FACTORY AUTOMATION

BARCODE SCANNER MOBILE SOLUTIONS AND UNATTENDED INSTALLATIONS

FOREWORD

Identification with barcode

Automated warehouse, conveyor, and production facilities rely on the use of identification systems which couple information flow with material flow, thus enabling new, improved production concepts. To achieve this, conveyor units are equipped with barcodes which are used to track them all the way from goods receiving to the product warehouse. Thus the control system can flexibly influence the production steps. This provides rationalisation opportunities due to shorter process throughput times, the storage of quality parameters including traceability, and automated generation of invoices and delivery documents. The barcode is often used in industry, trade, and official venues in order to produce machine-readable printed data. So-called stacked 1D codes and 2D codes like Data Matrix or the MaxiCode have also been established to be used primarily in logistics or document tracking due to the smaller space requirements for the code. Laser scanners can only read barcodes and stacked 1D codes. Using CCD technology, both barcodes and 2D codes can be read. Here, an image is recorded and the code is evaluated using signal processors. In order to scan and evaluate barcodes optically with scanners, unlike RFID technology, direct visual contact is necessary, whereby environmental and operational influences may affect reliable reading or the barcode itself. A checksum can, however, make it nearly impossible for an obscured barcode to result in incorrect data. One read action consists of multiple barcode scans, allowing the reading rate to be increased. The barcode is printed or applied using a barcode label. By using photo paper labels with a higher print quality, an optimum reading rate can be achieved. Moreover, labels allow a more flexible handling in terms of positioning. The reading diagrams of the devices reflect the distances at which minimum bar widths can be read. This is the most important criterion for application-specific product selection of the different variants. The product line ranges from compact scanners and CCD cameras through products for greater distances, as well as other critical requirements, thus offering the right solution for any application. With our Windows-based configuration software, the devices can also easily be parameterised and read quality controlled during active operation. Our experienced project team will be happy to support and advise you. Barcode systems are often used in printing presses, packaging machines, conveyor systems, commissioning systems, warehousing systems, and assembly automation. Our experience includes projects implemented for BMW, Bosch, B.Braun, right through to Volkswagen.

CONTENTS

The 1 x 1 of the barcode

Reading principles

Unattended scanners VB8, VB10, VB12, and VB14A

Unattended scanners VB33 and VB34

10

Mobile solutions

12

Accessories

14

Reading diagrams

15

Applications

17

THE 1 X 1 OF THE BARCODE

Definition of terms
Bar The dark element of a bar code. Space The light element between two bars of a barcode symbol. Element A bar or space in a bar code symbol. Module The narrowest element in a bar code. Wide bars or spaces are expressed in multiples of modules. Module width X The width of the narrowest element. Quiet zone Also called light margin or clear area. It is the blank area before and after the bar code. The quiet zone Q is necessary for setting the reading direction of the bar code symbol. The quiet zone must be at least 10 times the X dimension with anyway a minimum width of 2.5 mm. In scanner applications involving a large depth of field, the quiet zone must be wider: Q = 15 times the X dimension with a minimum width of 6.5 mm. Bar Code Symbol The bar code symbol consists of a bar code, two quiet zones and an interpretation line. The bar code includes encoded data, which consists of coloured bars and blank spaces. The quiet zone precedes and follows the bar code and helps to identify the object to decode. The interpretation line is positioned below the bar code and translates all of the encoded information into readable characters.

Functional principles of the barcode scanner

The coherent light beam of a laser (1) strikes a polygonal rotor (2) consisting of multiple mirror elements. Thanks to the rotation of the wheel and the reflection of each single mirror, the laser beam is deflected out to a surface. In the reading line (3), this results in a continually moving point of light which traverses a barcode. Differences in the reflected light strength are used to detect the individual modules, since dark stripes reflect less light. For this purpose, behind the scanner window (4) there is a drilled mirror (5) and a receiver lens (6) through which the reflected light is focused onto a photo-detector (7) and converted into an electrical signal. This signal is amplified, digitised, and used to decode the data contained in the barcode. Depending on the reader, the data is sent to the control system through either an external or an integrated interface.

