Barcode / QR-Code / RFID / NFC / DAQ / Label Printing Software

Free 10 Day Trial for TEC-IT's Barcode Add-In for MS Office

2011-10-12T14:47:00.001+02:00

TEC-IT will shortly release the new version 10.3.3 of the barcode add-in TBarCode Office.

Free Eval for Office Barcode Add-In

The new release offers only a single - but very useful - highlight. Users interested in testing the product may now apply for a free and unlimited 10 day trial license. The evaluation license can be retrieved online and unlocks all product features. TEC-IT does not collect any personal data and does not ask questions. A single click is enough to apply for an evaluation license.

About TBarCode Office

10 Day Unlimited Evaluation

The barcode add-in TBarCode Office is intended solely for users of Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel (Microsoft Office 2007 or higher). It enables customers to quickly insert barcodes into any Word or Excel document. The barcode add-in integrates seamlessly into Microsoft Office and is extremely easy-to-use. A convenient barcode panel provides access to all bar code parameters - linear, GS1 or 2D barcodes are inserted into letters, mail merge documents, spreadsheets and barcode labels in no time at all. TBarCode Office creates and prints barcodes in perfect quality on all printers. The product supports more than 100 barcodes - linear bar codes, postal codes, GS1 DataBar and 2D codes.

Free Release Candidate Downloads

A free pre-release is available for TBarCode Office V10.3.3. Check it out today! TBarCode Office can be used with 32 bit and 64 bit versions of Microsoft Office 2007/2010.

Download TBarCode Office Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel 2007/2010

In case of questions or if you experience troubles please let us know: support@tec-it.com. Thanks.

About TEC-IT

WWW.TEC-IT.COM

TEC-IT Datenverarbeitung GmbH provides high quality software in the areas of bar-coding, barcode extensions for ERP systems, label and form printing, reporting and automated data acquisition. TEC-IT products are available for all major platforms, thus customers benefit from complete and versatile software solutions for all possible requirements. The company is located in Austria / Europe and can be reached via www.tec-it.com.
All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

New: Barcode Studio Creates Mobile Tagging QR-Codes with Shortened URLs

2011-09-23T17:28:00.000+02:00

Data List with Shortened URLs

Version 12 of TEC-IT's barcode maker software will be released shortly. This post introduces the built-in URL shortener capabilities of the Barcode Studio update.

The new URL shortening feature provides 3 main benefits:

Dramatically Reduced QR-Code Size
URL shortening means squeezing a long URL into a shorter one. This is important when creating mobile tagging QR-Codes for vCards, meCards, SPARQcodes, etc. With URL shortening you reduce the amount of data to be encoded. Smaller, better readable, easier-to-share QR-Codes are the result.
Free QR-Code Traceability
URL shortening providers like Google (http://goo.gl) and Bitly (http://bit.ly) offer simple and free tracking features. More on this below.

Data Import Assistant

Batch URL Shortening
The data import assistant of Barcode Studio is able to shorten thousands of URLs with a single click.

Shortened URLs

You are not familiar with shortened URLs? Let me give you an example: A typical URL looks like this:

http://www.tec-it.com/software/barcode-software/barcode-creator/barcode-studio/Default.aspx

In total this example URL requires 91 characters.By shortening this URL you will get the following results:

http://goo.gl/fnBby
(when shortened with Google's URL shortener service http://goo.gl)
http://bit.ly/c1ZTRO
(when shortened with http://bit.ly)

The shortened URL requires only 19 (or 20) characters and still points to the same target URL. Just try it out by clicking on them!

QR-Code Tracking

A shortened URLs provide an easy way to analyze the usage of the codes. Whenever a shortened URL is used to visit a web-page the shortening provider tracks this event. It does not matter if the user scanned the code with a smart phone, simply clicked on it in a twitter status message or entered the shortened URL manually into the address bar of the browser. At the time being both providers offer publicly visible tracking statistics for free.

For Google's shortener service you get the tracking statistics by simply adding ".info" to the shortened URL: http://goo.gl/fnBby.info. When using Bitly just add the plus sign: http://bit.ly/c1ZTRO+

Privacy notice: Take care - the tracking statistics are usually publicly visible to everyone!

Free Release Candidate Downloads

A free pre-release is available for Barcode Studio on Microsoft Windows and Mac OS X. Check it out!

Download Barcode Studio for Microsoft Windows

Download Barcode Studio for Mac OS X

About TEC-IT

Secret QR-Code

Update! Barcode Maker Software for QR-Code vCards and More

2011-07-19T14:15:00.005+02:00

vCard Data Import

Check out this post to learn more about the new features of Barcode Studio V11.6.

With Barcode Studio you quickly create high-quality bar code images for pre-press requirements and desktop publishing applications. More than 100 different linear and 2D codes are supported by this software!

The new release focuses on bar-code creation for mobile tagging with vCard and meCard QR codes and provides enhanced label printing features.

Features and Enhancements in Detail

QR-Code vCard Assistant

Mobile Tagging
2D codes for mobile tagging are now using the lowest possible error correction level. This minimizes the size of the generated barcodes.
Intelligent Data Import
It is possible to import predefined data formats for vCard, vCalendar, meCard, etc. in a structured way. This is especially helpful for mass-creation of business card bar-codes.
Copy Counter for Label Printing
The user can specify how many identical copies of a single label should be printed.
ISBN / ISSN / ISMN
The data assistant now makes it easier to enter codes in ISBN, ISSN, and ISMN format.
Pixel Shaving
For 2D codes like QR-Code or Data Matrix, the pixel shaving algorithm was improved.
Appearance
The appearance of several dialogs was improved.

Bug Fixes

Label preview crash was fixed.
The check for the bar code sizes was improved.
Fixed the wrong display of the number of errors in the data list.

Free Trial with 10 Days Unlimited License

Demo downloads are available for Mac OS X and for Microsoft Windows. Check them out today!
Barcode Studio for Mac OS
Barcode Studio for Microsoft Windows
The above downloads are FINAL releases (as of 07/25/2011) - have fun!

About TEC-IT

NEW: Use Android for Data Acquisition with PCs or MACs

2011-07-07T15:28:00.000+02:00

New Version!

As of today the new version of GetBlue, an Android app for automated data aquisition, is available.

GetBlue collects device data in the background and forwards captured data to adjustable destinations. The following devices and interfaces are supported in V2.8:

Bluetooth SPP (server and client mode),
TCP/IP sockets (server and client mode),
HTTP,
3rd party camera scanners like the app Barcode Scanner from ZXing

Captured device data can be displayed, saved, uploaded or forwarded to

adjustable target devices or target applications (PCs with Microsoft Windows, MAC computers, Google Docs spreadsheets, other Bluetooth devices, web applications, ...),
files on the SD card,
or injected into 3rd party applications (software wedge mode).

Highlights of the new Version:

Bluetooth server support
Previous GetBlue versions worked exclusively in Bluetooth client mode. Client mode is required to connect to other Bluetooth servers like a Bluetooth barcode scanner. The new Bluetooth server mode can now be used for establishing PC connections: Data captured or scanned with the Android device can automatically sent to a PC for further processing. Server mode is supported for TCP/IP connections as well.
Licensing without Android Market
For users without access to Android Market or for bulk-licensing requirements GetBlue can now be licensed by manually installing license certificates. In order to use this feature you need to download GetBlue from tec-it.com and contact TEC-IT for a certificate (price on request). Please note that the version available on Android Market does not support manual licensing.
Transparent Proxy
As mentioned above GetBlue works as transparent proxy between devices and/or protocols. Data from a Bluetooth device can be forwarded via TCP/IP or HTTP. This behavior is freely adjustable by means of data-source and data-sink configuration.

Give it a try!

Download GetBlue from Android market or from TEC-IT.COM. TEC-IT supports this app, in case of questions, problems or feature requests just get in touch with us!

About TEC-IT

About TEC-IT
TEC-IT Datenverarbeitung GmbH provides high quality software in the areas of automated data acquisition and data collection, bar-coding, barcode extensions for ERP systems, label and form printing and report generator software. TEC-IT products are available for all major platforms, thus customers benefit from complete and versatile software solutions for all possible requirements. The company is located in Austria / Europe and can be reached via www.tec-it.com.
All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Create Popular QR Codes for Mobile Tagging and vCard Business Cards

2011-05-27T15:01:00.000+02:00

Latest TEC-IT Press Release

Austria, TEC-IT Datenverarbeitung GmbH (tec-it.com), leading vendor of AUTO-ID and bar code software presents a brand new feature for the popular barcode maker software Barcode Studio.

“Even in Europe 2D bar codes – mostly QR codes- are becoming more and more popular. Especially the increasing need in marketing and mobile tagging is causing a rise in demand for 2D barcodes. In light of this development TEC-IT is responding with its new version of Barcode Studio.”
(Guenter Kriegl, CEO of TEC-IT )

Mobile Tagging, vCard Business Cards and More

QR code business card including
encoded contact details (vCard)

Creating 2D bar-codes for electronic business cards with vCard and meCard formats is simplified dramatically: The brand new assistant leads you through the data input with a multifunctional dialog box, the user just enters the contact details and the assistant takes care of generating the 2D barcode with the correct data formatting. No special knowledge is needed. What’s more, mobile tagging barcodes for events, Android Market search, WiFi networks, Twitter tweets, LinkedIn profiles and Facebook likes are supported for the user’s convenience as well.

Even industrial applications benefit from the intuitive assistant: Create GS1 barcodes by using predefined application identifiers (so called AIs) quickly and without any special skills. Barcode Studio inserts the FNC1 delimiter characters automatically.

Try and Test

Barcode Studio V11 can be downloaded from TEC-IT’s website www.tec-it.com. A completely free and unlimited 10-day test drive is available. The bar code maker software is available for Mac OS X, Windows, Linux and UNIX. Enjoy the product videos on YouTube.com to learn more about Barcode Studio

Please Contact

Susan Enzenhofer
TEC-IT Datenverarbeitung GmbH
Hans-Wagnerstrasse 6
A-4400 Steyr - Austria, EUROPE

Email
office@tec-it.com

Telephone/Fax
T ++43 (0)7252 72720
F ++43 (0)7252 7272077

"Tag it Easy" - vCard and meCard QR-Codes!

2011-05-18T11:21:00.027+02:00

A new version of the barcode creator software Barcode Studio is on the way!

What’s New?

Barcode Studio V11.5 introduces a new data input assistant. This special feature simplifies the creation of 2D codes for mobile tagging and electronic business cards (so-called vCard and meCard barcodes) dramatically.
With Barcode Studio V11.5 you are able to create more than 100 different linear, postal, GS1 and 2D barcode symbologies. The barcodes can be printed on simple labels or exported as bitmap or vector image files. Batch barcode creation with external data is supported.

2D Codes for Mobile Tagging

vCard Data Input Assistant

vCard and meCard QR-codes are used to encode contact details of a business card (like name, address, email, phone-number ...) in a 2D barcode symbol. When scanning such a barcode with a smartphone (camera and suitable scanner software is required of course), the data is automatically entered into the address book of the phone. No manual typing or copy/paste is required.

Try it Yourself - Scan the Code!

vCard and meCard barcodes encode the contact details in a certain format. The new data input assistant of Barcode Studio takes care of the right formatting. In order to create readable barcodes you just enter the contact data (see screen shot) and Barcode Studio creates the correct code. You do not need to know the details.

In addition the above mentioned vCard and meCard codes, Barcode Studio allows you to create 2D codes for mobile tagging applications. Currently supported are barcodes for sending text messages (SMS), phone calls, Twitter tweets, Facebook likes and profiles, LinkedIn contacts and profiles, Wi-Fi access and events (vCalendar). In future versions of Barcode Studio this list will be extended as appropriate.

GS1 DataBar - Application Identifier Support

GS1 Application Identifier Assitant

Users of the GS1 DataBar or GS1-128 barcode symbologies benefit from the data input assistant as well. Barcode Studio provides a searchable list of the available application identifiers (AIs) and ensures that the rules for a correct GS1 barcode are met. Application identifiers are used to designate the encoded data. More than hundred AIs are in common use (e.g. AI 10 designates the LOT number, AI 11 the production date ...). Barcode Studio also takes care to separate multiple AIs in a single barcode with the Function Code 1 (FNC1).

Download Pre-Release

Coming soon! Use these links to download the release candidates (BETA!):
Barcode Studio for Windows
Barcode Studio for Mac OS X

Video

Questions or Suggestions?

Please do not hesitate to get in touch with us. Simply write us an email (support@tec-it.com), give us a call (++43 7252 72720, time zone GMT+1) or visit www.tec-it.com!

How to use Microvision ROV Barcode Scanners with Android - Update!

2011-03-18T17:23:00.008+01:00

Bluetooth Data Acquisition on Android

Currently TEC-IT offers two Android apps for data acquisition with Bluetooth devices:

GetBlue provides universal data acquisition and device communication with Bluetooth SPP, TCP and camera scanners. GetBlue communicates with serial Bluetooth devices (Serial Port Profile like SPP/RFCOMM barcode readers), TCP/IP devices and camera scanners. Captured data is displayed, saved (File, Google Docs), forwarded (HTTP, TCP) or injected as virtual keystrokes into Apps (GetBlue virtual keyboard).
BluePiano extends all Apps with automated Bluetooth data acquisition. This new input method provides a Bluetooth-enabled soft-keyboard. This virtual keyboard captures data from Bluetooth SPP devices (serial port profile) and forwards the received data to input fields of arbitrary apps.

Microvision ROV Bluetooth Scanners

Problem:
Some users are experiencing the following issue: once a bar code is scanned with the Microvision ROV barcode scanner the bar code data is sent over and over again.
Cause:
This problem is because the scanner by default requires an acknowledgement of the receiving party (the Android device). The current versions of GetBlue and BluePiano do not acknowledge received data, thus you need to adapt the configuration of the Microvision device.
Solution:
The required acknowledgement can be switched off by configuring the scanner accordingly.
To do this please check out the Microvision ROV PDF user manual (page 74) for the configuration barcodes. You need to set the following values:

ForceSerializationOverBT
must be set to false to force compatibility mode and to disable serial numbers. Scan the Set FSOBT,0 = Force Serialization Over BlueTooth barcode.
BCDataACK
must be false so no ACK is required. Scan the Set Ack,0 = Bar Code Data Acknowledgement is False barcode.
SeqNum
must be false to disable serial numbers. Scan the Set Seq,0 = Sequence Number is False barcode.
AutoDownload
must be true to send scanned barcodes immediately to the Android device. Scan the Set ADl,1 = Auto Download is True barcode.

