AccuScan Palm / AccuScan Palm Pro
Version 2.0 User Manual
AccuScan Palm Version 2.0
POS-X Inc.
Telephone: 1-800-903-6572
Fax: 1-360-738-3048
This document and the software described by this document are sold and distributed by POS-X Inc. All
rights reserved. Use of the software described herein may only be done in accordance with the License
Agreement provided with the software. Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
Windows is the registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation. All other trademarks are the
property of their respective owners
POS-X INC. WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR (A) ANY BUG, ERROR, OMISSION, DEFECT,
DEFICIENCY, OR NONCONFORMITY IN ACCUSCAN PALM OR THIS
DOCUMENTATION; (B) IMPLIED MERCHANTIBILITY OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE; (C) IMPLIED WARRANTY RELATING TO COURSE OF DEALING, OR USAGE
OF TRADE OR ANY OTHER IMPLIED WARRANTY WHATSOEVER; (D) CLAIM OF
INFRINGEMENT; (E) CLAIM IN TORT, WHETHER OR NOT ARISING IN WHOLE OR PART
FROM PORTABLE TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS CORPORATION'S FAULT, NEGLIGENCE,
STRICT LIABILITY, OR PRODUCT LIABILITY, OR (F) CLAIM FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT,
INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, OR LOSS OF DATA, REVENUE,
LICENSEES GOODWILL, OR USE. IN NO CASE SHALL POS-X INC. LIABILITY EXCEED THE
PRICE THAT LICENSEE PAID FOR ACCUSCAN PALM.
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Chapter 6: Administration Settings........................................................................................... 33
6.1.2 Enable Protection for .................................................................................. 33
Deploying Configured Sessions to Multiple Users...................................................... 34
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Chapter 2: Installation
Chapter 1: Introduction
1.1
What is AccuScan Palm?
Create enterprise class, barcode enabled, data collection applications in minutes for most tasks
including asset management, inventory control, and many others with AccuScan Palm. No
programming knowledge is needed. Simply create your familiar forms right on your PDA.
Designed by Symbol Certified Programmers, AccuScan Palm incorporates time saving features
that are not seen in any other applications. "Data Entry Validation", "Auto Find", and "After Scan
Settings" are just a few of the features that will save you time and money. If you or your company
has to collect data, AccuScan Palm is the right choice.
Common AccuScan Palm Applications
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Inventory Management.
Asset Management.
Library Book Tracking.
Route Delivery Management.
Vendor Managed Inventory.
Remote Store Management.
Computer Inventory.
Job Material Management.
Time Tracking.
Trade Show Visitor Tracking.
Electronic Signature Capture.
1.2
New Features in AccuScan Palm 2.0
Great feedback from AccuScan Palm users leads to the release of AccuScan Palm 2.0.
AccuScan Palm continues to be the affordable solution for most data capture requirements.
Exciting new features ease AccuScan Palm session deployment and offer more data
management capabilities.
The latest 2.0 version introduces AccuScan Palm Pro, the POS-X solution for those who need
even more. With 30 configurable fields and signature capture, AccuScan Palm Pro is choice for
those who have extended data capture needs.
AccuScan Palm 2.0 New Features Highlights
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Increased maximum fields to 30 (Pro version only).
Signature capture (Pro version only).
Configurable field hints (Pro version only).
PC data view shortcuts.
PC session deployment manager.
Multi-field search capabilities.
Auto edit on find.
Configurable data display.
Improved backup capabilities.
Improved HotSync event logging.
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Chapter 2: Installation
1.3
Free Trial
AccuScan Palm is a shareware application. A shareware application typically means that you
can use it on a trial basis for no fee. In the AccuScan Palm Splash Screen, select the version you
would like to try (Standard or Pro) and you can demo all of the features for that version.
The trial download is limited in that only allows 2 sessions can be created and only 5 records will
transfer to and from the PC. Once you decide to purchase AccuScan Palm, simply contact a
POS-X sales representative to order. A registration code will be sent within 24 hours. This
registration code will activate your trial version, enabling it for full use; there is no need to
reinstall.
1.4
Learning AccuScan Palm
To discover the full power of AccuScan Palm, we strongly recommend that you read this manual
completely. However, with only a basic understanding of Chapters 3 and 4, a user can begin to
create basic applications with AccuScan Palm. If you wish to send data to a PC or retrieve a
database from the PC, Chapter 5 should be read thoroughly. Finally, if a system administrator
needs to deploy AccuScan Palm sessions to a mobile workforce, Chapter 6 should be read
thoroughly. In order to ease the learning process of AccuScan Palm, a registered user receives
free email support for 30 days from the date of purchase. Purchase of extended support
agreements is also available, offering both email and phone support, depending on the package
purchased.
We have also included a tutorial in this manual. Refer to Chapter 7 for more information on this
topic.
1.5
Bar Coding with AccuScan Palm
AccuScan Palm is designed to speed data entry with or without a barcode enabled PDA. Popup
menus, time/date stamps and auto submit features allow users to collect data faster and more
accurately. However, to discover the full power of AccuScan Palm, we recommend using a
barcode enabled PDA. A list of the current barcode enabled PDAs supported by AccuScan Palm
Current Palm OS bar code enabled PDAs include:
SPT-1500/1550 Series by Symbol Technologies
SPT-1700/1800 Series by Symbol Technologies
CSM 150 Bar Code Plug-in Module for Handspring Visor by Symbol Technologies
Momentum II Bar Code Plug-in Module for Handspring Visor by PSC – Discontinued
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Chapter 2: Installation
1.6
Integrating AccuScan Palm
AccuScan Palm data can be HotSynced to the PC in one of five popular file formats. Refer to
Section 5.3.1 for a more detailed discussion on file transfer formats. This flexibility makes it
possible to integrate AccuScan Palm with most programs and databases. AccuScan Palm Pro
also allows for Custom HotSync paths, allowing users to specify a specific file download location.