Technology of the CCD barcode reader

A CCD chip with a lens and LED illumination is built into the reader. Images are continually recorded and checked. If a barcode is detected, decoding starts. For certain applications, not only visible red light but also white light LEDs are used as illumination sources. The risk of failing to detect codes due to reflexions or outside light irradiation is significantly reduced in comparison to laser scanners. Due to its fixed focus, CCD technology cannot achieve a very deep field of focus. On the other hand, these device have no moving parts, so that wear is reduced to a minimum.

Barcode types and T-code variants

Due to the varied requirement of different applications, there are a large number of different barcode types. Identical basic elements include the quiet zones on both sides, and generally a defined start and stop code at the beginning and end of the barcode. In between is the type-dependent data area.

Code 2/5 Interleaved Only digits 0 through 9 can be encoded Both bars and spaces carry information(interleaved) Print ratio R between the narrow/wide elements is 1:2 to 1:3 High information density = short code length. (e.g. 2.7 mm per digit at a module width of 0.3 mm and V= 1:3) The number of digits is equal to the number of thick strips minus 1 (without check digit) The use of a check digit is recommended, since this makes the information in the code self-checking

Code 39 Digits 0 through 9, 26 letters, and 7 special characters can be encoded Each character consists of 9 elements (5 bars and 4 spaces) Print ratio R is 1:2 or 1:3 Low information density = large code length (e.g. 4.8 mm per character for a module width of 0.3 mm and R = 1:3)

Code 128 Complete ASCII character set divided into 3 character sets, designated A, B, and C (similar to the EAN128 code) Each character consists of 3 bars and 3 spaces and has a total of 11 times the module width. High information density = short code length. Only small printing tolerances are possible.

Code EAN8 / EAN13 These codes have exactly 8 or 13 places and are used only in trade Digits 0 through 9 can be encoded The code consists of 2 parts which are separated by start/stop codes Both bars and spaces carry information High information density in 10 fixed code lengths (SC0 through SC9). Only very small printing tolerances are possible.

T-code variants In this system, barcodes can be read with a line scanners without orientation. The barcode is printed twice (T-code) at a 90 angle. The barcode height (stripe length) must be larger than the barcode width, and high transport speeds and low packet spacing can be achieved. The disadvantage here is the larger space requirement for the barcode label.

READING PRINCIPLES

Definition of the reading angle

Tilt angle As the module width grows, the effective height decreases Pitch angle Decreased module width Rotational angle Decreased effective height

Omnistation
In order to detect barcodes in any position in a broad area, due to continually developing technologies, stationary omnireaders are used. At least two scanners are needed. Depending on requirements, the station can be extended with additional scanners to form a multiside reading station. These stations can also provide high reading power for highspeed conveyor systems.

Ladder arrangement and side reading

This arrangement is generally used often. The scanner rotation angle should be about 10 to avoid reflexions. The barcode traverses the entire height of the reading area with the conveyor motion, and can therefore be read even in case of partial defects or dirt without requiring reconstruction of the code.

Ladder arrangement with large tilt angle and side reading

The scanner rotation angle should be about 10 to avoid reflexions. Due to the large tipping angle, not all the stripes of the barcode may be in the reading area at the same time, so that the code must be reconstructed for a successful read.

Picket-fence orientation and reading from above

The scanner angle of the raster scanner should be about 15 to avoid reflexions and to form an optimum reading area. The distance between beams is selected so that at least 2 beams, ideally all of them, scan the barcode through its full height.

Combined orientation with reading from the front at an angle

The scanner angle of the raster scanner should be about 45 to avoid reflexions and to form an optimum reading area. The barcode is detected over its width completely in two layers (in front and above).

Picket-fence orientation and reading from the side

The scanner rotation angle of the raster scanner should be about 10 to avoid reflexions. The barcode is read over its entire width. The distance between beams should be selected so that at least 2 beams, ideally all of them, scan the barcode through its full height.

Reading with oscillating mirror

The oscillating mirror directs the laser beam in two directions, thus creating a large reading window. This allows barcodes to be read over a large area on the conveyed material. Exact positioning of the barcode is not required, or multiple barcodes on the conveyed material can be read if they are clearly differentiated.

