The world's smallest industrial bar code reader opens up whole new application scope – from the laboratory unit to the IT solution

The use of bar codes and suitable bar code reading systems can open up scope for the simple automation and optimization of operating processes. With the aid of the world's smallest bar code reader, this technology can be used even in miniaturized systems and devices or wherever space is at a premium. The BCL 8 is the size of a matchbox, making it ideal for solutions under even the most cramped conditions.

The BCL 8 opens up exciting new possibilities such as bar code-controlled data storage in IT solutions, or for linking patient data with analysis results.

Fast entry into this technology is possible using a limited starter kit, which allows potential new users to discover the full benefits of this mini bar code reader.

The world's smallest bar code reader for industrial applications is the BCL 8 (Fig. 1) from Leuze electronic. Measuring just 38 x 48 x 15 mm, this matchbox sized miniunit packs a powerful punch: The BCL 8 offers a reading distance of over 150 mm and clocks up as many as 600 scans per second. Not only can this bar code system be used to read all popular code types, it is also capable of automatic code type recognition. This simplifies the parameterization process through the use of user-friendly configuration software, making the system accessible even to operators without special barcode expertise. The system also offers the benefit of failsafe parameter storage. For communication, a freely configurable RS 232 interface is available, and the BCL 8 also comes equipped with a switching output, or alternatively a switching input. The BCL 8's superb depth of focus eliminates the need for precision adjustment.

The outstanding performance of this mini-format bar code reader lends it enormous flexibility for universal application. It can be simply adjusted to fit in with any conceivable reading assignment. The BCL 8 also comes with a choice of two alternative lenses and two different beam outlet variants. With the aid of a deflecting mirror, it is able to read around corners or alternatively comes with a frontal beam outlet. This versatility allows the world's smallest industrial bar code reader to do its job when installed in even the tightest of spaces. Interfacing unit MA 8 and M12 connectors are available for electrical connection. With a voltage range of 10 – 30 V DC, the reader can be used in systems operating at the customary 24 V DC. The mini-format low-cost interfacing unit is accommodated in a durable plastic housing with an IP 67 protection rating, and also permits simultaneous use of the switching input and output. Various cable set versions are available, as is a selection of mounting systems for optimum installation.

Two topical examples which illustrate the strengths of the BCL 8 bar code reader are in the field of data storage and the automatic assignment of analysis results to sample, patient or order data.

Data storage:
Mini bar code reader simplifies backup organization for high quantities of data

There is a general consensus among experts that the data volume of any organization increases by between two and five times within a 3-year period. The resulting administrative input is rising all the time. A central problem here is the marked increase in the complexity of backup procedures and the fast rise in the number of backup data carriers despite the capacity for ever greater storage compression densities. To prevent organizations from drowning in a chaotic sea of data and falling into a cost trap, modern data storage systems offer intelligent backup strategies. Data storage is a technology of the future, and is considered in the IT world to be the area offering the greatest potential for savings.

Integration of the BCL 8 in data carrier management systems helps simplify the entire procedure. A small bar code applied to the relevant data carrier is used for unambiguous identification (Fig. 2). The data storage management system then assigns the data carrier to the relevant stored data. In this type of data storage system, all the considerable strengths of the BCL 8 come into play. Its compact format allows it to be mounted without problems in any optional position.

Correlation of analysis results to patient data

Modern methods of instrumental analysis are capable of processing large quantities of samples in a short period of time using automatic sample feeding systems. The key problem encountered here is the reliable assignment of analysis results to sample data. Marking samples with bar codes has proven the most economical and reliable solution in this field.

The compact format of the BCL 8 simplifies integration of the bar code reading system into analysis or sample feeding devices (Fig. 3), allowing the bar code readers to be mounted without difficulty in compact analytical devices designed for optimized use of space. This makes easy work of ensuring reliable correlation of sample data and analysis results. The BCL 8 can be used, for instance, to ensure that lab results are unambiguously assigned to the right patient. Toxin values are reliably matched to one specific sample collection point, or samples taking in the incoming goods department of a food company are reliably correlated with the supplied product batch.

Automatic sample detection using bar codes ensures reliable, economical management of analyses particularly in automated laboratories equipped to process high quantities of samples. The use of bar codes not only allows a link to be established between the sample and analysis result, but it is also conceivable for bar codes to be used to guide samples via an automated sample transfer station to order-specific analysis equipment.

Wide application spectrum

The outstanding flexibility and adjustment simplicity of the BCL 8 open up scope to planners and designers for quick and easy system implementation. Just how easy it is to integrate and parameterize the BCL 8 in any existing system can now be experienced at first hand and with minimal outlay using a starter kit (for more details, see inset). Needless to say, this facility opens up enormous application scope to the BCL 8. Thanks to its high production rating of IP 67, the world's smallest industrial bar code reader can be used in even the toughest of industrial environments. It comes equipped optionally with an M12 connector or cable terminal, making it ideal not only for reading assignments in production cells, all kinds of automatic testing equipment, and automatic packaging or labelling lines, but also to be mounted on moving robot and handling systems. With its compact dimensions, the BCL 8 can even be used to read ticket data in self-service car park pay machines. The starter kit can be used to discover a whole new spectrum of uses for the benefits of bar code technology.