Microscan announces expanded capabilities in the QX Hawk imager, the world's highest performance barcode imager for multipurpose code reading and identification applications. Expanded capabilities include the new HX-Mode 3.0 firmware upgrade, more accessory options, and a new CCD version.

As the first barcode imager to be designed with fully integrated liquid lens technology, the entire QX Hawk system is optimized for both superior image clarity and infinite focus capacity. The result is a robust barcode imager that combines superior HUbarcode readingUH with autofocus to deliver unmatched flexibility to read HU1D and 2D barcodesUH in any orientation, either up close or at great distances. For example, in a manufacturing facility QX Hawk can perform a wide range of identification applications, from small code unique item traceability to long range pallet tracking with barcode reading in any orientation.

The recent QX Hawk X-Mode 3.0 firmware upgrade provides improved algorithms for reading direct part marks (DPM), additional symbologies such as Aztec Code, Micro QR, Pharmacode, and postal codes, and adds XML for advanced programming. Ethernet/IP protocol support for all standard PLCs, plus seamless integration with AB's latest version of Contrologix is included. A new CCD version of QX Hawk with 1.2 megapixel sensor will provide expanded read ranges for decoding tiny 2D and barcode marks, or reading within especially large areas. Two new accessories options also are available: scratch-resistant window kits and infrared filter for laser marking immunity. The CCD version of the QX Hawk will be available in August, while the firmware and hardware options are available now.

"We originally developed the QX Hawk on aggressive customer needs for a high-performance barcode imager that would be both easy to use and flexible for multiple applications," notes Andy Zosel, Microscan's Vice President of Global Marketing. "Since the first QX Hawk release in 2009, market adoption of QX Hawk has been very quick, and today it remains unmatched in performance."

Standard ease of use features in all HUQX Hawk imagersUH include compact size for flexible positioning, visible LED indicators, targeting laser pattern, "good read" green flash, and an EZ button for instant setup and configuration. Setting up a QX Hawk is almost as easy as using a point-and-shoot digital camera. Simply mount the system and press the EZ button, and it will find any barcode or 2D code at any distance within its field of view.

The QX Hawk features a high-resolution modular optical zoom system that, when combined with liquid lens focus control, enables a single reader to cover almost any barcode or 2D track and trace application. The high performance imager uses Microscan's X-Mode decoding technology to read any barcode mark at distances from 50 to 500 mm and beyond, from a high-density 3.3 mil Data Matrix to a very large linear code to a low-contrast DPM.

As a further benefit, the QX Hawk leverages the latest dual core ARM/DSP processor and integrated Ethernet protocols to allow high-speed image capture as well as real-time configuration and communication, providing extremely fast throughput.

Visit HUMicroscan's Online CommunityUH to see videos of the QX Hawk in action. For more detailed information on Microscan's QX Hawk, visit HUwww.microscan.comUH