Below is a list of the more popular programs and databases AccuScan Palm will work with.
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Excel
Microsoft Access
Microsoft SQL
Oracle
People Soft
FileMaker
FoxPro
1.7
POS-X Support
As a registered AccuScan Palm user, you receive free email support for 30 days from the date of
purchase. During this period, we are available to answer AccuScan Palm questions as well as
general bar code questions. Our goal is to provide AccuScan Palm users the tools to capitalize
on the efficiencies of bar code data acquisition. To contact POS-X technical support, please
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Chapter 2: Installation
Chapter 2: Installation
This chapter details the steps for installing AccuScan Palm.
2.1
System Requirements
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Windows 95/98/NT/2000/XP
Palm Desktop v3.1 or higher (includes HotSync Manager)
Palm OS PDA running Palm OS 3.0 or higher
2.2
Automatic Installation
1. Make sure you have Palm Desktop installed and working with your PDA. If not,
Palm requires that Palm Desktop (and the included HotSync Manager) be
installed and working before AccuScan Palm can be installed.
2. Download the most current version of AccuScan Palm from the POS-X website
or an authorized POS-X reseller. AccuScan Palm can be downloaded from the
3. Install AccuScan Palm to your PC by simply double clicking the downloaded
install file. This file is named accuscanpalm.exe and is located in the location
you chose to save the downloaded file.
4. Once the installation is complete, perform a HotSync with your PDA. At this
point you will see the AccuScan Palm application installed on your PDA.
5. On the PDA, tap the AccuScan Palm icon.
6. Select the mode you want (Standard or Pro), then click the Try It Button.
7. Click the New button to create a new record.
8. Test your scanner by scanning a barcode. Refer to your scanner’s hardware
manual for instructions on activating the barcode scanner.
9. Click the Done button to save the barcode just scanned.
10. To begin customizing your AccuScan Palm data capture experience, proceed to
the session setup portion of this manual
2.3
Installing AccuScan Palm on Multiple PDAs
Before installing AccuScan Palm on multiple PDAs, it is recommended that each PDA be
HotSynced at least once with Palm Desktop and assigned a PDA user name. With AccuScan
Palm installed on your PC use the PDA Installer to select the PDAs you want to install AccuScan
Palm on. The PDA install tool can be found on your PC, click on Start → Programs → AccuScan
Palm, and select the “PDA Installer” icon. Then simply HotSync each PDA and AccuScan Palm
will be installed.
2.4
Registering AccuScan Palm
AccuScan Palm is an application that requires registration for full functionality. The trial version of
AccuScan Palm limits the number of records entered on the PDA and transferred to the PC to
five, and the number of sessions to two. Once AccuScan Palm is registered, these trial limitations
are lifted.
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Chapter 2: Installation
POS-X encourages all users who benefit from AccuScan Palm to register their copy. To register
AccuScan Palm, we only require your AccuScan Palm PDA ID and an Email address. We
generate a unique registration code for your AccuScan Palm PDA ID so it is important that you
send the ID exactly as it appears on the AccuScan Palm splash screen; capitalization and
spacing are critical.
How to Register:
6572
2. Once your purchase is completed and payment is received, your registration code is e-
mailed to the address provided. This process usually takes approximately one hour but
we ask that you allow one business day in the event of heavy traffic or any other delay.
3. Once you receive your registration code, follow the instructions below to enter the code
into your PDA.
Entering Your Registration Code
1. Start the AccuScan Palm application on the PDA.
2. Click the Register button in the AccuScan Palm Splash Screen.
3. Enter your Registration Code at the Code prompt.
4. If the Registration Code is valid, you will receive a Thank you for Purchasing
AccuScan Palm message.
2.4
Upgrading AccuScan Palm
To upgrade from an existing version of AccuScan Palm or to upgrade to AccuScan Palm Pro,
follow these steps:
2.4.1 Upgrading from AccuScan Palm 2.0 Standard to AccuScan Palm 2.0 Pro
4. If you have already purchased and registered a registration code for AccuScan Palm 2.0
Standard Edition, you will need a new registration code for the Pro Edition.
5. Start the AccuScan Palm 2.0 application on your PDA, and go to the main screen.
6. Click on the menu and choose “About AccuScan Palm”
7. Click the “Upgrade” button in the lower right corner of the screen.
8. Click “OK”, then exit AccuScan Palm, and start AccuScan Palm again.
9. Select the “Pro Mode,” and tap “Register”
10. Now you can enter your new registration code for the Pro version.
AccuScan Palm 2.0 Exists as a Separate Application
Since AccuScan Palm 2.0 is a significant version update, we have created this application as
a separate and independent application from any previous AccuScan Palm versions. We
hope that this process eases the transition process of existing AccuScan Palm users.
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Chapter 2: Installation
New Registration Code Required
Due to a new licensing algorithm, all users upgrading to AccuScan Palm 2.0 will need to get a
new registration code. This process is discussed in Section 2.4. You can easily register by
calling POS-X.com at 1-800-903-6572.
New Location for Data Files
C:\Program Files\AccuScan Palm\Data\username\FromPDA
New Location for Uploading Files
C:\Program Files\AccuScan Palm\Data\username\ToPDA
New Name for List Upload Files
NEW:
S01F02.txt
Note: The “Custom HotSync Path” feature is available only in AccuScan Palm 2.0 Pro edition.
2.5
Removing AccuScan Palm Installation
In the unlikely event that you would like to remove AccuScan Palm from your PDA, follow these
simple instructions.
1. On your PC, select “PDA Installer” from Start Menu programs within AccuScan Palm.
2. Select to “Remove AccuScan Palm” from PDA Installer application.
3. Use the Add/Remove Programs feature in MS Windows via Control panel to Remove
POS-X AccuScan Palm
4. On your PDA, manually delete the application. First, click the Home Icon (typically on the
lower left of the PDA screen), followed by the Menu Icon (just below Home). Choose the
Delete option and select AccuScan Palm 2.0.
