PIC possible usage?

[blackbeard52]

I am interested in developing a solution to scan a barcode and display a green or red light after checking against database for verifcation of purchase. Is this possible using a PIC?

Bob

[frog]

Is the data base going to be stored on board the chip? or external, there are many considerations to take in, you can use a CF card (compact flash) to store your data in then call it, however I am not sure how fast it will be if the database is large, you will be restricted to certain limitations, look at the Mikroelectronica website I believe that the pic16f877 might get you started, they also have a development station to build what you want then test it. email me and we can talk about there is also some great software that you can build the whole project in then simulate to get you going.

[Megahertz]

What format is your barcode? Code 3 of 9? Because you need to check the barcode against a database (that could change), I seems like this is more of a computer application. You can get barcode scanners that simulate keyboard strokes.

[blackbeard52]

Yes that is correct. the database will be stored on a unix based server all the pic application would do is control the traffic, send data from scanner, return signal will be sent as true or false signal to the lights on the pic or maybe a LCD panel defining result. Pass or fail. Is this clear as mud????


Bob

[daedalus]

the sticking point is how the chip communicates to the unix server. Pics can be made to do tcp/ip networking, but its not exactly trivial to do, and there are better tools available for that. If all you want is a serial / usb device that reads barcodes and outputs a few bits for the leds then this is fine, if you want a network attached device that interrogates a sql database, etc then this is probably the wrong solution.

What would be useful is if you post a bit about the project:
is it a personal project? (lots of time, little cash)
work project? (little time, but some budget)
mass production? (lowest unit cost at expense of design cost)

ultimately yes, with enough time / effort you could make a pic do this, but a better question is are there better alternatives?

[blackbeard52]

What would be useful is if you post a bit about the project:

is it a personal project? (lots of time, little cash) work project? (little time, but some budget)

No it is surely a project I am considering as a sellable. Mostly at events requiring tickets at gates.

mass production? (lowest unit cost at expense of design cost)

Not enough volume needed for this option.

ultimately yes, with enough time / effort you could make a pic do this, but a better question is are there better alternatives?

Was considering this just for the footprint. I could obviously install a PC at each station but kinda bulky. However it would be easier. Am considering pc104 but also any other options.

[daedalus]

Well one other option would be one of the small form factor via motherboards, they tend to be a bit cheaper then pc104 gear and have more home-user periferals onboard. If the product would justify the cost, then http://www.mini-itx.com/reviews/pico-itx/ would be ideal, as its tiny.

Its overkill for solving the problem, but it would be incredibly simple to set up, and you wouldnt have to worry about manufacturing anything.

[blackbeard52]

Daedalus

Thanks for the input I will look into this solution. it appaers to have what I would need. and yes it would be way overkill. But hey for $300 bucks it may work

Thanks again
Bob