Using barcode readers in Polar products

A barcode is a method of representing data in machine-readable form. Fast and accurate data capture can reduce errors and increase productivity.

Several Polar products incorporate the option to utilise barcode readers for rapid and reliable interaction with the application.

The barcodes used in Polar products range from linear 1D barcodes to 2D QR (Quick Response) Codes ^®

Barcode readers

Barcode readers are readily available and inexpensive – the barcode reader illustrated below is widely obtainable online as a computer accessory at low cost

Low cost bar code reader

Barcode readers often employ a USB interface so can simply be plugged in to an empty USB slot on the host computer without rebooting the host and generally need little configuration. In addition, they are generally powered directly from the USB interface, so do not require extra power supply cables.

Using barcodes in Polar products

Barcodes are used in Polar products, e.g. CITS880s Controlled Impedance Test System to choose test files and to link to the Polar web site and display application notes.

CITS880s toolbar

For example, clicking the barcode icon on the CITS880s toolbar (above) displays the Scan Barcode dialog.

CITS880s Scan Barcode dialog

Choosing a CITS880s test file

The CITS880s Scan Barcode dialog can be utilised to scan the barcode for the item to be tested (for example, a controlled impedance test coupon) and load the associated CITS test file from the CITS880s test files folder. Both CITS native .CIF and XML test files can be loaded via the barcode reader.

Accessing the Polar web site

Scan the QR codes ^® in the Scan Barcode dialog to access Application Note AP629 or go to the Polar web site home page.