Properties:

A device which contains a light source, such as a light emitting diode or a laser diode and a light detector, such as semiconductor photo. It may/may not include other electronic circuitry. It is used to scan bar codes, alpha/numeric characters, markings, or the like. It converts the scanned data to a signal which can be input into an electronic system, such as a computer. It may be designed either as a hand manipulated device or as a device which is mounted in a fixed position for operation. Excludes receiver-transmitter, laser. See also coupler, optoelectronic.