Patent ID: 6223988
Filing Date: 2001-05-01
Classification: G06K

Abstract:
A reader for reading a bar code symbol and the like, said reader having a two dimensional image capture module for capturing two dimensional images, said image capture module having a field of view defining an imaged area, and a processor for processing said images, said reader comprising:(a) a two dimensional image sensor;(b) memory;(c) a microprocessor;(d) a laser scan line generator for generating a variable width laser scan line, wherein said scan line is at least partially contained within said field of view of said image capture module;(e) wherein said scan line provides a visible indication of the field of view;(f) a collection sensor which produces an electrical signal in response to reflected light from said laser scan line; and(g) signal processing circuitry for processing said electrical signal, wherein the processed electrical signal is further processed by said microprocessor,(h) wherein said laser scan line is turned off during image capture of images used to decode bar code symbols.