Contact two-dimensional bar code reader having pressure actuated switch

摘要

A contact bar code reader is suitable for reading 2-dimensional bar codes. The reader comprises a housing having therein a source of illumination and optics for producing a diverging beam for illuminating a bar code symbol. A transparent frustoconical guide is removably attached to the housing, and has an conical angle corresponding to the beam's angle of divergence. The guide is dimensioned to encompass the bar code symbol, and its line of contact with the data carrier is substantially fully visible to the operator, who can thus confirm that the guide is in proper operating position relative to the bar code symbol prior to initiating a reading operation. A reading operation can be initiated by pressing on the guide to actuate a switch, or on a manual trigger.