Intermec IP Corporation

Intermac IP Corp.

Daniel B Bodnar

Christopher A Wiklof

Andrew E Reynolds

A data carrier reader includes an RFID tag reading section and a machine-readable symbol reading section, which can contain some common components. The reader is operable in an RFID tag reading mode and/or a symbol reading mode. The reader provides a consistent and intuitive user interface within, and between, the operating modes. The user interface can include visual, aural and tactile indicators. The visual indicators can include a pattern displayed by indicators on the reader, or projected onto or near the data carrier.

Method and apparatus to read different types of data carriers, such RFID tags and machine-readable symbols, and a user interface for the same

A data carrier reader is capable of executing a number of different reading methods. A method for reading single RFID tags can store read data to a buffer for eventual transmission to a host, and can suppress redundant data. Still another method associates data read from an RFID tag with a particular object or item using a data coded in a machine-readable symbol. In a further method, the machine-readable symbol is automatically read when the RFID tag is within a predetermined proximity of the reader. In each method, the data carrier reader provides the user a consistent and intuitive output to identify the successful and unsuccessful operations such as reading an RFID tag or machine-readable symbol.

Method and apparatus to automatically search data carriers, such as RFID tags and machine-readable symbols

A data carrier reader is capable of executing a number of different reading methods. One method performs an inclusive search, identifying all RFID tags having a characteristic data string that appears on a list of characteristic data strings, for example, stored in a buffer. Another method performs and exclusive search, identifying any RFID tags having a characteristic data string that does not appear on the list. In each method, the data carrier reader provides a consistent and intuitive output the user to identify the successful and unsuccessful operations such as locating a desired RFID tag on the list or missing from the list.

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Duvall, WA, United States of America

Daniel B Bodnar