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Chapter 3: Sessions
Chapter 3: Sessions
AccuScan Palm allows users to create up to 32 unique data capture programs. These unique
programs are called Sessions. Sessions are easily accessed from the Main Screen, where
captured data can be viewed and searched. In this section, you will learn how to configure
session attributes to meet your data capture needs. Chapter 4 details how to configure individual
fields within a Session.
3.1
Configuring Session Attributes
The first step in creating a AccuScan Palm Session is to assign a name. This name is displayed
in the session menu, and is selected by the user when collecting data, editing field settings, or
editing session settings. To create a Session name, follow the steps below.
1. From the data view screen select the Palm Menu button.
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Chapter 3: Sessions
2. Select Session Settings.
3. Select the New button.
AccuScan Sessions [General]
4. Enter the name of the session you are creating.
AccuScan Sessions [General]
5. Configure your session’s General, Hot Sync, Data and Backup attributes as described in
Sections 3.2.1-3.2.4. When you are finished, press Done. If you do not need to modify the
session, the default settings will be used and you can proceed directly to Field Settings,
Chapter 4, if you wish to use default session settings.
3.2
Session Settings Explained
3.2.1 General Session Settings
General Session Settings are used to control the general operating characteristics of the session.
These operating characteristics cannot be set at the field level.
AccuScan Sessions [General]
Start On Screen
Select the screen the User will enter when they leave the AccuScan Palm Splash Screen. The
user can choose between starting on the Main Screen or the Data Entry screen. Note that this
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Chapter 3: Sessions
option takes effect only when this session was the last one used – each session has its own
settings.
Start On Field
Select the first field the User is focused on when New is selected from the data view screen. This
setting is commonly selected to control what data must be entered when the program is initially
opened.
Example: A session is created to capture package delivery information. Date and Time
stamps are captured in fields 1 and 2. The bar-coded Package ID will be entered into is Field
3. In this scenario the Start On is set to Field 3 since Field 1 and 2 are auto entered via
automatic date and time stamps.
Edit on scan/Find in grid
Select Edit on scan/Find in grid to automatically open records in the data entry screen when a
record is located using ‘Find’ or scanning on the main grid screen. Note that the Find Field
affects which field’s data is used for searching.
Example: A session is created to perform an inventory audit. The goal of the audit is to quickly
find items in the AccuScan Palm database and compare the database values to the actual
inventory levels. To speed this process, the Edit on scan/Find in grid setting is enabled. When
an item is scanned in the find field and located in the database, the matching record is
automatically brought up in the data entry screen for editing.
Edit on Click in Grid
A similar option for automatically editing a record is the behavior of editing a record immediately
upon clicking it in the grid. Selecting this option is very useful for the user who is performing a lot
of edits to existing data.
Note: When this option is selected, it is not possible to delete a single selected record from the
grid. The user must turn this option off before being able to delete single records. The Delete All
menu choice behavior is not affected.
3.2.2 HotSync Settings
HotSync settings are used to control how data is routed during HotSync to the PC.
AccuScan Sessions [Hot Sync]
Delete Data After HotSync
Select Delete Data After HotSync if the data should be removed form the PDA after a
successful HotSync. Note that if data is not successfully transferred to the PC, as a safety
precaution, it will not be deleted from the PDA even when this option is enabled.
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Chapter 3: Sessions
Archive PC Data
Select Archive PC Data if you wish to archive any PC files transferred to the PDA during
HotSync. Any data files sent from the PC are renamed with a prefix of “old_” after a successful
HotSync if this option is selected. In a multi-user environment, many users would not select this
option because it prevents any other user from receiving updated PC files. PC Files include both
list contents as well as any session data needing upload to the PDA.
Note: Without this option, your upload files will be uploaded every time you perform a HotSync,
which may cause the HotSync process to take longer than necessary.
Use Custom HotSync Folder (Pro version only)
If you wish to HotSync data to a specific folder on your machine, specify it here. This is
especially useful if you are running automated processing scriPOS-X and have multiple users
performing individual HotSync operations. This option allows you to have all users HotSync their
data to a common location. The transferred filenames are changed to include the username that
sent the data. An example of a filename using this option is S01_data_johnsmith.txt.
When the Custom HotSync Folder feature is used, the “ToPDA” folder is expected as a sub-folder
of the specified Custom HotSync Folder. For more information about the ToPDA folder, refer to
section 5.5 on uploading data to your PDA.
Note: If the specified Custom HotSync folder cannot be created, the data will be transferred to the
default HotSync folder. If you are having trouble using this feature, double check the HotSync log
file for any error messages after a HotSync.
3.2.3 Data Storage and Transfer Settings
Data settings are used to control the format of the session’s data file sent to the PC during a
HotSync.
AccuScan Settings [Data]
Export As
This option allows the user to select from one of five possible data formatting types
Text (Tab delimited)
This formatting option embeds a <tab> character between every transferred field. Each
record is terminated with a Carriage Return/Line Feed (CRLF)
Text (Comma delimited)
This formatting option wraps each field in quotation marks and separates each field with a
comma. Each record is terminated with CRLF.
Text (Fixed Width)
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Chapter 3: Sessions
This formatting option transfers all fields using a fixed width. Any space remaining at the
end of Field data is padded with spaces. Use of the Max Length field setting is also used to
dictate the width of each fixed width field. The maximum length of any given field is 30
chars. Each record is terminated with CRLF.
XML
This formatting option allows data to be transferred in XML format. This is very useful for
customers when importing into existing systems.
HTML
This formatting option transfers all data in HTML table formats. This provides a formatted
representation of the collected data that can be viewed as a web page.
