can the enter key or return key be entered into a calculation to allow the data to exit a field once entered by a scanning device?

Most barcode scanners will allow you to append a character at the end of scanned data. Set yours so that it reads the data and then appends a Crtl-1, for example. Then write a script that is simply the 'Go to Next Field' command. Make this script visible on the script menu and make sure that it is in the first position -- i.e., so that Ctrl-1 would activate it. Now when you scan data it reads the data and appends Ctrl-1, trigering the script and taking you to the next field.

Dan

If your barcode scanner allows you to set a "post-amble" character, you should be able to enter the Enter key directly. The process involves scanning the correct barcode off of the sheet that came with the scanner. At least that's how I did it.*

Enter works well in a Loop, allowing you to enter the barcode, then continue the Loop.

*Actually it was not that easy. It didn't work at first, so I called the vendor. We figured out that they'd broken it when they'd recently tweaked the software. So they fixed the software (in a day) and sent me a new scanner, which worked fine. So, if yours says it will do it in the documentation, but will not, then call 'em up. BTW, this was on Mac OS X.

thanks guys, i knew dan would have a workable solution. it also let's you decide if the scan should go to next field or make the data enter person move the cursor to be sure the next field contains the correct data. will also look into pre-configured scan data from gun manufacturer.

again thanks and keep up the good work.

koya