as a portable data collector, it is also
frequently used in NON PORTABLE mode as a fixed reader for library and
POS applications. Everyone should use NON PORTABLE mode for testing
communication before beginning data collection. Chapter 3, Using NON-
PORTABLE mode, covers all areas of fixed use.
USB support on the TriCoder is now so fast (40 times faster than serial, 1000
times faster than keyboard) it is the interface of choice. You can have very fast
data uploads, program transfers, and still have operate as a USB keyboard in
non-portable mode. USB is standard on all models of the TriCoder.
The remainder of the manual is a reference guide. Chapters 5, 6, and 7 of the
CONNECTION AND SETUP section provide details on configuring the
TriCoder as well as the actual hardware connections. Chapters 8 and 9 of the
PROGRAMMING section of the manual details usage of voice messages, Data
Identifiers for data editing, and default Qty 1 scanning. Chapters 10-14 of the
ADVANCED USAGE section describe Voice Messaging, Transmitting and
Receiving programs, Tables and Pick Lists and Memory partitioning.
The TROUBLESHOOTING section provides reference for error messages,
solving problems and details on how to reach Worth Data. The REFERENCE
section offers bar code specifications and other useful information.

ii
TriCoder Quickstart
As powerful as the TriCoder is, its basic operation is quite simple. Many people
can use Program #0 or Program #1 to satisfy their data collection needs. This
Chapter helps you get started quickly using Program #0 or Program #1. It also
will refer you to the correct place if you want to customize or expand on
Program #1. We highly recommend going to Chapter 3; Non Portable Mode
and establishing communication between the TriCoder and the PC before you
continue with either of the tutorials. It is easier to establish communication with
one data item in the TriCoder rather than trying to do so during a massive batch
upload. The chapters in this section are:
• Program #0 Tutorial
Uses the fixed program #0 to collect and upload data for a single
ITEM prompt to your computer. If you need a program that prompts
for an item number and then a quantity, go to the Program #1 Tutorial.
If Program #0 works for you, except that you have trouble with the
wedge upload, switch to USB or see Program #2. It is identical to
program #0 but allows timing delays to be inserted in the Upload
Prefix and Suffix. See Chapter 8;Creating a custom program for
information on the Upload Prefix and Suffix.
• Program #1 Tutorial
Uses the editable program #1, which prompts for Item Number, then
Quantity. The tutorial includes collecting, reviewing, and uploading
data as well as providing outlines for different file formats and voice
messaging. Since Program #1 is editable, the tutorial also discusses
use of the following popular features:
− Data Security
Restricting user to Data Collection mode or to data collection
in one program only.
− Xtra Statement
Automatically enter a quantity of 1 without the user having to
input any data.
• Non Portable Mode
Provides details on Non Portable use and establishes communication
between TriCoder and host computer through the USB port, keyboard
and serial port. Includes installation instructions for the Windows
TriCoder Utilities program
• Uploading Data
Guides the user through the uploading of data through USB, the
keyboard and serial port for both tutorials described above.

iii
Tips on choosing a program for Data Collection
The TriCoder comes with 3 programs pre-installed. Program #0 is a simple
un-editable program prompting repeatedly for an ITEM. Program #2 is
identical to Program #0 except that it allows for customization (i.e. the
Upload Prefix and Upload Suffix). See Chapter 8; Creating custom
programs for details on what the Upload Prefix and Upload Suffix can do
for you.
Program #1 differs from Program #0 and #2 in that it has two prompts -
"ENTER ITEM NO." and then "ENTER QUANTITY". Program #1 is
also fully editable and lends itself well to the use of several features in
particular.
The tutorial on Program #1 includes explanation of two safety features. The
first safety feature, Data Security, confines the user to data collection mode
ONLY. The user is not allowed into any mode other than DATA
COLLECTION mode. In addition to using Data Security to restrict the user
to DATA COLLECTION mode, you can use the second security feature,
Program Restriction, to confine the user to one particular program in the
TriCoder. For details on how to use these Data Security features, see
Chapter 6; TriCoder Setup.
Another useful programming feature explained in the tutorial is the Xtra
Statement, which works with the "ENTER QUANTITY" prompt by
automatically entering a quantity of “1” if the user enters another ITEM
number instead of a quantity. See Chapter 8, Creating a custom program
for details on the Xtra program statement.
Program #1 is extremely versatile. Use it if you can, making modifications
to fit your application. If you require a customized program, these are just a
few of the options and features offered by custom programming:
• Additional user prompts for other types of data
• Program timing delays to facilitate uploading directly into an
application
• Branching to different areas in the program, depending on the
input from the user
• Downloading tables of data to validate or edit into the
TriCoder
• Recording customized Voice Messages
If any of the above features (or anything not offered by Program #1)
appears to be something you are interested in, move on to the
PROGRAMMING section of the manual. The Chapters 8 and 9 in the
PROGRAMMING section cover all aspects of creating and maintaining
custom programs in the TriCoder.

