>>I just got a requirement to "demonstrate" inputting data to a VFP application using a bar code reader ( by Friday). I am supposed to have someone show me how to install the reader so that shouldn’t be a problem.
>>I need to scan a code and stick the data in a table.
>>
>>Does anyone know where I could find an example of using VFP with a bar code reader? Any specific or general help or hints would be appreciated.
>>Thanks,
>>Sammie
>
>In addition to what Tore says (it IS really simple), one tweak you may want to do is to configure your bar code scanner to "send" a prefix, i.e., it can send a character to the application so that you can recognize that you are getting bar code scanner input instead of user input (you use to put some code in the form's keyPress() method to trap this special character.

I use Symbol scanners that can be programmed to send an ALT+char combination depending upon the length/type of barcode.

I use an invisible button with an access key matching the ALT+char combination to force focus into the control that needs to receive the barcode text.

This makes the barcode scanning more seamless.

A Code39 truetype barcode is the most simple one to use. You can simply use it like a normal font, only needing to prefix and suffix the text with an asterix.

ie. Printing *HelloWorld* in a Code39 font prodduces a scannable barcode.

I have a freeware code39 font if you need one.