The Microvision ROV scanner user manual as compressed CHM file may also be of interest. Refer to this blogpost for displaying this file on Windows 7. Use the search function in the manual and search for Bar Coded Menu Cards.

Please note that the configuration information above was posted based on user feedback of TEC-IT's Android apps. If there are any problems let us know. Thanks!

Feedback

TEC-IT hopes this article is valuable for you. If there are any questions please feel free to contact us via email or MSN (support@tec-it.com).

One-Click Label Printing - 100% Online

2011-02-17T17:20:00.001+01:00

What is TFORMer Online?

TFORMer Online is a completely web-based label printing system. Standard industry labels (e.g. VDA, AIAG, GTL, GS1, Odette, Caterpillar Shipping Labels, ...) are generated as high quality PDF-files which can be printed immediately. Variable label data (like descriptions, SSCC, EAN codes, article numbers, etc) is either entered manually directly with the browser or provided via Google Docs spreadsheets.

Available Label Printing Services

TFORMer Online supports three methods for online label printing. Regardless of the method used, you need to validate your email-address. You will receive a confirmation email which contains a passkey.

Single Label Printing

This variant is the ideal solution for low-volume, ad-hoc label printing. Just enter the label data and generate the corresponding PDF.
One-Click Label Printing

A single click prints multiple labels with data stored in a Google docs spreadsheet (batch printing). One-click label printing can be embedded into your web-sites easily. For more detail see below.

IMPORTANT: disable your popup-blocker!

When using this method, TFORMer Online creates a Google docs spreadsheet and shares it with your Google docs account. You are completely free to edit the label data before printing.
Please note: The specified email address must be associated with your Google docs account. Your data is safe, TFORMer Online has no access to your Google account - only the spreadsheet is shared with you.
Supplier Labeling

Use this option to provide your suppliers an affordable centrally hosted label printing system with their individual data (e.g. for printing your company specific shipping labels). By sharing the TFORMer Online account (email address + passkey) with your partners they are immediately able to print labels. The data used for printing is completely under the control of the supplier, the label template is controlled by the owner of the TFORMer Online account.

One-Click Label Printing Parameters

TFORMer Online suggests HTML code for the One-Click Label Printing Button, just visit http://labels.tec-it.com to retrieve the code for the printing button. The behavior of the button can be parametrized:

allowtransparency
Standard iframe parameter, may be "true" or "false"
frameborder="0"
Standard iframe parameter
id="OneClickPrinting"
Standard iframe parameter, you are free to choose the ID of the button
scrolling="no"
Standard iframe parameter, please do NOT change
src="http://labels.tec-it.com/External/OneClick.aspx?PARAMETERS"
The URL used to control the label generator, the parameters may be changed to meet your needs:
labelid=VDA+4902+DE
The label which should be generated, the name is suggested by TFORMer Online
tablename=(1)_Automotive_VDA_4902_(Version_4)_VDA_4902_DE
The name of the Google docs spreadsheet. This name is suggested by TFORMer Online but you may use every suitable spreadsheet name.
email=support@tec-it.com
The email-address used for the TFORMer Online account, this email address must be associated with a Google Docs account.
LANG=en
The language used for the one-click button, the language code is suggested by TFORMer Online.
outputtype=pdf
The output type used for the generated labels, the output type is suggested by TFORMer Online.
outputsize=A5|landscape
The output size (paper format) used for the generated labels, it is suggested by TFORMer Online.
result=popup
The delivery type of the result. You may need to disable pop-up blockers.
style="height: 150px; overflow: hidden; width: 300px;"
The style of the button. You can specify a custom height and width.

Need More Information?

We are glad for any feedback. Just contact us in case of questions or for commercial use.

Barcode Studio Beta Available: Mac/Windows Barcode Maker Software

2011-01-17T17:17:00.003+01:00

A fresh beta version of Barcode Studio - the popular barcode maker software was extended with basic barcode label printing features!

NEW: Label Printing

Barcode Studio V11 introduces two main features:

Simple barcode label printing
Generating barcodes with captions

Both features help you to print simple barcode labels for articles, price tags, inventory labels, etc. within a minute. Just enter or import the data required and print thousands of labels with just a single click. The label printing feature works on all operating systems - Barcode Studio is available for Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, Linux and UNIX.

Video Preview

Simplified User Interface

In addition the user interface was simplified and provides now 3 main tabs which allows you to:

Design a barcode and adjust all required code parameters. In this section you have also the possibility to add captions above and below a barcode.
Enter or import data for batch label printing or batch barcode creation
A label tab for adjusting the barcode label layout. Just select one of the pre-defined label templates for commercially available adhesive labels or specify your custom label settings.

Free Beta Download

Microsoft Windows
Download the beta version for free (no registration required): Download Barcode Studio for Microsoft Windows
Mac OS X
Download Barcode Studio for Mac OS X

After installing the new version you have the possibility to request a free test license online. This test license unlocks Barcode Studio, you can test it for 10 days without limitations. Please note that a commercial usage of the test license is not allowed.

Other Improvements

Mil-Support
Mils can now be entered with improved accuracy.
Simplified Menus
The different export menus were combined into one menu.
CMYK Colors
Mac OS: CMYK color settings are now saved in the settings files (.bc), when the color was entered as CMYK values.
Dialog Sizing Problems
Wrongly sized input dialogs were fixed.
Preview in Import Dialog
The data preview in the import dialog now always shows the actual file content.
Lost Cursor Position
The cursor position in the data edit box was lost after typing the first character. This problem was fixed.
Data List: New Data Row in Hex Mode
New data rows are now added correctly if hexadecimal character input mode is turned on.

Availability

Pricing, detailed descriptions and free downloads are available shortly from TEC-IT.

BluePiano: A New Android Bluetooth Input Method

2011-01-11T10:35:00.005+01:00

BluePiano Bluetooth Input Method for Android

The input method BluePiano extends Android with Bluetooth data acquisition.

This new input method provides a Bluetooth-enabled soft-keyboard. This soft-keyboard captures Bluetooth data and forwards the received data to input fields of arbitrary apps. The data appears as entered by the user (watch the video on YouTube).

BluePiano is typically used for barcode scanning with external Bluetooth barcode-scanners or for generic data acquisition tasks (e.g. to capture raw external GPS or medical device data). English, German, French, Russian and Swedish keyboard layouts are available.

BluePiano is easy to use and provides you with connectivity feedback in the notification bar. For backup purposes BluePiano is also able to scan barcodes using camera barcode scanners (using the built-in or an external camera scanner app).

BluePiano works with all Bluetooth SPP devices (Bluetooth devices supporting the Serial Port Profile, RFCOMM). Special Android-enabled bar code scanners are NOT required. HID devices are not supported.

Video Tutorial

Installation

Download and install BluePiano from Android Market (see market://search?q=pname:com.tecit.android.bluepiano.demo). After installation a wizard guides you through the following steps:

BluePiano Logo

Activate Bluetooth
See also: Android Settings – Wireless & networks.
Discover your Bluetooth device
Please note that the Bluetooth device must be “discoverable”. See also: Android Settings – Wireless & networks – Bluetooth settings.
Pair your handset with your Bluetooth device.
You need to enter the pairing PIN on your handset. See also: Android Settings – Wireless & networks – Bluetooth settings.
Adjust the Bluetooth device as input device for BluePiano.
All data received from this input device will be transformed and treated like any other manual input. You may also long tap the ?123 key on the BluePiano keyboard and then invoke Bluetooth Device Manager.
Enable the input method BluePiano
In order to use the new soft-keyboard you need to enable it in Android Settings. Confirm the security question. See also Android Settings -- Language & keyboard.
Activate the input method
Do this by long-tapping on any text field of any app. In the upcoming menu select Input Method and check the BluePiano input method. Use the same method to activate your default keyboard again.
Finished!
Now read a barcode with the external Bluetooth device (e.g. barcode scanner). As soon as the data is received by BluePiano it is entered into the current edit field. As an alternative you may press the barcode key on the BluePiano keyboard: The built-in camera scanner is invoked, the barcode is decoded and the data is entered automatically into the active edit field.

BluePiano Settings - Manual

Configure BluePiano using the installed wizard or navigate to Android Settings -- Language & keyboard and then select BluePiano.

As an alternative you may long-press on the ?123 key of the BluePiano keyboard. In the upcoming option menu select the required function.

Keyboard Options

BluePiano Settings

Data Prefix
Use the placeholders ${ENTER},${TAB}, ${BACKSPACE}, ${DOWN},${UP}, ${LEFT} and ${RIGHT} to control the cursor or input focus before the captured data is inserted into the input field of the current app. The placeholders specified above can be abbreviated with${E}, ${T}, ${B}, ${D}, ${U}, ${L} and ${R}. A multiplier specified immediately after the placeholder (e.g. ${E5}) instructs BluePiano to simulate the specified key n times (5 times the Enter key in this example).
Data Suffix
Use the same placeholders as above to control the cursor or input focus after captured data was inserted into the input field of the current app.
Camera Scanner
The default setting “Internal Scanner” reads bar-codes using the camera bar-code scanner integrated into BluePiano. If you prefer to select the camera scanner to be used each time, select Always ask. If a specific app is selected, the software always uses exactly this camera scanner app without asking.
Search Key Function
This entry specifies the action when the hardware search key is pressed (this key is usually marked with a magnifier symbol, it is also available on the hardware keyboard): Invoke Camera Scanner opens the camera scanner when this key is pressed (you do not need to activate the soft-keyboard beforehand). In this case the search key acts as hot-key for barcode scanning.
Choose Do nothing if you do not want to change the default behavior of the standard search key.

Bluetooth Options

BluePiano Settings Part 2

Manage Device
Use this function to adjusted the Bluetooth input device. Keep in mind that the device must be paired before it can be used. See also: Android Settings – Wireless & networks – Bluetooth settings. This function is only enabled if the Bluetooth connection is not suspended.
Suspend Connection
Temporarily disable BluePiano Bluetooth connectivity.
Suspend Timeout
If a Bluetooth device is unavailable for more than the specified number of seconds (e.g. out of range or switched off) it will be suspended. If a device is suspended you can’t capture Bluetooth data with BluePiano. A notification is displayed and you need to re-activate the device manually. The default timeout is 120 seconds (2 minutes).
Vibrate on Error
If activated, your handset vibrates in case of Bluetooth or connection errors.
Disaster Recovery
Some handset models are using buggy Bluetooth stacks (firmware with Bluetooth SPP errors). This SPP bug makes it impossible to connect to a Bluetooth SPP device. If you experience this problem we recommend rebooting your phone, to restart Bluetooth manually or to instruct BluePiano to restart the Bluetooth service automatically. Please note that until now no reliable solution to this problem is available.

General Options

User Manual
Link to this blog-post.
YouTube videos
Link to TEC-IT’s YouTube channel.
License Check
Checks and displays your current license for BluePiano.
About
Displays copyright and credits for 3rd party software.

Feedback Please!

Feedback and feature requests are highly welcome. Just contact TEC-IT.

Create vCard Business Cards with QR-Codes

2010-12-15T13:53:00.000+01:00

How to Create vCard Business Cards with Barcode Studio

Some users of Barcode Studio are unsure regarding the correct data format for creating barcodes for so-called 2D code business cards.
Such an "electronic” business card encodes the contact data in a QR-Code or a Data Matrix symbol. These codes can be scanned with your smartphone. The business card data is recognized automatically, you will never need to key in contact data manually! Most camera-equipped mobile phones are able to decode QR-Codes on such business cards (Data Matrix is not in common use until now).

The example outlined in this post contains vCard sample data (.xls and .csv files) and a setting file for Barcode Studio. This settings file (*.BCS) can be used immediately to create premium quality QR-Codes with Barcode Studio.

Creating a vCard Data Format

A vCard barcode must follow certain rules, the different elements of a business cards (e.g. the phone number) are tagged with prefixes. Some sample prefixes:

Begin of vCard data: begin: vcard
Name on card: n:
Telephone number: Tel:
Email address: Email:
End of vCard data: end: vcard

Please ensure the accurate order of the single data elements! Refer to Wikipedia to get a list of available property prefixes and more information about the vCard format.

Step by Step: Create your own QR-Code Business Cards

Follow the steps to create your QR-Codes. Use the included sample files to see how the data is encoded:

Download and unzip the example specified below.
Use Microsoft Excel to enter your vCard data in the sample Excel file. Separate the data elements with a new-line. Enter a new-line by pressing "Alt" + "Enter" simultaneously in a cell.
Export your data as CSV file.
Start Barcode Studio and open the settings file (*.BCS).
Importing your CSV file: Choose the "Datalist" tab and click the "Import" button. Ensure the correct import settings as shown in the screenshot. In most cases you should use the Field Separator comma (,) and the Text Qualifier ("). If this doesn't work, please check the generated CSV file.
Now export your QR-Codes.

Import Settings

Free Sample File Download
In order to use the sample files make sure you are using the current version of Barcode Studio.

If you have any questions just contact TEC-IT via email or give us a call (++43 (0)7252 72720).

Web Printing Service for Barcode Labels and Supplier Labeling

2010-10-26T21:57:00.004+02:00

New Web-based Label Printing System

TEC-IT introduces a new 100% browser-based printing system for industry forms and barcode labels. Users of TFORMer Online now create and print arbitrary labels and forms completely independent from label printing software or operating systems. Variable label data is entered manually directly in the browser or imported from an online database (Google Gocs™ spreadsheets). Output is created as PDF and can be printed on any printer.

Print Labels Anywhere and Anytime

With TFORMer Online you establish a distributed label printing system easily. Share label printing functionality with partners, suppliers and customers. The system works with all browsers on all operating systems, local software installation is not required and label design efforts are eliminated completely. Ready-to-use label templates for VDA-4902, MAT labels, Odette, Galia ETI-9, AIAG B-10, GS1 GTL, Caterpillar shipping parts identification and others are available for immediate use.

Supports Google Docs™ Online Spreadsheets

It's your choice! Create the labels with manually entered data or import variable label data stored in Google Docs™ spreadsheets. Google Docs™ is a free online service provided by Google. It enables you to maintain spreadsheets completely in your browser and provides convenient table-based data entry. Entered data is stored automatically online, there is no need to re-enter values for future printing sessions. In order to use Google Docs™ as database for TFORMer Online you need a Google account.