Append to Existing File
By default, AccuScan Palm overwrites the existing data file on the PC with the newly hot synced
data file. When this option is selected, the new data file is appended to the pre-existing file if it
exists. A new file will be created if it does not exist.
Send Non-Visible Fields
By default, AccuScan Palm does not include non-visible fields in the data file. When this option is
selected, non-visible fields will be sent to the PC. Refer to Chapter 4 on how and when you might
use this option.
Include Field Names
By default, AccuScan Palm does not include field names in the HotSync data file. When this
option is enabled, the user configured field names are provided in the generated data file.
Depending on the file format, this is represented in different ways. For all of the text data
transfers, the Field names are included as a header record, being transferred as the first line of
the data file. For the XML and HTML formats, the field names are included in the general
formatting of the data file.
3.2.4 Backup Settings
AccuScan Palm Backup options allow you to individually choose which types of files are backed
up to a Palm Desktop backup location during each HotSync operation. These files may be useful
to some users for enterprise wide deployment in addition to a simple backup file. Deployment of
configured sessions from one PDA to many is discussed in more detail in Chapter 6. Any file
type that is selected for backup will add a certain amount of time to the HotSync process so if
backup of these files is not necessary, you have the ability to disable the backup setting.
Any of the databases created during a backup process can be loaded to any other PDA running
AccuScan Palm 2.0 simply by double clicking the created file and selecting the appropriate user
to receive it during that user’s next HotSync. POS-X also offers an enterprise deployment
application included with your AccuScan Palm installation. This application allows for an easier
method of distributing backup configuration files to multiple users simultaneously.
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Chapter 3: Sessions
AccuScan Settings [Backup]
Note: Enabling these backup options can slow down your HotSync process considerably, since each
time you HotSync a copy of the selected databases is made on your PC. You may want to enable these
options, then HotSync, then disable them again once you have the copies made.
Backup Session Data
When this option is selected, the actual session configuration is backed up to your Palm Desktop
backup location. An example of the location and filename for this option is C:\Program
Files\Palm\[username]\backup\TRPP-AccuScan Palm_Sessions.pdb where:
C:\Program Files\Palm = Palm Desktop install location
[username] = The PDA username of the current PDA.
TRPP-AccuScan Palm_Sessions.pdb =The Palm database containing session
configuration information.
Backup Drop-down Lists
When this option is selected, any drop-down list databases used on the PDA are saved to the
Palm Desktop backup location for the current user. The filename for this database is
TRPP-List_SxxFyy.pdb where:
xx = the Session number of the current session
yy = the Field number of the backed up list.
Note: Field Type must be set to Drop-Down List for the list database to take effect.
Backup Field Hints
When this option is selected, any created field hints are saved to the Palm Desktop backup
location for the current user. The filename for this database is TRPP-Hint_Sxx.pdb where:
xx = the Session number of the current session
3.3
Deploying Configured Sessions to Multiple Users
Please refer to Chapter 6, Section 6.2 for a detailed look into how to deploy session
configuration to your entire workforce.
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Chapter 4: Field Settings
Chapter 4: Field Settings
After a session is created, fields within that session may also require configuration. Before
configuration, all available fields within the session are in a default state.
Customizing your session settings and field settings is not required, as the default settings will
work perfectly for many users. However, to fully realize the power of AccuScan Palm, some of
these settings may need modification for your specific needs. Proper field configuration may
speed up data acquisition and may prevent data input errors, again, depending on your collection
requirements.
In this chapter, you will learn how to set up fields for your specific application. Section 4.2
explains the various AccuScan Palm field settings in more detail.
4.1
Configuring Field Settings
Below we go through the steps required to configure field settings.
1. From the AccuScan Palm Main Screen, select the Palm Menu button.
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Chapter 4: Field Settings
2. Select Field Settings.
3. Select a AccuScan Palm session.
AccuScan Settings [General]
4. Select a field to configure.
5. Enter the field Name.
AccuScan Settings [General]
6. Select a Field Type. Section 4.2.1 discusses these field types in more detail.
7. Enter General field settings. Section 4.2.2 discusses these settings in more detail.
AccuScan Settings [General]
8. Enter additional field settings. Refer to Sections 4.2.3 through 4.2.5 for more detail on the
other available field settings options.
9. Repeat steps 4-8 to configure additional fields.
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Chapter 4: Field Settings
4.2
Field Settings Explained
4.2.1 Field Types
The Field Type setting is used to control what type of data is entered for this field. AccuScan
Palm has four available Field Types: Text, Drop-Down, Checkbox and Variable. AccuScan
Palm Pro has an additional Signature Field Type.
AccuScan Settings [General]
Text
Text fields should be chosen when data is to be entered via a bar code, keyboard, or graffiti. The
Text type does not restrict input in any way, and can store up to 30 characters.
AccuScan Settings [General]
Drop-Down
Drop-Down fields allow the user to select from a pre-defined list of items. Drop-Down fields offer
a quick, error free way to enter data from a select list of choices. Section 4.2.5 provides more
detailed information regarding drop down lists.
AccuScan Settings [General]
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Chapter 4: Field Settings
Check Box
Check box fields are used when simple Yes/No, True/False, On/Off selections are made. Check
boxes should be used whenever possible to speed data entry, and limit data entry error.
AccuScan Settings [General]
Variable
Variable fields are used to automatically enter values such as Time and Date. To set a Variable
field the user selects the value they would like to enter in the field from the drop down menu. The
selected setting will then appear in the “Default” field value in the Settings screen. By default,
Variable field values are populated when the record is first created. To update the variable each
time it is submitted, simply enable the Update Variables option for that field. Refer to Section
4.2.4 for more information regarding Update Variables.
AccuScan Settings [General]
DATE
When DATE is selected the current date is automatically entered in the field in the
mm/dd/yyyy format (i.e. 05/07/2003).
TIME
When TIME is selected the current time is automatically entered in the field in hh:mm:ss
military format (i.e. 19:19:55).
