PTC-960X

User's Guide

On December 1, 2000 Symbol Technologies, Inc. completed the purchase

of Telxon Corporation. References made throughout this document to
"Telxon" or "Telxon Corporation" are be replaced with "Symbol" or
"Symbol Technologies, Inc.", respectively. Any questions, contact your
Symbol representative.
2000 by Symbol Technologies, Inc. All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any form, or by any electrical or
mechanical means, without permission in writing from Symbol. This includes electronic or
mechanical means, such as photocopying, recording, or information storage and retrieval
systems. The material in this manual is subject to change without notice.
Symbol reserves the right to make changes to any software or product to improve reliability,
function, or design.
Symbol does not assume any product liability arising out of, or in connection with, the
application or use of any product, circuit, or application described herein.
No license is granted, either expressly or by implication, estoppel, or otherwise under any
Symbol Technologies, Inc., intellectual property rights. An implied license only exists for
equipment, circuits, and subsystems contained in Symbol products.
Symbol is a registered trademark of Symbol Technologies, Inc. Other product names
mentioned in this manual may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
companies and are hereby acknowledged.
Symbol Technologies, Inc.
One Symbol Plaza
Holtsville, New York 11742-1300
http://www.symbol.com
Symbol Support Center: 1-800-653-5350

GUIDE TO THE
PTC-960X

to the
Guide
PTC-960X

Part Number: 16670-701-01

Release Date: 9/17/93

Telxon, TCAL (Telxon Common Application Language), and RAMSaver are registered trademarks of Telxon Corporation.
MS-DOS is a registered trademark of Microsoft
Corporation.
The information contained in this manual is
subject to change without notice.
Telxon Corporation shall not be liable for
technical or editorial omissions or mistakes in
this manual nor shall it be liable for incidental
or consequential damages resulting from your
use of the information contained in this manual.
This manual is copyrighted. All rights are
reserved. No part of this manual may be
photocopied or reproduced in any form without
the prior written consent of Telxon.
Copyright 1993 Telxon Corporation
All Rights Reserved.

Contents
FCC statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Safety information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
PTC equipped with a short-range laser scanner 9
PTC equipped with a long-range laser scanner 10
Disposing of nickel-cadmium batteries . . . . 10

Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Overview of the PTC-960X . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Entering data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Communicating data . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Flash programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Getting started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Unpacking the PTC-960X .
Installing the battery pack
Charging the battery pack
Checking the PTC-960X .

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Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Accessory connector . . . . . . .
Bar-code scanner . . . . . . . .
Bar-code scanner trigger . . . .
Battery charger . . . . . . . . .
Battery compartment . . . . . .
Communication contacts . . . .
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
End cap/battery pack assembly .
Flash EPROM . . . . . . . . . .
Handle . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . .
ENTER/YES key . . . . . .
ON/OFF key . . . . . . . . .
SHIFT key . . . . . . . . . .

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4

Keyboard overlay . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RJ-41-to-RS-232 adapter cable (optional)
Status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Charging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Good Scan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low Bat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Scan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wrist strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Autodiscrimination between bar codes
Automatic off . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic return at on . . . . . . . .
Backlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Battery backup . . . . . . . . . . . .
Beeper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Communication . . . . . . . . . . . .
Display contrast . . . . . . . . . . . .
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Communication and connections . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Connecting cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disconnecting cables . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting to the optional
communication cradle . . . . . . . . . . .

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Scanning bar-code labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Maintaining the PTC-960X . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Operating conditions . .
Handling the PTC-960X
Storing the PTC-960X .
Cleaning the PTC-960X .
Servicing the PTC-960X

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Replacing the battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Removing the battery pack . . . . . . . . . . 39
Installing a new battery pack . . . . . . . . 40

Programming the flash EPROM . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Before you begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
If the PTC does not turn on . . . . . . . . . . 49
If the bar-code scanner does not read a label 49
If you experience any other problems with
your PTC-960X . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Appendix A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Specifications . . . . . . . .
Physical . . . . . . . . .
Electrical . . . . . . . .
Bar code types supported
Communication . . . . .

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Appendix B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Accessory part numbers

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Appendix C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Communication connections . . . . . . . . .

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Appendix D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
LED status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Figures
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

Parts of the PTC-960X . . . . . . . .

Connecting a cable . . . . . . . . . .
Scanning a bar-code . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the battery pack . . . . . .
RJ-41-to-RS-232 25-pin adapter cable
RJ-41-to-RS-232 9-pin adapter cable .
PTC-to-1/2 duplex modem cable . . .
PTC-to-full duplex modem cable . . .
PTC-to-host (DTE) cable . . . . . . .

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10. Cloning cable, RJ-41-to-RJ-41 . . . . . .

11. PTC-to-IBM PC/AT download cable . . .
12. PTC-to-IBM PC/XT download cable . . .

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Tables
1. Accessory part numbers . . . . . . . . .
2. LED status indicators . . . . . . . . . . .

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64

FCCstatement
This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the Federal
Communication Commission (FCC) rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with this
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this
equipment in a residential area is likely to cause
harmful interference, in which case users will be
required to correct the interference at their own
expense.

Safety
information
PTC equipped with a short-range laser scanner
This product is a Class II laser product. It emits
a 1.0-milliwatt beam of laser light from the output window. No maintenance is required to keep
this product in compliance with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
regulation 21 C.F.R. subchapter J. No controls
are provided for operation or maintenance. Laser
light in excess of Class I limits is inside an internal protective cover. Do not stare into the beam
if the protective cover is removed.
The laser safety warning label required by the
DHHS for the PTC-960X equipped with a shortrange laser scanner is illustrated below. This
yellow and black label is located on the bottom
of the PTC-960X near the scanning window.

 PTC equipped with a long-range laser scanner

This product is a Class IIIA laser product. It
emits a 5.0-milliwatt beam of laser light from
the output window. No maintenance is required
to keep this product in compliance with DHHS
regulation 21 C.F.R. subchapter J. No controls
are provided for operation or maintenance. Laser
light in excess of Class I limits is inside an internal protective cover. Do not stare into the beam
if the protective cover is removed.
The laser safety warning label required by the
DHHS for the PTC-960X equipped with a longrange laser scanner is illustrated below. This red
and black label is located on the bottom of the
PTC-960X near the scanning window.

Disposing of nickel-cadmium batteries

Nickel-cadmium batteries contain chemically
active materials that are hazardous to the
environment; therefore, they must be disposed
of properly. Never attempt to incinerate a nickelcadmium battery; doing so could cause it to
explode. Telxon urges you to contact the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of
Natural Resources, a local hazardous waste disposal agency, or the Telxon Customer Support
Center for assistance prior to disposing of your
nickel-cadmium batteries.

