Unitech MS840 - User Manual

MS840
Quick Start Guide
Connecting and disconnecting the interface cable
An audible “click” sound indicates the interface cable has been plugged in correctly and the connector lock is engaged. To unplug the interface cable,
release the connector lock by inserting one end of a paperclip into the handle.
SETUP AND INSTALLATION
Plug the interface cable into a free USB port of a host computer. The
MS840 is now ready to use.
Connecting USB cable to a host
The Unitech MS840 Laser Scanner
Installation Instructions & Popular Conguration Settings
The following steps will walk you through the installation process.
Flash Mode
Scan here to switch to Flash Mode from the default Trigger Mode. In
Flash mode, the MS840 will function automatically. It will scan at a set
interval.
Flash Mode
If you wish to switch from the default Enter Mode to Tab Mode, scan
the top barcode then the bottom barcode. In this mode, data will tab
over to the next column as you scan instead of jumping to the next line.
Scan here to switch back to Trigger Mode. In Trigger Mode, the MS840
will scan only when the scanner button is pressed.
Trigger Mode
Trigger Mode
Tab Mode
Tab Mode
SETTINGS AND CONFIGURATION
The following section covers the most common conguration
settings for your MS840 scanner.
For additional conguration options please visit
unitechscanners.com/MS840 and select the “Download” tab.
You will nd the User’s Manual and a variety of other resources.
Open a word processing program such as Microsoft Word or Notepad
on your host. Now scan the following barcode:
Test & Finish
If the word “Unitech” appears on the screen you have succesfully
installed your scanner. Congratulations!

Summary

Setup and Installation

Connecting and Disconnecting the Interface Cable

Instructions for connecting and disconnecting the scanner's interface cable for proper installation.

Connecting USB Cable to a Host

Guide on plugging the interface cable into a USB port to connect the MS840 scanner to a host computer.

Test and Finish

Procedure to verify scanner installation by scanning a barcode and checking for expected output.

Settings and Configuration

Flash Mode

Enables automatic scanning at a set interval without pressing the trigger.

Trigger Mode

Scanner operates only when the trigger button is pressed.

Tab Mode

Configures data to tab to the next column instead of advancing to the next line after scanning.

Enter Mode; Default Settings

Factory Default

Scan barcode to return scanner to original factory settings, useful for troubleshooting.

Good Read; Bad Read Indicators

Support Information

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Installation
4. Configuration
5. Ergonomics
6. Maintenance Features
7. Cable Management
8. Troubleshooting and Support

The Unitech MS840 is a plug-and-play laser scanner designed for efficient data capture, functioning as a generic Human Interface Device (HID) that mimics a standard keyboard. This allows users to scan data directly into any field where text input is normally possible, eliminating the need for specific drivers. Its straightforward setup and versatile operating modes make it suitable for a variety of applications, from retail to inventory management.

Function Description

The primary function of the MS840 is to read barcodes and transmit the decoded data to a host computer. It operates as a laser scanner, utilizing a laser beam to scan and interpret various barcode symbologies. The device is designed for ease of use, requiring minimal setup to begin operation. Once connected to a host computer via its USB interface cable, it is immediately ready to scan.

The MS840 supports multiple operating modes, allowing users to tailor its behavior to specific workflow requirements. The default mode is Trigger Mode, where the scanner activates only when the physical scanner button is pressed. This is ideal for applications requiring precise control over when a scan occurs, preventing accidental reads.

For continuous or automated scanning scenarios, the Flash Mode is available. In this mode, the MS840 functions automatically, scanning at a set interval without requiring the user to press the trigger button. This can be particularly useful in environments where items are presented to the scanner in quick succession, such as conveyor belt systems or high-volume checkout counters. Users can easily switch between Trigger Mode and Flash Mode by scanning specific configuration barcodes provided in the manual.