DATETIME
When DATETIME is selected, the current date and time are automatically entered in the
field in the mm/dd/yyyy hh:mm:ss format (i.e. 05/07/2003 13:14:55).
TIMEHHMM
When TIMEHHMM is selected the current time is automatically entered in the field in the
hhmm format (i.e. 0915). The first two digits represent the hour the next two digits
represent the minutes past the hour.
DATE2
When DATE2 is selected, the current date is automatically entered in the field in the
yyyy-mm-dd format (i.e 2003-05-07)
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Chapter 4: Field Settings
DATESYS
When DATESYS is selected, the current date is automatically entered in the field in the
same format as you have chosen in system prefs. This option give you the greatest
flexibility. To select a date format, click on “Home” and then “Prefs”, and choose
“Formats” from the upper right-hand menu.
USER
When USER is selected, the current PDA User ID is automatically entered in the field.
INCR:1,1
When INCR:1,1 is selected, the field is set to be an auto-incrementing field. The first digit
represents the starting value while the second digit represents the increment value. The
default setting INCR:1,1 starts the record as a value of 1 and increment by 1 for every
following scan of a previously scanned barcode. This feature can automate a lot of data
entry tasks that involve counting items.
This field setting option is dependent on both the Edit on Scan Session setting as well as
the Auto Find on Scan Field setting. Refer to the appropriate Session and Field settings
section of this manual for more information in those areas.
The INCR variable type can also be used to count backwards by setting the second
number to a negative value. When the field reach zero, AccuScan Palm alerts the user.
For example, INCR:10,-1
Signature (Pro Version Only)
When a Signature Field Type is selected, the user is prompted for a signature when the field is
tapped. Signatures collected in a Signature field are HotSynced to the PC in a bitmap format. All
signature files transferred during HotSync are located in a \signatures subfolder of the HotSync
data transfer folder.
AccuScan Settings [General]
4.2.2 General Field Settings
General Field Settings allow the user to define the most basic field attributes. These settings
allow a AccuScan Palm user to remove visibility of a field, establish default values, numeric only
fields, and read only fields.
Data Type
The Data Type represents the format of the expected data for the selected field.
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Chapter 4: Field Settings
AccuScan Settings [General]
General
General is set to accept all data types in a field, including date time stamps.
Numeric
Numeric is set when the field is only used for numeric data. When a field’s Data Type is
set to Numeric, it does not accept any Alpha characters.
Date
Date is set when the field is used to enter dates.
Time
Time is set when the field is used to enter times.
Note: Time data is always stored in military format.
Edit Hint (Pro Version only)
When Edit Hint is selected a field Hint can be entered as reference for the chosen field in the
provided memo space. This feature is used to provide reference details about the information
being captured in a particular field. To view a field Hint a user taps the field label in the data
entry screen.
Note: Field Hints may also be uploaded from a text file on your PC. See section 5.5 for more
information on this feature.
AccuScan Settings [General]
Default
The Default represents the value that is initially used for the selected field. For example, you may
set up one of your fields to represent a quantity. Likewise, you might want to set the Default for
that field to be 1.
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Chapter 4: Field Settings
Note 1: The Default value is only used when the Clear on Submit option in the After Scan
menu is selected for this field. If the user changes this value during data entry and Clear on
Submit is not checked, the changed value is retained for the next record.
Note 2: If the user clicks the Clear All button from the data entry screen, this value is cleared, as
well.
Default values can also be entered using Variable field settings. Refer to Section 4.2.2 for more
information.
Visible
This option is normally selected and allows a field to be viewed or hidden in the data entry
screen. A field’s visibility should be turned off when it is not being used in a session or if the
default contents need to be stored but not seen by the user as in some cases of Date/Time
stamping of an individual record.
Show in Grid
When Show in Grid is selected, the field is visible in the Main Screen grid. A maximum of 4 fields
is available for display in the grid. Only the first 4 fields with this option set on are displayed.
Subsequent fields with this option set on are ignored. Fields are displayed in their numeric order
in the grid.
Use Popup Dialog
This option is only valid when the Data Type for a field supports it. Currently, only Date, Time
and Numeric Data Types allow for a Popup dialog. This option is ignored in all other Data Type
settings. When a valid field is tapped with this option selected, a popup dialog appears. Samples
of the 3 different popup types are shown below.
Date Popup Dialog
Time Popup Dialog
Numeric Popup Dialog
Numeric Popup Dialog Button Definitions
--
-
++
+
Done
BS
C
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
Subtracts 10 from the Qty.
Subtracts 1 from the Qty.
Adds 10 to the Qty.
Adds 1 to the Qty.
Enters the Qty. and returns the user to the data entry screen.
Backspace
Clears the current entry
Clears the current entry and returns the user to the data entry screen.
Cancel
NOTE: to enter a decimal point, double-tap in the Graffiti area.
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Chapter 4: Field Settings
Read Only
When the Read Only option is selected, the user does not have the ability to enter data in the
selected field. This is commonly used in conjunction with default values and Variable type fields.
4.2.3 Validation Field Settings
Validation Field Settings allow the user to exhibit controls that check the accuracy of the entered
data.
AccuScan Settings [Validation]
Validate Immediately
This option represents whether or not a field should be validated immediately after it is entered.
When Validate Immediately is not selected and Validation settings do exist, the field data will
still be validated when the record is submitted.
Unique Within Record
When selected, this option prevents duplicate data values within the current record. If a field is
submitted and it violates the Unique Within Record setting, an audible alarm and error message
is displayed.
Unique Within Table
When selected, this option prevents the user from entering duplicate data within the entire
session for this field. This does not prevent the same data from being entered into another field
within this session, however. If a field is submitted and it violates the Unique Within Table
setting, an audible alarm and error message is displayed.