Evaluate TFORMer Online Now

Try this new web printing service for free or watch this video for an overview:

TFORMer Online is the perfect online printing solution:

for distributed label printing requirements,
for establishing a supplier labeling system
if standardized label quality must be provided to partners, suppliers and customers,
if your printing volume does not justify special purpose software,
for eliminating time consuming label design efforts,
for automated label and PDF creation as part of your online system (e.g. via web services),
and for label printing on all operating systems.

Interested? Please contact TEC-IT for pricing, integration possibilities and guidelines.

GetBlue Bluetooth SPP Problems: Android Troubleshooting

2010-09-29T19:48:00.002+02:00

Bluetooth SPP Data Acquisition

GetBlue is an Android App which captures data from a data-source (Bluetooth SPP, TCP and Camera Scanners) and forwards the collected data to an adjustable data-sink (TCP, HTTP, File, Display, Online Spreadheets provided by Google Docs, GetBlue virtual keyboard). Data collection is done completely in the background.

Bluetooth SPP Connection Problems

Recently some users reported problems when using Bluetooth SPP (Serial Port Profile) devices with GetBlue: A Bluetooth SPP device can be paired without problems but GetBlue is unable to connect to it.

A Possible Solution

In order to avoid the connection problems please do the following in EXACTLY the given order:

a) Disable all GetBlue functions: Set datasink to "None", do NOT use keyboard output and deactivate the GetBlue keyboard in Android settings (required only if previously enabled).
b) Reboot the phone
c) Enable Bluetooth
d) Pair the Bluetooth device with your handset (Android settings)
e) Start GetBlue
f) Adjust datasource - select the device just paired
g) Press start in GetBlue

Background

The reason for this nasty behavior is a buggy Bluetooth implementation in the firmware of the handsets. HTC Desire, HTC Legend, HTC Wildfire, SonyEricson X10, Samsung Galaxy S and possibly more models are affected.
Google G1, G2 and Motorola Milestone work perfectly.

Please let us know your smart-phone model if you are experiencing this bug. We will update the list above accordingly.

Barcode Scanner Keyboard for Android

2010-09-01T16:48:00.016+02:00

Type Or Scan Barcode Keyboard

Barcode Keyboard - A new Android Productivity Tool from TEC-IT!

This soft-keyboard offers integrated camera scanner support. Using this keyboard you are able to scan barcodes directly with any app! Application switching or copy/paste is no longer required!

After the application was installed, this Barcode Keyboard can be activated in Android Settings -- Language / keyboard.
Once activated you are still able to key-in text manually using the hardware or software-keyboard of your Droid. But whenever you need to enter the data of a barcode (e.g. an EAN or UPC product code, a QR-Code, ...) just press the barcode key or long press the num/alpha modifier. A camera scanner app (at least one installed camera scanner app is required) is opened, the barcode is decoded and the Barcode Keyboard enters the barcode data automatically into the current input field. No manual typing is required.

User Manual

NEW: A complete and updated user manual in German and English is available on TEC-IT's web site!

Enable Barcode Keyboard

After installing Barcode Keyboard from Android Market (Market link: market://search?q=pname:com.tecit.android.barcodekbd.demo) you need to enable the keyboard on your Droid (the keyboard must be activated too, see below!):

Navigate to Android Settings -- Language / keyboard
Check Barcode Keyboard and confirm the security warning

Barcode Keyboard Settings

Data Prefix
Using the placeholders ${ENTER}, ${TAB}, ${BACKSPACE}, ${DOWN}, ${UP}, ${LEFT} and ${RIGHT} you can control the cursor or input focus before the barcode data is inserted into the input field of the current app.
Data Suffix
Use the same placeholders as above to control the cursor or input focus after the barcode data is inserted into the input field of the current app.
Camera Scanner
If you prefer to select the camera scanner to be used each time, select Always ask. If a specific app is selected, the software always uses exactly this camera scanner app without asking.
Search Key Function
This entry specifies the action when the hardware search key is pressed (this key is usually marked with a magnifier symbol, it is also available on the hardware keyboard of a Motorola Droid/Milestone or Google G1): Scan Barcode Now immediately opens the camera scanner when this key is pressed (you do not need to activate the soft-keyboard beforehand). In this case the search key acts as hotkey for barcode scanning.
Choose Do Nothing if you do not want to change the default behaviour of the standard search key.

Activate the Barcode Keyboard

Open some app which uses a text input field (e.g. Gmail, then Compose a new email).
Long-tap in some input field like To
A menu opens, select Input method
Choose Camera Keyboard

90 Seconds Video Demonstration

Update Available (V0.3 - 11/09/2010)

The updated version of the bar code keyboard supports the following keyboard layouts (The layout of the barcode keyboard is automatically adjusted to the system settings):

English
German - new
French - new
Russian - new
Swedish - new

In addition the placeholders ${ENTER}, ${TAB}, ${BACKSPACE}, ${DOWN}, ${UP}, ${LEFT} and ${RIGHT} can now be abbreviated with ${E}, ${T}, ${B}, ${D}, ${U}, ${L} and ${R}. You can specify a multiplier immediately after the placeholder (e.g. ${E5}). This instructs the barcode keyboard to simulate the specified key n times (5 times Enter key in the example above).

Feedback Please!

Feedback and feature requests are highly welcome. Just contact TEC-IT.

P.S.: TEC-IT offers also another Android App named GetBlue. This app provides automated data collection and data entry for all apps. Connects to TCP RFID and Bluetooth SPP barcode scanners!

Software for Printing Shipping Labels: VDA, AIAG, GS1, Caterpillar, ...

2010-08-29T09:37:00.023+02:00

Labeling Software Update

The recently updated barcode label printing and reporting software TFORMer Designer offers numerous templates for standard industry labels. These label templates eliminate label design efforts completely, they can be printed immediately with data provided by the user.

TFORMer Designer solves labeling requirements in an elegant way, just watch the following videos and learn in 90 seconds how easy compliance labeling can be:

HD-Video / English

HD-Video / German

Supported Label Templates (Partial)

AIAG B10 Master Label
AIAG B10 Mixed Label
AIAG B15 5 Inch Label
AIAG B15 7 Inch
AIAG B3
AIAG B5
AIAG Daimler Chrysler B10 Freightliner
AIAG Daimler Chrysler B10 Master
AIAG Daimler Chrysler B10 Mixed Load
AIAG Daimler Chrysler B10
Galia Label
Galia Galia Licence Plate
Galia Galia Renault
General Motors GM 1724 A
General Motors GM 1724 A KLT
General Motors GM 1724 B
General Motors GM 1724 C
General Motors GM GTL
General Motors GM GTL KLT
Global Transport Label GM GTL
Global Transport Label GM GTL KLT
Global Transport Label GTL BeloM
Global Transport Label GTL BeloM A6
Global Transport Label GTL BeloM KLT
Global Transport Label GTL Master Detail
Global Transport Label GTL Mixed Detail
MAT Datamatrix Label 100x40
MAT Datamatrix Label 110x40
MAT Datamatrix Label 120x60
MAT Datamatrix Label 70x48
MAT PDF417 Label 100x40
MAT PDF417 Label 120x60
MAT PDF417 Label 50x30
Odette Label
Siemens VDO Label
VDA Belom 4902 KLT
VDA Belom 4902
VDA 4902
VDA 4902 KLT
VDA 4902 Stahl
VDA 4902 Version 3 4
VDA 4902 Version 4
VDA 4906
VDA 4912
VDA 4922
VDA 4931
VDA 4939 Sendungsbeleg
VDA 4939 Transportbeleg
VDA 4994
GS1 Logistic Label Non standard heterogeneous
GS1 Logistic Label Non standard homogenous fixed
GS1 Logistic Label Non standard homogenous variable
GS1 Logistic Label Standard heterogeneous
GS1 Logistic Label Standard homogenous fixed
GS1 Logistic Label Standard homogenous one piece
GS1 Logistic Label Standard homogenous variabel
MIL-STD-129P MSL Generic Cargo
MIL-STD-129P MSL Unit Move
Caterpillar Master Pack Label
Caterpillar Mixed Load Label
Caterpillar Single Pack Label
Volkswagen VW GTL DE
Volkswagen VW VDA 4939 Sendungsbeleg
Volkswagen VW VDA 4939 Transportbeleg
etc

Free Download and Support

Test TFORMer Designer for free, download the demo version today (no registration required). In case of questions contact TEC-IT, support is available via email, phone and WebEx remote conferencing.

TBarCode/Embedded Update: Barcode Filter for SEH ISD400/ISD410 Appliances

2010-08-27T10:31:00.009+02:00

Centralized, zero-maintenance bar code printing solution for your network!

From today a new version of the barcode print server solution TBarCode/Embedded for SEH ISD400 / ISD410 Print Spool Appliances is available for download.

The bar code generator software extends the ISD Print Spool Appliances from SEH with complete barcode printing functionality for PostScript- and PCL compatible printers.

Key advantages:

Centralized bar-code printing solution
Extensive bar code support (linear, 2D, Postal and GS1 DataBar Composite Barcodes) - based on TBarCode/X V9
Easy installation
Minimal maintenance
Seamless ISD integration
Complete printer independence
No Linux know-how required
Operates as spool filter
Works completely transparent to applications
Works with arbitrary ERP and legacy systems

Download TBarCode/Embedded for ISD400 / ISD410

Video: Android Bluetooth SPP Connectivity for All Apps

2010-08-23T18:04:00.004+02:00

TEC-IT released a short video on YouTube which demonstrates the use of the Bluetooth Reader GetBlue.

You will learn how to configure GetBlue in order to be used as Bluetooth software wedge. The Bluetooth barcode scanner must be paired with your Android handset, then it is adjusted as input device for GetBlue. As data-sink (the target application for the scanned data) the GetBlue Keyboard is selected. Using this configuration it is possible to inject captured barcode scanner data as virtual user input into each application.

See for yourself:

GetBlue acts as "middleware" between hardware and apps. Thus, each (legacy) Bluetooth bar code scanner supporting the serial port profile can be used.

The video quality is satisfying - but far away from perfect. We will produce a HD video with sound in the near future. In the meantime we are awaiting your video comments!

Many thanks!

Video: How to use Bluetooth Barcode Scanners with Android

New Barcode Maker Software: Barcode Studio V10

2010-08-05T14:26:00.000+02:00

The new version of TEC-IT Barcode Studio - the popular barcode maker software for Windows, Mac OS X and Linux or UNIX - is to be released shortly!

Barcode Studio V10 introduces bar code standard compliance by providing pre-defined barcode templates. If such a barcode template is selected, Barcode Studio loads all settings and presents the user a bar code image which meets all requirements of the respective standard. After the required bar code data was entered the barcode can be saved immediately as bitmap or vector image file. No parameters need to be adjusted, no barcode know how is required.

Currently 45 bar code templates are part of Barcode Studio:

Deutsche Post Premiumadress
Deutsche Post Pressepost Etikett
Deutsche Post Pressepost Randbeschriftung
EAN 13 (SC0, SC1, SC2, ..., SC8, SC9)
SCn denotes the sizing mode of the bar code, EAN 13 SC0 stands for 82% of the default symbol size, the resulting symbol dimension is 30.51 x 21.25 mm
EAN 8 (SC0, SC1, SC2, ..., SC8, SC9)
UPC A (SC0, SC1, SC2, ..., SC8, SC9)
UPC E (SC0, SC1, SC2, ..., SC8, SC9)

Additional improvements:

New barcodes
Barcode Studio now supports QR-Code 2005. This code is similar to QR-Code but uses the code page Latin1 (instead of Japanese Shift JIS) for character conversions. In addition, the two barcode-types SCANPAY Service-ID and SCANPAY Transaction-ID were implemented.
Persistent options
Program options (Menu: Tools -> Options) are now saved in (and loaded from) an options file.
Improved Character Conversion
Barcode Studio displays an error message if the data to be encoded cannot be converted to the specified code page. This is especially useful for encoding Simplified Chinese (or similar languages) in QR-Codes.
Check for Updates
Barcode Studio can now check for newer version. Use the following menu command: Help -> Check for Updates...

Pricing, detailed descriptions and free downloads are available shortly from TEC-IT.

Online Barcode Generator 2.0

2010-08-05T11:37:00.002+02:00

A few days ago TEC-IT published the updated version of the free online bar code generator. The user interface was revised completely and support for complex MECARD/VCARD business card barcodes as well as calendar barcodes was added.

This online barcode generator provides a very fast and responsive user interface utilizing some AJAX features. TBarCode SDK (a barcode generator software component developed and distributed by TEC-IT) is used on server-side for all barcode creation tasks.

Users are able to browse a list of supported barcode categories. Currently the categories linear barcodes, 2D bar codes, EAN / UPC, GS1 DataBar, ISBN bar codes, Postal codes, 2D codes for mobile tagging, MECARD and VCARD barcodes and calendar barcodes are available.

After selecting the required barcode symbology the barcode image is displayed immediately. Barcode parameters like module width and output resolution are adjustable. The created bar code images can be downloaded in various image formats.

The above mentioned MECARD and VCARD barcodes provide some very interesting possibilties: These 2D barcode formats are able to encode all contact details of a business card (e.g. name, address, phone number, url, ...). When scanned with a smart-phone camera scanner (e.g. iPhone or Android devices) the contact details are detected and added to the address book.

Finally so-called calendar barcodes (event barcodes) can be created online. Just enter the details of some event (description, start and end time), create the barcode, scan it with your smartphone - and voilá - a new calender entry is available (works fine with ZXing camera scanner on Android).

Just try it yourself: 2D Bar Code Generator

Barcode Label Printing Software - New TFORMer Version

2010-07-30T06:00:00.016+02:00

Barcode label printing and reporting software TFORMer Designer - Service Pack 2 is available! SP2 integrates a huge number of enhancements, feature updates and bug fixes - download the release candidates!

Label Software TFORMer Designer - English
Label Software TFORMer Designer - German

Whats New?

New Compliance Label Templates

Caterpillar® Shipping/Parts Identification Labels
MAT Labels
2D-Code Business Cards

New Features

New Start Screen
New Label Wizard
Serial Numbers
Computed Fields
TAB support
Edit Field Contents
Print Preview
Data Sources
Date Functions

CDateEx()
IsDate()
AddYears()
AddMonths()
AddWeeks()
AddDays()
CDate()

Improved Layout Editor

Mass Printing - Print Dialog

The maximum page number in the print dialog was increased from 9999 to 999999.

Bar Codes

Additional bar codes like QR Code 2005 are supported. The bar code printing method via Windows printer drivers is now adjustable. Rare problems with the high-precision method (used by previous TFORMer version) can now be avoided (see Extras->Options->Barcodes).

