Bluetooth barcode scanner with an iPad

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Level 1

5 points

Bluetooth barcode scanner with an iPad

I am trying to use a bluetooth barcode scanner (Symbol CS3070) with an iPad for Inventory Transactions on our shop floor. This scanner uses the HID interface to "appear" as a keyboard.

When I pair the barcode scanner, the onscreen keyboard will not appear (understandably, as the iPad thinks there is an external keyboard). Is there a setting somewhere that will allow access to the onscreen keybaord, even though there is a bluetooth keyboard present?

John Raffensperger

Apache Stainless Equipment

iPad, iOS 6.1.3

Posted on Aug 8, 2013 6:47 AM

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Answer 1

Aug 8, 2013 7:11 AM in response to John Raffy

The scanner manufacturer might be a better source for that information.

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Answer 2

John Raffy Author

Level 1

5 points

Aug 8, 2013 10:17 AM in response to Kilgore-Trout

James - Thanks for the reply!

I was working that angle too, and as it turns out, at least for this scanner, you can press the "-" key on the scanner to toggle the keyboard.

I've seen others with questions about getting at the onscreen keyboard when a bluetooth keyboard is connected. All answers seem to involve requiring a tool on the device (like the "-" key above) or turning off bluetooth.

This seems an oversight, even if you have a bluetooth keyboard connected, that doesn't mean you're using the iPad right in front of the keyboard.

I would still like to know if there is a hidden setting somewhere to allow the on screen keyboard to be available when there is a bluetooth keyboard connected.

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Answer 3

Aug 8, 2013 10:21 AM in response to John Raffy

John Raffy wrote:

I would still like to know if there is a hidden setting somewhere to allow the on screen keyboard to be available when there is a bluetooth keyboard connected.

I seriously doubt it, since a blue tooth keyboard should automatically overide the need for the on screen keyboard. Can't think of very many use cases where not doing so would be called for. You can post feedback for Apple here, however: http://www.apple.com/feedback/

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Answer 4

djipeto

Level 1

0 points

Sep 26, 2013 4:52 AM in response to John Raffy

Ingenico has a 1D Bluetooth barcode scanner certified MFi by Apple.

http://baracoda.ingenico.com/Baracoda-i-fly.aspx

Baracoda i-Fly is compatible with Apple iPod touch, iPhone and iPad.

Baracoda i-Fly supports IAP Bluetooth profile and is MFi certified, which means it is 100% compatible with Apple development standards and performances.

Its Bluetooth connection is bidirectional, which enables the i-Fly to transmit data both ways in mode « No Data Loss »).

Furthermore, Firmware update is also possible, which is not the case for non-MFi certified devices.

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Answer 5

fkimage

Level 1

0 points

Nov 27, 2013 7:03 PM in response to John Raffy

here is one barcode scanner i have been using for a very long time. it is working well with mobile device. and i always use it to scan Code 128. hope it is helpful for you as well.

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