Access Point
Provides a bridge between Ethernet wired LANs and the wireless network. Access points are the connectivity point between Ethernet wired networks and devices (laptops, hand-held computers, point-of-sale terminals) equipped with a wireless LAN adapter card.
Accuracy
The determination of whether any element width or inter-character gap width (if applicable) differs from its nominal width by more than the printing tolerance.
Active Tags
Tags that use batteries as a partial or complete source of power to boost the effective operating range of the tag and to offer additional features over passive tags, such as temperature sensing.
ADC
Automated Data Collection or Automated Data Capture – refers to all technologies that automate the process of data collection without the use of a keyboard, including bar code, magnetic stripe, (OCR) optical card reader, voice recognition, smart card, or (RFID) radio frequency identification. ADC provides a quick, accurate, and cost-effective way to collect and enter data.
Adhesive
(1) A substance (cement, glue, gum) capable of holding materials together by surface contact. (2) The portion of a pressure sensitive label which allows the label to cling to its intended surface.
AIAG
Automotive Industry Action Group – a trade association responsible for creating automotive industry standards pertaining to bar code symbology and common label formats.
AIM
Automatic Identification Manufacturers, Inc. – a U.S. trade association headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA who represent the manufacturers of automatic identification systems.
Alignment
In an automatic identification system (Auto ID), the relative position and orientation of a scanner to the symbol.
Alphanumeric
A character set consisting of letters, numbers, and usually other characters such as special symbols.
Analog
A representation that is similar to (or Analogous to) the original. For example, the height of the colored bar on a thermometer is analogous to the amount of heat; the hotter it is, the higher the colored bar.
Analog phone
Comes from the word "analogous," which means similar to. In telephone transmission, the signal being transmitted from the phonevoice, video or imageis analogous to the original signal.
ANSI
American National Standards Institute – a non-governmental organization responsible for the development of voluntary bar code quality standards. Bar code printing standards and the readability of bar code symbols are determined and classified into grades from A to F, to provide an overall symbol quality test.
Antenna
A device that conducts electromagnetic energy. In RFID, an antenna radiates energy in the radio frequency spectrum to and from the RFID tag.
Antenna-Directional
Transmits and receives radio waves off the front of the antenna. The power behind and to the sides of the antenna is reduced. The coverage area is oval with the antenna at one of the narrow ends. Typical directional antenna beam width angles are from 90 (somewhat directional) to as little as 20(very directional). A directional antenna directs power to concentrate the coverage pattern in a particular direction. The antenna direction is specified by the angle of the coverage pattern called the beam width.
Antenna-Omni-directional
Transmits and receives radio waves in all directions. The coverage area is circular with the antenna at the center. Omni-directional antennas are also referred to as whip or low-profile antennas.
Aperture
The opening on an optical system (scanner) that establishes the field of view.
APPC
Peer-to-peer networking services in an IBM SNA network.
AppleShare
Software by Apple Computer that enables a Macintosh computer to function as file a server.
AppleShare PC
Software by Apple Computer that enables MS-DOS based personal computers to access an AppleTalk network.
AppleTalk
A local area operating system by Apple Computer. It is built into Macintosh and Apple IIGS computers.
Application
The particular use the label, tag, or ticket will serve once the barcode, text, or graphic image is applied.
Application Temperature
The temperature at the time the label is applied.
ARCnet
A popular local area network that uses token passing passing over a star topology of coaxial cable, twisted pair, or optical fiber.
ASCII
American Standard Code for Information Interchange. A common code for representing alphanumeric characters in computers.
ATM
Asynchronous Transfer Mode. A type of high-speed wide area network.
Auto-ID Center
A non-profit organization which led the development of a global network for tracking goods academia, that pioneered the development of an Internet-like infrastructure for using RFID to track goods globally.
Automatic Identification
The broad term which encompasses bar coding, RFID, and other electronic technologies that electronically identify and track goods.
Backbone
The main trunk of a network communication channel.
Backcoating
Used on a thermal transfer ribbon to prevent the ribbon from sticking to the printhead and to the substrate (media/label material). It also protects the printhead from excessive heat, static, and abrasion.
Background
The spaces, quiet zones, and areas surrounding a printed symbol.
Band
The range of frequencies in which signals are transmitted.
Bandwidth
The difference between the highest and lowest frequencies used for a communication channel. Generally, more bandwidth means greater transmission capacity.
Bandwidth Management
Functionality that allocates and manages RF traffic by preventing unwanted frames from being processed by the access point.
Bar
The darker element of a printed bar code symbol.
Bar Code
A bar code is a piece of Automatic Identification Technology (Auto ID) that stores real time data. It is a series of vertical bars or a graphical bar pattern which can, (depending on the width and pattern) encode numbers and letters in a format which can easily be retrieved and interpreted by a bar code reader.
Bar Code Character
A single group of bars and stripes that represents a specific quantity (often one) of numbers, letters, punctuation marks, or other symbols. This is the smallest subset of a bar code symbol that contains data.
Bar Code Density
The number of characters that can be represented in a linear unit of measure. This number is often expressed in characters per inch or cpi.
Bar Height/Length
The bar dimension perpendicular to the bar width. Also called bar height. Scanning is performed in an axis perpendicular to the bar length
Bar Width
The thickness of a bar measured from the edge closest to the symbol start character to the trailing edge of the same bar.
Baud rate
The maximum number of signal pulses that a communication line can handle per second. Higher baud rates indicate greater transmission capacities.
Baudot code
A telecommunication code (representing alphanumeric characters) that predated ASCII. Baudot code was developed for use in telegraphy.
BC/MC
Broadcast frames; Multicast frames
BCDIC
Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code. A code for representing alphanumeric characters in computers.
