Basic (HID) Mode vs. App Mode Scanning

Summary

Basic Mode is the simplest, quickest, and most basic form of setting up a Bluetooth reader. Basic Mode is a keyboard emulator, which provides scanned data in the form of a quick and accurate typing alternative through one-way communication.

Pros

• Applications - No application is required. Works independently of applications as a simple external keyboard emulator.
• Setup - Does not require installation of software, making set up easy.

Cons

• Speed - Much slower scanning/reading speeds for barcode symbologies encoding a lot of data, such as many 2D barcodes.
• Limitations - Operates as an external keyboard which suppresses an onscreen keyboard.
• Requirements - Needs an active cursor, the same as keyboard entry, before scanning data.
• International Configuration - Needs to be configured for international keyboards.
• Battery Life - Uses more battery in both reader and host.

Summary

Application Mode is an advanced two-way communication mode that accesses the scanner exclusively through software applications that utilize the Socket Mobile CaptureSDK.

Pros

• Customizable - Provides complete scanner command and control through a custom SDK.
• Consistent - Provides reliable packet data communication between the scanner and the host computer or device.
• Speed - Provides very fast scanning/reading speed (reads entire code at once.)
• Flexibility - Allows access to your keyboard and remains available and independent of the scanner.
• International Configuration - No need to configure for international keyboards. Unicode characters are supported.

Cons

• Integration - Only works with applications that have integrated the CaptureSDK.
• Additional Downloads - Requires download of software keyboard wedge when SDK is not used.