Jer1712 (Customer) asked a question.
C-More EA9 using a wireless bar code scanner.
I have a project using the C-More EA9-T7CL-R and a click plus PLC. It is a simple project using Recipe's and timers, but I want to use a barcode scanner to make the decision for the operator. I have everything working with a wired bar code scanner. However I would like to get to a wireless scanner. I have tried two units with a USB dongle like a keyboard or a mouse, but neither will work. Has anyone had success with a wireless scanner? if so any info would be helpful.
I'm currently working on a project using a Keyence SR-G100 handheld scanner that wirelessly connects via bluetooth to the Keyence SR-LR1 communication unit.
The SR-LR1 sits inside the PLC enclosure and is conveniently powered by 24VDC. It then talks to the PLC (P3-550) via a number of selectable serial or ethernet communication protocols. Communication unit (Ethernet & RS-232C) - SR-LR1 | KEYENCE International Belgium
For my setup, I'm communicating via Ethernet/IP between the PLC and the SR-LR1. This means that I'm able to read information such as a successful scan bit and a handheld battery dead bit.
Thanks I will take a look. I believe the USB port does not have enough power for the dongle so separately powered communication would be great.
What are the manufacturer and model numbers of the barcode readers you have tried?
Two things come to mind:
1) The C-more USB port may not be providing enough power. Does the Dongle have the ability to be powered externally?
2) The barcode reader needs to be configured to act like an HID device. Barcode readers have all kinds of possible configurations nowadays.
I believe the USB is not providing enough power for the units I have. The ones I have used are inexpensive ones to prove concept, and are set up as HID. It looks like I have to go to a higher end unit for this projects. It would be nice if the C-more had Bluetooth capability or Automation direct should make a wireless Barcode scanner. I would be purchasing several if this works.
I have used a symbol LI3678 with a EA9-T7CL-R and it works well. the wireless range on it is quite impressive as I was able to scan bar codes 100 yards away through metal walls without an issue.
https://www.amazon.com/Zebra-LI3678-SR-Ultra-Rugged-Cordless-Vibration/dp/B073R8PFRR/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=LI3678&qid=1627043770&sr=8-3
I do not have the metal wall experience, but I can say that my (Symbol LS3578-FZ) wireless barcode scanner does have a remarkable range.
Thanks I will look into this unit.
Did you select the appropriate STYLE of the input object?
Yes all the units work when plugged in directly to USB
Can you do a test?
Connect USB scanner to PC, run some terminal program and log the incoming characters.
Do the same with the wireless scanner and compare the two logs. Maybe the wireless scanner is changing something.