Min Len
This option allows the user to validate an entry based on the minimum number of characters
required. If a field is submitted with less than the “Min Len” setting, an audible alarm and error
message is displayed. Setting a Min Len of 1, for example, prevents the user from leaving that
field blank.
Max Len
This option allows the user to validate an entry based on the maximum number of characters
allowed. If a field is submitted with more than the “Max Len” setting, an audible alarm and error
message is displayed. Specify a Max Len of zero to disable this rule. Fields in AccuScan Palm
can store up to 30 characters.
4.2.4 After Scan Field Settings
After Scan field settings are designed to increase data entry speed and accuracy. Repetitive
data capture scenarios such as inventory audits lend themselves to the efficiencies of these
settings. It is recommended that these features be activated whenever possible.
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Chapter 4: Field Settings
NOTE: The ‘After Scan’ rules are triggered by both a completed barcode scan as well as pressing
the Down Arrow key on your PDA.
AccuScan Settings [After Scan]
Auto Submit
This option represents whether or not to automatically submit this record following an 'After
Scan' event for this field. If this option is chosen for the selected field, the system automatically
submits the record and sets the focus to the field selected in the Go To prompt for the selected
field. The form is then ready for a new record.
Clear On Submit
This option is used to tell the system whether to clear the selected field after submitting the
current record in the Entry screen. If the current record is submitted as a result of an ‘After Scan’
event or by clicking the Submit button, all the fields with this option selected are cleared. If the
field has a Default Value, that value is used instead of a blank entry. Turning off Clear On Submit
is especially useful if several records in a row will share a value for a field – it saves the user the
time of re-entering the same data when entering several new records.
Auto Find on Scan
When Auto Find on Scan is selected, the database will search the session table for a record
with a matching value in that field. If a matching value is found, the data entry screen is
populated with that record data and the user is immediately put into edit mode. If a matching
value is not found, a new record is created. The Auto Find on Scan is triggered when a barcode
is scanned, or when the user presses the Down Arrow key after manually entering data in that
field.
Update Variables
When this option is selected, Variable field data is updated to represent the time that the record
was submitted as opposed to the default operation of using the time that the record was
created. This is only relevant for date/time based variable settings, of course. This is useful
when you want to track the date/time a record was edited, rather than created.
Go To
This option allows the user to control the ‘tab order’ for the selected field. After a user performs a
successful scan while in the focus of the selected field, the system sets the focus to whichever
field is selected as the Go To Field. The user typically uses this feature to control the 'flow' of
data entry. Alternatively, the Down Arrow key represents an 'After Scan' event for those PDAs
that are not barcode enabled.
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Chapter 4: Field Settings
4.2.5 Drop-Down Lists
Drop Downs allow AccuScan Palm users to create their own Drop-Down list menus for specific
fields. AccuScan Palm gives the user the ability to create these lists either directly on the PDA or
from a file on the PC via a HotSync data transfer.
AccuScan Settings [Drop-down]
Allow PC Update
This option allows the user to create drop-down lists on the PC. During HotSync these lists are
loaded into the field and overwrite any existing drop-down information saved on the PDA. For
this reason, we offer the ability to disable the PC Update option. This gives the user the ability to
avoid accidentally overwriting any existing list information created on the PDA.
If you wish to allow list contents to be uploaded from the PC for a particular session and list, this
option should be checked. If you wish to prohibit the PDA from getting updated list contents from
the PC, simply uncheck this option. Chapter 5 refers to PC Operations in more detail. Please
refer to that section for more detail regarding list updates from the PC.
Modify
Select the Modify button to directly edit the list contents on the PDA. We discuss the steps in
creating drop-down list items in the following section.
1. Select Modify.
2. Select New.
AccuScan Settings [Drop-down]
AccuScan Drop-down Lists…
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Chapter 4: Field Settings
3. Enter a List Item via barcode scan or Graffiti.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 to add additional list items.
AccuScan Drop-down Lists…
AccuScan Palm List Items can be edited and deleted in the AccuScan Palm Lists screen.
Simply choose the value to be edited and select the appropriate button.
NOTE: List Items may also be deployed to multiple users. In most multi-user cases, the PC update
option would be used, but it is also possible to create a list on one PDA and distribute to your entire
mobile work force. Refer to Chapter 5 for more information regarding this powerful feature.
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Chapter 5: Managing Data
Chapter 5: Managing Data
5.1
Entering Data
To enter data in AccuScan Palm, the user must first select the appropriate session. Once that is
selected, clicking the New button will start the data entry/collection process.
AccuScan
Entry Screen
The Entry Screen is the area where the user does his data entry. The fields are presented to the
user with the customized fields as they were configured. The user enters data for each field
presented. When the data is being scanned, the system controls the flow to the next field based
on the Field Settings previously set up. This screen contains three buttons. These are discussed
below.
Done Button
Click the Done button when you have finished entering data and would like to return to
the Main Screen. You will be prompted as to whether you would like to save the last
record. Answer appropriately. You will now be returned to the Main Screen.
Submit Button
Clicking the Submit button submits the current record to the database. After clicking this
button, the focus is set to the field that was set as the Session Start On field. Refer to
Section 3.2.1 for more information on setting a Start On field.
Clear All Button
Clicking the Clear All button clears all data from all fields for this record. Notice that the
focus does not change after clicking this button. Also notice that any Default values
selected in the Field Settings are not recognized.
Field Hint
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Chapter 5: Managing Data
Clicking any field’s label will open the field’s Hint window. The Hints window displays
reference details that aid in data collection. Sections 4.2.2 explains how to create and
edit field Hints.
AccuScan Settings [General]
5.2
Quick Buttons
AccuScan Palm specializes in streamlining screen interaction. We do this through
implementation of several unique features. This allows for very fast and accurate data entry.
One of the features to aid in this is using the Up/Down keys on your PDA.
The Up Arrow key allows the user to move up one field on the Entry Screen. (Please note that
this does not follow the ‘Go To’ field settings. It simply moves up one field on the Entry screen.)