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Scope

This manual provides general information on

how to operate, handle, and maintain the PTC960X. Use this manual as an introduction to the
PTC-960X along with the manual or instructions
provided by your supervisor.
This manual does not provide instructions on
how to perform the tasks specific to your job in
your organization. For that information, refer to
the manual or instructions provided by your
supervisor.

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Overview
of the PTC-960X
The Telxon PTC-960X is a battery-powered,
hand-held computer used to collect, store, and
transmit data. The PTC-960X has a built-in barcode scanner. Options for transmitting data over
telephone lines and printing are also available.
The PTC-960X automates your data collection
procedures and is custom programmed to efficiently handle your organizations unique data
collection applications.
The PTC-960X is designed for use in areas
where dust, dirt, or moisture can be excessive.
The PTC has been specially sealed to resist these
hazards.
Because the PTC-960X is custom programmed
for each organization, this manual does not include the specific operating instructions for your
organizations unique PTC data collection program. Operating instructions and training for
your PTCs application program should be available from your supervisor.
The PTC runs an application program specially
designed to collect data for your organization.
This program leads you through the application
with a series of display messages, prompts, and
beeps. Messages tell you when you make an
error and provide information on the application
or the PTCs status. Prompts and beeps tell you
when to enter data, what type of data to enter,
and when you complete certain operations.

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 Entering data
You can enter data into the PTC-960X using
either the keyboard or the built-in scanner.
When you press a key on the PTCs keyboard,
the corresponding number or letter appears on
the display. Pressing the ENTER key stores the
data in the PTCs memory.
The built-in bar-code scanner can read a bar
code. A bar code is a series of vertical bars and
spaces that you find on nearly every item in
business today. The PTC interprets the scanned
data, may show this data on the display, and can
store the data in the PTCs memory.

Communicating data
After collecting the data, the PTC must either
transmit the data to a host computer for processing or send it to a printer, or both, to make the
data useful to you and your organization. The
PTC-960X is capable of transmitting data
through an optional communication cradle or by
being connected by cable to a host computer,
printer, or other accessory.

Flash programming
The PTC-960X contains a flash EPROM, which
is an electronic chip that contains the PTCs
application program. The flash EPROM can be
reprogrammed (flashed) while it is inside the
PTC, making updating and changing application
programs easy.

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Getting
started
Unpacking the PTC-960X
The PTC-960X is shipped in a single box
containing

a PTC-960X,

a battery charger,

a wrist strap,

a nickel-cadmium battery pack,

the Guide to the PTC-960X,

the Guide to the FLASH Utilities (TCAL

or MS-DOS Version), and

the Guide to Maintaining NiCd Batteries.

Any cables or additional accessories are shipped

separately. Accessories have their own manuals.
1. Remove the PTC from the box.
2. Remove all packing material from the PTC.
Save the packing material in case the PTC is
ever stored or shipped to Telxon for service.
3. Check the contents of the package to make
sure you have received everything ordered.
4. Check the PTC and accessories for shipping
damage. Pay particular attention to the PTC
case, display lens, and scanner lens.
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If anything is missing or damaged, notify your

Telxon service representative.

Installing the battery pack

1. Make sure the PTC is off.
2. Line up the end cap/battery pack assembly
with the opening in the bottom of the PTCs
handle. See Figure 1 on page 18 for the location of the battery pack opening.
3. Slide the battery pack into the handle until
the end cap presses against the body of the
handle and the tabs on the end cap lock the
assembly into place. The curved sides of the
end cap allow the battery pack to be installed
in only one way.

Charging the battery pack

Equipment required:

One battery charger for each PTC

An electrical outlet within 6 feet (1.8 meters) providing 110 volts AC in the U.S.
and Canada or 220 volts AC elsewhere

Use this procedure to recharge the nickel-cadmium battery pack installed in the PTCs handle.
1. Make sure the PTC is off.
2. Disconnect all accessories from the PTC.
3. Lay the PTC-960X on its right side so the
charger connector is facing you.
4. Attach the end of the battery chargers cable
to the charger connector on the PTCs side.

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See Figure 1 on page 18 for the location of

the charger connector.
5. Plug the battery charger into a standard 110volt electrical outlet (220 volts outside the
U.S. and Canada).
6. Charge the battery pack for 12 hours.
7. When charging is finished, first unplug the
battery charger from the electrical outlet;
then disconnect it from the PTC.

Checking the PTC-960X

1. Press the ON/OFF key on the PTCs keyboard to turn on the PTC.
2. Look at the PTCs display.
3. What appears on the display depends on the
program your organization uses.
If the PTC is operating correctly, you should
not see or hear any of the following:

Low battery warning

A blank display screen

Any warning beeps

See the Troubleshooting section on page 49

if the PTC-960X is not operating correctly.

16

Parts

Figure 1 shows the parts of the PTC-960X.

Accessory connector
A modular RJ-41-type connector for accessories
is located on the PTCs left side. One of a number
of special cables that plug into the connector can
be used to connect the PTC-960X to a particular
computer, printer, or other accessory. Cable part
numbers are listed in Appendix B, and cable diagrams are illustrated in Appendix C.

Bar-code scanner
A bar-code laser scanner, which is mounted inside the PTCs nose, lets you enter data into your
PTC by reading (scanning) bar-code labels.
Your PTCs application program determines the
types of bar-code labels the PTC can read.

Bar-code scanner trigger

The trigger on the front of the PTCs handle turns
on the PTCs bar-code scanner when you are ready
to read a bar code. Pressing the trigger also turns
on the PTC-960X if this option has been installed
by your organization.

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FIGURE 1

Parts of the PTC-960X

BAR-CODE SCANNER

DISPLAY
KEYBOARD &
KEYBOARD OVERLAY

COMMUNICATION
CONTACTS

BAR-CODE SCANNER TRIGGER

BEEPER
STATUS INDICATORS

ACCESSORY CONNECTOR

HANDLE &
BATTERY
COMPARTMENT

BATTERY CHARGER
CONNECTOR

ENDCAP/BATTERY PACK
ASSEMBLY

WRIST STRAP
ATTACHES HERE

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 Battery charger
A battery charger is provided to recharge the PTCs
nickel-cadmium battery pack.
It connects to the PTC-960X through
the built-in charger connector on the
PTCs left side.
The nickel-cadmium battery pack
can also be recharged by placing the
PTC-960X in an optional communication cradle. See the manual provided with the SC-960X or MC-960X
communication cradle for instructions.