ODBC Memo/Text Fields

ODBC Interface now supports Memo and Text Fields. BLOBs are still ignored.

Picture Components: Image-Type recognition

If the Image-Type can not be determined by using the file extension, the binary data of the image is now analyzed. This allows the usage of HTTP-streams as image sources.

Setup: Backup of custom templates

Existing templates are now backed up in the folder Templates_Backup during the install. Custom templates are preserved after a reinstall.

Improved Licensing

TFORMer Designer can now be activated online.

TFORMer SDK (core)

Improved Error Descriptions
Tray-Selection

Bug-Fixes

Printer Selection in Tray-Settings Dialog
JPEG Compression
PDF output truncates text
PDF with Chinese fonts
ODBC Memo/Text/Blob Datafields
Image-Printer: Distorted Text
Expression Editor
Other Bug Fixes

Your Feedback Please!

Feedback and feature requests are welcome: http://www.tec-it.com

How to Print Barcode Labels with Microsoft Word

2010-07-04T08:43:00.002+02:00

Printing labels with Microsoft Word 2007 (or 2010) is quite easy. All you have to do is to select the label template, adjust the recipient list (the database used for the variable label data) and to design the layout.

But if you want to print bar-code labels it may get a little bit trickier. Earlier versions of Microsoft Word (pre 2007) offered bar-code support for POSTNET and FIM codes. But even this limited barcode printing feature was removed by Microsoft.

To overcome this restriction TEC-IT developed a professional but easy-to-use bar-code solution for Microsoft Word. The barcode add-in TBarCode Office integrates into the Word user interface and provides seamless bar-code printing services.

The initial release of this barcode add-in supported simple barcode documents and mail merge with barcodes. The pre-release available for download on this blog offers barcode label printing support in addition. Mail merge documents using the «Next Record» rule can now be printed without problems.

Check it out for yourself - ~~pre-release~~ download the release! TBarCode Office - Barcode Add-In for Microsoft Word (updated 07/21/2010)

Feedback is highly welcome!

Android Bluetooth Reader, Keyboard Wedge

2010-06-30T06:18:00.001+02:00

In the past few months TEC-IT developed an Android App for data acquisition with Bluetooth and TCP. The good feedback of the Android community motivated us to further enhance this app. The result: an universal data acquisition app including keyboard wedge functionality.

The app is named GetBlue. The final version is available as slightly restricted freeware as well as commercial application. Here are the highlights:

Android Keyboard Wedge / Virtual Keyboard:
Captured device data can be entered into any application.
Supported Input Devices:
Bluetooth SPP/RFCOMM, TCP (e.g. RFID controllers), HTTP applications and camera scanners apps like the ZXing Barcode Scanner.
Supported Data-Sinks:
Bluetooth SPP/RFCOMM, plain TCP, HTPP via Get and Post, Google Docs Spreadsheets, File.
Data Acquisition Proxy / Data Switchboard:
Acquired data can be forwarded to any supported data-sink.

Universal Data Acquisition App

Use GetBlue like an universal data switchboard: capture data from a data-source and forward it to an arbitrary data-sink. As an example you can adjust GetBlue to collect data from a Bluetooth barcode scanner and forward this data immediately to a Google Docs spreadsheet (refer to the drawing).

What is a Virtual Keyboard?

A virtual keyboard replaces the standard soft-keyboard of Android. Captured data is always made available to this virtual keyboard. Thus, data acquired from a Bluetooth barcode scanner or an RFID tag can be entered into any application which is accepting user input. This works completely independent from the selected datasource and the target app.

Call for Requests!

The internals of GetBlue are very simply to extend (e.g. new protocols, new devices, ...). Just let us know your requirements. Whenever possible we will provide you with a solution. Leave us a comment or send an email to office@tec-it.com.

Free Trial!

Install GetBlue using Android Market on your handset. Search for GetBlue manually or use this link: market://search?q=pname:com.tecit.datareader.android.getblue.demo.

We are looking forward to hearing from you!

Barcode Add-In for Microsoft Office - Major Update!

2010-06-15T23:12:00.002+02:00

As of today (06/15/2010) TEC-IT released the extended version of the barcode add-in TBarCode Office.

The current version of TBarCode Office offers seamless barcode integration in Word and Excel. In both Office products the barcode add-in is operated via an easy-to-use and self-explanatory barcode panel. Even untrained users are able to insert and parameterize the barcodes using this panel.

These are the highlights:

Seamless Excel and Word integration
Unmatched barcode support (more than 100 linear and 2D codes)
Single or multiple barcodes in Word documents oder Excel spreadsheets
Serial letter / mail merge support for Microsoft Word
Dynamic barcodes in Excel via linked cells.
Creating barcode lists in Excel with a single click
For Office 2007 and Office 2010, both 32- and 64 bit Microsoft Windows / Microsoft Office are supported

Just check it out! Free demo download - TBarCode Office - Barcode Add-In for Microsoft Office

Automated Data Acquisition for Android - Update

2010-06-05T15:10:00.004+02:00

TEC-IT (http://www.tec-it.com) published version 0.7 of the Android data acquisition app GetBlue!

GetBlue captures device data and saves this data directly to a local file, to a Google Spreadsheet or forwards it to adjustable HTTP/TCP data logging servers. Bi-directional communication is supported, server responses as well as manually entered data can be sent to the connected device.

Currently the following devices are supported:

Any Bluetooth device supporting the Serial Port Profile (SPP, RFCOMM),
Any TCP/IP device (IP-Address/Port combination),
And new in this version: any installed camera barcode scanner (e.g. the ZXing camera barcode scanner, cyrket market information)

Currently GetBlue is available as freeware - the manual data acquisition functions are available unlimited. Automated data acquisition functionality (like uploading captured data to a TCP data logger) are slightly restricted. All data collection parameters are adjustable by the user via the Settings dialog. The data-source, the target server, various data capturing parameters like time-outs, retries, data packet size, etc. are adjustable.

Android owners are using GetBlue for a variety of functions:

Testing app for serial Bluetooth devices
Automated data collection
Simple TCP debugger
Bluetooth tester for Android 1.5/1.6 or higher

TEC-IT continues to enhance and extend the app. Every feedback from users is highly welcome. Check out the current version for yourself: Android Market Link (install it directly from the Android Market using your handset).

Barcode Printing for Microsoft Word and Excel? Solved!

2010-06-02T20:36:00.007+02:00

A few weeks ago TEC-IT (http://www.tec-it.com) released the first version of the barcode add-in TBarCode Office. This initial release enabled Microsoft Word users to create and print more than 100 different bar code symbologies in documents and serial letters.

Update:

The update of TBarCode Office now supports Microsoft Excel in addition. Using barcodes with spreadsheets is just a matter of seconds, users benefit from the tightly integrated, convenient barcode task-pane.

Highlights:

Seamless Excel and Word integration
Unmatched barcode support
Serial letters and mailings
Single and multiple barcodes
For Office 2007 and 2010
Supports both 32- and 64 bit Microsoft Windows / Microsoft Office

TBarCode Office is the most advanced barcode add-in available on the market: it is very simple to use and provides all bar-code tuning options for professional applications!

~~Pre-Release Download:~~ Final version as of 06/15/2010: Barcode Office Add-In TBarCode Office

Feedback is highly welcome!

Generate Free Barcodes on barcode.tec-it.com

2010-05-31T09:54:00.003+02:00

TEC-IT's free online barcode generator was relocated recently. The new URL for this convenient service is now http://barcode.tec-it.com.

The online barcode generator currently supports approximately 60 different barcode symbologies. Among them are:

Linear barcodes (like EAN, UPC, Code39, Code128, ....)
2D-codes (QR-Code, Data Matrix, Aztec Code, PDF417, MaxiCode, ...)
Postal barcodes (USPS PostNet, Intelligent Mail barcode, Royal Mail 4 State, Australian Mail Postal Code, ...)
GS1 DataBar (GS1 DataBar Stacked, GS1 DataBar Limited, GS1 DataBarExpanded, ITF14, GTIN, ...)
ISBN, ISMN, ISSN codes (Barcodes for books, periodicals and media)

Important bar-code parameters like the module width, the output resolution of the barcode image and finally the image type are freely adjustable.

Just check it out! Free Online Barcode Generator

P.S.: If you have special requirements or enhancements requests just let us know: support@tec-it.com.

Save Costs: Barcode Printing Software for SUN Solaris

2010-05-21T19:57:00.010+02:00

Save costs with TEC-ITs barcode software solution!

BLG LOGISTICS uses our barcode generator software TBarCode/X on SUN Solaris for electronic invoice delivery. The postal service is replaced through a digital solution. The barcodes guarantee that all documents are assigned to the correct invoice. Numerous automobile manufacturers benefit from this economical and automated solution.

BLG LOGISTICS stands for international networks in the area of automobile, contract and container logistics. The company provides more than 15.000 jobs worldwide.

Free Online Barcode Generator - Choose from 60 Barcodes!

2010-05-21T07:58:00.004+02:00

The popular free online barcode generator of TEC-IT got another upgrade! The list of supported bar codes was recently extended with the following symbologies:

ISBN (barcodes for books, International Standard Book Number)
ISSN (barcodes for periodicals, International Standard Serial Number)
ISMN (barcode type for media like CD and DVD, International Standard Music Number)

In total TEC-IT's online bar code service creates 60 different barcode symbologies. To name just a few of them: Code 128, Code 2 of 5 Interleaved, Code 39, Code 93, EAN, UPC, EAN/UCC 128, GS1 DataBar, Pharmacode, USPS PostNet, Royal Mail 4 State, Aztec, CodablockF, DataMatrix, MaxiCode, MicroPDF417, PDF417, QRCode, MicroQR, etc.

Barcodes are generated as raster image with adjustable resolution. Just select the required symbology, enter the bar code data and generate your code! This service is completely free, no registration is required - all you need is your browser!

Besides this, the barcode generator is available in the following languages:

Chinese - 免费在线生成条码
English - Generate Free Barcodes Online
German Strichcodes online erstellen! Kostenlos!
Italian - Genera gratis codici a barre online
Spanish - ¡Cree gratis códigos de barras online!
Russian - Бесплатный онлайн генератор штрих-кода
Turkish - Barkodu canli üretin! Bedava!
French - Créer des codes barres en ligne!! Gratuit!

Try it yourself - online barcode generator!

Complex Invoice Form created with TFORMer

2010-05-19T16:48:00.005+02:00

TFORMer can be used to create complex invoices with two or more tables on one page filled with different data. This is controled by pre- and post evaluations during printing.

Please contact us if you're interested in such a form: support@tec-it.com

Mobile Data Acquisition Software Update: TWedgeCE V2.1.0

2010-05-18T14:10:00.017+02:00

As from today an service update of our Mobile Data Acquisition Software (Mobile Software Wedge) TWedge V2.1.0 is available for download.

New in TWedgeCE V2.1.0

Hot key support
TWedgeCE now supports hot keys.
Automatic screen orientation
Depending on the screen orientation (portrait or landscape) TWedgeCE will automatically switch to the correct dialog layout.

Download TWedgeCE V2.1.0 Update

Juniper Systems adds TWedgeCE to its reference list of wedge software.

Using Word 2007 Barcode Add-In on Windows XP

2010-05-17T13:18:00.010+02:00

Consider this tip if the barcode add-in TBarCode Office fails on Windows XP and Word 2007.
Most likely you need to install the Primary Interop Assemblies (PIA) manually. These assemblies can be downloaded as an extra package from Microsoft: Primary Interop Assemblies
Install PIA, then start Microsoft Word 2007 and open the Word Options.

Switch to "Add-Ins", select "Manage: COM Add-ins" and click on "Go...". In the "COM Add-ins" dialog mark "TEC-IT TBarCode Office (Word Add-In)" and confirm the dialog with OK.

After restarting MS Word the Add-Ins tab will appear and the TBarCode Office Add-In will be available.

Bluetooth Data Acquisition with Android

2010-04-27T17:45:00.003+02:00

UPDATE: Bluetooth/TCP Reader GetBlue for Android™

TEC-IT (http://www.tec-it.com) published version 0.5 of GetBlue!

GetBlue is a smart application which communicates with Bluetooth and TCP/IP devices. The new version supports bi-directional device communication.

In addition to its simple TELNET like functionality, GetBlue captures serial Bluetooth (SPP/RFCOMM) or TCP data, displays it in a log window and forwards the collected data to an arbitrary server application. Data forwarding works even in the background or when changing screen orientation. Manually entered user data or server responses are sent then back to the device.

All important communication parameters are adjustable: GetBlue can easily be configured to capture Bluetooth barcode data and forward it to a web-application via

HTTP GET requests
HTTP Post requests
Plain TCP sockets

In addition it can be adjusted whether server responses should be sent back to the device. Using these features GetBlue can be configured for automated data acquisition or working as TCP/Bluetooth proxy. Bi-directional communication scenarios like the following are covered with the free demo version:

The Android device captures barcodes with a Bluetooth barcode scanner
GetBlue forwards the scanned barcodes to your server application
The server responds - for example - with a status code (like data accepted or data not accepted)
GetBlue sends the server-respone back to the barcode scanner

Give it a try - Android Market Link.

Note: The free demo version replaces forwarded data sometimes with a demo text. All other features are completely unrestricted.

NEW PRODUCT: Barcode Add-In for Word 2007/2010

2010-04-26T18:03:00.010+02:00

Good News for Microsoft Word Users!

TEC-IT (http://www.tec-it.com) announces its brand new bar-code add-in for Microsoft Word. Using bar-codes in Word documents, serial letters and mail merges was never easier!

After TBarCode Office was installed, a new task pane is available in Microsoft Word. In this task-pane you simply select the required barcode symbology (all barcodes are supported by this add-in: linear barcodes, 2D codes, GS1 DataBar codes, postal codes), enter the data to be encoded (or assign the mail merge fields) and click "Insert Barcode". That's all!

The basic barcode options can be adjusted in the barcode pane directly. More advanced options like bar width reduction, font colors, human readable text, international code page setting, etc. are also adjustable. Just check out the tutorial video to get an impression.

TBarCode Office is very simple to use AND provides all bar-code tuning options for advanced applications. This combination makes TBarCode Office the most advanced barcode add-in available on the market!

Try it yourself: Download Barcode Office Add-In TBarCode Office

Works with Microsoft Wird 2007 and Microsoft Word 2010 on Windows XP (SP2) or higher!

Awaiting your feedback!

Direct 2D barcode printing for SAP® ERP

2010-04-12T18:53:00.011+02:00

The new version of TBarCode/Direct V2.2 supports now UPS® MaxiCode™.