iv
Choosing an Interface
If you are a Windows®user with WindowsVista, XP, 2000, ME or 98SE,
we suggest that you use the high speed USB interface, which offers the
following advantages: (the first time you plug in your USB cable, you may
be asked to choose the type of USB interface you wish to use)
1) Forty times faster data uploads than serial data uploads.
2) The ability to update your firmware with all the improvements
available on the Website over the years or your TriCoder’s life at
speeds 40 times faster than serial, (its not even possible with the
keyboard wedge).
3) The ability to download tables, upload/download programs from
your PC at much faster speeds than serial, (not possible with
keyboard wedge interfaces). All communication is controlled by
the new TriCoder Utilities - you can even change your setup!
4) The ability to operate in Non-Portable Mode as a USB keyboard
without having to add a jumper block to a Y-Cable when the
TriCoder is removed from the Y-cable for portable data collection
5) The ability to use the Virtual TriCoder program for developing
custom programs on the TriCoder in a Windows environment.
If you are a Macintosh user, you should specify the PC and Mac USB
Keyboard.

1-1
Chapter 1
Program #0 Quickstart
The default data collection program, Program #0, is a simple program, repeatedly
prompting the operator for data entry of the same type. This TriCoder program
works well for a simple inventory where each item is scanned. This chapter is in
the form of a tutorial. Even if you don’t intend to use Program #0, working
through the tutorial will prepare you for creating your own programs and learning
the basics of data collection.
Getting into Data Collection Mode
The first step involves turning on the TriCoder (make sure you
have good batteries), getting into DATA COLLECTION mode
and choosing Program #0.
Turn on the TriCoder by pressing the ON/OFF key. The TriCoder will
power up and display its opening screen:
The TriCoder starts with the following opening screen:
DMA TRICODER x20xx X
HIT ANY KEY_
Press any key on the TriCoder keypad. If the TriCoder was in NON
PORTABLE MODE when it was shut off earlier, it will automatically go
back into NON PORTABLE MODE now. If this is the case, press the F1
key to get to the DATA COLLECTION prompt. If the TriCoder was in any
other mode at shutoff, DATA COLLECTION is the first prompt you will
see after pressing any key at the opening screen.
DATA COLLECTION?
KEY [YES/NO]?_
At the DATA COLLECTION prompt, press the YES key on the TriCoder
keypad. Press “0” on the TriCoder keypad to select the default Program #0.
1. SAMPLE PROGRAM
2.
3.
PROGRAM NO. [0-3]?_
(If you had programs created in program #2 and #3, you would see their
program name in the spaces above for 2 and 3.)
Step
1