Beacon
A uniframe system packet broadcast by the AP to keep the network synchronized. A beacon Includes the Net_ID (ESSID), the AP address, the Broadcast destination addresses, a time stamp, a DTIM (Delivery Traffic Indicator Maps) and the TIM (Traffic Indicator Message).
BFA Antenna Connector
Miniature coaxial antenna connector manufactured by MuRata Manufacturing Corporation.
Bi-Directional
Bar code symbology capable of being read successfully independent of scanning direction.
Bidirectional
In RFID, a tag that can be read or written from either side.
Binary
A numbering system that uses only 1’s and 0’s.
Bit
The smallest unit of data representation in a computer. Can represent 0 or 1.
Bitmapped Font
Refers to the inherent character and font sets found within a thermal printer and their respective ability to be adjusted and “shrunk to fit”. Bitmapped fonts are commonly available in limited point sizes, for example 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, and 18 point, whose edges can become distorted or rough with manipulation outside the prescribed point size ranges.
Bluetooth
See Wireless Personal Area Networks.
Bps
Bits per second. A unit of measurement for data transfer rates.
Bridge
An internetworking device that connects two similar networks.
Brouter
An internetworking device that functions as a router for protocols that it understands, and as a bridge for those that it does not.
Buffer
A segment of computer memory used to hold data while it is being processed.
Bus
A main communication channel to which devices connect.
Byte
Eight bits. A byte can represent whole numbers from 0 to 255. Typically, one byte holds a single character.
CAM
Continuously Aware Mode: Mode in which the adapter is instructed to continually check for network activity.
Capacity
The amount of information that can be programmed into a tag. This may represent the bits accessible to the user or the total number including those reserved to the manufacturer e.g. parity or control bits.
Card and Socket Services
Packages that work with the host computer operating system, enabling the Wireless LAN adapter to interface with host computer configuration and power management functions.
CCITT
Consultative Committee for International Telephony and Telegraphy. An international standards organization.
CDMA and TDMA
The Code Division Multiple Access and Time Division Multiple Access standard for wireless communications on wide area networks (WANs) in North America.
Cellular Phone
Low-powered, duplex, radio/telephone that operates between 800 and 900 MHz, using multiple transceiver sites linked to a central computer for coordination. The sites, or "cells," cover a range of one to six or more miles in each direction.
Central processing
A networking strategy in which processing occurs at a host, not at workstations.
Centrex
Business telephone service offered by a local telephone company from a local telephone company office. Centrex is basically a single line phone system leased to businesses as a substitute for a business that is buying or leasing its own on-premises phone system or PBX.
Character
(1) A single group of bars and spaces that represents a specific number (usually one) of numbers, letters, punctuation marks, or other symbols. (2) A graphic shape representing a letter, numeral, or symbol. (3) A letter, digit, or other symbol that is used as part of the organization, control, or representation of data.
Character Alignment
The vertical or horizontal position of characters with respect to a given set of reference lines.
Character Density
Within a linear bar code symbol, the number of data characters per unit length (typically per inch). For a discrete symbology, the character width must include the intercharacter gap
Character Font
Refers to the range and variety of data characters available within a given thermal printer model, for example 7 Bitmapped fonts type A,B,C,D,E,F and 1 Scaleable font.
Character Set
(1)A range of data characters (alpha, numeric, and/or punctuation) that can be encoded into any given symbology. (2) Refers to the international characters and graphic symbols available within a given thermal printer model, for example IBM® Code Page 850.
Check Character/Digit
A mechanically calculated number included within a string of data whose value is used for the purpose of performing a mathematical check to ensure that the bar code message is scanned and read correctly.
Circuit switching
A temporary connection created by connecting two or more communication channels. An example of this is the public switched telephone system.
CISC Processor
Complex Instruction Set Computer Processor – the x86 and Pentium families use CISC processors that process complex instructions requiring less instructions per operation resulting in faster performance. However, the performance efficiency of a RISC processor can sometimes be affected by the software installed in the machine as newer, more complex software versions contain more instructions that the processor needs to process
Client
A network node that uses services provided by a server.
Client-server
A network in which some nodes provide special services, such as printing and file sharing, for other nodes.
Client/Server
A network system design in which a processor or computer designated as a server (such as a file server or database server) provides services to other client processors or computers.
Closed
Access is not available. For example a "closed network architecture" is one that does not enable other systems to interconnect.
Cluster controller
A device that provides a connection between several devices (such as terminals and printers) and a host.
Coaxial cable
A data-transmission medium that contains a single conductor surrounded by a metal shield.
Codabar
A barcode symbology that uses four bars and three spaces to represent the numbers 0 through 9 and a set of special characters.
Code 11
A barcode symbology developed by Intermec. It uses 11 characters: 0 through 9 and -.
Code 128
Code 128 is an alphanumeric bar code specifically designed to reduce the amount of space the bar code occupies. Each printed character can have one of three different meanings, depending on which of three different character sets are employed. Code 128 can be recognized as the labeling standard for UCC/EAN 128, used as product identification for container and pallet levels of retail markets.
Code 16K
This symbol is a stack of from 2 to 16 rows
Code 39
Code 39 is the most commonly used bar code. It can encode both numbers and letters, which is ideal for most industrial and non-retail applications. The Automotive industry uses Code 39 as its standard for shipping container labels. If you are just beginning a bar code application of your own, we recommend using Code 39.
Code 49
Introduced in 1987 by the Intermec Corporation as a multi-row, continuous, variable length symbology. Code 49 was the first stacked (two dimensional) barcode to receive widespread interest.
Code 93
Code 93 is the complementary version of Code 39 and allows labels to be approximately 30 percent shorter than Code 39.
Codec
A COde/DECode device that enables analog data to be transmitted over digital lines.