TBarCode/Direct is a smart, platform independent barcode printing solution for SAP® ERP, SAP® R/3® and mySAP® ERP. This bar code software works completely without any middleware and can be used with all PostScript® enabled printers!

The main advantage - TBarCode/Direct is installed within the SAP system only: No additional software, no system level installation and no additional hardware is required.

Read more about our SAP 2D Barcode Printing Solution.

Printing Barcodes with SQL Reporting Services: TBarCode .NET

2010-04-09T10:58:00.000+02:00

TEC-IT published a PDF document which outlines the usage of TBarCode SDK as barcode generator for SQL reporting services.

The .NET barcode class which is contained in the TBarCode SDK can be integrated seamlessly into MS SQL reporting services. Just a few lines of .NET code are needed to enhance a report with full bar code printing services for linear barcodes, 2D codes and GS1 DataBar symbologies.

Check out the document Printing Barcodes with MS SQL Reporting Services. A sample report including source code is available in the download section of TBarCode (Microsoft Visual Studio required).

TCP and Bluetooth Reader for Android™

2010-03-31T19:10:00.003+02:00

TEC-IT joined the Android™ Community!

TEC-IT (http://www.tec-it.com) published GetBlue - its first free App for Android smartphones!

GetBlue is a smart application which communicates with Bluetooth and TCP/IP devices. The user is able to connect to arbitrary Bluetooth devices supporting the Serial Port Profile (SPP), receive and display device data immediately and finally to send manually entered data or control commands to the device. In addition to Bluetooth SPP GetBlue supports connectivity via TCP sockets.

We encourage you to give it a try! GetBlue is completely free and is intended as debugging/testing tool for Android users. When browsing the Android Market with your handset just search for the term GetBlue!

The screen-shot shows barcode data scanned with a Bluetooth barcode scanner paired with a Google G1. GetBlue is available for Android 1.5, 1.6, 2.0 or higher. It was tested with Google G1 and Motorola Milestone/Motorola Droid. For more information get in touch with us - visit www.tec-it.com.

UPDATE 09/04/2010:
We just released an update with the following new features:
- Save to File (save received device data to an arbitrary text file)
- Copy to Clipboard
- No more demo dialogs, this version of GetBlue is completely unlimited (and still free).

Barcode Software Update: TBarCode V9.3.5

2010-03-30T17:48:00.003+02:00

As from today an update of the TBarCode Barcode SDK (including a Barcode ActiveX, Barcode DLL and .NET Barcode Assembly) is available. It fixes a bug concerning the check digit calculation in Telepen / Telepen Alpha.

Many thanks to SB Electronic Systems Ltd. (www.telepen.co.uk) for reporting!

Download TBarCode V9.3.5 Update

Free QR-Code Badge for Web-Masters

2010-03-24T10:38:00.002+01:00

Interested in adding a "Create QR-Code Badge" to your web-site? If yes - please read on!

TEC-IT has enhanced it's bookmarking and sharing add-on for web-sites. Besides the "traditional" sharing services for Facebook, Twitter, Digg, StumpleUpon, SlashDot etc. this web-control now generates and displays a QR-Code encoding the URL of interest.

Such an URL QR-Code can be read with camera-equipped smartphones. The bar code decoder application on the phone forwards the user to this URL immediately - without keying in the URL manually. The bar code looks cool and can be shared via email, via MMS, by embedding it into arbitrary artwork - or simply by printing it.

Get in touch with us if you are interested in this QR-Code Badge. It will be available for free if you provide a backlink to www.tec-it.com.

TBarCode: Barcodes for Office 2010

2010-03-17T14:21:00.008+01:00

TEC-IT confirms the compatibility of the barcode generator TBarCode with Office 2010.

Just check out the screenshots!

The tests were performed on Windows 7 x64 with the German and English beta builds for Office 2010. TBarCode integrates seamlessly into

Word 2010
Excel 2010
Access 2010
etc.

Besides this, TEC-IT software products are compatible with all current Microsoft Windows versions (Windows 2000, XP, Vista, Seven, Server 2003 and Server 2008). 32 Bit as well as 64 bit systems are supported.

If you need more information just get in touch with us - www.tec-it.com.

QR-Code Generator on Facebook

2010-03-16T14:43:00.001+01:00

The time has come - QR-Codes will be really in the wild in a few days.

As of today Facebook offered a QR-Code generator feature for each page. Below the page logo a link enabled the user to create a QR-Code image encoding the URI of the facebook page. It was also possible to download the QR code as PDF, but I was not able to try it.
The mentioned features were online for a few hours until they disappeared. But I assume QR-codes will be an integrated part of facebook in the very near future.

For Japanese people, insiders and interested people around the world QR-codes and their amazing capabilities (mobile tagging, mobile marketing, geotagging, ticketing, advertising, and so on) are well known. But for the broad public QR codes and their features are still miracles. This will change very very fast, facebook has a huge amount of users and the visibility of the QRCode generator feature is unbeatable.

Quite interesting how this story will develop. Feedback is welcome!

If you need QR-Codes with your personal data create them on www.tec-it.com: Free QR-Code Generator

Create Caterpillar Shipping Labels and MAT Labels for Free

2010-03-15T19:48:00.005+01:00

TEC-IT's free barcode label generator service was recently extended with new industry labels!
Among other compliance labels and industry forms (like VDA 4902 or AIAG labels) this online service now supports creation and printing of

Caterpillar Shipping and Parts Identification Labels
Caterpillar Shipping/Parts Identification Label Standard Practice 2.0
Material Labels - MAT Labels
in use by Bosch, Continental, Hella and Siemens

Free Online Barcode Label Generator

We hope this service is useful for you! Please keep in mind that this service is free for non-commercial use only, please contact us if interested. Customer references for this online label solution are available on www.tec-it.com.

New Mobile Data Acquisition Software from TEC-IT

2010-03-06T23:44:00.003+01:00

Press Release

TEC-IT Datenverarbeitung GmbH (www.tec-it.com) released the new version of its data acquisition software for mobile devices.

The new release of TWedgeCE simplifies mobile data acquisition significantly. This software wedge provides application-independent data collection and data logging features for mobile devices. Once installed and configured, TWedgeCE captures data from arbitrary devices like bar code scanners, readers, RF-ID transponders and ID tags, electronic meters and sensors, balances, scales, weights, gauges and many more.

TWedgeCE forwards the captured device data automatically to target applications by simulating keystrokes. This mobile software wedge extends standard applications like Office Mobile, browser based front-ends and any other system with flexible and affordable data acquisition functionality. There is no need to modify the target applications.

Guenter Kriegl, the CEO of TEC-IT, emphasizes the strengths of TWedgeCE: „The new release of the mobile software wedge offers better interface support. The integration of native Bluetooth and the TCP/UDP server capabilities ensure reliable device connectivity. Besides simple configuration and easy deployment that is exactly what our customers are looking for.“

The new version of TWedgeCE offers unmatched communication capabilities. It collects data from serial (RS232, RS485), USB, TCP/IP, UDP and Bluetooth devices. Network connections may be operated in server- or in client mode. In addition, virtual COM port drivers are no longer required for Bluetooth devices.

On demand, TWedgeCE can be configured to restore lost connections automatically, to send I-am-alive packets, to suppress duplicate data packets and to modify the captured data by applying transformation rules. Numerous automation functions are available: TWedgeCE selects the required input field in the target application automatically, activates or starts applications on demand or simulate function keys based on the captured data.

Programming knowledge is not required for using this software tool. TWedgeCE is installed and configured easily. The complete configuration of TWedgeCE is stored in plain text files; this makes deployment to a large number of mobile devices extremely simple.

The current version of this keyboard software wedge can be downloaded from TEC-IT's Website. TWedgeCE is available for Microsoft Windows CE, Pocket PC, Windows Mobile and Symbol PPT 8800. Other platforms are available on request.

New: QR-Code Business Card Creator - Video

2010-03-02T15:13:00.005+01:00

Today, TEC-IT has launched a new video which explains how to create QR Code business cards - online and for free. In just five steps you get your personal business card.

It's Simple and Easy
Just select a pre-defined business card template, enter your contact data, generate a PDF, print it and scan the bar codes with your the barcode reader of your smartphone (Android, iPhone, Windows Mobile, ...). That's it!

You will never need enter contacts or URLs manually! Most camera-equipped mobile phones are able to decode the QR-Code (meCard, vCard, URL 2D barcodes) on these business cards. Common (and most likely free) bar code reader applications are i-nigma, beetagg, QuickMark, NeoReader, UpCode, Snappr, Camclic, 2d sense, codescan, zxing, optiscan, semacode etc.

Try it and visit TEC-ITs Free Business Card Generator Service!

New: Videos For Data Acquisition Software

2010-02-15T12:14:00.018+01:00

TEC-IT announces the availability of the first product videos for the data acquisition software TWedge.

What is TWedge?
TWedge extends arbitrary databases and applications with flexible real-time data collection. Modifications of the target systems are not required! Use this software wedge with RS232, serial, Bluetooth, USB and TCP/IP interfaces. Captured data is forwarded immediately to databases, applications and ERP systems like SAP R/3. Choose between direct ODBC database access, file access or keystroke simulation (keyboard wedge).

In the first video the usage of the software wedge TWedge is explained.

The second video shows how to use the scripting features of TWedge. The scripting features enable you to modify the device data, to communicate with devices in a bi-directional way, to configure hot-key and timer-based functions and to perform basic user-interactions.

More information about TEC-IT products you will find on our youtube channel TECITSoftware.

Barcode Videos on Youtube - Update

2010-02-02T14:43:00.000+01:00

Hello there!

This is an update regarding the available video playlists for barcode software from TEC-IT on YouTube.

NEW:

Barcode Maker Software (English)

Content:

Five videos demonstrating how to create perfect barcodes with Barcode Studio.

Create Perfect Barcodes Part 1: Barcode Studio User Interface
Create Perfect Barcodes Part 2: EAN-128 with FNC1
Create Perfect Barcodes Part 3: Data Import
Create Perfect Barcodes Part 4: Bar Code Image Export
Create Perfect Barcodes Part 5: Serial Number Generator

EXISTING:

Barcode Label Printing Software (English)

Content:

Tutorial videos for the barcode label printing software TFORMer Designer.

Barcode label printing with TFORMer Designer

Barcode Label Printing Software (German)

Content:

Tutorial videos for barcode label printing software TFORMer Designer.

Barcode-Etikettendruck mit TFORMer Designer

Barcode Generator Component (English)

Content:

Tutorial videos for the bar code generator SDK TBarCode.

Using Barcodes in Microsoft Office / Microsoft Word
Creating Serial Letters with Barcodes

Please check out the TEC-IT Barcode Software channel on YouTube on a regular base. More videos are to be expecied...

Serial (RS232), TCP/IP, USB and Bluetooth Software Wedge

2010-02-02T10:25:00.000+01:00

The service release V2.4 of TWedge (software wedge, keyboard wedge, Bluetooth wedge, TCP wedge) is now available for download. In version 2.4 an issue with failed TCP/IP and Bluetooth connections was fixed.

Check it out! Download Software Wedge.

Software for Mobile Data Acquisition

2010-02-01T15:45:00.013+01:00

TEC-IT released the new version of TWedgeCE - a software wedge for mobile devices.

What is TWedgeCE?

TWedgeCE captures data from external devices and translates them into virtual keystrokes. It acts as middleware between arbitrary data acquisition devices (like scales, gauges, barcode scanners, RFID controllers, etc.) and software applications like Pocket Excel or Mobile Internet Explorer. TWedgeCE operates in the background of the mobile device and can be configured easily via simple configuration files.

Highlights:

Version 2.0 is able to work with devices via the following interfaces:

Serial / RS232
Bluetooth (native Bluetooth, no virtual COM ports required!)
TCP/IP (client mode)
TCP(IP (server mode)
UDP (client mode)

TWedgeCE is able to check device connectivity (I-Am-Alive), it recovers lost connections automatically (this is especially of interest for WLAN or Bluetooth connections) and finally introduces an anti-jitter feature.

Availability:

The mobile software wedge is available for the following platforms:

Pocket PC 2003 SE (Second Edition)
Windows CE 5 / Embedded CE 6 (ARMV4I)
Windows Mobile 5
Windows Mobile 6

Related Software:

Also check out the universal data acquisition software TWedge for Windows operating systems. TWedge offers device connectivity, keystroke simulation, direct database access, direct file access and complete scripting features!

Free Download:

Mobile Software Wedge TWedgeCE, Universal Software Wedge TWedge (for Microsoft Windows)

TFORMer Server Version 6.1 (Beta) Available

2009-12-23T11:21:00.006+01:00

TEC-IT anounces the new TFORMer Server V6.1 for which a beta version is now available.

TFORMer Server is a server based output-solution for reporting and labeling. It includes flexible document design, centralized form management and high quality bar-code support.

New Features, Enhancements in V6.1

Browser based server, printer and job administration through "TFORMer Web Monitor". No DCOM client required!
Integrated job preview by single mouse-click (TFORMer Web Monitor).
Simplified TFORMer Server configuration.

A setup for the new TFORMer Server Version (Beta!) is available on request.

Create Business Cards Online for Free - with QR-Code and DataMatrix!

2009-12-21T17:38:00.013+01:00

TEC-IT has launched a free online business card printing service on www.tec-it.com!

It's Free!

Using this free service the creation of business cards with QR-Code or DataMatrix 2D codes has never been easier!

It's Simple!

Launch the online business card creator from TEC-IT and choose one of the pre-defined business card templates. Now enter your data like name, email-address, phone number, etc. That's all you need - and you will receive a full-colored PDF file which can be printed immediately. QR-Codes - ready for mobile bar-code readers - are included automatically.

It can be Personalized!

If you wish to design your own layout, create it with the label and reporting software TFORMer Designer. Use the free demo version for this purpose (download it here: label design software). If you have finished your layout, send it via email to webmaster@tec-it.com. TEC-IT approves the layout and publishes it for future use.
One note: if you would like to embed your own logo in a business card: Upload your company logo to some picture hosting service (like Picasa) and specify the URL to the logo.

Merry Christmas!

Barcode Video Channels on YouTube

2009-11-18T19:19:00.012+01:00

Hello there!

This post summarizes the available video playlists for barcode software from TEC-IT on YouTube.

Barcode Label Printing Software (English)

Content:

Tutorial videos for TFORMer Designer.

Barcode label printing with TFORMer Designer

Barcode Label Printing Software (German)

Content:

Tutorial videos for TFORMer Designer.