Battery compartment
The PTC-960X is powered by a rechargeable
nickel-cadmium battery pack installed inside the
PTCs handle. The battery pack and the PTCs
handle end cap are a single unit.

Communication contacts
The row of metal contacts on the bottom edge of
the PTCs nose connects the PTC to an optional
SC-960X or MC-960X communication cradle. See
the manual for the communication cradle for
further information.

Display
The display screen on the front of the PTC above
the keyboard shows the information you type
or scan into the PTC as well as messages and
instructions from the PTC or the host computer.

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The screen is a liquid crystal display (LCD).

Depending on the option ordered, the screen can
show four lines with sixteen characters each or
sixteen lines with sixteen or twenty-one characters each. Your display may also be able to display graphics.
The displays contrast can be changed through
the PTC-960Xs keyboard, if your PTCs application program has been set up to allow this option.

End cap/battery pack assembly

The PTC handles end cap and the nickel-cadmium battery pack are combined in a single
module. Removing the end cap also removes the
battery pack. When the battery pack is replaced,
the entire module is replaced with a new one.

Flash EPROM
A flash EPROM is an electronic component that
is installed inside the PTC. It contains the PTCs
data collection program and determines the
PTCs key functions, the display prompts and
messages, and how and when the PTC prints or
transmits data.
The flash EPROM can be erased and reprogrammed while it is inside the PTC. First, the
PTC must be connected to a host computer via
a cable connected to its accessory connector or
by being placed in the optional SC-960X or
MC-960X communication cradle.
Then, using software in the PTCs operating
system, you can erase the flash EPROM and
reprogram it with a new program from the host
computer.

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For specific instructions on how to erase or reprogram an application flash EPROM, refer to the
Programming the FLASH EPROM section on
page 41 or to the Guide to the FLASH Utilities
(TCAL or MS-DOS Version).

Handle
The handle attached to the PTCs body allows
you to hold the PTC and aim the built-in scanner
when you are scanning bar codes.
The handle also contains the PTC-960Xs battery
pack.

Keyboard
The standard keyboard on the PTC-960X has
forty-five keys. Some models may be equipped
with an optional 24-key or 35-key keyboard. All
keyboards have two types of keys: data keys and
function keys.
Data keys are the letter and number keys, A-Z
and 0-9. You use them to type data into the PTC.
Function keys include the F1-F4, CLEAR,
ENTER/YES, and SEND keys. These keys may
have different labels on your PTC. They are used
to perform a special procedure or function. For
example, your application may use the SEND
function key to transmit the PTCs data to the
host computer.
Note: Your application program may turn off
certain keys at times during the program to
prevent you from accidentally erasing data or
ending an operation. The PTC beeps when you
press a key the application has turned off.

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ENTER/YES key
How you use the ENTER/YES key depends on
your organizations application. Usually you
press this key to tell the application that you
have finished typing data, have finished an operation, or want the PTC to begin an operation,
such as sending data to the host computer.

ON/OFF key
Pressing this key will turn the PTC on or off.

SHIFT key
On the 45-key keyboard, the SHIFT key activates only the function keys labeled on the overlay. The numeric keys are always available.
On 24- and 35-key keyboards, the SHIFT key
shifts between the numeric and alphabetic keyboard and also activates some of the function
keys your application uses. These keys are labeled on an overlay that slips over the keyboard.

Keyboard overlay
The keyboard overlay is a small sheet of plastic
cut out to fit over the PTC-960Xs keyboard.
Labels for the special function keys used by your
organizations application program are printed
on the overlay.

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 RJ-41-to-RS-232 adapter cable (optional)

One of two adapter cables,
part number 15109-001 or
15508-001, is required to
connect the PTC-960X to
an external accessory or
computer. One end of the
cable plugs into the accessory connector on the PTCs
left side, and the other
plugs into the accessory or into an additional
cable for the specific accessory or computer.
Cable part numbers are listed in Appendix B,
and cable diagrams are illustrated in Appendix C.

Status indicators
Four light-emitting diode (LED) indicators on
the rear face of the PTC-960X provide information on the PTCs status.

Charging
This green LED glows when the PTC is connected to a battery charger and the nickel-cadmium battery pack is being recharged.

Good Scan
This green LED blinks once when a bar-code label has been scanned and decoded successfully.
You may also hear a beep after a successful scan.
The Good Scan indicator will not light if the bar
code has not been decoded, and the Scan indicator will go out after 1 or 2 seconds.

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Low Bat
This red LED glows to warn you when the
PTCs battery pack is running out of power.
Immediately stop whatever operation you are
in, save any data you have entered or scanned,
and recharge or replace the PTCs battery pack
whenever the Low Bat indicator lights.

Scan
This red LED lights when the scanners trigger
is pulled and the PTCs built-in scanner starts to
scan a bar code.

Wrist strap
A looped wrist strap is attached to the PTCs
handle. Put your hand through the wrist strap
and use it to prevent the PTC from falling if you
accidentally let go of it.
A rigid ring wrist strap is available as an option.

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Features
Autodiscrimination between bar codes
The PTC-960Xs application program can read
and automatically discriminate between up to
ten bar-code types. See the information provided
by your supervisor for the bar-code types your
PTC has been programmed to recognize.

Automatic off
To conserve battery power, the PTC-960X automatically turns itself off after approximately 1
minute of inactivity. The exact length of time
depends on your application program.

Automatic return at on
When you turn off the PTC-960X (or when the
PTC-960X turns itself off), it remembers where
it was in the application. Then, when you turn
the PTC-960X back on, it returns to that same
point in the application. You do not need to review what you have done or perform any other
start-up function to find your place.

Backlight
The screen has a backlight to light up the screen
and make information on the display readable in
low light. If your PTCs operating system is MSDOS, you can turn the backlight on and off by
first pressing the FUNC key and then pressing

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the SPACE key. If your PTCs operating system

is TCAL, the backlight may or may not be available to you, depending on your organizations application program. See the instructions provided
by your organization for the correct procedure.

Battery backup
CAUTION! Storing a PTC-960X for long periods (over two months) without recharging or
replacing the nickel-cadmium battery pack
drains both the battery pack and the battery
backup system. Any data or programs loaded
into the PTCs memory will be lost.
The PTC-960X has a built-in battery backup system that provides enough power to protect data
stored in the PTCs memory when the battery
pack is being changed or if it runs out of power.
The battery backup system provides a minimum
of 1 hour of protection when the battery pack is
removed.