UNATTENDED SCANNERS VB8, VB10, VB12, AND VB14A

Compact CCD barcode reader VB8

The VB8-305 uses a CCD technology with 3,648 pixles and an extremely large focal field of 35 to 305 mm. The scanner works at a scanning rate of 270 scans per second. Using Puzzle Solve technology, even damaged and poorly legible barcodes can be read. Since the VB8 has no moving parts, 240,000 working hours (MTBF) can be guaranteed. It has RS232, keyboard, or reading wand interface. The power supply voltage range can be between 10 and 30 V DC. The VB8 compact scanner in its plastic housing offers a costeffective solution with very good reading characteristics.

Type code
VB12-220-S-R Raster scanners Side light outlet Max. read distance Design
Dimensions: Width x Height x Depth

Series VB 8
Read range in mm Read angle Resolution Scan rate Interface Dimensions in mm

VB8 - 305
35 ... 305 80 direction mirror optional 0.13 mm ... 270 scans/sec RS 232 / Wedge / pen 70.7 x 68.6 x 30

Standard barcode scanners VB10, VB12, and VB14A

The VB10, VB12, and VB14A series come in a metal housing in protection class IP65. They have an external trigger input, two programmable outputs, they fulfill laser protection class II , and can be operated with power supplies from 10 to 30 V DC. These designs are also available as raster scanners (...-R).

The VB10, thanks to its compact design, is particularly well-suited for integration into machines or in case of narrow space requirements.

Series VB10
Read range in mm Read angle Resolution Scan rate Grid in mm Main interface

10 VB

20 -2

10 VB

20 2 -

R 10 VB 25 -1 10 VB

25 1 -

50 ... 220 52 0.15 mm (6 mils) 500 scans/sec -----15 at 220

40 ... 125 60 0.076 mm (3 mils) 500 scans/sec. -----15 at 220

RS 485 (MUX 32) RS 232 up to 115.2 kBit/s 40 x 28 x 50

RS 485 (MUX 32) RS 232 up to 115.2 kBit/s 40 x 28 x 50

Reading diagrams: see foldout

Auxiliary interface Dimensions in mm

The VB12 can also be obtained in a design with light emission to the side (...-S) in case of narrow space requirements.

Series VB12
Read range in mm Read angle Resolution Scan rate Grid in mm Main interface Auxiliary interface Dimensions in mm

12 VB

20 -2

12 VB

20 2 -

S 12 VB

20 2 -

R 12 VB

-S 0 -22

R 12 VB 10 -1 12 VB

10 1 -

S 12 VB

10 1 -

R 12 VB

-R -S 0 -11

30 ... 220 70 0.2 mm (8 mils) 500 scans/sec. -----RS 485 (MUX 32) RS 232 up to 115.2 kBit/s 80 x 22.5 x 50

30 ... 220 70 0.2 mm (8 mils) 500 scans/sec. 15 at 220 RS 485 (MUX 32) RS 232 up to 115.2 kBit/s 80 x 22.5 x 50

10 ... 110 70 0.12 mm (5 mils) 500 scans/sec. -----RS 485 (MUX 32) RS 232 up to 115.2 kBit/s 80 x 22.5 x 50

10 ... 110 70 0.12 mm (5 mils) 500 scans/sec. 15 at 220 RS 485 (MUX 32) RS 232 up to 115.2 kBit/s 80 x 22.5 x 50

The VB14A has a new reconstruction procedure for the reading of barcodes with damage or at larger angles. It offers a connection option for a mountable oscillating mirror (OM-VB14A). The main interface can be parameterised for RS 232 or RS 485.

VB14A - 300 - R

VB14A - 440 - R

VB14A-100-R

VB14A - 300

VB14A - 100

VB14A - 440

VB14A-600-R

VB14A - 600

Series VB14A
Read range in mm Read angle Resolution Scan rate Grid in mm Main interface Auxiliary interface Dimensions in mm

50 ... 300 60 0.2 mm (8 mis) 500 - 800 scans/sec. ----18 at 300

45 ... 100 60 0.12 mm (5 mis) 800 - 1000 scans/sec. ----18 at 300

100 ... 440 60 0.25 mm (10 mis)

200 ... 600 60 0.35 mm (14 mis)