Communication
A process by which information is transferred between at least two parties.
Communication channel
The medium through which information is transmitted.
Communications server
A specialized network node that provides clients with access to communications capabilities. A typical example is a computer that provides other nodes with access to a shared modem.
Computer Telephony Integration
Technology that integrates computer intelligence with making, receiving, and managing telephone calls. Computer telephony integrates messaging, real-time connectivity, and transaction processing and information access.
Concatenation
The ability of a reading system to join together that data from multiple symbologies and interpret the information in a single message.
Contention
A media-access control strategy in which devices attempt to transmit when the channel is not being used by another device. If two devices attempt to transmit at the same time, the contention strategy requires that both devices temporarily stop transmitting until the channel is free again.
Continuous Bar Code
The end of each character in the bar code message marks the beginning of the next character; there are no intercharacter gaps to separate the characters in the bar code message, for example Interleaved 2 of 5 code.
Continuous Media
Label, ticket, or tag stock media that does not contain any notches, gaps, or holes between each label. The label length must be specified in the label program.
Contrast
The difference in reflectance between the black and white (or bar and space) areas of a symbol.
Controller
See Multiplexer
Crosstalk
Interference caused by "leaks" from a nearby communication channel.
CSMA
Carrier Sense Multiple Access. A contention media-access strategy.
Data Communications Equipment
(DCE) Devices designed to manipulate transmitted data, for example a modem.
Data compression
A procedure that uses mathematical techniques to encode data so that it uses less space. In most cases, data must be decompressed into its original form to be usable.
Data encryption
A security procedure that encodes data so that it cannot easily be understood. To be usable, data must be decrypted into its original form by reversing the procedure that was used to encrypt it.
Data Terminal
Computer transmit and receive equipment, including a wide variety of dumb terminals or terminals without embedded intelligence in the form of programmed logic. Most data terminals provide a user interface to a more capable host computer, such as a mainframe or midrange computer.
Data Terminal Equipment
(DTE) A digital device such as a display terminal, data entry terminal, or printer which may be used to view or enter data. This device has a different communication connector pinout than DCE (see DCE).
Data Transfer Rate
The rate at which data are transferred between the reader and a tag, generally measured in bits per second (bps).
Database server
A network computer that specializes in retrieving and storing data, providing that service to clients.
De jure standard
A standard that exists through codes, laws, decrees, or other forms of legislation.
DECnet
A network developed by Digital Equipment Corporation that connects DEC computers, PCs, and Macintoshes.
Decoder
In a bar code reading system, the electronic package that receives signals from the scanner, performs the algorithm to interpret the signals into meaningful data, and provides the interface to other devices.
Decryption
Decryption is the decoding and unscrambling of received encrypted data. The same device, host computer or front-end processor, usually performs both encryption and decryption.
Density
See Character Density for details.
Depth of Field
The distance between the maximum and minimum plane in which a code reader is capable of reading symbols of a specified “X” dimension.
Desktop Conferencing
A telecommunications facility or service on a PC that permits callers from several diverse locations to be connected together for a conference call.
Diffuse Reflection
The component of reflected light that emanates in all directions from the reflecting surface.
Digital
A representation that uses discrete mathematical values to represent an object or amount. For example, a digital thermometer uses numbers to represent the relative amount of heat. (Compare with analog.)
Digital Phone System
Proprietary phone system provided by a vendor, such as AT&T, Mitel, Northern Telecom, and so on. The signal being transmitted in a digital phone system is the same as the signal being transmitted in an analog phone system. The system can consist of a proprietary PBX system that converts voice signals from their analog form to digital signals, and then converts those digital signals back to analog. Alternatively, the conversion from analog-to-digital can occur in a digital phone.
Direct Inward Dialing
DID. The ability for a caller outside a company to call an internal extension without having to pass through an operator or attendant. In large PBX systems, the dialed digits are passed from the PSTN to the PBX, which then completes the call.
Direct Thermal Print
(DT) Direct thermal printing is an old technology originally designed for low cost copiers and fax machines. It has since been transformed into a highly successful technology for bar coding. The thermal printhead is typically a long linear array of tiny resistive heating elements (100-300/inch) arranged perpendicular to the paper flow. Each thermal printhead element locally heats an area on the chemically coated paper directly under the print element. This induces a chemical reaction which causes a dot to form in that area. The image is formed by building it from dot rows as the media passes underneath the active edge of the printhead. Direct thermal printing is an excellent choice for many bar code labeling applications. DT printers provide simplicity and environmental economy (recyclable materials are also available). Direct thermal printers are simple to operate compared to most other print technologies—with no ribbons or toners to replenish—label loading is a very simple procedure. Enables batch or single label print capability with virtually no waste.
Direct-Sequence (DS) Spread Spectrum
Direct sequence transmits data by generating a redundant bit pattern for each bit of information sent. Commonly referred to as a "chip" or "chipping code," this bit pattern numbers 10 chips to one per bit of information. Compared with frequency hopping, direct sequence has higher throughput, wider range and is upgradable in the 2.4GHz band.
Discrete Bar Code
Each character of the bar code message stands alone, separated by intercharacter gaps, and can be read independently from the others.
Diskless workstation
A networked computer that does not have local storage.
Distributed application
An application that runs on two or more networked computers.
Distributed processing
A system in which processing of applications stored on the network is done by client computers. "Distributed processing" is also sometimes used to refer to "distributed applications."
Diversity Reception
The use of two antennas attached to a single access point to improve radio reception. The second antenna is used only for receiving radio signals, while the primary is used for both transmitting and receiving.
DNA
Digital Network Architecture. A network architecture developed by Digital Equipment Corporation.