Barcode-Etikettendruck mit TFORMer Designer

Barcode Generator Component (English)

Content:

Tutorial videos for TBarCode.

Using Barcodes in Microsoft Office / Microsoft Word
Creating Serial Letters with Barcodes

Please check out the TEC-IT Barcode Software channel on YouTube on a regular base. More videos are coming soon - we are producing... ;-)

Barcode Generator for SQL Reporting Service

2009-11-11T13:46:00.004+01:00

To generate bar codes (ALL barcodes - meaning linear barcodes, 2D barcodes like DataMatrix and GS1 DataBar codes) all you need is an internet connection. Advantage: no additional software is needed and no Visual Studio is required. The basic idea is to insert an barcode image generated by the online barcode generator of TEC-IT. This barcode generator is customizable via the URL - so it is possible to create each bar-code as required.

1) Create the required barcode using the online barcode generator
2) Scroll down to the section "Free Use of This Barcode Generator". Copy the URL (see screenshot below) into your clipboard:

3) Start the MS SQL Server Report Builder
4) Create a new report
5) Insert a Picture object and change the “Image Source” property to “External” (see screenshot below)

6) Click on the “fx” button to set the URL for the barcode image (see screenshot below)

Function used in the example above:
=”http://www.tec-it.com/online-demos/tbarcode/barcode.aspx?code=Code128&data=” & CStr(Fields!UserName.Value) & "&dpi=96&rotation=0&modulewidth=fit"

This creates an Code128 barcode using our online barcode generator. The data encoded in the barcode is stored in the UserName field:
CStr(Fields!UserName.Value)

7) Close all dialogs with OK

That’s all you need to do to insert barcode functionality to the Microsoft SQL Reporting Service.

Interested?

If you like this method for barcode creation you can use the online barcode generator for free (for non-commercial use only). For commercial users TEC-IT recommends a local barcode server in the companies intranet.

Technorati-Tags: MS SQL Reporting Service,Barcodes,Online Barcode Generator,TEC-IT

TWedge V2.3 Release Candidate

2009-11-11T13:11:00.004+01:00

We are announcing the new version of the data acquisition software / software wedge TWedge.
TWedge is smart middleware which connects to arbitrary devices via RS232 (COM port), Bluetooth (native!) and TCP/IP. The received data is either simulated as keystrokes, stored in a file or saved directly into an ODBC database.

Improvements

0-byte awareness
Previous versions clipped received or transmitted data after an 0x00 in the data stream.
HEX data display
Incoming data can be displayed as HEX string for better debugging
Silent mode
Device data display can now be turned off

Release Candidate Download

Download data acquisition software TWedge (MSI setup file for Windows).

Technorati Tags: Database Wedge,software wedge,keyboard wedge,daq,aidc,barcode wedge,BlueTooth Wedge,Data Collection Software,Data Capture Software,TWedge,TEC-IT

Reading RFID Tags with TWedge

2009-11-09T13:38:00.025+01:00

TEC-IT's data acquisition software TWedge allows an easy implementation of RFID controller protocols. TWedge can be adjusted to communicate with RFID controllers in a bi-directional way. Reading and processing tag identifiers is as easy as reading/writing tag data!

The following TWedge script can be used to read RFID Tag IDs from EMS Datalogic RFID Controllers (utilizing the ABx Fast Protocol).

The following script performs the following functions:
1) Query the RFID controller by pressing the hotkey

2) When data is received test it for a valid response

3) Display data in MessageBox

Try it yourself - Download the software wedge for free! Keep in mind: V2.3 or higher is required!

Global Helper Functions

HEX Conversion

function encodeHex(input) {
    hexOutput = "";
    for (i=0; i < input.length; i++) {
        hexOutput = hexOutput + ' ' + Dec2Hex(input.charCodeAt(i));
    }
    return hexOutput;
}

function encodeDec(input) {
    decOutput = "";
    for (i=0; i < input.length; i++) {
        decOutput = decOutput + ' ' + input.charCodeAt(i);
    }
    return decOutput;
}

function Dec2Hex(Decimal) {
    var hexChars = "0123456789ABCDEF";
    var a = Decimal % 16;
    var b = (Decimal - a)/16;
    hex = "" + hexChars.charAt(b) + hexChars.charAt(a);
    return hex;
}

Test for TAG ID

function IsRFIDTagID (data)
{
 //  0  1  2  3  4  5  6  7  8  9 10 11 12 13 
 // 02 02 00 09 0F E0 04 01 00 35 7F 5E 19 03

 return data.length >= 14
       && data.charCodeAt(0) == 2
       && data.charCodeAt(1) == 2
       && data.charCodeAt(4) == 15;
}

Test for TAG Response

function IsRFIDReadResponse(data)
{
 //  0  1  2  3  4  5  6  7  8  9 10
 // 02 02 00 06 05 31 32 33 34 35 03

 return data.length >= 6
       && data.charCodeAt(0) == 2
       && data.charCodeAt(1) == 2
       && data.charCodeAt(4) == 5;
}

Send RFID READ Request

var escZero = "\\0";
var escBack = "\\\\\\\\";

function SendRFIDReadRequest ()
{
 var request;
 // read 5 Bytes from address 1 with timeout 2000 msec
 // 02 02 00 07 05 00 01 00 05 07 D0 03

 //request = String.fromCharCode ( 2, 2, 0, 7, 5, 0, 1, 0, 5, 7, 208, 3 );
 request =   "\x02\x02" + escZero + "\x07"
           + "\x05" + escZero + "\x01" + escZero + "\x05"
           + "\x07\xD0\x03";

 // MessageBox ('WriteToDevice: ' + request);
 WriteToDevice (request, 2000);

}

Get RFID Response Data

function GetRFIDDataFromResponse ( data )
{
   //  0  1  2  3  4  5  6  7  8  9
   // 02 02 00 06 05 31 32 33 34 35 03
   var len;
   var out = "";
   if (data.length >= 5)
   {
      len = data.charCodeAt(2) * 256 + data.charCodeAt(3) - 1;
      for (i=0; i< len; i++)
      {
        out = out + String.fromCharCode(data.charCodeAt(5 + i));
      }
        
      //MessageBox ('Len: ' + len + ', ' + out);
      return out;
   }
   return null;
}

OnData Script

if ( IsRFIDTagID (DATA) )
{
  SendRFIDReadRequest ();
}
if ( IsRFIDReadResponse (DATA) )
{
 MessageBox (encodeHex(DATA) + ' (' + DATA.length + ' Bytes)');
 MessageBox ('Nutzdaten: ' + GetRFIDDataFromResponse (DATA));
}

HotKey Script

SendRFIDReadRequest ();

QR-Code Barcode Printing for SAP® ERP

2009-10-30T16:16:00.003+01:00

The new version of TBarCode/Direct V2.1 (SAP barcode software) comes now with QR-Code 2D barcode support.

TBarCode/Direct is a smart, platform independent software solution for printing linear and 2D bar-codes (DataMatrix, QRCode) in SAP® ERP, SAP® R/3® and mySAP® ERP. This bar code solution works completely without any middleware and can be used with all PostScript® enabled printers (e.g. Laser Printers or MFPs)!

The main advantage - TBarCode/Direct is installed within the SAP system only: No additional software, no system level installation and no additional hardware is required.

Read more about our SAP 2D Barcode Printing Solution.

QRCode Mobile Marketing in Austria

2009-10-28T14:56:00.004+01:00

In Japan more or less every square-millimeter of space is covered with QR-Codes. Japanese companies are using the 2D codes for marketing purposes as well as for really useful applications (e.g. public transport schedules with ticketing possibilities).

In Austria this technology is arriving very tentatively. The printed version of an Austrian newspaper (www.derstandard.at) is publishing ads of an European car manufacturer (I think it is Renault or Peugeot). These ads contain a 2D code. When scanned with a mobile you will be forwarded to some stylish web-page. Maybe I am able to upload a picture in the near future.

Another example of "trying" out this technology is Austrian Airlines (now part of Lufthansa). They are giving away stickers (see picture) with some slogan and a QR-code. When decoding them you will be forwarded to the booking page.

I assume that this specific marketing campaign is just a test-run. The slogans are not bad, but they do not provide enough information what to expect. So I am wondering how many people are scanning these stickers. Austrian Airlines should think about a small hint (or better: a fare reduction) to attract more users of this technology.

Barcode Library for i5/OS PASE (AS/400)

2009-10-22T12:17:00.000+02:00

TEC-IT announces a new AIX 5.2 based barcode library for the i5/OS PASE platform - AS/400. The barcode API consists of only three function calls to generate a barcode in memory (PCL or Postscript format). Simplified usage in i5/OS Programs (e.g. ILE RPG or ILE C++) through the provided ILE C/C++ API Module!

If you are interested in testing this barcode library - let us know!

YouTube Video - Label Printing Software TFORMer

2009-10-19T08:49:00.008+02:00

TEC-IT announces the availability of the first training video for the label printing software TFORMer.

The video demonstrates how to design a simple bar code label, to fill it with your data and to print it on a printer. It provides a great overview and you learn the basic concept of TFORMer within a minute.

More videos will be added in the near future. Please do not hesitate to send us your feedback and let us know in which topics you are interested in. Any comments are welcome!

YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/tecitsoftware

Bluetooth Wedge Software

2009-10-12T16:00:00.007+02:00

Want to capture data from Bluetooth devices? Then consider the software wegde TWedge. The latest version of TWedge supports direct Bluetooth connections - without virtual COM ports!

Just select the Bluetooth device of interest in the Interface dialog or enter the Bluetooth address directly (see screenshot). The software wedge TWedge connects to the device automatically and captures all data reliable.

What is the great advantage of direct Bluetooth support? The answer is easy - interrupted Bluetooth connections (e.g. because your bar code scanner is out of range) will be reconnected automatically.

Check out the new version TWedge V2.2: Download the Bluetooth Software Wedge.

Mobile Barcode Reader Applications

2009-10-12T13:38:00.007+02:00

Because we receive numerous requests for available mobile bar-code reader applications we list some free barcode decoders . Please note: The list is not complete and it is not a recommendation. If you think a reader application should be mentioned in this list please let us know! We would be glad to maintain the overview regularly.

Barcode readers we have tried ourself:
Beetagg Reader: http://www.beetagg.com/
Kaywa Reader: http://reader.kaywa.com/
QuickMark: http://www.quickmark.com.tw/
i-nigma Reader: http://www.i-nigma.com/i-nigmahp.html
Neo Reader: http://www.neoreader.com/
Barcode Scanner "ZXING" for Google Android: See Android Market

Other readers (incomplete)
UPCode: http://www.upc.fi/en/upcode/instructions/download/
Reader: http://mobile-tagging.blogspot.com/2008/07/readerdownload.html

Also check out this overview: http://www.qrme.co.uk/qr-code-resources/qr-code-readers.html

Hope this helps!

Google Bar Code

2009-10-07T12:00:00.004+02:00

It seems that Google is trying to educate the world with bar code know how.

As of 10/07/2009 the start page of Google displays a bar-code instead the usual Google logo.

If you click on the bar code image you get search results for the term "Bar Code" (in google.com) or "Strichcode" (in Germany/Austria).

TBarCode FAQ: Word Plug-In Not Visible in Word 2007

2009-09-16T17:17:00.006+02:00

The following workaround can help to solve the problem with the disappearing toolbar in Word 2007:

Close Word 2007.
Rename or delete the file "TBarCode Add-In.dot".
Win XP: C:\Documents and Settings\[YourUserName]\Local
Settings\Application Data\TEC-IT\TBarCode9
Windows Vista: C:\users\[YourUserName]\AppData\Local\TEC-IT\TBarCode9
Start Word 2007.

By doing so, a new .dot file should be created and the plugin should be visible again.

Barcode Maker Software: Barcode Studio V9.4.1

2009-09-10T10:42:00.004+02:00

The service update of our Barcode Maker Software Barcode Studio for Windows and Mac OS X is ready for download!

Barcode Studio V9.4.1 now supports the Spanish language. Moreover, a multi threading problem in conjunction with PostScript generation was fixed.

Update is free of charge for existing Barcode Studio V9.x customers!

Download Barcode Studio Update

Online Product Demos via WebEx are now available

2009-09-10T10:34:00.003+02:00

TEC-IT now offers online product demonstrations and online trainings via WebEx!

Live product demos and training sessions made easy! This new TEC-IT service enables you to learn more about the software product of interest within minutes! We share a "virtual desktop" with you, demonstrate the software in action and answer all your questions immediately. You can even try the product yourself (without installing it) while getting support in realtime!

All you need is Firefox (preferred) or Internet Explorer and an internet connection. Online product demonstrations are available for free, product trainings are optimized to match your needs.

In order to arrange an online meeting just send us an email to support@tec-it.com!

TFORMer Reporting SDK 6.0 for AIX 6.1

2009-09-10T10:24:00.004+02:00

Powerful label printing and reporting for AIX!

The new version of the label printing and reporting software TFORMer SDK is now available for AIX 6.1 on Power 6 platforms. Benefit from thermo transfer printer support (e.g. Zebra ZPL-II), PDF output, server based document generation and much more...

Download TFORMer Reporting SDK 6.0 for AIX 6.1 P6

Barcode Software Update: TBarCode V9.3.0

2009-08-14T16:27:00.016+02:00

As of today an update of the TBarCode Barcode SDK (including a Barcode ActiveX, Barcode DLL and .NET Barcode Assembly) is available. It fixes some problems and provides several improvements:

Fixed

GS1 Data Matrix: Fixed FNC1 encoding bug (see V9.2.2).
BCGetBarcodeHeight(..) returned incorrect value with rotation of 270°.
TBarCode .NET: ByteData property (encoding of binary data) produced an error.
TBarCode .NET: Licensing problems caused by incorrect product enumeration IDs (32-bit and 64-bit).

Enhancements

Improved error message for incorrect user provided check digits.
Improved description of the Data Matrix enumeration values (TBarCode Library Reference).

Download TBarCode V9.3.0 Update

TFORMer 6.0 With Service Pack 1 Out Now

2009-08-06T10:44:00.013+02:00

TEC-IT just released Service Pack 1 of the barcode label and reporting software TFORMer.

New Functions

User Interface
Modernized user interface style to comply with actual standards.
Option dialog was reworked.
Data View
Added “Hide Unused Fields“ option.
Image Printer
Fixed a crash that occurred with clipped bar codes (bar code position outside of page bounds). Fixed ignored JPEG compression option.
HTML Printer
Fixed transparent color (some components always used “white“ as transparent color).
Configuration (TFORMer.xml)
Added bar code “drawing-mode“ option for Windows printers.
Update Dialog
Added online check for updates (Internet connection required).