The Down Arrow key allows the user to move down one field in the Entry Screen. The Down
Arrow key is actually used to trigger the ‘After Scan’ rules and AccuScan Palm behaves just like
it would after receiving a valid barcode scan. If, for example, the Auto Submit flag is enabled for
the current field, and the user presses the Down Arrow key, the current record is submitted and
all of the After Scan field settings for the field are respected; including the ‘Go To’ Field. This is
especially useful for the users that do not have a barcode enabled PDA.
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Chapter 5: Managing Data
5.3
Finding Data
While in the Main Screen, AccuScan Palm users can search the session database while by using
the Find feature. Follow the directions below to use the find feature.
1. Select a field to search.
2. Scan or enter data into the Find Field.
3. Click the Find button.
AccuScan
AccuScan
If you are manually entering data, you must click the Find button. If you are scanning data, this is
done automatically when you scan a barcode value. Additionally, there is a session setting that
enhances the operation of this Find feature. Using Session settings, you may set the option to
Edit on Find. Refer to section 3.2.1 for more information regarding these settings.
5.4
Managing Data from the PDA to the PC
AccuScan Palm comes with a HotSync conduit allowing easy transfer of collected data via the
standard Palm Desktop HotSync process. This section outlines all of the features available for
PC processing.
5.4.1 How Data Is Sent to the PC
AccuScan Palm transfers all session data to the PC via the standard HotSync™ process. The
POS-X installation provides a shortcut for accessing your data folder. This shortcut is available
from the Start MenuÆProgramsÆ AccuScan Palm ÆBrowse Data link. This link provides you
access to all of your users and their data. Each session defined on the PDA generates its own
independent data file. These files are appropriately named using the session number of each
given session.
You can see the session number of any given session via the AccuScan Palm Main Screen or in
the Session Settings dialog screen on the PDA. These numbers typically follow the order in
which each session was created but this is not always the case. It is important to note what these
session numbers are when looking for your data. The filename for each session is Sxx_data.txt
where xx = the session number for that session.
For example, if you have 2 sessions defined on the PDA, the first session listed would generate a
file named S01_data.txt and the second defined file generates a file named S02_data.txt.
5.4.2 Viewing Data Files on the PC
Data files sent to the PC can be quickly viewed by selecting Programs – AccuScan Palm –
Browse Data and then selecting the Users data you wish to view.
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Chapter 5: Managing Data
5.4.3 Linking AccuScan Palm Session Data to an MS Access Table
Microsoft Access is an affordable and popular database that can be utilized to manage AccuScan
Palm data. To import AccuScan Palm session 1 data, file name S01_data.txt, follow these steps:
1. In MS Access, open your database or create a new database.
2. Select File.
3. Select Get External Data.
4. Select Import.
5. In the Import dialog box, select Files of type: Text files (*.txt).
6. In the file name list box enter you the path to S01_data.txt.
7. Select Import.
8. Follow the Import Wizard steps to complete the import.
5.4.4 Linking AccuScan Palm Data to an MS Excel Worksheet
MS Excel allows text files to be opened directly in Excel. Following just a few simple wizard
dialog screens allows most users to painlessly view their data in an easy to read MS Excel
worksheet.
1. In MS Excel, select FileÆOpen.
2. Browse to the AccuScan Palm generated text file.
3. Select the file and Click Open.
4. Answer any questions regarding the type of data file as is appropriate.
5. You should now see your AccuScan Palm data displayed in MS Excel in a familiar
spreadsheet format.
5.4.5 ODBC Link to Data File
You can also create an ODBC DSN to point to your session data. One DSN could point to your
downloaded data file and another DSN could point to your upload data file. An ODBC DSN is a
great way to link your Accuscan session data files to any ODBC compliant database or
spreadsheet application like Microsoft Access or Excel.
5.5
HotSyncing Data from the PC to the PDA
AccuScan Palm allows you to send databases from the PC directly to your AccuScan Palm
sessions on the PDA. Our customers find this an invaluable tool and utilize it many different
ways. For example if an inventory control manager needs to distribute pick lists he simply saves
the file to the warehouse \ToPDA folder for later import. If a maintenance manager needs to
distribute jobs he distributes the job files to the maintenance personnel’s \ToPDA folder. The
scenarios in which this feature can be used are limitless!
Many of our customers connect their AccuScan Palm sessions with 3rd-party databases to give
their current systems added functionality. By exporting their databases from Microsoft Access
and/or Excel these data files can easily be created and distributed.
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Chapter 5: Managing Data
5.5.1 Sending Session Data to the PDA
All data prepared for upload to the PDA must be stored in a folder called ToPDA. This folder
must be located under the AccuScan Palm\Data folder where AccuScan Palm was installed, and
inside the folder for the current user. These folders are automatically created after HotSyncing.
An example of what the data location of this folder might look like is C:\Program Files\POS-
X\AccuScan Palm\Data\JohnSmith\ToPDA.
Note: If you are using the Custom HotSync Folder feature (Pro version only), the ToPDA folder will
be located in the Custom HotSync Folder you specified on the PDA under Session Settings
AccuScan Palm allows tab-delimited files to be sent from the PC to the PDA. The data file must
be named exactly the same as the data generated by the HotSync process. So, for example, if
you want to upload data for Session 2 on the PDA, the filename must be S02_data.txt and must
be located in the ToPDA as described above.
The required file definition for sending session data from the PC to the PDA is as follows. <CR>
indicates a carriage-return (line break), and <tab> indicates a tab character.
Field1<tab>Field2<tab>Field3<tab>….Field9<tab>Field10<CR>
Field1<tab>Field2<tab>Field3<tab>….Field9<tab>Field10<CR>
Below is a sample data file prepared for upload to a AccuScan Palm session.