Dot Matrix Printing
A print technology that employs several needles which are evenly spaced across a moveable horizontal shuttle which oscillates back and forth as the paper advances. Dot matrix printers print a bar code by creating overlapping adjacent dots to produce approximations of a straight edge line. Prints low to medium density bar codes that may not meet certain end-user guidelines. The dot size on the matrix printer limits the narrow element size and density of the bar code. Continuous ribbon re-use on dot matrix printers requires continuous monitoring of ribbon condition to ensure adequate bar code contrast. Ribbon ink that has become exhausted can produce an image that is inadequate for scanning. Ink saturated ribbon can result in paper “bleed” which can cause image distortion. Dot matrix printers are modified line printers that are most frequently used for printing batches of large labels with low density bar codes. Printing of single, individualized labels results in significant waste. The design of the matrix printer’s print carriage, sitting far below the media, also does not enable one to adequately maximize one’s label space.
DPI
Dots per inch (refer to Resolution)
DRAM
Dynamic Random Access Memory – is one type of chip used in Random Access Memory. It stores information as an electrical charge. Because this charge dissipates over time, the computing device must periodically run a “refresh cycle” on the chips to recharge them—hence “dynamic”. As it is a type of RAM, it will lose its information when the device into which it is installed is turned off. Typically, the time required to access information with a DRAM scheme is greater than with SRAM. SRAM chips cannot be substituted for DRAM chips; the machine (e.g. printer) must have been designed to use SRAM.
Dumb terminal
An entry and display device that has no processing capability. Used in networks based on central processing.
E3
Element Energy Equalizer (E3) – Zebra’s sophisticated method of ensuring that the correct amount of heat is delivered to each part of a printhead at all print speeds in order to optimize the quality of the bar codes that are produced.
EAN
The European Article Number is the European version of the UPC (Universal Product Code) bar code of retail food packaging that enables this linear bar code to be used internationally. Like the U.S. equivalent UPC code, there are two different types of EAN codes, EAN-8 and EAN-13.
EAN International
The international organization responsible for administering bar code standards.
EAN-13
EAN-13 has 13 characters or symbols. It is very much like the UPC code and has the 13th character as a means of identifying in what country the product will be used.
EAN-8
EAN-8 has a left-hand guard pattern, four odd parity digits, a center guard pattern, four even parity digits, and a right hand guard pattern with a total of eight symbols.
EBCDIC
Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code. A common code for representing alphanumeric characters in computers.
Edge Roughness
Irregularities in the printing of bar code elements, resulting in a non-uniform edge and edge errors.
EDI
Electronic Data Interchange - a method by which data is electronically transmitted from one point to another.
EDP
Electronic Data Processing - the act of processing information electronically.
EIA
Electronic Industries Association – a trade association.
Electronic mail
Software that enables users to send correspondence through a computer network.
Electronic Product Code (EPC)
An identification standard created by the Auto-ID Center that provides additional information to existing bar codes. The EPC can identify manufacturers, product categories, and individual items. See also Auto-ID Center and Bar Code.
Electrostatic
A method of printing that utilizes a special electrostatic paper or charged drum, both of which attract toner to the charged area.
Element
A single bar or space in a bar code symbol.
Element-level Management
Level of technologies aimed at small or medium-sized businesses.
Encryption
Entails scrambling and coding information, typically with mathematical formulas called algorithms, before the information is transmitted over a network.
EPC Discovery Service
A service from the EPCglobal Network that allows companies to search for every reader that has read a particular EPC tag. See also EPCglobal.
EPC Information Service
A network infrastructure of the EPC Network that allows companies to store EPC data in secure databases on the Web. Companies can set the level of information access for different types of organizations, from supply chain providers to manufacturers, to everyone.
EPCglobal
A non-profit organization with the mission of commercializing EPC technology. The Uniform Code Council and EAN International, which set and maintain bar code standards in North America and internationally, set up EPCglobal.
EPCglobal Network (or EPC Network)
The Internet-based technologies and services designed for EPCs.
EPROM
The abbreviation for erasable programmable Read Only Memory – (See ROM).
ERP
Enterprise Resource Planning – a term used to describe a new wave of integration system software capabilities designed to link a company’s respective operations—including human resources, financials, manufacturing, and distribution—with their customers and suppliers.
Error Rate
The number of errors divided by the number of transactions.
Ethernet
A popular local area network that uses a contention media-access method over a bus topology of coaxial cable. Also used to refer to the standard specified by IEEE 802.3.
European Article Numbering (EAN)
The bar code standard used throughout Europe, Asia, and South America, administered by EAN International.
EWN
Enterprise-wide network. A network that serves an entire organization. Implies interoperability of disparate computing platforms, such as MS-DOS, UNIX, OS/2, and Macintosh.
Face Material
See Facestock.
Facestock
The part of the substrate (media) where printing occurs.
FACT
Federation of Automated Coding Technology – a bureau of AIM consisting of organizations that use and promote automatic identification among their members.
Factory Programming
The manufacturer’s setting on a read-only tag or chip or peripheral device.
FDDI
Fiber Distributed Data Interface. Lower layers standard for networks based on optical fiber.
FEP
Front-end processor. A device that manages communication between a host and other devices.
Field Programming
The programming of information into a tag after shipment by the manufacturer, either by an OEM customer or end user. Field programming is often related to the tag’s target application.
File server
A node that provides other nodes with the access to shared storage.
Filtering
Prevents user-defined frames from being processed by the access point.
Firmware
Start up and input-output instructions “burned onto” a chip in RFID-enabled printers and other devices.
First Read Rate (FRR)
The ratio of the number of successful reads on the first scanning attempt to the number of attempts. Commonly expressed as a percentage and abbreviated as FRR.
Fixed Ratio
The ratio between the width of the bars in the code is a fixed standard and cannot be changed.
