SICK extends bar code benefits

Reading of 1D barcodes and 2D Data Matrix ECC200 codes for product traceability, safety and identification is now available under hazardous area conditions with the new SICK ICR840-2 ATEX image code readers.

According to SICK, the readers bring the benefits of efficient manufacturing data control to Zone 1 and Zone 2 processes where it was previously unavailable. Two ATEX certificated models are available, the SICK IP65 rated ICR840-2 ATEX reader for Zone 2 operation and, for Zone 1 operation, the iSCAN300 1D/2D reader which incorporates an ICR840-2 series reader in a bespoke Extronics ATEX II 2GD EEx d IIC T6 IP66 housing. In both models, the ICR840-2 code readers deliver data reading to overcome weak contrasts, misaligned, dirty and poor markings, whether on labels, cartons or directly marked on the product. The ICR840-2 ATEX series extends 1D and 2D bar code data availability to Zone 1 and Zone 2 manufacturing processes such as paints, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, flammable gases and solvent processes, high dust and fine powder conditions. Identification, coding, traceability and other benefits can now be extended throughout these operations. The choice of ICR840-2 ATEX series models in either Zone 1 or Zone 2 formats includes long range, and high speed options with reading and decoding rates to 60 images a second. Popular 1D and 2D codes can be read in any orientation. In addition, the image code readers can be selected to meet specific application needs, with side or front mounted reading windows, and the integrated controllable led illumination has been incorporated to enable optimum reading even of curved objects. Live picture output from the image code readers is available through a choice of interfaces or Ethernet to integrate the ICR840-2 ATEX series with existing data environments, as well as easy alignment and installation set up. The Autosetup feature, in the new ICR840-2 series' firmware, enables the scanner to be configured and optimised and Ethernet with FTP established automatically without any specialist operator knowledge.