Can a Bluetooth barcode reader update a Geodatabase via ArcGIS Server on iPad?

[StephenLead]

I need the ability for a field operator (using an iPad) to select a feature in a geodatabase served via ArcGIS Server, and scan its barcode, which should be entered into the geodatabase as an attribute.

1) Will the ArcGIS iOS app handle this capability - can it talk to an external barcode reader, and use the output of the barcode reader to edit an attribute?

2) Assuming that it can't and we need to write an our own app, are there any mechanisms within the iOS API which allow talking to hardware devices?

The ideal scenario would be a wizard-based approach which prompted the user to scan the barcode when a suitable feature was clicked, then entered the resulting barcode text as an attribute. A more manual, step-by-step workaround would be acceptable if necessary.

I've assumed that an external barcode reader, connected via Bluetooth, will be necessary as it's impractical to use the iPad's own camera due to accessibility issues (eg pits).

Thanks

[PaulLohr · Accepted solution]

[INDENT]"1) Will the ArcGIS iOS app handle this capability - can it talk to an external barcode reader, and use the output of the barcode reader to edit an attribute?"
[/INDENT]

I don't know of a way the ArcGIS app can do this. If someone knows how it can be done, I'd like to hear about it.


[INDENT]"2) Assuming that it can't and we need to write an our own app, are there any mechanisms within the iOS API which allow talking to hardware devices?"
[/INDENT]

Pretty sure you will want to rely on the API from your bar code scanner to communicate with it. Once the scan and conversion to text has occurred, I think the ArcGIS SDK would be used to connect to a feature service and add the bar code generated text as an attribute.

I've not done this yet. If anyone has corrections, I am open to hearing them.

[StephenLead]

Thanks Paul. Much appreciated.

[sdgdgergrtgr]

i know it is possible to have an external barcode scanner c# in you phone, and when you click the bluetooth reader. it will automaticall scan generated barcodes. they maybe integrated together.

[MichaelDavis3]

You probably want to use a scanner from a manufacturer that provides an API -

A quick search revealed that Socket Mobile has an SDK for their scanners:
http://www.socketmobile.com/

http://www.socketmobile.com/Support/developer/SocketScan/

-Mike

[davidanderson5]

I am now using this barcode reader in my iPhone. It can read the created barcode smoothly. It is very easy to use. You can just install it in your mobile and do a few steps. Share it with you.

[makaveiljojo]

I am now using this   barcode reader in my iPhone. It can read the   created barcode smoothly. It is very easy to use. You can just install it in your mobile and do a few steps. Share it with you.

Can you tell me which reader is that? I've been looking for a good one for my phone. It'll be awesome if it has the function of generating barcode at the same time.

[mariahlewis]

Can you tell me which reader is that? I've been looking for a good one for my phone. It'll be awesome if it has the function of generating barcode at the same time.

check this barcode reader app for phone
http://www.iphonestop.net/best-5-iphone-qr-barcode-scanner-apps/

[HILLARYHALL]

i know it is possible to have an external barcode scanner c# in you phone, and when you click the bluetooth reader. it will automaticall scan generated barcodes. they maybe integrated together.

Can you be more specific on how to creating and scanning barcodes within .net project?

[mikedavis2]

There are numerous scanner API's for iOS which would probably work just fine with the ESRI iOS SDK.  After all - they are just providing a number string which you could then plug into any field.

You might also look at the RedLaser SDK
http://redlaser.com/developers/
It lets you use the iOS camera as a barcode scanner - eliminating the need for an external accessory.