Barcode Automation

[Drew Sanderson]

We have been successfully printing barcodes where we think we need them. Everyone talks about his part but rarely the implementation of using the barcode. Does anyone have some good references on how to use them. What I don't get is how do I specify that input from the barcode to do a specific task when all the computer sees it (as I understand) is keyboard input. Do I need to use a plug-in to watch a field? Even if that is the case how do I have input from the scanner go to the correct field without the user first having to click on the entry field? As with everything, it seems getting started with the basics is harder than continuing onto complex stuff.

Thank you,

Drew

[mr_vodka]

All a barcode really does is automate input. There are different types of scanners that do various functions.

For example, you can have a wireless hand hend scanner that is used for inventory. In this case, you would scan a whole bunch of boxes with their barcode and then enter in a qty. Two fields. Once inventory is done, you can export the data from it and then have FileMaker import the file and run a script that updates the data.

In another case, you can have a barcode for lets say customers with a wired attached scanner. In this case, you would have to be in a field to capture the scan.

So I guess it really depends on what you want to do with it.