Detecting swipe/ Barcode reader input

[steve]

Hi All

I need to write a program to read input from barcode scanner.

The program is for a gym and needs to detect when a card is scanned
regardless of which program is currently running ont he computer. e.g the
operator might be typing a letter and a member swipes his card.

I am convinced I need to write the card reader section as a Windows Service,
so it is active always?

Do I watch for card reader input on a timer loop or is their an event I can
use?

Sorry for being vague, but I am new to bar code readers

I am using Vb net 2003 and the program will run on a PC with WindowsXP home


Regards
Steve

 

[steve]

Hi All

Forgot to add scanner will be probably keyboard wedge type or maybe
USB/Serial

Regards
Steve

 

[Dick Grier]

Hi,

If this is serial (or USB virtual serial), then you do not need to write a
service -- though it could be coded as such). I have examples in my book,
see below. However, if you use a keyboard wedge, or a USB reader that
emulates a keyboard HID device, then you CANNOT use a service. These
devices demand a UI with focus continuously set to a text window for input.
They are unsuitable for unattended operation.

Dick

--
Richard Grier (Microsoft Visual Basic MVP)

See www.hardandsoftware.net for contact information.

Author of Visual Basic Programmer's Guide to Serial Communications, 4th
Edition ISBN 1-890422-28-2 (391 pages) published July 2004. See
www.mabry.com/vbpgser4 to order.

 

[Guest]

Hi,

Maybe this will help.

http://www.codeproject.com/vb/net/demmvbscan.asp

Ken