Improvements for Developers

Report Generator SDK
Renamed TFORMer Runtime to TFORMer SDK. TFORMer SDK is now available through a separate MSI setup!
Thread Safety
Fixed a thread safety issue on startup (internal font initializing).
C/C++ Runtimes
Changed dependencies: TFORMer SDK now requires VisualStudio 2008 Redistributables.
Java Wrapper
Fixed several threading and memory issues

Click here for the Service Pack 1 Download!

TBarCode .NET in an IIS 7.0 Web Farm

2009-07-24T18:14:00.010+02:00

If you use TBarCode ASP.NET Web Control in a Web Farm you may encounter the following exception:

Exception Type: System.ApplicationException
Message: The requested image is no longer cached.

The TBarCode ASP.NET Web Control uses the HttpContext.Cache object to store the generated barcode image. Since http requests are load balanced within a web farm it can occur that a specific Web Control receives a request for an image, which has been generated on a different application server (and therefore is not available in its local cache).

To overcome this problem you could:

Synchronize the HttpContext.Cache object on all servers in the web farm (distributed caches). This could be done with extra programming or additional third party software.

or simply use Client Affinity in IIS 7.0 (recommended)

Having client affinity enabled all requests are tagged with a cookie so that subsequent requests (from the same client) are routed to the same server in the web farm.

Details see Application Request Routing (3 - Configure Client Affinity)

Reporting Software - The Release Candidate is Coming!

2009-07-11T20:15:00.014+02:00

I would like to announce a new version of TEC-IT's barcode label and reporting software TFORMer.

What is New in V6.0.1?

Brushed up User-Interface
We updated the development environment to Visual Studio 2008. Thus, the features of the new Microsoft Foundation Classes are integrated into the report designer wherever it makes sense. And yes - it looks (& feels) good ;-)
Splitted Setup
TFORMer consists of TFORMer Designer (a visual layout editor with instant label and form printing functions) and a reporting SDK which is named TFORMer Runtime. We introduced separated setups in order to reduce the download size of the package.
Update Checker
TFORMer Designer now offers a function to detect the availability of a software update. You can trigger the update-check manually (Help menu).
Bug Fixes
Finally, some major and minor bugs were fixed: among them are a multi-threading problem in the report generator SDK, improved image compression for PDF output, improved JAVA interface, etc..

Check out this blog for the download. Most likely the release candidate V6.0.1 will be available next week. I attached a screen-shot as teaser, it shows TFORMer Designer with the German user interface.

Data Matrix Barcode Printing for SAP® ERP

2009-07-08T17:24:00.010+02:00

TBarCode/Direct is a platform independent software solution for printing bar-codes in SAP® ERP, SAP® R/3® and mySAP® ERP.

This bar code solution works completely without middleware and can be used with all PostScript® enabled printers (e.g. Laser Printers or MFPs)!

Beside linear bar codes the new version 2.0 comes with Data Matrix 2D Barcode Support.

The main advantage - TBarCode/Direct is installed within the SAP system only: No additional software, no system level installation and no additional hardware is required.

Read more about our SAP 2D Barcode Printing Solution

New Version! Barcode DLL for SAP

2009-07-08T13:59:00.000+02:00

TEC-IT is proud to announce the new version of TBarCode/SAPwin - Barcode DLL for SAP!

TBarCode/SAPwin is a so-called barcode DLL for SAP ERP systems. It offers device and release independent bar code printing for all printers. Costly special purpose printers or barcode extensions like barcode DIMMs or barcode SIMMs are no longer required. TBarCode/SAPwin integrates seamlessly into the SAP printing process and operates as plug-in for SAPsprint or SAPlpd.

Users of TBarCode/SAPwin benefit from a minimal cost of ownership. The transparent licensing scheme enables customers to put a cost effective bar-coding solution into operation. In addition, this barcode dll works with virtually every printer available on the market.

The new version of TBarCode/SAPwin focuses on Unicode capabilities (e.g. for SAP ECC 6.0), on Windows Vista and Windows 7 compatibility and provides the most complete barcode support available on the market. Linear bar codes like EAN128, HIBC codes, 2D bar codes like Data Matrix ECC200 and even the GS1 DataBar symbology are generated and printed in perfect quality. Installation and customization is easy - the product is configured solely via standard print controls. Existing Smart Forms, SAPscript or ABAP reports are usable without modification.

The solution is available for Microsoft Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2008, Windows Vista and Windows 7. Download the free demo version: TBarCode/SAPwin V9.

Barcode Maker Software: Barcode Studio V9.4

2009-07-01T13:51:00.004+02:00

Software update notice: The new version 9.4 of the barcode creator software Barcode Studio offers improved CSV-file import functionality on Mac OS X. The version history lists all improvements in detail.

Update is free of charge for existing Barcode Studio V9.x customers!

Free Online Barcode Generator with Adjustable DPI + Image Type

2009-06-12T16:08:00.011+02:00

TEC-IT recently extended the free online barcode generator with

adjustable dpi settings (barcode image resolution),
adjustable barcode rotation (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) and
an adjustable barcode image type.

The supported barcode output formats are JPG, PNG, TIFF, BMP and GIF (GIF is generated by default). In addition the following vector formats are available for barcode creation: PCL, EPS (Encapsulated PostScript).
If you are interested in embedding this barcode generator into (web-) applications please let us know. The advanced parameters for controlling the output type are not documented online.

Conduct Your Own Online Poll - Free Survey Widget!

2009-06-04T07:39:00.000+02:00

A few months ago a colleague of mine implemented a generic widget for simple web-based customizable surveys. This widget is hosted on www.widgetbox.com. Despite the fact that the widget did not store survey results permanently (instead it sent one email for each vote to the owner of the survey) it got quite a good user feedback. So let me introduce ....

Free Online Survey Widget Version 2 !

This post gives you a short introduction how to set up the widget for your own web-page. But let me start with it's features first:

Complete customizable survey widget (number of questions, text for questions, feedback type (one-off, many-off), colors, fonts, basic behavior, etc.
Voting results are available as diagram within the widget (customizable)
Voting results are stored on tec-it.com. You do not need a database or special web-hosting service
It is free
It only requires a unique email address, no complicated registration is required

How to use This Online Poll?

All you need is to embed the widget into your web-page (see screen-shot - or the life survey on the right). An online survey is identified by an email-address. This email address (YOURS!) must be entered in the widget configuration. After the widget configuration was finished you need to VOTE AT LEAST ONE TIME TO INITIALIZE the widget.

Why is Initialization Required?

Simply because we want to avoid spam. The widget sends the owner of the survey a confirmation email if the first vote was received. If the survey owner confirms this email the online survey is ready for user votes. If no confirmation is received within 24 hours - you have to setup the widget again ;-).

How to View Survey Results?

The online survey widget offers you three options for result viewing:

Always: Results for the online survey are visible to everyone at any time.
After Voting: Results for the online survey are visible to everyone after voting.
Never: Results of the online survey are not visible. TEC-IT may provide a web-interface for the survey owner to view the results in the future

What's about Privacy?

The following data is stored per survey:

Email address of the survey owner / this email address will be kept confidential)
Survey basic data like title, description, questions, ...

And this information is stored per vote:

Survey reference (for which survey was voted?)
Timestamp of vote
Selected answer(s)

We do NOT store the IP address of the voter (this is also a small draw-back: a single user may vote multiple times. In the future we will improve this by using a cookie on the users machine.)

Does it Work With all Browsers?

The online survey widget was designed to work with Internet Explorer, FireFox and Chrome. Others may be support - but are not tested by TEC-IT. JavaScript must be activated!

Liability and Warranty - Legal Information

Please keep in mind that TEC-IT provides the online survey widget and the data-warehousing service for free. Please understand that we therefore do not guarantee for functionality, reliability, availability and so on. In legal terms this reads as follows:

The user of this service explicitly accepts that TEC-IT does not provide any warranties of any kind by using the service or parts of the service.
TEC-IT make no representations or warranties, and disclaim all warranties of any kind, either express or implied, regarding the service or service’s performance, accuracy, sufficiency or suitability or the documentation or other materials provided including, without limitation, all warranties of merchantability, durability, performance, quality, capacity and technical compatibility, and any warranty of fitness for a particular use or purpose, title or non-infringement of third party rights.
To the extent not prohibited by law, in no event will TEC-IT or its contractual partners be liable for any lost revenue, profit or data, or for special, indirect, consequential, incidental or punitive damages, however caused regardless of the theory of liability, arising out of or related to the use of or inability to use the service, even if TEC-IT has been advised of or TEC-IT has pointed out the possibility of such damages.

Barcode Maker: Barcode Studio V9.3 released

2009-05-26T21:31:00.010+02:00

Just a short notice for Barcode Studio users: V9.3 is available for download, it introduces the following new feature:

EPS files may now be generated with embedded TIFF preview.

And fixes the following bugs:

Fixed the problem with auto-resizing PDF files.
Set the missing resolution settings and reduced the image file sizes (TIFF Export).
File extension is now always adapted to the chosen image type (Data List Export).
It is now possible to load files that do not have a file name extension (Mac OS).
CMYK color settings can now be used directly for EPS generation (Mac OS Color dialog).

Many thanks to the HP SmartStream team for their valuable feedback!

Users of Barcode Studio 9.0 or higher may update to this version free of charge.

Download it here: Barcode Studio V9.3 (Windows), Barcode Studio V9.3 (Mac OS X - Universal Binary for PPC and Intel), Linux (on request)

Using a Software Wedge with Citrix XenApp

2009-05-26T13:24:00.009+02:00

The Requirement:

Recently a customer of TEC-IT reported some troubles when using the software wedge TWedge on a tablet PC (running XP-based Windows Embedded) in combination with Citrix XenApp v11.0.0.x.
The customer was looking for a solution to connect a Bluetooth barcode scanner (from Intermec) with a legacy database application. Scanned data should be transferred to an input field followed by a TAB key. The database application in question is hosted by an ASP and provided to the tablet PC via XenApp from Citrix.

The Problem:

The initial problem was that the scanned barcode data was not reliable transferred to the database application - scanned data was not transferred completely.

The Solution:

The clipboard-functionality of TWedge solved the problem. Instead of simulating single keystrokes based on the scanned data the barcode value is copied into the clipboard and then pasted to the Citrix client. Thereafter a TAB key is simulated. One very important point in this approach is to use some short delays between the single commands. These delays are required to allow Windows and Citrix messaging to work correctly. Here is the OnData() script of TWedge:

CopyToClipboard (DATA);         // copy barcode data into the clipboard
Sleep (50);                     // allow clipboard value to settle
SendKeyStrokes (CTRL, "V");     // paste the clipboard to Citrix
Sleep (50);                     // wait until pasted
SendKeyStrokes ("{TAB}");       // press the TAB key
Sleep (20);                     // wait until TAB was processed

Hope this helps other customers too!

How to Suppress Duplicate Barcodes or RFID Tags with the Software Wedge?

2009-05-20T11:12:00.024+02:00

The Problem:

Maybe you are familiar with this scenario: You are connecting a barcode scanner, an electronic scale or an RFID reader to your computer. When capturing data it turns out that the device is sending identical values multiple times. This happens if the user scans a barcode repeatedly, a scale sends the weight of the item periodically or if a RFID reader reports the value of a RFID tag at regular intervals.

The Solution:

TWedge provides a very flexible and elegant solution to this problem. The software wedge can be customized to suppress multiple, identical values easily: Just save the last data value received from the device and compare it with the current one. Forward the device data to target application only if these values are not identical. Here is the script:

The Software Wedge Script:

OnStart() is the perfect place to initialize the last received data value (sLastData) with a null value. OnStart is executed when device communication is initialized (e.g. the serial port was opened):

// This script is executed whenever communication is started.
// Use it to perform one-time initializations like opening a file or a database connection.
// message informaing the user what this sample is good for
MessageBox("This script demonstrates how to suppress duplicate data packets from a device.\n\nSometimes devices like barcode scanners or RFID controllers are sending the same data packet multiple times. This very useful feature just forwards unique values to the target application.");
sLastData = null;   // initialize with a value which is never received from a device 
nDuplicates = 0;    // set the number of duplicates to 0

OnData() is executed whenever device data is received. Compare the current data value (stored in DATA) with the last one (sLastData). In this example keystrokes are only simulated if these two values are not identical:


// Check if the current device data is identical to the last one
if (DATA != sLastData) 
{
  SendKeyStrokes(DATA);   // not identical: simulate keystrokes
  sLastData = DATA;       // set the last value to the current one
  nDuplicates = 0;        // increment the duplicate counter (for info only)
}
else
{
  nDuplicates++;          // duplicate received, just display an info-message
  NotifyInfo ("Duplicate data received. The value " + DATA + " was suppressed " + nDuplicates + " times");
}

More information as well as the script explained in this post will be available soon on www.tec-it.com.

TWedge Hotfix

2009-05-19T14:50:00.008+02:00

This hotfix solves a problem when saving the settings of the software wedge into a TWI file.

The format of the TWI files was changed. This ensures that the settings can be saved even if special characters (like STX, ETX, EOT, DC1, DC2, ...) are part of the script. TWI files from previous version can be loaded without problems!

Download the hotfix here: Software Wedge for Windows

Barcode Studio V9.3 RC is available!

2009-05-18T16:21:00.021+02:00

A new release (V9.3) of the barcode creator software Barcode Studio will be available to the public in a few days. This release introduces the following enhancements and bug fixes:

TIFF preview in EPS files
PDF Export - Fixed the problem with auto-resizing PDF files.
Data List Export - File extension is now always adapted to the chosen image type.
Mac OS X - Option All Files in the File Open Dialog
Mac OS X - CMYK colors can now be adjusted

~~As usual the release candidates are available exclusively to readers of this blog:~~MAC OS X: Barcode Studio V9.3
Microsoft Windows: Barcode Studio V9.3
Linux: available on request!

Update: Barcode Studio V9.3 was released on 05-26-2009.

Existing customers of Barcode Studio V9.0, V9.1 or V9.2 can update to this version free of charge. All license keys are still valid.

Data Acquisition with a System Service

2009-05-12T16:14:00.005+02:00

The software wedge TWedge is able to save data from serial or TCP based devices (e.g. barcode scanners, gauges, scales, controllers) directly into any database (ODBC) or file. When operating TWedge as a system service data acquisition can be automated completely and performed in the background without any user interaction.