1-2
Collecting Data
The second step involves collecting data in the TriCoder.
This is a good time to practice scanning. If you are not
familiar with scanning bar codes, see Appendix C; How to
scan a bar code for details and suggestions. If you don’t
intend on using bar codes later, you can just enter the same data from the
keypad.
Pressing “0” at the PROGRAM NO.? prompt begins the data collection
process by displaying this prompt for the operator:
ENTER DATA _
For the purposes of this tutorial, we will use the sample bar codes as our
data. Upon scanning, the TriCoder will beep once and display the
following:
ENTER DATA (original prompt)
00001 (bar code #1)
ENTER DATA (new data entry prompt)
After scanning, the TriCoder displays the original prompt, then the data just
entered, then the new data entry prompt. For the tutorial, our second piece
of data will be 00002. Go ahead and scan sample bar code #2 or key in
00002:
00001 (original data)
ENTER DATA (2nd data entry prompt)
00002 (2nd piece of data entered)
ENTER DATA (new data entry prompt)
Continue to scan the sample bar codes or enter the data from the keypad.
The TriCoder display will scroll with each entry as shown immediately
above. As soon as you are finished entering all 10 bar codes, press the
END key to exit DATA COLLECTION.
Step
2

1-3
Program #0 Sample Bar Codes
Uploading Data
Once you have collected your data in Program #0, uploading that data to the
computer is the final step. For the tutorial, we assume that you have
successfully established communication between the computer and the
TriCoder. If you have not, go to Chapter 3; Non Portable Mode, and
establish communication first. If you are ready to upload, go to Chapter 4;
Uploading Data and proceed with your upload.
01 02
03 04
05 06
07 08
09 10

2-1
Chapter 2
Program #1 Quickstart
Program #1 prompts the operator for "Item" and then "Quantity". What makes
this program different from program #0 (other than the additional "Quantity"
prompt) is that Program #1 is editable. It can be customized to allow for
additional prompts, voice messaging and file formatting. The tutorial for
Program #1 includes collecting data, reviewing and editing data, using popular
uploaded file formats and finally, uploading the data
Collecting Data
Collecting data in Program #1 requires two pieces of data; item
and quantity. By default, Program #1 is set up to accept data
from either the scanner or the keypad for the item, but only
from the keypad for the quantity.
Program #1 also features voice messaging. By default, Program #1 plays a
voice prompt of “Item” for the visual “ENTER ITEM NO.” prompt and a
voice prompt of “Quantity” for the visual “ENTER QUANTITY” prompt.
Program #1 only plays each voice message the first 5 times the prompt is
displayed. The TriCoder can be programmed to play the voice message
every time the visual prompt is displayed if desired. See Chapter 8;
Creating a custom program or Chapter 13; Voice Messaging for details.
To collect data in Program #1, answer no to all TriCoder prompts until you
see:
DATA COLLECTION?
KEY [YES/NO]?_
At the DATA COLLECTION prompt, press the YES key on the TriCoder
keypad. Press “1” on the TriCoder keypad to select the default Program #1.
1. SAMPLE PROGRAM
2.
3.
PROGRAM NO. [0-3]?_
(If you had programs created in program #2 and #3, you would see their
program name in the spaces above for 2 and 3.)
Using the bar code samples on the next page, scan an item number bar code,
then enter the quantity of “123” on the TriCoder keypad.
Step
1

2-2
Continue to scan bar codes and enter quantities until you have at least 10
records. You can check to see how many times you have scanned an item
number by pressing the following keys while at the ENTER ITEM prompt:

