The LaserChamp barcode reader from SerialIO is a small, handheld, rubberized barcode reader capable of entering a large number of 1D barcodes into an equally large number of applications. The barcode device, manufactured by Microvision, comes with either a serial cable (with serial to USB converter) or a Bluetooth radio module (or both). Unlike most barcode readers, the LaserChamp does not interface like a traditional USB scanner as a keyboard wedge using the HID (Human Interface Device) protocol, which opens up a whole world of possibilities and functionality. Key to the LaserChamp’s flexibility and versatility is the SerialMagic software --available for most any platform, including Mac OS X Leopard.

The SerialIO LaserChamp barcode reader is a small handheld barcode scanner. It resembles the Flic scanner, but is of a better quality --it’s a ROV scanner. The quality shows in the build of the device, its sturdiness and its internal memory capacity. The SerialIO LaserChamp has rubber grip elements, a soft-click non-mechanical button, and up to 5000 barcodes memory capacity.

The Bluetooth module that came with the test unit makes the scanner a bit bulky --it sort of looks like it has a “belly”. With the test device also came a serial cable and a USB-to-serial converter cable. I feared the worst.

SerialMagic is Key to LaserChamp's Versatility

When you buy a LaserChamp at SerialIO, you’ll get the device sent to you, but the software is a simple download. SerialMagic is the application which serves to decode the barcode signal of the LaserChamp into something your platform will understand. In my case, that platform is a Leopard machine.

I first tested the LaserChamp with the Bluetooth module, and later with the serial cable. The serial cable requires a small system extension that is not developed by SerialIO. Luckily, it behaves well and I could never relate it to system crashes or hangs. The LaserChamp can be used in batch mode, which means you’ll use it detached from the cable; as soon as you plug in the cable in the LaserChamp’s mini-jack connector, the barcodes are downloaded to your Mac.

In my case --I only had the Bluetooth module to protect the batteries-- I was extra careful not to damage anything inside, but to be honest, I didn’t have the feeling this was necessary. The batch mode works well, but it remains a solution that I would only recommend when you’re really away from your desk. The reason is that the Bluetooth module works like a charm --you would almost scan barcodes with it for pleasure.

Either way, SerialMagic does the really hard work. Contrary to other barcode scanners, the LaserChamp does not interface like a traditional USB scanner as a keyboard wedge using the HID protocol. This opens up unexpected possibilities, and that’s where SerialMagic shines. For example, suppose you want to feed your FileMaker Bento database with barcodes. A simple keyboard wedge barcode scanner will enable you to add a limited number of different characters or codes following the barcode itself. Usually, these additional codes are set scanning special codes with the barcode scanner.

Add Strings and More

Not so with SerialMagic and the LaserChamp! For my previous example, I would have to add an F2 key-equivalent to the barcode, followed by some tabs to get to each next record and the appropriate field in Bento. That would not work with a simple keyboard wedge, but SerialMagic has a feature called Profiles, which allow you to add complete strings, keys, key combinations, delays, dates and times, and more to the barcode --either before or after the barcode.

It also allows you to add characters to a barcode depending on a pattern --which turns your LaserChamp into an incredibly versatile and flexible barcode scanner. Needless to say, Profiles can also turn on or off UPC check digits, ISBN conversions, send commands, and even send AppleEvent events.

SerialMagic also allows you to easily test the LaserChamp, set its timers different from the default, and --and this is important in high-security environments, like hospitals-- block the LaserChamp from working unless a (TruePair) security lock has been set up.

The SerialIO LaserChamp with SerialMagic is more than just a barcode scanner with dedicated software to perform but one task (I’m referring to collection software or book library applications). Instead, it is a complete solution that allows you to develop your own barcode scanning sets, depending on your current (changing) needs, and using one (or multiple) scanners. It’s the best and most feature-complete barcode scanning system I’ve ever come across.