Beyond its scanning capabilities, the MS840 also offers flexibility in how scanned data is transmitted to the host. The default data transmission behavior is Enter Mode, where each scanned barcode is followed by an "Enter" key press, effectively moving the cursor to the next line in a text editor or submitting data in a form. For applications requiring data to be entered into different columns or fields, the Tab Mode can be activated. In Tab Mode, each scan is followed by a "Tab" key press, allowing data to tab over to the next column instead of jumping to the next line. This feature is highly beneficial for spreadsheet applications or data entry forms where information needs to be organized horizontally.

The scanner provides clear feedback to the user regarding the success or failure of a scan. An audible "click" sound confirms that the interface cable has been correctly plugged in and the connector lock is engaged, ensuring a secure connection. Visual indicators, typically in the form of LED lights (though not explicitly detailed in the provided excerpt, this is standard for such devices), along with audible beeps, usually signify a successful "Good Read" or indicate a "Bad Read" if the barcode could not be interpreted. The manual provides visual examples of "Good Read" and "Bad Read" scenarios, illustrating what a properly scanned barcode looks like versus one that might be damaged or poorly presented.

Usage Features

The MS840 is designed with user convenience in mind, offering a straightforward installation and configuration process.

Installation:

The installation process is simple:

1. Connect the USB cable: Plug the interface cable into a free USB port on the host computer. The cable features a USB series A shielded connector for reliable connection. An audible "click" confirms a secure connection and engagement of the connector lock.
2. Automatic recognition: As a plug-and-play device, the MS840 is automatically recognized by the host computer as a generic HID device, similar to a standard keyboard. This means no specific drivers are required, simplifying deployment across various operating systems.
3. Test the scanner: To verify successful installation, open a word processing program (such as Microsoft Word or Notepad) on the host computer. Scan the provided test barcode in the manual. If the word "Unitech" appears on the screen, the scanner has been successfully installed and is ready for use.

Configuration:

The MS840 offers several configuration options that can be easily set by scanning specific barcodes provided in the manual:

• Switching Modes: Users can switch between Trigger Mode and Flash Mode by scanning the respective barcodes. This allows for quick adaptation to different operational needs without complex software adjustments.
• Data Transmission Format: The device can be configured for Enter Mode (default) or Tab Mode, controlling how scanned data is followed by a carriage return or a tab character, respectively. This flexibility is crucial for integrating the scanner into various data entry workflows.
• Default Settings: A dedicated "Factory Default" barcode is provided. Scanning this barcode returns the scanner to its original factory settings, including Enter Mode. This is a valuable troubleshooting feature, allowing users to reset the device to a known working state if configuration issues arise.

Ergonomics:

While not explicitly detailed in the excerpt, the image of the scanner suggests a handheld form factor, designed for comfortable use over extended periods. The placement of the trigger button is typically ergonomic, allowing for natural activation during scanning operations.

Maintenance Features

The MS840 is designed for durability and ease of maintenance, focusing on simple user-level actions and readily available support.

Cable Management:

The interface cable is a critical component. To unplug the interface cable from the scanner, users need to release the connector lock. This is achieved by inserting one end of a paperclip into a designated slot in the handle, which disengages the lock and allows for safe removal of the cable. This mechanism helps prevent accidental disconnections and protects the connector from damage during removal.

Troubleshooting and Support:

Unitech provides comprehensive support for the MS840.

• Self-help resources: For additional configuration options and detailed information, users are directed to the Unitech website (unitechscanners.com/MS840). The "Download" tab on this site offers access to the User's Manual and a variety of other resources, empowering users to resolve common issues independently.
• Factory Reset: The "Factory Default" barcode serves as a primary troubleshooting tool. By scanning this barcode, users can quickly revert the scanner to its original settings, often resolving unexpected behavior or configuration errors without requiring advanced technical intervention.
• Professional Support: Unitech's professional support team is available to assist with questions or technical-related issues. Should equipment issues occur that cannot be resolved through self-help or factory reset, users are encouraged to contact a Unitech Service Representative at the provided toll-free number. This ensures that expert assistance is readily available for more complex problems.

The MS840's design emphasizes reliability and user-friendliness, making it a robust solution for various barcode scanning needs. Its plug-and-play nature, flexible operating modes, and accessible support resources contribute to a positive user experience and efficient operation.

Unitech MS840 Specifications