Beeper
The PTCs beeper, which is located inside the
rear face, is used by the PTC and your application program to warn you of problems or to
prompt you to take an action. For example, if
your application program has temporarily
turned off a key, the PTC will beep if you press
that key.
Depending on your organizations application
software, you may be able to control the beepers
volume. See the manual or instructions provided
by your organization.

26

 Clock
The PTC-960X has a built-in clock that keeps
track of the date (month, day, year, and day of
the week) and the time (hours, minutes, seconds,
and tenths of seconds). The clock operates continuously. How the clock is used depends on your
application program. For example, the PTC960X can use the clock to show the date and
time on its display or to direct a printer to place
a time stamp on a report.

Communication
The PTC-960X is capable of communicating with
a host computer through an optional communication cradle or by being connected directly via a
cable. See the manual or instructions provided
by your organization for the proper communication procedure for your application.

Display contrast
You may be able to adjust the PTCs display contrast, depending on the display installed on your
PTC and the operating system your PTC uses.
If your PTCs operating system is MS-DOS, you
can increase or decrease the contrast in steps by
first pressing the FUNC key and then pressing
the BKSP (backspace) key.
If your PTCs operating system is TCAL, contrast adjustment may or may not be available to
you, depending on your organizations application
program. See the instructions provided by your
organization for the correct procedure.

27

 Memory
The PTC-960X has internal memory, which is
used to store your organizations application
program and the data you type into the PTC.
The amount of memory in your PTC determines
how much data you can type in before you have
to send it to a host computer or print it. Various
amounts of memory are available from Telxon,
and the amount actually installed in your PTC
has been determined by your organizations
needs.

28

Communication
and connections
The PTC-960X is able to communicate with other
computers, PTCs, and external accessories such
as printers. It can both send and receive data
and instructions. Communication is controlled
by your organizations application program. See
the manual or instructions provided by your organization for details on conducting communication sessions.
The PTC-960X can communicate by being connected directly to the host computer by cable or
by being placed in an optional communication
cradle that is connected to the host computer.
Accessories such as printers are connected to
the PTC with a cable.

Connecting cables
Note: The PTC-960X cannot be connected to an
external modem via cable. It can be connected to
an external modem only through an optional
SC-960X or MC-960X communication cradle.
Making a direct connection between the PTC960X and another computer, PTC, or accessory
requires the use of a special adapter cable and
may require a separate accessory cable. The
adapter cable plugs into the modular RJ-41
accessory connector on the PTCs left side. The
other end of this cable has a standard 25-pin
(part number 15109-001) or 9-pin (part number

29

15508-001) RS-232-type connector that plugs

directly into the accessory or is attached to a
separate cable that plugs into the accessory or
other computer.
Both the adapter cable and the correct cable for
your accessory or host computer must be ordered
separately. For the correct cable, see the manual
or instructions provided by your organization
and the list of cables in Appendix B.
CAUTION! Do not force any connectors together if they do not connect easily; you could
damage them. Check to make sure that they
are lined up correctly, that no pins are bent,
and that nothing is obstructing the accessory
connector on the PTC.
1. Make sure you have the correct RJ-41-to-RS232 adapter cable and the correct accessory
cable, if necessary, for the device you are connecting to. If you use the wrong accessory cable, the PTC may not be able to communicate.
2. Press the ON/OFF key on the PTCs keyboard to turn off the PTC.
3. Make sure the computer or accessory you are
connecting to the PTC is also turned off.
4. The accessory connector on the PTCs left
side is protected by a rubber plug. Pull up on
the bottom of the plug to reveal the accessory
connector.
Note: The top of the rubber plug is permanently attached to the PTC.
5. Examine the PTCs accessory connector and
the modular RJ-41 connector on the end of
the adapter cable. The connector on the cable
has a tab that must line up with the slot in
the PTCs accessory connector.
30

6. Gently slip the connector on the cable into

the accessory connector until the tab on the
cables connector clicks into place. See Figure 2.
7. Connect the other end of the adapter cable to
the accessory or to one of the connectors on
the accessory cable. Make sure the connectors line up correctly, wide edge to wide edge,
and you are connecting a male connector to a
female connector.
8. Connect the remaining end of the accessory
cable, if used, to the correct connector on the
computer or accessory. Make sure the connector on the cable and the connector on the
computer or accessory are lined up properly.
9. Turn on the PTC and then turn on the device
it is connected to.

FIGURE 2

Connecting a cable

PLUG THE ADAPTER CABLES

MODULAR CONNECTOR INTO THE
PTCS ACCESSORY CONNECTOR

31

10. Follow the instructions for your application

program to communicate.

Disconnecting cables
Equipment required:

A pen or small screwdriver

Always disconnect connectors by pulling them

directly away from each other. Do not pull at an
angle. Do not use a rocking or twisting motion
when pulling two connectors apart.
CAUTION! When removing a cable from the
PTC or another device, grasp the cable connector head to remove the cable. Pulling on
the cable can break the wiring from the cable
connector.
1. Press the ON/OFF key on the PTCs keyboard to turn off the PTC.
2. Turn off the device the PTC is connected to.
3. Use the tip of a pen or small screwdriver to
press down the tab on the adapter cables
connector; then pull the cable out of the
accessory connector on the PTCs left side.
4. Insert the rubber plug into the accessory
connector.
5. Disconnect the PTCs adapter cable from the
accessory or accessory cable.
6. If necessary, disconnect the accessory cable
from the other computer or accessory.

32

 Connecting to the optional communication cradle

See the manual provided with the SC-960X or
MC-960X communication cradle for instructions
on how to connect the PTC-960X.

33

Scanning
bar-code labels
The PTC-960X can be programmed to automatically recognize, read, and discriminate between
up to ten bar-code types.
The bar-code types your PTC-960X can read depend on your PTCs application program. See the
instructions provided by your organization for
specific information and Appendix A for a list of
the bar-code types your PTC can be programmed
to read.
Follow this procedure to scan bar-code labels.
1. Point the PTC-960X at the label to be
scanned. The scanner can be at an angle
to the label (see Figure 3). The maximum
distance from the window on the nose of the
PTC to the label depends on whether your
PTC is equipped with a short-range or longrange bar-code scanner and on the size of the
label being scanned.
See the instructions or manual provided
by your organization for the recommended
scanning distance.
2. Press the trigger on the PTCs handle to start
scanning. The red Scan LED on the rear face
of the PTC lights.
If your PTC is equipped with the aiming dot
option, the laser projects a red aiming dot
on the bar code you are pointing the PTC
34

toward. Quickly center the aiming dot over

the bar code. Keep pressing the trigger, and
the laser begins scanning the bar code.
3. Watch the line of light made by the scanner
as it scans the bar code. The line must pass
over all of the bars on the label for the bar
code to be read.
4. If the scan has been successful, the green
Good Scan LED on the rear face of the PTC
blinks once, and you should hear a beep. The
LED does not light if the scan has not been
successful.
FIGURE 3

Scanning a bar-code

35

Maintaining
the PTC-960X
Operating conditions
Although the PTC-960X is specially sealed to
resist dust, dirt, and moisture, it should not be
used in excessively dirty or moist environments.
It can be operated at temperatures between 32
and 104 degrees F (0 and 40 degrees C).