Flash Memory
Read/Writeable RAM (a.k.a. Non-Volatile RAM) This is a type of Random Access Memory chip that does not lose its contents when its power is turned off; however, it can be intentionally written to, read from, and intentionally erased. It is a type of RAM and, hence, interacts with the computer or processor as described under “RAM” except that it does not lose its contents when power is removed. The advantage of flash is best understood by example: A program or set of data could be stored into a computer or other machine at the place where the product is built. Of course, since flash won’t lose its contents even when it’s receiving no power, the product could be kept on the shelf with its memory loaded for a period of time before it’s put into service. While the product is in use, its flash chips cannot be accidentally reprogrammed, so the data or program that was stored in the product remains safely intact. At some point in the future, however, if the manufacturer of the product decided that there was a need to alter the data or the program, this could be done. The manufacturer would send to its customers a computer file containing the updated information. Along with the revised data or program would be a program for the product to use to erase the old data or program and read in the new information.
Flat Panel Antenna
Flat antennas that are generally made of metal plate or foil and embedded in a label or other material.
Flexographic Printing
The process whereby a pre-printed label, tag or ticket is printed by using a raised image plate surface to transfer wet ink to a printing substrate.
Flood Coat
A thin coating of ink applied to the top of printing screen by the flood bard or, in manual operations, by the squeegee prior to printing the stroke.
Foil
A cloth or plastic tape coated with several layers of material, one of which is inklike, that produces the visible marks on a substrate. Used on formed font impact, dot matrix, thermal transfer, and hot stamp printers. Also called a ribbon.
Fragmentation Threshold
The maximum size for directed data packets transmitted over the radio. Larger frames fragment into several packets this size or smaller before transmission over the radio. The receiving station reassembles the transmitted fragments.
Frame Mode
A communications protocol supported by the OEM Modules. The frame protocol implements asynchronous serial Point-to-Point (PPP) frames similar to those used by serial Internet protocols.
Frequency Hopping (FH) Spread Spectrum
Hedy Lamarr, the actress, is credited in name only for inventing frequency hopping during World War II. As its label suggests, frequency hopping transmits using a narrowband carrier that changes frequency in a given pattern. There are 79 channels in a 2.4GHz ISM band, each channel occupying 1MHz of bandwidth. A minimum hop rate of 2.5 hops per channel per second is required in the United States. Frequency hopping technology is recognized as superior to direct sequence in terms of echo resistance, interference immunity, cost and ease-of-installation. To date, there has also been a greater selection of WLAN products from which to chose.
FTP (File Transfer Protocol
A common Internet protocol used for transferring files from a server to the Internet user. It uses TCP/IP commands.
Gain, dBi
Antenna gain, expressed in decibels referenced to a half wave dipole.
Gain, dBic
Antenna gain, expressed in decibels referenced to a theoretical isotropic radiator that is circularly polarized.
Gatekeeper
Software that performs two important functions to maintain the robustness of the network: address translation and bandwidth management. Gatekeepers map LAN aliases to IP addresses and provide address lookups when needed.
Gateway
A computer that interconnects disparate types of networks, translating protocols as necessary. For example, a gateway might connect personal computers on a LAN to a mainframe computer.
GHz
International unit for measuring frequency is Hertz (Hz), which is equivalent to the older unit of cycles per second. One Gigahertz (GHz) is one billion Hertz. Microwave ovens typically operate at 2.45 GHz.
Gloss
Characteristic of the surface which causes it to reflect light at a given angle.
GOSIP
Government Open Systems Interconnection Profile. A United States government specification that requires government network purchases to be OSI-compliant.
Groupware
Software that enables a group of users to collaborate on a project by means of network communications.
GSM
The Global System for Mobile Communications standard for worldwide wireless communications on wide area networks (WANs).
Guard Bars
Bars that are at both ends and center of a UPC and EAN symbol, that provide reference points for scanning. Guard bars are similar in function to start and stop characters.
H.323
An umbrella standard from the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) that addresses call control, multimedia management, and bandwidth management for point-to-point and multi-point conferences, as well as interfaces between LANs and other networks. The most popular standard currently in use.
Hand-Held Scanner
A hand-held scanning device used as a contact bar code reader or OCR (optical code) reader.
HDLC
High-Level Data Link Control. A Data Link layer protocol.
Heat Resistance
The property of a material which inhibits the occurrence of physical or chemical changes caused by exposure to high temperatures.
HIBCC
Health Industry Business Communications Council – a trade association responsible for the symbology and label format used by the healthcare industry.
Hierarchical networks
A network in which a host controls network communications and processing.
High Density
This bar code type has narrow spaces and bars with an “X” dimension that is less than 7.5 mils.
High Frequency Tags
RFID systems that operate at 13.56 MHz with a typical maximum read range of up to 3 feet (1 meter).
Holding Power
The ability to withstand stress, as in holding rigid label materials on smaller diameter cylindrical objects or in holding weight.
Horizontal Bar Code
A bar code or symbol presented in such a manner that its overall length dimension is parallel to the horizon. The bars are presented in an array that looks like a picket fence.
Host
Computer that controls network communication in a hierarchical network.
Human-Readable
The interpretation of bar code data, often printed immediately below the bar code in a readable format to humans.
IEEE
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. A standards organization.
IEEE 802
Lower-layers standards for LANs set forth by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers.
Impact Printing
Impact Printing, or dot matrix, is any printing system where a micro-processor-controlled hammer impacts against a ribbon and a substrate (label media).
Industry Standards
Created to encourage consistency across specific industries. Some of the more common standards are from the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG), Electronic Industry Association (EIA), the Health Care Industry Bar Code (HCIB), and the UCC Retail Pallet Format.
