How to Program a Symbol LS2208 Barcode Scanner

The Symbol LS2208 scanner is a very popular, lightweight, ergonomically designed barcode scanner used in conjunction with many Point of Sale (POS) software.  However, prior to using the scanner with POS software there may be some very simple programming steps that will need to be take to get the scanner ready for operation.

How to Program a Symbol LS2208 Barcode Scanner

How to Program a Symbol LS2208 Barcode Scanner

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How to Program a Symbol LS2208 Barcode Scanner

How to Program a Symbol LS2208 Barcode Scanner

One of the first steps to programming a Symbol Scanner is to program the type of interface that you will be using with the scanner.  If you are using USB or Keyboard Wedge interfaces, you don't need to worry about programming the scanner as the scanners come pre-programmed to use these interfaces.

If you are going to be using the RS-232 or the IBM 46XX interfaces there is a very simple step you must follow to program the Scanner.  In the LS2208 Quick Start Guide, under STEP 3 you will have to scan the appropriate barcode for either an OPOS/JPOS or a Standard RS-232 interface.  Simply by pointing the scanner at the appropriate barcode and scanning it, you will be programming the scanner to use that interface.  The Quick Start Guide also has barcodes you can scan for the PORT 5B or PORT 9B - IBM 46XX interfaces or to switch back to USB or Keyboard Wedge mode.

Once you have the interface programmed, the next thing you will need to program is the enter key, carriage return/line feed function.  This function programs the scanner to append a carriage return/line feed character to be sent to the Computer at the end of each barcode that is scanned.  This will eliminate the need for your cashiers to have to hit enter after scanning a barcode in their POS system.

To program the enter key, carriage return/line feed functionality into the scanner all you need to do is simply scan the three barcodes found in the Quick Start Guide.  There is also the option of appending a tab key to the end of a barcode scan in the manual as well, and is performed the exact same way as programming the enter key.

How to Program a Symbol LS2208 Barcode Scanner