Handling the PTC-960X

The following information will help to ensure
you receive safe, reliable, and trouble-free service from your PTC-960X.

Do not stare into the laser beam.

Do not point the scanner at anyones eyes.

You could cause permanent eye damage.

Do not open the PTCs case. Only a trained

technician can service the parts inside the
PTC.

If you store a PTC-960X in below-freezing

temperatures for more than 1 hour, do not
charge the battery pack until it warms up to
room temperature. Charging a cold nickelcadmium battery pack can damage it.

Make sure the PTC is off before you connect

or remove any cables or accessories or replace the battery pack.

36

Make sure all accessories connected by cable

are connected correctly and the correct cables
are used.

Use only Telxon-approved battery packs and

accessories. Do not attempt to connect any
electrical device that is not part of your PTC960X system to the PTC.

Protect the PTC from excessive heat, cold,

moisture, and harsh, dirty environments.

Do not insert anything other than Telxonapproved cables into the accessory connector
on the PTCs left side.

Be careful not to short together any of the

metal contacts on the PTCs nose. Do not
allow the contacts to touch metal or other
electrically conductive material.

Do not remove any rubber or plastic plugs on

the PTCs case.

Storing the PTC-960X

Do not store the PTC-960X in temperatures

below -40 degrees F (-40 degrees C) or above
158 degrees F (70 degrees C).

Do not store the PTC-960X in a damp or

humid environment.

Use the following procedure to store the

PTC-960X.
1. Transfer any data stored in the PTC to a host
computer or another PTC or print the data.
See the manual or instructions for your
organizations application program for
directions.

37

2. Make sure you have a copy of any programs

stored in the PTC.
3. Disconnect all accessories from the PTC.
4. Recharge or replace the PTCs battery pack.
5. Pack the PTC in the original packing material or in a padded box and put the PTC in a
safe place, away from dust, dirt, humidity,
and excessive cold.

Cleaning the PTC-960X

Equipment required:

A soft, lint-free cloth

A nonabrasive cleaner

To clean the PTC-960X, slightly moisten a soft,

clean, lint-free cloth with a mild, nonabrasive
cleaner and wipe the outside surfaces. Do not
use a paper towel.
CAUTION! Do not soak the cloth used to
clean the PTC and do not spray or pour
cleaning liquids directly onto the PTC.
If the PTC-960X becomes extremely dirty or if
liquids, dirt, or other foreign materials get
inside the case, contact your Telxon service
representative.

Servicing the PTC-960X

Do not attempt to service the PTC. Only a
trained Telxon technician may service the PTC.
Follow the procedure set up by your organization
to have the PTC serviced properly.

38

the
Replacing
battery pack
Equipment required:

A charged replacement nickel-cadmium

battery pack

Removing the battery pack

1. Press the ON/OFF key on the PTCs keyboard to turn the PTC off.
2. With your thumb and index finger, press and
hold in the release buttons on both sides of
the handle end cap (see Figure 4); then pull

FIGURE 4

Removing the battery pack

RELEASE BUTTON (ONE ON EACH SIDE)

39

the end cap and the attached battery pack

out of the handle.
3. Refer to page 10 for instructions on properly
disposing of your nickel-cadmium battery
pack.

Installing a new battery pack

1. Make sure the PTC is off.
2. Line up the end cap/battery pack with the
opening in the handle. The curved sides of
the end cap allow the battery pack to be installed in only one way.
3. Slide the end cap/battery pack into the handle until the end cap presses against the
body of the handle and the release buttons
snap into place.
4. Pull on the end cap to make sure it is locked
into place.

40

Programming
the flash EPROM
The application program instructions for your
PTC-960X are stored in an electronic component
inside the PTC called a flash EPROM. This is a
type of read-only memory, but unlike standard
EPROMs, flash EPROMs can be erased and reprogrammed while they are inside the PTC. This
allows you to update your application program
quickly and easily.
To write over existing programs on the PTCs
application flash EPROM, you must connect
your PTC to an MS-DOS-based personal computer and then run the FLASHPC.EXE utility to
download the special file (ROM image file) containing the new application.

Before you begin

Make sure the PTCs battery pack is fully
charged. If the battery pack runs low, the reprogramming process will abort. You will lose the
application program already in the PTC.
The following procedure assumes

you are familiar with operating an MSDOS-based personal computer,

you have read the Communication and

connections section on page 29,

41

you will connect the PTCs download

cable to the personal computers COM1
serial port,

you will use the default settings for the

FLASHPC.EXE utility, and

you will run FLASHPC.EXE in interactive mode.

If your situation differs from this, refer to the

Guide to the FLASH Utilities (TCAL or MS-DOS
Version), part number 16541-000.
Equipment required

A personal computer running the

MS-DOS operating system

A 9-pin or 25-pin PTC adapter cable (see

Appendix B for the correct part number
and Appendix C for the cable diagram)

A 9-pin or 25-pin download cable (see

Appendix B for the correct part number
and Appendix C for the cable diagram)

A diskette containing the FLASHPC.EXE

utility for your PTCs operating system,
either TCAL or the RAMSaver version of
MS-DOS (Optionally, FLASHPC.EXE can
be permanently stored on your PCs hard
disk drive.)

A diskette containing the ROM image file

(for your PTCs operating system) that
will replace the application (ARC image
file) on your PTC (Optionally, this file can
be stored on your PCs hard disk drive.)

42

 Procedure
1. Connect the PTC to the PCs COM1 serial
communication port using the appropriate
adapter cable and download cable. If you
connect to the COM2 port, you must change
the comm port setting in the FLASHPC.EXE
utility in Step 8.
2. Switch to the disk drive containing the
FLASHPC.EXE utility.

If FLASHPC.EXE is on a floppy diskette,

insert the diskette into the PCs floppy
disk drive A. Switch to this drive by
typing A: and then pressing ENTER.

If FLASHPC.EXE is on the PCs hard

disk, switch to the drive and directory
FLASHPC.EXE is on.

3. Run FLASHPC.EXE.

If you are reprogramming a single PTC,

type FLASHPC and then press ENTER.