Starting TWedge as service is done with the help of a Microsoft tool named srvany.exe (part of the Windows Resource Toolkit).

Check out more details here: how to install the Software Wedge TWedge as Windows Service? The primer explains the required Registry settings in detail.

Generador gratuito de códigos de barras online!

2009-05-08T10:44:00.012+02:00

Hola!

Users from Spanish-speaking countries are now able to use the free online barcode generator in their own language. Español is supported - just give it a try: Generador gratuito de códigos de barras online: ¡creación de códigos de barras gratis!

These are the currently supported languages:

Online Barcode Generator (English)
Online Barcode-Generator (Deutsch)
免费在线生成条码 (Chinese)
Barkod Programi (Turkish)
Generatore di codici a barre online (Italian)
Бесплатный онлайн-генератор штрих-кодов (Russian)
códigos de barras online (Español, new!)

TFORMer 6.0 Available

2009-05-07T11:46:00.005+02:00

New Barcode Label / Reporting Software Release!

TFORMer 6.0 is an advanced Barcode Label Software and Reporting Software with great usability. The brand-new version introduces a lot of features and improvement:

Improved User Interface
User-Friendly Manual Data Input
Unified Datasources (ODBC, XML, CSV, TXT, ...)
Field Bindings
Computed Fields / Serial Numbers
Datasource Parameters
Extended Barcode Support
And much more! Check out the details, download the demo version for free!

Windows 7 Software Compatibility

2009-05-06T13:16:00.007+02:00

Great News!

Well - not really news because TEC-IT was already aware of this fact. But here is the first screen shot of TEC-IT Software running on a fresh Windows 7 Release Candidate (Build 7100). In the shot you see the Software Wedge TWedge (upper left corner), the Barcode Label and Reporting Software TFORMer (upper right, with some PDF output) and the Barcode Creator Barcode Studio (bottom, center).In the past we invested a lot of time to ensure compatibility with Microsoft products and compliance with Microsoft guidelines.
Thus, TEC-IT software products are usable on all current versions of Microsoft Windows (Windows 2000, XP, Vista, Seven, Server 2003 and Server 2008). You do not need to invest again if you switch to Windows 7 in the future (at least if it comes to TEC-IT products). And yes: 64 Bit operating systems are also supported - just contact us for native x64 versions.

Barcode Generator TBarCode: Service Release

2009-05-05T16:41:00.004+02:00

As of today a service release of TBarCode (Barcode ActiveX, Barcode DLL, .NET Barcode SDK) is available. It fixes the following bugs:

Image Export
Special Characters in File Names are supported. Images can now be exported to paths or file names that contain special characters (characters that are not part of the ANSI code page).

Quiet Zone Bug Fix
The left quiet zone of several 2D bar codes is now drawn correctly when the unit "Modules" is selected.

Data Matrix Bug Fix
Internal code optimization was improved.

The download is available here: Barcode Software Component TBarCode V9.2

Scan & Store: Scan Barcodes directly into any Database

2009-05-04T15:58:00.023+02:00

Are you looking for a basic inventory solution or you are just interested in registering items based on their barcode?

The data acquisition software TWedge provides an elegant solution - TWedge captures data from arbitrary devices (like a serial or USB barcode scanner) and can be configured to store captured data directly into any ODBC database.

Additional database software is NOT required!

Smart Software Wedge

Configuration of TWedge is extremely flexible: The data acquisition functionality can be configured to meet your exact requirements. TWedge is able to perform read/write access to files, databases and may also simulate keystrokes.

To implement the required functionality you need:

A serial (or USB) barcode scanner. The used COM port as well as the interface parameters are important (most likely it will be 9600,N,8,1 - meaning 9600 bits per second, no parity, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit)
TWedge (download)

Determine Bluetooth COM Port

For this example I use a Bluetooth bar code scanner (Metrologic Voyager). The scanner provides scanned data via COM3. This serial interface was adjusted manually in the services dialog of the available Bluetooth Devices on Microsoft Windows:

Configure TWedge Interface

Now start TWedge and configure the interface parameters. Adjust COM3 as displayed in the Bluetooth dialog above:

Test Scanner Communication

The next step is to test the interface configuration: just start communication in TWedge. Whenever you scan a barcode the number should appear in the protocol window:

Provide a Database

Now its time to connect the barcode scanner with a database. For demonstration purposes we use an empty database which was pre-installed by the setup application of TWedge: A so-called System DSN which is named TWedge_Sample.

On 32 bit Windows you can check out the installed DSN by opening the Data Sources (ODBC) administration (Windows Control Panel - Administrative Tools - Set up data sources (ODBC)). If you are running Vista x64 then execute the command c:\windows\SysWOW64\odbcad32.exe to view this dialog:

On Vista systems the database is usually stored in the folder C:\ProgramData\TEC-IT\TWedge\2.1\Examples\Database. When you open this database with Microsoft Access you see two tables. The example below stores captured data in the initial empty table tbl_Scans:

Configure Software Wedge

In order to configure TWedge open the script editor and select the predefined template which is named Database - Write. Double click it and close the script editor. This script reads data from the configured interface, determines the current date and time and enters the scanned data in the database mentioned above.

Data Acquisition

Start device communication again and scan some barcodes:

Finished! Barcodes are stored in Database

That's all! TWedge connects to the barcode scanner via the configured COM3. It waits for scans - and whenever a barcode was scanned it enters the barcode number into the database. And this is the result– the scanned barcodes are stored with some additional information like date/time and hostname:

Barcode Label and Reporting Software: TFORMer 6.0 Release Candidate

2009-04-30T15:53:00.015+02:00

Here it is - the release candidate of TFORMer 6.0!

TFORMer is an advanced Barcode Label Software and Reporting Software. Two components are part of each download:

TFORMer Designer: A visual layout designer for labels and reports with instant data entry, instant printing, live preview, multiple data sources and export capabilities (PDF, HTML, PostScript, images, ZPL-II).
TFORMer Runtime: A SDK for integrating versatile output and reporting functions in your own applications. This reporting SDK is available with COM, DLL, NET and JAVA APIs.

As promised in a previous post here are the download links:

Common version (downloaded in most cases - for 32 bit Windows)
64 bit version (requires 64 bit Windows to install!)

TFORMer installs on Windows 2000 or higher (Vista and Windows 7 are supported!), any feedback is welcome - just let us know.
TEC-IT wish you nice holidays!

Barcode and RFID Wedge / Software Wedge: TWedge V2.1

2009-04-29T20:04:00.009+02:00

As of today TEC-IT released a new version of the data acquisition software TWedge.

TWedge is a smart data collection tool which is in use as barcode wedge, software wedge, keyboard wedge, serial wedge, scale wedge, etc. Just choose the name you prefer :-).
V2.1 introduces:

User Input Functionality: The new function 'InputBox' allows a user to enter data in real-time (validation is optional).
Clipboard Access Functions: The clipboard functions "CopyToClipboard" and "GetFromClipboard" were introduced. These functions are useful for larger amounts of data, where a simulation of keystrokes is not feasible or too slow.
Multiple Control Strings: Now it is possible to send a combination of key constants and modifier keys using the '+' character' (e.g.: "{CTRL+f}" or "{CTRL+SHIFT+h}"). Multiple modifier keys can be now processed through multiple control string.
Improved User Interface (GUI): Toolbar and application icons were redesigned.

Product descriptions and downloads are available here: Software Wedge TWedge V2.1.

Barcode Maker Software: Barcode Studio V9.2

2009-04-29T19:55:00.008+02:00

Barcode Studio V9.2 is available to the public!

As mentioned in a previous blog-entry this release fixes a major problem with missing human readable texts when exporting barcodes as image on Mac OS X and Linux.

In addition a minor DataMatrix encoding bug was fixed. The handling of quiet zones was also corrected.

More information and downloads are available here: Barcode Maker Software: Barcode Studio.

Enjoy - and feedback is more than welcome!

Useful Test Data Generator

2009-04-28T10:41:00.007+02:00

A colleague of mine just stumbled over a very useful generator for test data. He used it for preparing some test cases for our label printing and reporting software TFORMer. Below are 2 screenshots - the first one shows how to adjust the general characterics of the test data to be generated:

The second one shows the results:

Hope this tool is also helpful for you!

Software Wedge: TWedge V2.1 RC

2009-04-24T15:05:00.020+02:00

Based on user-feedback a new service release of the data acquisition software TWedge is announced. TWedge V2.1 installs and runs on all current Windows-based operating systems (32 bit and 64 bit).

V2.1 introduces:

User Input Functionality: The new function 'InputBox' allows a user to enter data in real-time (validation is optional).
Clipboard Access Functions: The clipboard functions "CopyToClipboard" and "GetFromClipboard" were introduced. These functions are useful for larger amounts of data, where a simulation of keystrokes is not feasible or too slow.
Multiple Control Strings: Now it is possible to send a combination of key constants and modifier keys using the '+' character' (e.g.: "{CTRL+f}" or "{CTRL+SHIFT+h}"). Multiple modifier keys can be now processed through multiple control string.
Improved User Interface (GUI): Toolbar and application icons were redesigned.

TWedge V2.1 was released on 04-29-2009. More details are available here: Barcode Software Wedge TWedge V2.1

~~Readers of this blog can download the release candidate here: Software Wedge TWedge V2.1.~~

Barcode Software on Twitter

2009-04-24T10:15:00.005+02:00

TEC-IT is now on Twitter too...

http://twitter.com/tecit

The advantage: twitter.com helps us to get to the point ;-)

Barcode Studio V9.2 RC is available!

2009-04-22T14:38:00.013+02:00

A new release (V9.2) of the barcode creator software Barcode Studio will be available to the public in a few days. This release introduces just one enhancement - but it is a major one:

Barcode image export with human readable text works now on all operating systems.
In previous versions of Barcode Studio this feature was only available on Windows.

Barcode Studio V9.2 was release on 04.29.2009 - see XXX.

The release candidates are available exclusively to readers of this blog:

MAC OS X: Barcode Studio V9.2

Microsoft Windows: Barcode Studio V9.2

Linux: available on request!

Existing customers of Barcode Studio V9.0 or V9.1 can update to this version free of charge. All license keys are still valid.

Free Music Download - JAMENDO

2009-04-17T13:38:00.013+02:00

Warning! Non barcode-related post ;-)

Are you listening music while developing software? If yes - the same is true for some members of TEC-IT. A few days ago I read about a free music portal named Jamendo. Because I think it is worth trying it here is some advertisement:

Jamendo is a community of free, legal and unlimited music published under Creative Commons licenses. Share your music, download your favorite artists!

My favorites (mostly progressive and trance) until now: Opener of the Ways (by Solaris), Psychonaut (by Solaris), Encre (by Silence), Wood (by Greg Beaumont), Pretium Doloris (by A.n.K.h).

Highlight: You can listen to music without registration.

There is also a little draw-back: Music download is free but I was unable to manage downloads on Windows Vista (not sure if it depends on Vista or something else). However - MP3 download worked with FF on Ubuntu. Hopefully the Jamendo team will fix this issue shortly.

New Release: Labeling and Reporting Software

2009-04-10T18:57:00.011+02:00

Do you know the German proverb "Alles neu macht der Mai"? It means that in May everything will be renewed. And of course this is also true for TFORMer - the label printing software / reporting software from TEC-IT.

We are glad to announce the new version with GREAT useability features (data-sources, manual data-source, preview, extensive bar code support, improved API, and much more).

Stay tuned for the release cadidate - the download link will be published next week exclusively in this blog!

Happy Holidays!

TBarCode Update! Barcode Software Component V9.1

2009-03-27T15:45:00.007+01:00

Just a short notice:

A brand-new TBarCode update is available: Version V9.1 of this barcode generator features automatic check-digit validation. This means, that TBarCode validates check-digits entered by the user. Wrong check-digits are rejected with an error message.

For custom check-digits this behaviour can be disabled by changing the check-digit computation method to "None".
In addition to this improvement some bugs got fixed. For details see the version history or download TBarCode V9.1 now.

Free Barcodes for OpenOffice

2009-03-23T14:25:00.032+01:00

Part 2: How to generate barcodes with OpenOffice. Also check out part 1: Using Barcodes in Google Docs

Introduction

OpenOffice is a free software suite which mimics (more or less) Microsoft Office. In Microsoft Office bar-code creation is possible via various methods (using barcode fonts, pre-created barcode images or by using a barcode add-in like TBarCode). Until now no quality bar-code add-ins are available for OpenOffice and 2D barcode creation using fonts is terrible. So I'll outline a possibility to create bar-codes without any barcode fonts and without any additional barcode software.

How to Create OpenOffice Barcodes for Free

To generate bar codes (ALL barcodes - meaning linear barcodes, 2D barcodes like DataMatrix and GS1 DataBar codes) all you need is an internet connection. The basic idea is to insert an barcode image generated by the online barcode generator of TEC-IT. This barcode generator is customizable via the URL - so it is possible to create each bar-code as required.

Note: Works on Windows only!

1) Create the required barcode using the online barcode generator
2) Scroll down to the section "Free Use of This Barcode Generator". Copy the URL (see screenshot below) into your clipboard:

3) Start OpenOffice Writer
4) Create a new document (File -> New)
5) Insert a Picture from a File (Insert -> Picture -> From File)
6) Copy the URL as created in step 2 into the filename
7) Press Enter, FINISHED

That's all. Steps 5 to 7 are outlined in the screen-shot below.

How Does it Work?

The barcode image is created online at TEC-IT.COM, you do not need to store the image locally on your hard-drive (Windows takes care of this automatically), you do not need to install software - and you can trust the generated bar-code (it will be correct!). You can open this document on each computer, the bar-code will always be visible (and printable). Of course - internet connectivity is required.
Another point of interest: This method works for all programs part of the OpenOffice suite.

Optimizing the Barcode

In order to ensure perfect readability of the bar-codes you may need to play around with the settings (especially barcode resolution and module width). readability depends on barcode symbology, data density - and of course your output device. I recommend you to create the bar-code with at least 300 dpi. Important: Whenever possible DO NOT scale the resulting bar-code image in OpenOffice.

Example

URL used: http://www.tec-it.com/online-demos/tbarcode/barcode.aspx?code=DataMatrix&data=Powered+by+TEC-IT&dpi=300&rotation=0&modulewidth=fit
Barcode: DataMatrix ECC200

Interested?

If you like this method for barcode creation with OpenOffice you can use the online barcode generator for free (for non-commercial use only). For commercial users TEC-IT recommends a local barcode server in the companies intranet.