On Monday, February 19, 2018, a new update will be uploaded to all Auto Shop Writer users in “current” status.  This version has numerous touch ups requested by our clients, and the addition of a major new feature … barcode input on workorders. 

While it is true that one could input the barcodes previously into the partnumber field, this meant adding the record, then using the barcode.  This worked fine if the partnumber matched the UPC on the package, but otherwise, it meant you had to enter a @ in the field before scanning.  That is multiple extra steps.

This new input capability is quite simple.  However, it does require that you have UPC codes in the inventory file.  This is actually simple to do.  As you scroll through the Inventory file, where you have a part and want to add a UPC code, click in that field, scan the barcode on the package, and then hit the Save button.  Sure it takes a bit of time, but it’s a great opportunity to give someone a bit of part time work requiring almost no training.

Once you have the UPC codes in, when you hit the Barcode button on a workorder, you will see a popup screen.  Take each part and “read” the barcode on it.  It will automatically add it to the list, and add the correct partnumber from inventory.  Scan all of the parts you want on that workorder.  There is no need for keystrokes at this point.  Just scan in all of the items.  You will see the list appear before you.

When you are finished, you can modify the quantity to be used on the list, and even the description if you wish.  If you don’t want a part, simply set the quantity to 0.

Once you are sure of your list, hit the Add button.  Those parts will all now be added directly to the workorder.  Of course you can edit those entries just like any other part.

This should simplify the process of adding parts.  Next we will be adding barcode input to the Stock Input facility which will auto save the UPC number on new items.  Look for it to be available soon.

Of course this leads to the question of what type of barcode reader do you need.  In essence, you want one that outputs as a keyboard device.  Most of them do this.  When you find one, make sure it is set to keyboard output ( which may be the default ), and select the setup option to automatically add CRLF after each scan.  Again, this is very standard.

For testing, we used the following reader from Amazon: 
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FVYVX5A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1    Take a look at it.   You will see it works by Bluetooth ( no cable needed ) or a Dongle ( USB plug in chip ).  Of course you can use ones that have a cable.  Some of the others you will find can work up to 300 meters away from the computer, making the process very simple. 

In addition, we will be working with the Inateck P6-Y 2.4GHz Wireless Laser Barcode Scanner, 2600mAh Battery, 60m Range, available on Amazon for about $80.  This one will also allow you to scan in VIN numbers off the vehicle. 

Because of this setup, when you press the barcode button on the computer, you can walk around the shop gathering, and scanning, parts, and then go back to the computer after inputting them all, and finish the task to apply them to the workorder.

We know some of you are ready for this capability.  Others may not have thought about it.  The investment for the scanner is very small, and yet it may save you a lot of time.  Let us know what you think.