Serial Port 
An I/O port used to connect a scanner to  your computer, identifiable by a 9-pin or 25-pin 
connector. 
 
Signal 
An impulse or fluctuating electrical quantity (i.e.: a voltage or current) the variations of which 
represent changes in information. 
 
Skew 
Rotation  about  the  Y-axis.  Rotational  deviation  from  correct  horizontal  and  vertical 
orientation; may apply to single character, line or entire encoded item. See pars. 3.2.1 and 
3.4. 
 
Step-Ladder Orientation 
When the barcode’s bars are positioned horizontally on the product, causing them to appear 
as a ladder. The ends of all bars will enter the scan window first. See par. 6.2.1. 
 
Symbol 
A combination of characters including start/stop and checksum characters, as required, that 
form a complete scannable barcode. 
 
Tilt 
Rotation around the Z axis. Used to describe the position of the barcode with respect to the 
laser scan line. See pars. 3.2.1 and 3.4. 
 
Trigger Signal 
A signal, typically provided by a photoelectric sensor or proximity switch, which informs the 
scanner of the presence of an object within its reading zone. 
 
UPC 
Acronym for Universal Product Code. The standard barcode type for retail food packaging in 
the United States. 
 
Visible Laser Diode 
A light source used in scanners to illuminate the barcode symbol.  Generates visible red light 
at wavelengths between 630 and 680 nm.