Microscan, a global manufacturer and pioneer of auto ID solutions from the world’s first laser diode barcode scanner to the Data Matrix symbol, has introduced the improved X-Mode 4.0 decoding algorithms with its recently released MicroHAWK barcode reader platform. Microscan’s high-performance X-Mode products feature decode algorithms for
symbol location, analysis, and reconstruction right out-of-the-box. Engineered to outperform competitive barcode readers for the most difficult codes and challenging substrate materials, XMode algorithms decode any symbol (1D linear, 2D, or direct part mark) regardless of the condition. Advanced pixel analysis and logic render damaged,
distorted, poorly-printed, or skewed symbols readable using image processing to prevent data loss.
X-Mode offers omnidirectional decoding of any symbol, greatly increasing the range of mounting angles that can be used to position a barcode reader within a piece of equipment or on a manufacturing line. When symbol quality, mark contrast, substrate integrity, or read direction cannot be predicted, XMode algorithms are able to safeguard the efficiency of operations and reliably read every code. With the release of its MicroHAWK platform, including three new barcode imagers and the WebLink browser based setup interface, Microscan has re-engineered and improved X-Mode functionality in X-Mode 4.0. This update
adds new capabilities for solving specific decoding issues gathered through field data from customer barcode reading applications. With poor print consistency and permanence of inkjet on labels, a persistent obstacle, X-Mode 4.0 now addresses incomplete and obscured Code 39 and Code 128 linear symbols through a new Damaged Mode.
In addition to Damaged Mode, XMode 4.0 includes new Train and Optimize modes available as tools in the WebLink User Interface. From WebLink, users can click on the Train button to command a MicroHAWK barcode reader to search for the ideal combination of decoding parameters for the target symbol. Train Mode accesses an image characterization library of known code types and their optimal decoding parameters to apply parameters from similar symbols to the target symbol to boost reading power. With a 5-megapixel QSXGA sensor option available for all new MicroHAWK barcode reader models, X-Mode 4.0 also offers support for 5 MP barcode imaging.
