How can I scan a barcode into an application in the background?

How can I scan a barcode into an application in the background?
I’d like to set up a very simple barcode solution for people to put drinks etc on their account.

I don’t want to buy another PC and someone is often using the computer that I would connect to the scanner via USB. From what I understand, the data comes across as if someone is at the keyboard typing it meaning that whatever application is running will receive the data when someone swipes their card.

What I’d like to do is have an application that is always running and no matter what else is happening on the computer, when someone scans, the data always automatically gets entered into the “scanner” application. I envision something as simple as excel where each scan is a new line on a worksheet.
UPDATE: If I used the USB interface with a simple barcode reader like idtechproducts.com/pdut_detail.asp?F_PdutID=18&F_CateID=1&F_SubCateID=1 with a USB sniffer like freedownloadscenter.com/Programming/Misc__Programming_Tools/USB_Monitor_Download.html would I be able to intercept the USB traffic, log it with the sniffer without interupting whatever application I’m running?

Best answer:

I would contact the manufacturer of the scanner you have, or plan to purchase.
I know that if you use a wireless solution, it can upload in real time to an open application, but I’m not sure how that would work with a hard wired solution. Also, the wireless solutions typically need a server running background apps to capture the transaction.
Symbol, DataLogic, UniTech, etc probably all have software solutions you can purchase, but it may get expensive to do what you are looking for. And it may not be possible with a USB scanner. There are POS systems specifically designed for the restaurant and bar industry that may provide a good alternate solution for you.
Good Luck.

Tags: application, background, Barcode, into, scan

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