If you are reprogramming a number of

PTCs, type FLASHPC -m and then press
ENTER.

4. The PC shows the following prompt:

Telxon Flash Loader (Version X.X)
Enter the ARC image filename (return if none):
=
Enter the RF image filename (return if none):
=

5. In the appropriate space, type in the name of

the ROM image file you want to download.

43

Type the ROM image file name in this format:

d:\path\filename
where
d: = the disk drive the file is on
\path = the directory the file is in, if it is not
in the disk drives current directory
\filename = the eight- (or fewer) character
name of the file plus the file extension (the
period and three characters after it)
Press ENTER after you fill in the ARC image
file name or press ENTER by itself if you are
not entering an ARC image file name. Press
ENTER again to skip filling in the RF image
file name. The RF image file does not apply
to the PTC-960X.
6. The Main Menu displays on your PCs
monitor screen:
0. Quit
1. Send the image(s) to PTC
2. Select baud rate
3. Select comm port n
4. Reselect an ARC file
5. Reselect an RF file
Current file selection(s):
ARC =
RF =
Enter [0 - 5]:

7. Change the baud rate, if necessary.

The default baud rate is autobaud, which
means the PC starts communicating at
38,400 baud and slows down, if necessary,
until it connects with the PTC. This is the
default setting and should be used if possible.
44

To change the baud rate or to reset it to autobaud, type 2 and then press ENTER at the
Main Menu.
The following screen displays on your PCs
monitor:
Select the desired baud rate:
0. Quit
1. 9600 Baud
2. 19.2 K Baud
3. 38.4 K Baud
4. Autobaud (default)
Enter [0, 1, 2, 3, or 4]:

8. Change the communication port, if necessary.

Choose this option from the Main Menu only
if you have connected the download cable to
your PCs COM2 serial port instead of to
COM1. To change the port, type 3 at the
Main Menu and press ENTER. The program
will toggle between COM1 and COM2 every
time you choose this option.
9. Change the ROM image file names, if
necessary.
Select option 4 on the Main Menu to change
the ARC (application) file name you specified
earlier. Your PC prompts you for the new
ROM image file name. Type in the new path
and file name and press ENTER.
To leave this screen without changing the file
name, press the ESC key.
To remove a file name from a list of ROM image files, press ENTER at the prompt. The
program verifies that you want to omit this
file before returning to the Main Menu.

45

10. Select option 1 on the Main Menu, Send the

image(s) to PTC, to compress the image files
for downloading.
Your PC displays status messages for each
file being compressed.
An error occurs if the PC does not have sufficient memory to compress the file or if the
specified file is too large to fit on the flash
EPROM. If an error occurs, the PC displays a
message and returns to the Main Menu.
When compression is complete, the following
message displays:
Done with all the compressions
Prepare the PTC for downloading
Press any key to start sending

Note: Do not press any key on the PCs keyboard at this time.
CAUTION! Before proceeding, make sure the
PTCs battery pack is fully charged.
11. If your PTC is using the TCAL operating system, put the PTC in programming mode by
holding down the PTCs A key until the PTC
beeps three times. When the PTC is in programming mode, the PTC will sound one long
beep followed by short repeating beeps.
If your PTC is using the MS-DOS/RAMSaver
operating system, run the FLASH.EXE program on your PTC.
At the prompt on your PTC screen, type
FLASH and press ENTER. The following
Menu displays on the PTCs screen:
FLASH - Ver 1.1
0: System ctrl

46

1: User ctrl
2: Exit

Type 0 to put the FLASH.EXE program in

system control mode. System control mode
returns control of the flash EPROM programming to your PC.
The following prompt displays on your PTC
screen:
Do you wish to
program the
flash ROM now?
(Y/N):

Type Y and press ENTER.

Note: The FLASHPC.EXE program runs
on your personal computer, and the
FLASH.EXE program runs on your PTC
during this process.
12. Press any key on the PCs keyboard to begin
downloading and reprogramming.
If you wish to abort the process, press the
ESC key on the PC. The FLASHPC.EXE
program returns to the Main Menu.
Before downloading begins, the PC displays
the following message:
Establishing a connection...

The PC then displays status windows that

describe the current stage of downloading
(Erasing flash ROM, Programming, and
so on).
FLASHPC.EXE then erases and reprograms
the flash EPROM. When the process is complete, the PTC sounds one long beep and then

47

turns itself off. The FLASHPC.EXE program

on the PC returns to the Main Menu.
If reprogramming is not completed successfully, refer to the Guide to the FLASH
Utilities (TCAL or MS-DOS Version) for more
information.

48

Troubleshooting
If the PTC does not turn on,

charge or replace the battery pack and

if the PTC still does not operate, follow your

organizations procedure to have the PTC
serviced.

If the bar-code scanner does not read a label,

move the PTC-960X closer to or farther away

from the bar-code label. You may not be scanning at the correct distance,

change the angle of the PTC-960X to the barcode label. The PTC may be too far above or
below the bar-code label or too far to the side
of the bar code to scan properly,

clean the scanner lens on the nose of the PTC,

point the scanner at a blank surface and

press the scanner trigger. Look for the scanning line that appears on the blank surface
when the scanner is operating. If no scanning
line appears, follow your organizations procedure to have the PTC serviced, and

make sure the bar-code label you are trying

to scan is one of the bar-code types your
scanner has been programmed to recognize.

49

 If you experience any other problems with your

PTC-960X,

notify your Telxon service representative or

contact the Telxon Customer Support Center

at 1-800-800-8010.

50

Appendix A
Specifications
Physical
Length:

8.3 in/21.1 cm

Width:

3.5 in/8.9 cm

Height:

2.1 in/5.3 cm
(8 in/20.3 cm at handle)

Weight:

Approximately 2.1 lb/1 kg

Operating
temperature:

32 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit

(0 to 40 degrees Celsius)

Storage
temperature:

-40 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit

-40 to 70 degrees Celsius

Operating
humidity:

0-95% noncondensing

Electrical
Battery pack

1400-mA/hr rechargeable
nickel-cadmium battery pack
standard
800-mA/hr rechargeable
nickel-cadmium battery pack
optional

Charger:

Provides 18 VDC @ 800 mA

51

Bar-code types supported

The PTC-960X can be programmed to read and
automatically discriminate among up to ten of
the following bar-code types. See the information
provided by your organization for the specific
bar-code types your PTC-960X is programmed to
read.
PlesseyRegular
PlesseyAlpha
PlesseyISBN
PlesseyPure
PlesseySainesbury
UPCA & E
UPCEAN-8 & EAN-13
UPCA, E, EAN-8, EAN-13
Codabar
Code 39
Code 2 of 5I, D, & Industrial
Code 2 of 5Discrete
Code 2 of 5Interleaved
Code 2 of 5Industrial
Code 2 of 5Matrix
Code 11
Code 128
Code 93
Ames Code
AS-10
Code 16k (two dimensional)
Other bar-code types may be available. See your
Telxon representative for more information.