50 ... 310 60 0.2 mm (8 mis) 800 - 1000 scans/sec. ----18 at 300

75 ... 340 60 0.2 mm (8 mis) 600 - 1000 scans/sec. ----18 at 300

600 - 1000 scans/sec. ----24 at 500 ----24 at 500

RS 232 or RS 485 RS 232 up to 115.2 kBit/s 48 x 34 x 84

RS 232 or RS 485 RS 232 up to 115.2 kBit/s 48 x 34 x 84

RS 232 or RS 485 RS 232 up to 115.2 kBit/s 48 x 34 x 84

RS 232 or RS 485 RS 232 up to 115.2 kBit/s 48 x 34 x 84

RS 232 or RS 485 RS 285 up to 115.2 kBit/s 48 x 34 x 84

RS 232 or RS 485 RS 285 up to 115.2 kBit/s 48 x 34 x 84

VB14A-340-R

VB14A-310-R

VB14A - 310

VB14A - 340

UNATTENDED SCANNERS VB33 AND VB34

High-performance scanners VB33 and VB34

The VB3x series, with its separation Type code into a read head upper part and VB34-2500-OM-P decoder lower part, is exceptional P: Profibus, B12: Ethernet, B7: DeviceNet for its modularity and flexibility. The Integrated oscillating mirror lower part is easy to install in the Max. read distance Design ideal position by turning in 90 steps. Besides the bus interface, the devices provide two serial interfaces. All connections are implemented as plugs. The high-powered scanners in the VB33 and VB34 series are designed in protection class IP64 in modular metal housings. A keypad and display allow operations to be performed and information shown. The VB33 and VB34 series differ in their lenses and the adjustment of the focal range. The VB33 is manually focused on the object. The VB34 provides different automatic and programmable focus settings, and is particularly well-suited for dynamic applications.

The VB33 with manual focus

VB33
Designs Dimensions Order codes Serial interface PROFIBUS interface Ethernet interface DeviceNet interface Resolution Scan rate Max. read distance Readable codes Multi-label reading Main interface Auxiliary interface Baud rate Input signal Output signal LED displays Operating voltage Laser classification VB33-2000 VB33-2000-P VB33-2000-B12 VB33-2000-B7 0.2 mm (8 mils) 600 scans/sec 1.200 scans/sec (programmable) 2500 mm all current symbols up to 10 different codes in the same read cycle RS 232 or RS 485 RS 232 up to 115.2 kBit/s 1,00 bps 115,200 bps Trigger sensor plus 3 digital auxiliary inputs 3 digital outputs, programmable by means of software Ready, Read phase active, Label present, Send data 15 ... 30 V DC IEC 825 class 2 VB33-2000-OM VB33-2000-OM-P VB33-2000-OM-B12 VB33-2000-OM-B7 linear 113 x 110 x 99 mm integrated raster-scanning 180 x 113 x 99 mm

10

The VB34 with automatic and programmable focus

VB34
Designs Dimensions Order codes Serial interface PROFIBUS interface Ethernet interface DeviceNet interface Resolution Scan rate Max. read distance Readable codes Multi-label reading Main interface Auxiliary interface Baud rate Input signal Output signal LED displays Operating voltage Laser classification VB34-2500 VB34-2500-P VB34-2500-B12 VB34-2500-B7 0.2 mm (8 mils) 600 scans/sec 1.200 scans/sec (programmable) 2500 mm all current symbols up to 10 different codes in the same read cycle RS 232 or RS 485 RS 232 up to 115.2 kBit/s 2,400 bps ... 115,200 bps Trigger sensor plus 3 digital auxiliary inputs 3 digital outputs, programmable by means of software Ready, Read phase active, Label present, Send data 15 ... 30 V DC IEC 825 class 2 VB34-2500-OM VB34-2500-OM-P VB34-2500-OM-B12 VB34-2500-OM-B7 linear 113 x 110 x 99 mm integrated raster-scanning 180 x 113 x 99 mm

The VB3x series can achieve up to 1200 scans per second and can work with all current standard codes. Devices with or without integrated raster scanners are available, with a display and function keys for easy operation. Five application-specific modes usually offer the right pre-set values.

