Touch Screen Bar Code Reading Coming to Packaging Lines

Banner Engineering (Minneapolis, MN) has introduced what it calls the first industrial touch screen bar code reader, the iVu BCR (Bar Code Reader). Suitable for mounting on or above a packaging line conveyor, the compact, rugged device allows users to set up and monitor complex applications without a PC or external controller. It employs an intuitive interface, reducing operator training time.

The iVu can decode a variety of bar codes including DataMatrix, Code 128, Code 39, Codabar, Interleaved 2 of 5, EAN 13, EAN 8, UPC-E, POSTNET, IMB, and Pharmacode. A software emulator allows users perfect their application and preload parameters offline.

The touch screen display measures 2.7 in. (68.5 mm), and menu-driven tools guide users during inspection setup. Exposure times as fast as 0.1 ms helps ensure reliable performance on high-speed assembly lines. Three trigger modes are available for varying application parameters: External (Single), Continuous, and External (Gated).

The iVu is available with or without an integrated ring light in red, white, or infrared.