Ink Jet Printing
Common direct marking process and a favorite on high speed production lines. Ink droplets are selectively deflected between a moving product and an ink return channel. Ink jet printing is frequently used for coding products and cartons with human readable data and lot codes at very high speed and for case coding of cartons with bar codes. Bar codes on corrugated boxes are intentionally made large so that dot placement accuracy becomes less critical, thus using more ink and creating questionable print quality and usefulness for bar coding.
Ink Layer
The bottom layer of a thermal ribbon which is composed of waxes, resins, or a combination of both.
Inlay
RFID hardware mounted on label material. Inlays provide the RFID portion of “smart labels”. See also Smart Label.
Interactive Voice Response
System used to access a database access application using a telephone. The voice processing acts as a front-end to appropriate databases that reside on general purpose computers. For instance, DTMF (touch tone) input of a Personal Identification Number can be required for access or more unusual and expensive techniques such as voice recognition and voice print matching.
Interlabel Gap
The space, notch, or hole between labels used by the media sensor on the printer to determine the label length and top of form.
Interleaved 2-of-5
Interleaved 2-of-5 is a linear symbology that is most often used for encoding large amounts of information in a small area. Characters are paired together using bars to represent the first character and spaces to represent the second. Interleaved 2-of-5 bar code applications are prevalent in the electronics and manufacturing areas.
International Roaming
Ability to use one adapter worldwide.
International Standards Organization (ISO)
An international association that manages the process of setting global standards for communications and information exchange.
Internet
A global network that incorporates networks belonging to the United States government, academic institutions, and other organizations.
Internet Commerce
Electronic business transactions that occur over the Internet. Samples of Internet commerce applications include electronic banking, airline reservation systems, and Internet malls.
Internet Phone
Device used to transmit voice over the Internet, bypassing the traditional PSTN and saving money in the process. An Internet phone can be a small phone (such as the NetVision Phone) or a multimedia PC with a microphone, speaker, and modem.
Interoperability
The ability of disparate systems to share network resources.
Intranet
A private network that uses Internet software and Internet standards. In essence, an intranet is a private Internet reserved for use by people who have been given the authority and passwords necessary to use that network.
Inventory Control
Applications where bar coding and other forms of AIDC are used to add or delete items from inventory with 100% accuracy.
IP (Internet Protocol)
The Internet standard protocol that defines the Internet datagram as the unit of information passed across the Internet. Provides the basis of the Internet connection-less- best-effort packet delivery service. The Internet protocol suite is often referred to as TCP/IP because IP is one of the two fundamental protocols.
IPS
Inches per second (refer to Print Speed).
IrDa
Infrared Data Association (1) A trade association. (2) A scanning technology that utilizes electromagnetic radiation wavelengths longer than those of visible light and shorter than those of microwaves.
ISDN
Integrated Services Digital Network. Emerging network technology offered by local phone companies that is designed for digital communications, computer telephony, and voice processing systems.
ISM Band
ISM bands--instrumental (902-928MHz), science (2.4-2.4835GHz), and medical (5.725-5.850GHz)--are the radio frequency bands allocated by the FCC for unlicensed continuous operations for up to 1W. The most recent band approved by the FCC for WLANs was the medical band in January 1997.
ISO
International Standards Organization.
ITU
International Telecommunications Union. Standards body that defined H.323 and other international standards.
Jitter
Noise on a communications line which is based on phase hits, causing potential phase distortions and bit errors.
Kbps
Kilobits per second; how many thousands of bits of data can be transferred in one second.
Kerberos
A widely deployed security protocol that was developed at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to authenticate users and clients in a wired network environment and to securely distribute encryption keys.
Key Telephone System
A system in which the telephone has multiple buttons permitting the user to directly select central office phone lines and intercom lines. Key phone systems are most often found in relatively small business environments, typically around 50 telephones.
Label Thickness
Denotes the ideal range of media/substrate thickness designed to promote optimum print quality and printer performance.
Label, Pressure Sensitive
A pressure-sensitive label product is a die-cut part that has been converted through the production equipment using the type of pressure-sensitive material that has a protective backing. The end product is produced in the form of rolls, sheets, fanfold, or by other techniques that produce like products which have been slit or cut from the converted roll.
Label, Transparent
A pressure-sensitive label whose face material, adhesive, and protective coatings transmit light so that objects can be seen through it.
Ladder Orientation
A bar code symbol positioned vertically with horizontal bars and spaces.
Laminate
To apply one layer of material over another.
LAN
Local area network. A network that is limited to a small geographic area.
Laser Printing
The laser printer works much like a photocopier, projecting controlled streams of ions onto the surface of a print drum resulting in a charged image. The charged image then selectively attracts toner particles, transferring the image onto the paper substrate (media) by means of pressure. The pressure from the printhead and drum then fuse the image to the paper, creating the image. A laser printed label is only as durable as a photocopy of paper. Laser printers commonly cannot produce chemical- or water-resistant labels. Laser printer labeling adhesives must be carefully selected to ensure stability under the heat and pressure of the fuser. Laser printers are not well suited for industrial labeling applications or individual product labeling applications. Compatible toners for thermal printing applications are often times lacking. Cost of toner is significant for bar code printing—15-30% black for bar code print versus 5% black for word processing print; 6 times the cost for bar coding using laser when compared to direct thermal or thermal transfer!
Laser Scanner
An optical bar code reading device using a low-energy laser light beam as its source of illumination.
Layer
A protocol that interacts with other protocols as part of an overall transmission system.
Leased line
A communication channel provided by a common carrier for a fee.
License Plate
A term that denotes a simple RFID technique that carries only a serial number on tags. The serial number is associated with information in a database.