2-3
− Press SHIFT
− Press F1
− Press T
You can use the same key sequence to check the number of times you have
entered data for any prompt.
To end data collection in Program #1, simply press the END key. If you
forget to exit Data Collection and simply turn the TriCoder off, do not panic
– the TriCoder has saved your data. Pressing the F1 key while in Data
Collection also exits data collection and returns you to the Mode Menu.
Using the END key to end Data Collection is the preferred method.
Reviewing and Editing Data
During or after collecting data, it is possible to review and edit
the data while it is still in the TriCoder. You can also delete
data entirely. Data Review Mode is a handy tool – especially if
you know you’ve made a mistake and want to correct it before
you upload your data.
For the tutorial, lets say that we just wanted to take a break from collecting
data, exited DATA COLLECTION (by pressing the END key), turned off
the TriCoder and went to lunch. We’re back now and want to resume our
data collection. Turn the TriCoder back on and just as in step 1; get into
DATA COLLECTION mode. Since there is already data in the TriCoder,
instead of simply displaying the prompt, the TriCoder plays the “DATA
FILE EXISTS” voice message, and displays the same message on the
TriCoder screen:
DATA FILE EXISTS
HIT ANY KEY_
then immediately displays the ENTER DATA prompt.
Say we want to review the data already in the TriCoder - maybe
we made a mistake or think we missed some data. To review
data already in the TriCoder, press the “UP ARROW” key on
the TriCoder keypad. The TriCoder will beep – 2 low beeps then 2 high
beeps and display:
Data Review Request
Press <BEGIN> key to
Start or <F1> for
Data Collection_
If we just wanted to go into DATA COLLECTION, we would
simply press F1 and start scanning again, but we want to
review the data already collected so press the BEGIN key to
get into DATA REVIEW mode. Once in DATA REVIEW
mode, the TriCoder displays the last data collected. To get to the beginning
Step
3

2-4
of your data file, press the BEGIN key. The TriCoder displays:
ENTER QUANTITY
XXX (last quantity data entered)
BEGIN OF FILE
HIT ANY KEY_
Press any key on the TriCoder keypad. The TriCoder displays
the first record of data. To scroll through the data record by
record, press the RIGHT ARROW key.
To immediately go to the end of the data, press the END KEY.
At the END OF FILE prompt, hit any key to get to the last record
of data in the file.
To scroll backwards through the data record by record, press the
LEFT ARROW key. To edit individual characters in a data
record, use the right and left arrow keys to find the data you want
to edit.
If you know what data you are looking for (or want to look for
all data that has certain characters) you can use the SEARCH
key. After pressing the SEARCH key, the TriCoder displays the
SEARCH PATTERN prompt. Enter the data you want to search for (i.e.22)
then press ENTER. The TriCoder begins its search at the beginning of the
file and moves forward until a match is found. If using our example of 22,
the TriCoder would find all data that contains 22, regardless of its position
in the data (i.e.22345, 32245, 34522). To scroll through the data fields,
press the SEARCH key again.
Pressing the DELETE key deletes characters to the left. Replace
characters simply by pressing a key. To replace an entire data
entry, use the right and left arrow keys to find the data, then
press the CLEAR key to delete the entry. You can re-enter data
at this point by entering data from either the keypad or by
scanning. If you enter data from the keypad (when either editing
single characters or replacing an entire entry) you must press
ENTER on the keypad for the change to take place. If you
want to completely delete the data, after pressing CLEAR, the
TriCoder will prompt you with DELETE THIS FIELD? If you are sure
you want to delete the data, press ENTER.
You can use the STATUS key at any time during data collection
to check the amount of memory you have left as well as the
battery levels:
mm/dd/yy hh:mm:ss
xxxk BYTES FREE
AAaBAT-xx%
LI – BAT-xx%

2-5
If during data collection, the TriCoder displays the following message:
WARNING 2K LEFT
HIT STATUS KEY_
it means that the TriCoder has only 2K of memory left to collect data. This
is a good time to go and upload your data. You can continue to collect data
but you will eventually get this message:
OUT OF MEMORY
HIT ANY KEY_
Pressing a key will take you out of Data Collection mode and
back to the Mode Menu. You will have to upload your data before you can
collect any more.
When you are ready to go back to collecting data, press the F1 key at any
time to begin appending data to the existing data file. The F1 key also backs
you out of any mode you are in; for example, if you are in Non Portable
mode, pressing F1 takes you back to the Data Collection prompt of the
Mode Menu.
Uploading Data
Once you have collected your data in Program #1, uploading that
data to the computer is the final step. For the tutorial, we assume
that you have successfully established communication between
the computer and the TriCoder. If you have not, go to Chapter
3; Non Portable Mode, and establish communication first. If you are ready to
upload, go to Chapter 4; Uploading Data and proceed with your upload.
Step
4