An efficient means for capturing data using economical portable barcode scanners. The portable laser scanner can read barcodes at distances up to about 10 inches. The long lasting batteries provide power for about 5,000 scans, and the scanner can store from 150 to300 records in memory, depending on barcode length. The CS1504 keychain scanner includes a time & date stamp function, making it easy to track when your assets were moved or used. To transfer collected data to a host computer, simply plug the scanner into the USB cable; the Mini Data Capture software retrieves the data, organizes it, and saves it to disk in just a few seconds.

The scanners can read standard retail codes (UPC/EAN/JAN), Code 128, Code 39, Coupon Code, Interleaved 2 of 5, and Discrete 2 of 5.

In many applications, barcodes will already be attached to the items to be recorded (retail items, for example). The Mini Data Capture System includes a set of Code39 TrueType barcode fonts that can be used to create barcodes using any Windows word processor, database, or spreadsheet. Code 39 is a widely used code that includes letters and numbers.

The Mini Data Capture System can be a useful tool for tracking valuable assets, capturing field survey or scientific data, monitoring movement of sensitive documents, taking inventory, tracking attendance, and performing a wide range of other data collection chores.