Barcode Architecture and Scanner Integration
SyteLine barcode scanning operates in two modes: keyboard wedge mode where the scanner emulates keyboard input into standard SyteLine forms, and programmatic mode where a custom application captures scan data and submits it through IDO REST API calls. Keyboard wedge mode requires minimal configuration but limits workflow automation. Programmatic mode, typically running on Zebra TC52, TC72, or Honeywell CT60 handheld devices, provides full control over scan validation, multi-step workflows, and offline capability.
The scanned barcode data is parsed against configurable barcode formats to extract item numbers, lot numbers, serial numbers, quantities, and location codes.
- Keyboard wedge: configure scanner prefix/suffix characters (e.g., Ctrl+J prefix) to trigger SyteLine form field focus
- Programmatic integration: scan data is captured by a mobile app and submitted via POST to /IDORequestService/ido/invoke/SLItems
- Barcode format configuration: define parsing rules in SyteLine Forms > Barcode Setup for Code 128, Code 39, GS1-128, and QR formats
- Scanner hardware: Zebra TC52/TC72 with SE4770 imager for 1D/2D barcodes, Honeywell CT60 for rugged environments
- Symbology support: Code 128 for item/lot/serial, GS1-128 for ASN receiving, Data Matrix for small-part marking
Configuring Transaction Workflows for Scanning
Each barcode scanning workflow maps to a specific SyteLine IDO transaction. ReceivePostSp IDO method to post receipt transactions. PickConfirmSp to confirm picks.
TransferSp to move inventory. Configure each workflow with validation rules that verify the scanned item matches the expected transaction context.
- Receiving workflow: scan PO barcode > scan item barcode > validate against PO line > call SLPoItems.ReceivePostSp
- Picking workflow: scan pick list ID > scan bin location > scan item > validate quantity > call SLShipments.PickConfirmSp
- Inventory transfer: scan source location > scan item > enter quantity > scan destination > call SLInventoryTransfer.TransferSp
- Shop floor labor: scan job barcode > scan operation barcode > call SLJobRoutes.LaborPostSp with start/stop time
- Cycle count: scan location barcode > scan each item in location > submit counts via SLPhyInv.CountEntrySp
Barcode Label Generation and Standards
SyteLine generates barcode labels through its reporting framework using Bartender, Loftware, or SSRS label templates. Configure label triggers on transaction events: print item labels on receiving, print shipping labels on pack confirmation, and print location labels during warehouse setup. Use GS1-128 format for shipping labels to comply with trading partner EDI requirements.
For internal labels, Code 128 provides high-density encoding of item, lot, and serial numbers. Store label template mappings in SyteLine's Print Configuration form to associate specific templates with transaction types, items, or warehouses.
- Label software: Bartender by Seagull Scientific or Loftware NiceLabel integrated via SyteLine Print Adapter
- GS1-128 shipping labels: encode SSCC, ship-to, PO number, and item GTIN per trading partner specifications
- Internal labels: Code 128 encoding item number, lot number, expiration date, and quantity per package
- Print triggers: configure auto-print on PO receipt posting, CO shipment confirmation, and production completion
- Template mapping: SyteLine Print Configuration form > assign templates by item group, warehouse, or transaction type
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