52

Communication
Data communications
via accessory connector:

Full duplex, 300 to 19.2 K

bits per second (bps)

53

Appendix B
Accessory part numbers
The following table contains part numbers for
ordering PTC-960X accessory hardware.
TABLE 1

Accessory part numbers

Item

Part number

PTC-960X

16670-000

Chargers
Battery charger
PTC-960X Fast Battery Charger
without cycling
with cycling

12176-004
16799-000
16799-001

Batteries
Battery pack
1400 mA/hr
800 mA/hr

16705-000
16742-000

Straps
Wrist strap
Ring wrist strap

14997-000
15025-000

54

Item

Part number

Cables
RJ-41-to-RS-232 25-pin adapter cable
RJ-41-to-RS-232 9-pin adapter cable
RJ-41-to-RS-232 9-pin adapter cable
PTC-to-1/2 duplex modem cable
PTC-to-full duplex modem cable
PTC-to-host (DTE) cable
Cloning cable, RJ-41-to-RJ-41
PTC-to-IBM PC/AT download cable
PTC-to-IBM PC/XT download cable

15109-001
15508-000
15508-001
10124-0X1*
10124-0X2*
10124-0X3*
15282-000
13656-3X0*
10582-XX0*

Manuals
Guide to the FLASH Utilities (TCAL or
MS-DOS Version)
Guide to Maintaining NiCd Batteries
Guide to the SC-960X
Guide to the MC-960X

16541-000
16488-000
16898-000
16897-000

Cable part number 15508-000, rather than

15508-001, is required if Telxons PCTCOS
is being used with TCAL. Check with your
Telxon service representative to determine
which of these two cables is the correct one for
your application.

The first digit of the last three numbers of

these part numbers indicates the connector
type. The second digit indicates the cable
length. Contact your Telxon representative
for the correct part number for your application. These cables must be used with the
RJ-41-to-RS-232 25-pin adapter cable, part
number 15109-001.

55

Appendix C
Communication connections
Figures 5 through 12 provide information on
the connections used to establish and maintain
communication between the PTC-960X and
other devices.
Not all available cables are described in this
section. Check with your Telxon representative
for information on other cable configurations.
FIGURE 5

RJ-41-to-RS-232 25-pin adapter cable, P/N 15109-001

PTC-960X
RJ-41

IBM PC/XT
DB-25

VCC

VCC

DTR

20

DTR

TXD

TXD

CTS

CTS

RING

22

RING

DSR

DSR

RTS

RTS

RXD

RXD

GND

Shield

GND

56

FIGURE 6

RJ-41-to-RS-232 9-pin adapter cable, P/N 15508-001

PTC-960X
RJ-41

IBM PC/AT
DB-9

DTR

DSR

TXD

RXD

DSR

DTR

CTS

RTS

RTS

CTS

RXD

TXD

GND

Shield

GND

57

FIGURE 7

PTC-to-1/2 duplex modem cable, P/N 10124-0X1*

PTC-960X

Modem/Type I
(1/2 Duplex)

TXD

TXD

RCV

RCV

DSR

DSR

DTR

20

20

DTR

RTS

RTS

CTS

CTS

RI

22

22

RI

CD

CD

SG

SG

-5 VDC

10

OUT

11

58

FIGURE 8

PTC-to-full duplex modem cable, P/N 10124-0X2*

PTC-960X

Modem/Type II
(Full Duplex)

TXD

TXD

RCV

RCV

DTR

20

20

DTR

DSR

DSR

RI

22

22

RI

CD

CD

SG

SG

RTS

CTS

-5 VDC

10

OUT

11

59

FIGURE 9

PTC-to-host (DTE) cable, P/N 10124-0X3*

PTC-960X

Host/Type III
(Full or 1/2
Duplex)

RXD

TXD

TXD

RXD

DTR

20

DSR

DSR

20

DTR

RTS

CTS

CD

RTS

CD

CTS

SG

SG

OUT

11

-5 VDC

10

60

FIGURE 10

Cloning cable, RJ-41-to-RJ-41, P/N 15282-000

PTC-960X A

PTC-960X B

DTR

DTR

DSR

DSR

RTS

RTS

CTS

CTS

TXD

RXD

RXD

TXD

GND

Shield

Shield

GND

61

FIGURE 11

PTC-to-IBM PC/AT download cable , P/N 13656-3X0*

PTC-960X
Male

IBM PC/AT

TXD

RXD

RXD

TXD

CTS

DTR

GND

GND

RTS

DSR

DSR

RTS

DTR

20

CTS

-5 VDC

10

RI

OUT

11

CD

62

FIGURE 12

PTC-to-IBM PC/XT download cable, P/N 10582-XX0*

PTC-960X
Male

IBM PC/XT
Female (000)/
Male (110)

TXD

RXD

RXD

TXD

RTS

DSR

CTS

20

DTR

DSR

RTS

GND

GND

DTR

20

CTS

-5 VDC

10

OUT

11

63

Appendix D
LED status indicators
The following table lists and explains each of the
LED status indicators on the PTC-960Xs rear
panel.
TABLE 2

LED status indicators

LED status
indicator

Explanation

Scan

This indicator glows when the scanner

is operating and is scanning a bar code.

Good Scan

This indicator blinks once when a barcode label has been scanned and
decoded successfully. It will not light if
the scan has not been successful.

Charging

This indicator glows when the nickelcadmium battery pack is being

recharged.

Low Bat

This indicator glows to warn when the

battery pack is running out of power.
Stop what you are doing, save the data,
and recharge or replace the PTCs
battery pack immediately.

64

Glossary
alphanumeric

Describes a character set that contains letters,

numbers, and symbols such as punctuation
marks.

application

A PC, mainframe, or PTC program that is

designed to perform a specific task for a user.
Examples include route accounting, payroll,
price lookup, shipping, and inventory control.

autodiscriminate

The PTCs ability to automatically recognize

and read more than one type of bar code.

bar code

A series of vertical bars and spaces used to encode

numeric or alphanumeric information. Bar codes
are designed to be read by electronic means such
as bar-code readers or laser scanners.

bar-code scanner

An electrical device that recognizes and deciphers bar-code labels. When the reader passes
over the bar code, it converts the bar code into
electronic signals representing data. The PTC
can then enter this data into files in its memory.