Light Pen
A hand-held pen-like contact reader which the user must sweep across the bar code symbol in order to read the code. Also referred to as a wand
Linear Bar Code / Symbology
A complete bar code message is expressed in a single line of bars—also commonly referred to as a 1-Dimensional bar code.
Liner
The component of a label used to protect the adhesive and to keep it from sticking to objects before the label is used. It readily separates from the label immediately before the label is applied to the substrate. Also referred to as release liner, backing paper, or release paper.
LocalTalk
A lower-layers protocol developed by Apple Computer.
LOGMARS
A Department of Defense (DoD) project on LOGistics applications of Marking and Reading Symbols resulted in the production of a new standard (MIL-STD-1189A) that led to the development of Code 39 as the established bar code symbology to be used by all DoD vendors.
Low Density
This bar code type has bars and spaces that are wide and far apart with an “X” dimension greater than 20 mils. This type of bar code is used for scanning bar codes from further distances.
Low Frequency Tags
RFID systems that operate at about 125 kHz with a typical maximum read range of up to 20 inches (508 mm).
LPD (Line Printer Daemon)
A TCP-based protocol typically used between a Unix server and a printer driver. Data is received from the network connection and sent out over the serial port.
LU 6.2
Another name for APPC
MAC
Media-Access Control. Portion of the Data Link layer that controls access to the communication channel.
MAC (Media Access Control)
Part of the Data Link Layer, as defined by the IEEE, this sublayer contains protocols for gaining orderly access to cable or wireless media.
Machine-Readable
A general term used for printed material that can be directly transferred to a data processing system.
Mainframe computer
Large-scale computer, such as those produced by IBM, Burroughs, Univac, NCR, Control Data, and Honeywell. Typically mainframe computers function as hosts in a hierarchical network.
MAN
Municipal Area Network or Metropolitan Area Network. A medium-to high-speed network that spans an entire city or municipal area.
Manufacturer’s ID
In the UPC code, the 6-digit number applied by the UCC to uniquely identify a manufacturer or company selling products under its own name. Also, the first 6 digits of the 12-digit UPC.
Matrix Symbols
Appear as a checker board. They are most likely square in shape, and contain some form of “finder pattern” which distinguishes them from other symbols. The finder pattern provides a decoding reference for scanners.
Maxicode
An example of a company which uses the Maxicode bar code is United Parcel Service (UPS). The next time you receive a package from UPS, look for a very small square with a pattern of dots and a small bulls eye in the center. UPS uses these bar codes as a way to sort their packages for a specific destination.
MD5 Encryption
An authentication methodology when MU is in foreign subnet.
Media
(1) The term which refers to the label, tag, and/or ticket and its respective ribbon combination. (2) The surface on which a bar code symbol is printed. Also, interchangeably, referred to as substrate
Media Roll Capacity
Refers to the maximum/minimum media roll diameter that a thermal printer can accommodate, for example 5.0” O.D. (Outer Diameter) and 1.0” I.D. (Inner Diameter).
Media-access
Media-Access Control Portion of the Data Link layer that method controls access to the communication channel.
Memory
Zebra thermal printers contain a variety of memory options, including RAM, ROM, DRAM, SRAM, and Flash. For detailed descriptions of each memory option, refer to each herein by abbreviated name.
Mesh
Network architecture in which each node has a dedicated connection to all other nodes.
Message
A chunk of data that is transmitted over a network.
Message switching
A strategy that enables communication channels to be used simultaneously be more than one node. At each transfer point in the connection, incoming data is stored in its entirety, then forwarded to the next point. This process continues until the data reaches its destination.
MHS
Message Handling Service. An electronic mail protocol developed by Action Technologies, Inc.
MIB (Management Information Base)
An SNMP structure that describes the specific device being monitored by the remote-monitoring program.
Microcell
A bounded physical space in which a number of wireless devices can communicate. Because it is possible to have overlapping cells as well as isolated cells, the boundaries of the cell are established by some rule or convention.
Mil
The narrowest nominal width unit of measure in a bar code.
Minicomputer
A mid-sized computer that can function as a workstation or a multi-user system.
Misread
A condition that occurs when the data output of a reader does not agree with the data encoded in the bar code symbol.
MMCX Antenna Connector
Miniature coaxial antenna connector in use by several major wireless vendors.
Mobile IP
The ability of the mobile unit to communicate with the other host using only its home IP address, after changing its point of attachment to the Internet and intranet.
Mobile Unit (MU)
May be a Symbol Spectrum24 terminal, PC Card and PCI adapter, bar-code scanner, third-party device, and other
Mobile Unit Mode
In this mode, the WLAN adapter connects to an access point (AP) or another WLAN installed system, allowing the device to roam freely between AP cells in the network. Mobile units appear as network nodes to other devices.
Modem
MOdulate/DEModulate device that enables digital data to be transmitted over analog lines.
Module
The narrowest nominal width unit of measure in a bar code symbol.
Moving Beam Bar Code Reader
A scanning device where scanning motion is achieved by mechanically or electronically moving the optical geometry.
MSI
Barcode symbology made up of 4 bars and 4 spaces representing the characters 0 through 9.
Multipath
The signal variation caused when radio signals take multiple paths from transmitter to receiver.
Multipath Fading
A type of fading caused by signals taking different paths from the transmitter to the receiver and, consequently, interfering with each other.
Multiplexer
An electronic device used to support multiple scanners or antennas. Multiplexers essentially manage RFID traffic. Sometimes spelled “multiplexor".
Multiread
The ability of a reader or other RFID device to read many individual tags at the same time.
NETBIOS
A network-transport protocol introduced by IBM.
Network
A collection of hardware and software that enables a group of computers to communicate and provide users with access to shared resources.
Network adapter
A device that enables a computer to attach to a network.
Network architecture
A description of how communication occurs within a specific type of network.
