
Unreadable barcodes on outer case packaging can result in the shipment being rejected by your customer. You could be 'fined' and in extreme cases possibly even lose a contract. Checking the quality of your on-line printed barcodes is now extremely easy using the new Barcode Validation System.
The Validator is a stand alone, on-line barcode checking system that is used in conjunction with Microscan high performance industrial barcode readers.
Operation
As the Barcode is moved towards the Validator a trigger begins the
validation cycle. The laser barcode scanner is triggered and attempts
to make a successful decode of every scan it completes.
The duration of the sequence depends on the particular application. It can be a fraction of a second but in most line applications it is typically 1 or 2 seconds long. After this time-out period has elapsed the scanner will have counted the total number of successful decodes as the barcode moved past.
The scanner has 3 outputs that are fed to the inputs of a PLC in the control unit. The PLC illuminates the beacon lamps appropriately. The 3 scanner outputs are configured to give a signal depending on the number of successful decodes during the cycle:
- If the code is successfully decoded more than the pre-determined(threshold value) number of times, there will be a signal on Output 1 (GOOD READ). Green Beacon illuminates.
- If the number of decodes is less than the pre-determined threshold value there will be a signal on Output 2 (WARNING). Amber Beacon illuminates.
- If the code does not give any decodes at all there will be a signal on Output 3 (NO READ). Red Beacon illuminates. STOP signal is output.
The Green and Amber beacons are reset on the start of the next read cycle. The Red beacon (and STOP signal) can only be reset by the RESET SWITCH on the front panel.
There is an extra PLC output available for connection to a line stop input. This is a volt-free relay contact (which can carry a 24VDC or 240VAC signal) and is usually configured to be normally-closed.
The scanner outputs are configured to be normally-closed so that if a scanner is not present or the connecting cable is damaged this will be detected and indicated by all 3 beacons being illuminated.
A Validator system is supplied with a photo-eye trigger and all the cables needed for connection to the scanners. Only a single mains power supply is required. A scanner communications connector allows barcode data from the Microscan scanner to be easily monitored and can also be used to re-program the scanner if needed.
Please note: This is a Barcode validation system, not a Barcode verifier