Detection angle with raster scanner for VB33 and VB34

11

MOBILE SOLUTIONS

Barcode hand readers

The ergonomic form of our hand readers enables problem-free operation. In addition, the devices are so robust that they can withstand a fall from a great height to a hard floor with no damage. For reliable operation, a successful read is indicated both acoustically and visually. Laser scanners are preferable as a reading technology if larger ranges are needed or if the barcodes to be read are very wide. The CCD reading technology is used if reflexions or external light affect the contrast or if dirty or partially damaged codes must still be readable using reconstruction processes. The hand readers, depending on the variant, have a Bluetooth, Wedge, pen, RS232, or USB interface. Besides wired versions, there are also radio solutions available for up to 16 scanners with 30 m range.

Range of application
Data recording in the sales area Process control Logistics applications As accessory components, suitable stands, holders, belt holders, and transmitter/ charging stations are available.

12

2D code hand readers

The MAH300 offers the option of displaying the data read in a large, fully graphical LCD display and entering commands and data manually using integrated function keys. Operation is similar to a mobile telephone. It has a 1.3 megapixel camera, a 400 MHz signal processor, 4 MB of internal storage, and a dual-focus lens for reading barcodes, stacked, and matrix codes as high density or long range in an extra-large reading area. A handle, battery, and connector cable are available. Maxi Code ODT-HH-MAH300

Data Matrix Code ECC 200

ODT-HH-MAH200 (without display)

Reading ranges depending on symbol set and focus point

The settings for optimisation of read reliability, like illumination, resolution, code type, and reading field, are performed automatically. Thus 2D codes are read with a speed similar to that for barcodes. With the powerful 1950 mAh lithium ion battery, long-term mobile use is no problem. The reader communicates through RS232, PS2, USB, or over Bluetooth up to 100m in range.

13

ACCESSORIES

Accessories
DM-VB14A 80 deviating mirror for VB14 OM-VB14A Optical raster scanner

DM-VB8

80 deviating mirror for VB8

OMH-VB01 Mounting accessories for VB8, VB12, VB14

Connection to fieldbuses
The C-Box in protection class IP64 can be easily and quickly connected to any scanner using a 25pin SUB D connector whose pins are wired to terminal strips. A trigger sensor can be connected directly to the terminals. C-Box100 Connection of power, switching outputs through screw connectors. 9-pin SUB D plug for connection of the RS232 auxiliary interface to the PC with a null-modem cable. C-Box300 RS232 / Profibus gateway with 9-pin SUB D connection plug for the Profibus, with up to 12 Mbit/ s Connection of a hand reader possible with special CABG-137 cable. The parameters of the scanner can be stored in either the control system or in the C-Box. This enables the fast, simple replacement of the scanner. C-Box300-SH The C-Box 300-SH also has a 4-pin M12 plug for power supply, as well as a 4-pin M12 connector for connection of an external trigger sensor. C-Box400 For Device net connection and connection of a trigger sensor directly to the terminals.

14

READING DIAGRAMS

Reading diagrams
The reading diagrams of each scanner show the relationships between reading range, reading field width, and module width.

VB8 reading diagram

VB10-220 reading diagram

VB10-125 reading diagram

VB12-220 reading diagram

VB12-110 reading diagram

VB14A-300 reading diagram

15

VB14A-100 reading diagram

VB14A-440 reading diagram

VB14A-600 reading diagram

VB14A-310 reading diagram

mm 12,5 10,0 7,5 5,0 2,5 0 2,5 5,0 7,5 10,0 12,5 0

VB14A-340 reading diagram

0.20 mm (8 mils) 0.25 mm (10 mils) 0.35 mm (14 mils)

10

15

20

25

30

35

cm

VB33-2000 reading diagram

VB33-2000 reading diagram

VB34-2500 reading diagram

VB34-2500 reading diagram

16

APPLICATIONS

17

FACTORY AUTOMATION SENSING YOUR NEEDS

For half a century Pepperl+Fuchs has continuously provided new impulses for the world of automation and set standards for quality and innovative technology. We develop, produce and sell electronic sensors and interface components worldwide. Due to our global presence and the high flexibility in production and services, we offer you individual complete solutions where you need us. We know what we are talking about Pepperl+Fuchs is regarded as the company with the world's largest choice of industrial sensor technology for a wide variety of applications. Our signals move the world.

Twinsburg
Mannheim

Singapore

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Subject to reasonable modifications due to technical advances Copyright PEPPERL+FUCHS Printed in Germany Part. No. 192161 05/06 00