Network segment
An uninterrupted length of the network communication channel. For example, a single cable between two repeaters, bridges, or routers is a segment.
Network-only application
A software program that runs only on, or is useful only on a network.
NIST
The National Institute of Electrical & Electronics Engineers – a trade association.
Node
A network-access point. Examples include terminals and computers.
Noise
Extrinsic signals that corrupt a data transmission. Noise can come from crosstalk and other forms of electromagnetic interference.
Nominal
The exact or ideal intended value for a specified parameter. Tolerances are specified as positive or negative values from this specified value.
Nominal Range
The normal range at which a system can operate reliably, under normal conditions.
Non-Contact Reader
Bar code readers which do not require physical contact with the printed symbol.
Non-Continuous Media
Label, tag, or ticket which contains either a gap, notch, or hole between each label.
Non-Read
The absence of data at the scanner output after an attempted scan due to no code, defective code, scanner failure, or operator error.
NOS
Network Operating System.
Null Modem Connector
A device which connects to the serial output of a print cable and switches pins 2 and 3, transmitted data signal, and received data signal.
Numeric
A character set that includes only numbers.
OCR-A
An abbreviation commonly applied to the character set contained in ANSI Standard X3.17-1981. A stylized font choice used for traditional OCR printing.
ODETTE
The European equivalent of AIAG. See AIAG for further details.
Omnidirectional
Bar codes which can be read in any orientation in relation to the scanner.
On-Demand
A term used to describe when labels are printed immediately when the customer needs them and are ready for use, versus being sent off-site for printing.
One-Dimensional Bar Code
A complete bar code message is expressed in a single line of bars. Also commonly referred to as a linear barcode
Open
Access is available. For example, an "open network architecture" is one that enables other systems to interconnect.
Operating Temperature
Denotes the prescribed temperature range for the safe operation of a thermal printer.
Optical fiber
A glass conduit that transmits data encoded in light signals.
Orientation
The alignment of a bar code symbol with respect to horizontal. Two possible orientations are horizontal and vertical bars and spaces (picket fence formation), and vertical with horizontal bars and stripes (ladder formation).
OSI
Open Systems Interconnection. A proto-type for network communication that promotes interconnectivity.
Overhead
The fixed number of characters required for start, stop, and checking in a given bar code symbol—a symbol requiring a start and stop character and two check characters contains four characters of overhead. To encode three characters with the overhead listed, seven characters are required to print.
Packet switching
A strategy that enables communication channels to be used simultaneously by more than one node. Before messages are transferred, they are divided into small chunks called packets, that fit easily into memory (unlike message switching, in which entire messages are moved, thus requiring storage for large messages). At the destination, the packets are reassembled into the original message.
Parallel Interface
A link between data processing devices on which the data moves over multiple wires and more quickly than serial interface. Imagine transmitting all 8 letters in a word at the same time over each wire. In parallel interface, the 8 bits (a byte) are received and then processed simultaneously. A common parallel interface option is Centronics® (36 pin) parallel.
Parity Character
An optional character which may be included in the bar code message to minimize the misreading of the message.
Passive Tags
The most common RFID tags, in which a reader transmits an energy field that “wakes up” the tag and provides the power for the tag to operate.
Pbx
Private branch exchange. A privately owned telephone system typically confined within a single building or campus.
PCS (Personal Communications Service)
A new, lower powered, higher-frequency competitive technology to cellular. Whereas cellular typically operates in the 800-900 MHz range, PCS operates in the 1.5 to 1.8 GHz range. The idea with PCS is that the phone are cheaper, have less range, and are digital. The cells are smaller and closer together, and airtime is cheaper.
PDF417
A popular two-dimensional bar code that allows thousands of characters to be stored in its data format of multi-stacks. Some states use this type of bar code for driver’s license information. Healthcare facilities may also use the PDF417 for patient records because of the amount of data it can store.
Peer
Relationship between network devices.
Peer-to-peer
Communication between two network devices that have the same status on the network.
Peer-to-peer Network
A network design in which each computer shares and uses devices on an equal basis.
Pen-Scanner
A pen-like device used to read bar codes. It can be connected either by wire to a device or be self-contained. Requires direct contact with the symbol.
Penetration
Refers to the ability of a particular radio frequency to pass through packaging and other materials.
Permanency
A measure of an adhesive’s ultimate holding power or bond strength. A permanent adhesive will develop a bond that makes label removal difficult or impossible without distorting the facestock.
Permanent Adhesive
An adhesive characterized by relatively high ultimate adhesion, but which can be removed. The degree of force used overcomes its bonding ability.
Personal computer (Or microcomputer.)
A relatively small single-user computer.
Picket Fence Orientation
A bar code symbol positioned horizontally with vertical bars and spaces.
Piggyback Label
A pressure-sensitive label which allows for dual usage. The construction consists of facestock, adhesive, and liner.
Ping
A troubleshooting TCP/IP application that sends out a test message to a network device to measure the response time.
Pitch
Refers to the rotation of a bar code symbol about an axis parallel to the direction of the bars.
PLD (Data Link Protocol)
A raw packet protocol based on the Ethernet frame format. All frames are sent to the wireless network verbatim--should be used with care as improperly formatted data can go through with undesirable consequences.
Plessey Code
A pulse-width modulated bar code commonly used for shelf marking in grocery stores.
Plug and Play
A feature that allows a computer to recognize the PCI adapter and configure the hardware interrupt, memory, and device recognition addresses; requires less user interaction and minimizes hardware conflicts.
Point of Sale (POS)
Refers to bar code related retail applications occurring at the point of sale.
Point-of-Sale Device
A special type of equipment that is used to collect and store retail sales data. This device may be connected to a bar code reader and it may query a central computer for the current price of that item.