USB Barcode Scanner Stops Functioning

[IjumpOverU]

A friend I help out with basic IT at his small business has a barcode scanner setup for when people come in (so they can easily check-in). It is setup as a keyboard wedge scanner, and works for a little while (usually 1-3 days) but then just seems to shut off. Even if I unplug it for a minute and plug it back in the same USB port it will not usually reset the scanner properly. However if I plug it into a seperate USB port it will boot up and run fine for a little while. Now I have already checked some of the beep codes on the scanner and have changer the device settings on the port to not be put to sleep by the OS. Still it is not cooperating. It is running Windows 7 Pro. Any thoughts/ideas are very welcome.

 

[DrB0b]

What is the make and model of the barcode scanner? Have you tried it on a different machine? When it doesn't work correctly, what errors/beeps does it give if any?

"Silence is golden, duct tape is silver...

 

[IjumpOverU]

It is a Symbol LS 9208 scanner.

When it fails it gives a single short beep. This according to the USB beep codes indicates a USB bus communication issue.

I have tried it overnight on another machine (unfortunately he needs it on his main system every day right now) and it works fine. But that is not a true test since it usually takes a day or more till it chokes.

 

[FredWagner]

Is is main system rebooted daily ? This might be a memory lead/fragmentation issue if a daiily restart solves it.
Also - are there other USB devices on this PC? if so, try an externally powered USB hub in case the power is sagging on the USB bus.

Fred Wagner

 

[IjumpOverU]

I have not rebooted the system each day. I have asked that they do this but I am very sure (in fact they admit) this does not happen. I will try to force one (I have my ways) but also try the powered USB hub. This based on all conditions makes sense. They have several devices running off of USB direct from the machine, plus the beep code does seem to indicate a problem with the USB bus. The scanner does take up a bit of power itself so I would not be surprised if this is the answer. I will try this and report back. Thanks for the tip.

 

[FredWagner]

I made a stop for Ice Cream last night, and the e-goodies rack there had a 7-port powered USB hub for $19.95 - might be just the trick! And if you could force a nightly restart of the system, lot of things might be better.... perhaps make it a part of a backup routine - reboot followed by a backup.
one other suggestion - since this is a key system for the business, is it on a UPS ? The UPS should power the external USB hub and everything connected to the PC. I've got an APC 650VA unit designed for home use - only cost $100. Runs the main PC,and flat panel monitor, DSL modem, netgear router, and the NAS box. Nice peace of mind - and it does cut in now and then!

Fred Wagner

 

[gbaughma]

Hmmm.... I was going to suggest making sure that it was NOT plugged into a USB hub.



Just my 2¢

"What the captain doesn't realize is that we've secretly replaced his Dilithium Crystals with new Folger's Crystals."

--Greg

http://parallel.tzo.com

 

[cdogg]

Is the Symbol scanner setup on a hands-free stand always scanning, or is operated by the trigger? Either way, make sure it was properly setup by scanning the right barcode in the instruction manual to enable the operation mode you want. Other than that, I too would suggest the nightly reboot to see if that helps. Also using the USB ports on the rear of the PC might be more reliable than ones on the front of the case.

Carl

"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test
a man's character, give him power." - Abraham Lincoln
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