A sample upload session file is located with this install. If you wish to test the functionality of this
feature, simply place that sample file in the ToPDA subfolder and set its name to the appropriate
session.
Note: If you define data for a session number that does not exist on the PDA, it will be ignored.
Note for New Users of Windows: Some versions of Windows will not display the file extension
(e.g., “.txt”). On those systems, if you save a file as “S01_data.txt”, it will actually store the file as
“S01_data.txt.txt” – and this file will not be recognized by AccuScan Palm. To check the actual
name of a file you’ve created, right-click on it in Windows Explorer and choose “Properties”.
5.5.2 Creating Session Data Files with Excel
To create a session data file with Excel, follow these steps.
1. Open the file in Excel
2. Select File from the Menu bar
3. Select Save As
4. In the Save As dialog box, select Save As Type: Text (Tab Delimited)
5. Save your session to
C:\Program Files \AccuScan Palm\Data\username\ToPDA\S01_data
Note: If you are using the Custom HotSync Folder setting, save the file to the Custom HotSync
folder, under the \ToPDA folder.
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Chapter 5: Managing Data
6. Close the Excel file
7. Perform a HotSync to upload the data file to the PDA
5.5.3 Sending Drop-Down Lists to the PDA
AccuScan Palm also allows the user to prepare and manage Drop-Down lists on the PC for later
upload to the PDA running AccuScan Palm. The filename of list data to be uploaded must be
named SxxFyy.txt where
xx = the session number
yy = the field number
For example, if you want to send the list contents for session 2 in the 4th field, the filename must
be named S02F04.txt.
Note: Simply sending the list contents for a particular session and a particular field does not
automatically define that field as a drop down list. This must still be set in the Field Settings
screen of the PDA application. Please refer to Chapter 4 for instructions on setting field properties.
The format for the list files is very simple. Each list element must be stored on its own line. Since
there is only one field, there is no need for a <tab> delimiter between fields.
A sample of what this data must look like is as follows.
A sample upload list file is located with this install. If you wish to test the functionality of this
feature, simply place that sample file in the ToPDA subfolder and rename it to the appropriate
session number and field number.
5.5.4 Sending Field Hints to the PDA (Pro version only)
In addition to editing the Field Hints on your PDA, you can upload them from a text file on your
PC. To do this, create a text file with one line per hint. The format of the file is as follows, one
line per field: Field Number<tab>Field Hint – where <tab> is a tab character.
A sample of a field hints upload file looks like this:
Place this file in the ToPDA folder in your HotSync folder and it will be uploaded during the next
HotSync operation.
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Chapter 6: Administration Settings
Chapter 6: Administration Settings
Once sessions are configured it is customary to implement password protection so field
personnel cannot easily alter the session settings. When a Password is set, a user is required to
enter this Password to access any areas protected by the AccuScan Palm Admin Settings.
Administrators commonly Enable Protection for Session Settings and Field Settings. Below
you will learn how to set Passwords and set protection levels for program settings as well as data.
6.1
Setting Passwords
1. Select Passwords in the Grid Screen
2. Select Use Password
3. Enter your Password
4. Enter additional protection levels; Session
Settings, Field Settings, Delete One
Record, Delete All Records and Edit
Records (Refer to Sections 6.1.2)
AccuScan Passwords
6.1.2 Enable Protection for
Session Settings
When protection is enabled for Session Settings, the user is required to enter a password to edit
or add sessions.
Field Settings
When protection is enabled for Field Settings, the user is required to enter a password to edit or
add field.
Delete One Record
When protection is enabled for Delete One Record, the user is required to enter a password to
delete a record from the data view screen.
Delete All Records
When protection is enabled for Delete All Records, the user is required to enter a password to
delete all records from the menu bar.
Edit Records
When protection is enabled for Edit Records, the user is required to enter a password to edit a
record after it is submitted.
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Chapter 6: Administration Settings
6.2
Deploying Configured Sessions to Multiple Users
6.2.1 How to Copy One PDA’s Configuration to Other PDAs
AccuScan Palm configured sessions can easily be deployed to your mobile workforce. To
perform an enterprise-wide deployment, simply follow these steps.
1. Create desired configuration on one PDA.
2. Test this configuration until satisfied with the results.
3. Perform HotSync with this PDA.
4. Locate the created file TRPP-AccuScan Palm_Sessions.pdb. Note that this file will only
be created if the Session Level option for backing up Session Data is selected. Please
refer to Chapter 3 for more detail regarding this option.
5. Double Click this file and select the user(s) to deploy it to.
6. If the session consists of Drop-Down Menus the drop-down lists backup file must be
placed in the User Data Folders and Allow PC Update must be checked in the Drop
Down settings. See section 5.4.2 for complete instructions.
7. If the session consists of field hints the field hints backup file must be placed in the User
Data Folders.
8. Perform HotSync of those user(s).
9. The Session settings should then be transferred to the new PDA.
6.2.2 File Names Used by AccuScan Palm
This section lists the various file names used by AccuScan Palm on the PC. It is here for your
reference in deploying and troubleshooting your AccuScan Palm configuration.
Note that sessions are identified by their session number, e.g. “S01”, and fields are identified by
their field number, e.g. “F02” (with “S01F02” indicating the first session and second field).
Upload Filenames: (located in the “ToPDA” folder)
Data Records
Field Hints
Drop-Down Lists
S01_Data.txt
S01_Hints.txt
S01F02.txt
Backup Filenames: (located in the “Palm\username\backup” folder)
Session definitions
Data Records
Data Records
Drop-Down Lists
Bitmaps (signatures)
Field Hints
TRPP-AccuScan Palm_Sessions.pdb
TRPP-Data_S01_30.pdb (pro)
TRPP-Data_S01_10.pdb (std)
TRPP-List_S01F02.pdb
TRPP-Bitmap_S01.pdb (pro only)
TRPP-Hint_S01.pdb (pro only)
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