CD

Carrier detect signal. CD indicates that the

modem is receiving a signal from the remote
modem.

character

A letter, number, or symbol.

cloning

The process of copying a program or data files

from one PTC directly to another.

CTS

Clear-to-send signal. CTS indicates that the line

between a modem and a terminal device is clear
for transmission. CTS typically follows a raised
request-to-send (RTS) signal.

65

data
communication

The transport of encoded information from one

point to another.

DCE

Data communications equipment. A device

that controls and converts incoming data or
communication, for example, a modem.

display

The LCD or LED panel on a PTC. A PTCs display shows data, prompts, and error messages.

DSR

Data set ready signal. The modem sends DSR to

the attached device to indicate that the modem
is connected, on, and ready.

DTE

Data terminal equipment. A device comprising

the data source, for example, the host computer.

DTR

Data terminal ready signal. The signal sent by

the terminal device to the modem to indicate
that the terminal is ready for transmission.

flash EPROM

A flash EPROM is an electronic component used

to store the PTCs operating system, RF, and application programs. Unlike a standard EPROM,
the flash EPROM may be erased and reprogrammed without being removed from the PTC.

function key

A key on the PTCs keyboard that is defined by

an application to perform a specific task. When
pressed, a function key executes a certain function (for example, ENTER, SEND, ON/OFF).

hardware

Equipment used in conjunction with programs

or data communication. Compare with software.

host computer

A personal computer or mainframe that receives

and processes data from remote PTCs.

keyboard overlay

The plastic label that lies on top of the PTC keyboard, identifying the function key definitions.

LCD

Liquid crystal display.

LED

Light-emitting diode.

66

modem

Modulator-demodulator. A communication
device that converts serial digital data from
a transmitting device to a signal suitable for
transmission over a telephone line and then
reconverts the signal to serial digital data for
the receiving device.

MS-DOS

Microsoft Disk Operating System.

one-way
communication

Transport of information from one device to

another without interruption. In one-way
communication, the receiving device cannot
respond directly to the sending device.

PCTCOS

A file download utility program.

prompt

Words or symbols shown on the PTCs or PCs

display to guide the operator through the steps
of an application. Prompts are defined in the
application program.

PTC

Portable Tele-Transaction Computer. A programmable, battery-powered, hand-held device used

to collect, store, and transmit data.

RAM

Random access memory. In a PTC, RAM chips

store the programs files and data entered by
the operator.

RAMSaver

Telxons version of Microsofts MS-DOS 3.2

that has been modified to perform MS-DOS
functions on a PTC.

RI

Ring indicate signal. RI alerts a modem to a call

waiting on the attached telephone line.

RS-232

An Electronic Industries Association (EIA)

standard that defines the connector, connector
pins, and signals used to transfer data serially
from one device to another.

RTS

Request-to-send signal. RTS initiates the data

transmission sequence on a communication line
between a modem and a terminal device.

67

RXD

Receive data signal. RXD indicates that a

device is currently receiving data.

signals

Electronic impulses that transmit data from one

device to another.

software

A stored program or set of programs that is

loaded into RAM for execution. Compare with
hardware.

TCAL

Telxon Common Application Language. Telxons

proprietary programming language for Portable
Tele-Transaction Computers (PTCs).

two-way
communication

Exchange of information between two devices.

After each block of data, the receiving device
sends a positive or negative acknowledgment to
the sending device.

TXD

Transmit data signal. TXD indicates that a

device is currently transmitting data.

68

Index
A

Accessories
connecting, 17, 23, 29-31
part numbers, 54
Automatic off, 25
Automatic return at on, 25

Cables, 14
adapter, 17, 23, 29-32
connecting, 29-32
diagrams, 56-63
disconnecting, 32
part numbers, 54-55, 56-63
RJ-41-to-RS-232, 17, 23, 29-32
Cautions
cleaning the PTC, 38
disconnecting cables, 32
joining connectors, 30
storing the PTC, 26
Charger connector, 19
Clock, 27
Communication, 13, 27, 29-33
connections, 29-33
contacts, 19
Communication cradle,
13, 19, 33
Connectors
accessory, 17
charger, 19
communication contacts, 19
RJ-41, 17, 23, 29-32

B
Backlight, 25-26
Bar code, 13, 17
types supported, 52
Bar-code label
scanning, 34-35
Bar-code scanner, 17
not reading, 49
operation, 17, 34-35
trigger, 17
Battery backup, 26
Battery charger, 14, 15-16, 19
Battery compartment, 19
closing, 40
opening, 39
Battery pack, 14, 20, 39-40
charging, 15-16
disposing of, 10
installing, 15, 40
removing, 39-40
replacing, 39-40
Beeper, 26

D
Damage, 14
Data
communicating, 13
entering, 13
Display, 19-20
contrast, 27

69

Electrical specifications, 51
End cap/battery pack
assembly, 20, 39-40
EPROM, 13, 20-21
programming, 13, 41-48

Maintenance, 36-38
cleaning, 38
Memory, 28

F
FCC
statement, 8
Features, 25-28
Flash EPROM, 13, 20-21
programming, 13, 41-48

Nickel-cadmium battery pack,

14, 20, 39-40
charging, 15-16
disposing of, 10
installing, 15, 40
removing, 39-40
replacing, 39-40

Handle, 21

Operation
bar-code scanner, 34-35
checking, 16
conditions, 36

K
Keyboard, 21-22
Keyboard overlay, 22
Keys
data, 21
ENTER/YES, 22
function, 21
ON/OFF, 22
SHIFT, 22

L
LEDs, 23-24, 64
Charging, 23, 64
Good Scan, 23, 64
Low Bat, 24, 64
Scan, 24, 64
Liquid crystal display (LCD),
20

P
Physical specifications, 51
PTC-960X
handling, 36-37
not turning on, 49
operating conditions, 36
overview, 12-13
parts, 17-24

S
Safety information, 9-10
bar-code scanner, 9-10
disposing of nickel-cadmium
batteries, 10

70

Scanner
operation, 34-35
safety, 9-10
trigger, 17
Scanning, 17, 34-35
Scope of manual, 11
Service, 38
Specifications
bar-code types supported, 52
communication, 53
electrical, 51
physical, 51
Status indicators, 23-24, 64
Storage, 37-38

T
Troubleshooting, 49-50

U
Unpacking, 14

W
Wrist strap, 24

71

Telxon Corporation/3330 West Market Street, Akron, Ohio 44334/216-867-3700/800-800-8001

Part No. 16670-701-01

Printed in U.S.A.