Q: Can I use my reader in Application Mode with applications such as MS Excel, MS Word, Notes, Google Docs, or in a web browser text field?

On Apple iOS devices it's possible to use a Socket Mobile reader in Application Mode and read data into applications such as MS Excel, MS Word, Notes, or when scanning into a web-based text field. Please follow the instructions below: Download and install the Socket Mobile Companion app from the Apple App store. Launch Socket Mobile Companion and add your reader. Download and install the Socket Mobile Keyboard from the Apple App store. Launch SM Keyboard and follow the in-app instructions. Please view this walk-through video showing how to set your reader up with SM Keyboard on Apple iOS devices if needed. Note : This is currently only available on Apple iOS devices. Android capability will be added in the near future.

Q: How do I replace my SocketScan 700 Series batteries?

What you will need: A Phillips screw driver (2) AA rechargeable batteries with NiMH Instructions: Loosen screw with a screw driver. Remove battery door. Remove and replace batteries. Warning: Installing the batteries incorrectly may damage the scanner. Attach battery door and tighten screw. Battery life may vary with vibrate settings and work environment. Replace within 2 years. Important: Only charge NiMH rechargeable batteries. Charging alkaline or other battery types will damage the scanner. Recommended: Use the same 2000 mAh batteries (brand name not necessary). Note that using lower capacity may not meet its advertised specifications.

Q: How do I pair my Socket Mobile scanner in Application mode on my PC?

Please download and install the Companion App for Windows . Once downloaded please run the application and follow the on-screen instructions.

Q: How do I pair my Socket Mobile reader in Basic Keyboard Mode (HID)?

Basic Keyboard Mode Set-Up Instructions The barcodes contained within the set-up instructions can be read directly from the screen. However, if you have a laser engine model (S730, D730, DS900, XS930, XG930, 7Mi, 7Pi) you will need to print the barcodes. If the Socket Mobile reader has previously been paired to your host device, please remove it from Bluetooth settings. Turn on the Socket Mobile reader. Scan the Factory Reset barcode below, the reader will shut down. Turn the reader back on and scan the Basic Keyboard Mode barcode below. Open Bluetooth settings in the host device. When the Socket reader is discovered, tap it on the screen to start the pairing process. After a successful pairing, the connection status will change to "Connected", the blue light will turn solid and the reader will emit a single beep. You are now connected in Basic Keyboard Mode

Question 1

My scanner is not holding a charge.

Accepted Answer

Possible Cause:

Solution:

Your batteries need to be reset.

Remove the battery cover from the back of the barcode reader, extract the batteries and put them aside for 10 minutes. Re-insert the batteries, replace the battery door and charge until the battery indicator light turns green (up to 6hrs).

Batteries

See Also:

Possible Cause:

Solution:

Your batteries need replacing.

Remove the battery cover from the back of the barcode reader, extract the batteries and replace with 2 x AA Rechargeable NiMH batteries. Replace the battery door and charge until the battery indicator light turns green (up to 6hrs).

Batteries

See Also:

Question 2

My host device cannot find the reader.

Accepted Answer

Possible Cause:

Solution:

The reader is already paired with another host device.

Scanner is connected to Android

Unpair the reader. Then pair the reader and new host device.

Scanner is not connected to iOS

Possible Cause:		Solution:
The host device is too far from the reader. The Bluetooth is out of range, over 33 ft. (10m) from host device.		Move the devices closer together. The Bluetooth range is within 33ft. (10m) from host device.

Possible Cause:		Solution:
The reader is not powered on.		Power on the reader.

Possible Cause:

Solution:

Your host device does not have Bluetooth enabled.

iOS Bluetooth is OFF

Enable Bluetooth on your device.

iOS Bluetooth is on

Question 3

Does my barcode reader need to be in Application Mode or Basic Keyboard Mode?

Accepted Answer

The mode you need to be in depends on the software application you are using your Socket Mobile reader with.

Application Mode

Below is a list of the most common apps that require the reader to be in Application Mode to work correctly.

Shopify
Square
Lightspeed
Zettle by PayPal
Shopkeep
NCR Silver
Vend
Building Reports

A more comprehensive list can be found on your region's Business Applications page: WW, AU, EMEA, UK.

Application Mode Set-Up Instructions - If you are using one of the apps listed above, or one that is found on our Business Apps page, you can set up your barcode reader after downloading the Companion application:

Once the reader has been paired using Socket Mobile Companion, launch the required software application, the reader will connect to it and you’re all set.

Basic Keyboard Mode (HID)

Below is a list of the most common Apps that require the reader to be in Basic Keyboard Mode (HID) to work correctly.

Notes
Microsoft Excel / Spreadsheet
Microsoft Word
Google Docs online
Safari
Any text field in a web-based application

Basic Keyboard Mode Set-Up Instructions – No additional software is required. The Socket Mobile reader is paired directly to the host device in Bluetooth settings and when a barcode or RFID tag is read, the data is delivered to the available text field or where the cursor is flashing on the screen. In Basic Keyboard Mode, if there is no active text field or flashing cursor, the reader will still read the barcode or tag, but no data will be delivered to the software application. In this situation, touch the screen to activate the field or cursor and read the barcode/tag again.

For Barcode Readers Only

Basic Keyboard Mode (HID) set-up steps

Remove any existing Socket Mobile reader from the host device’ Bluetooth settings.
Turn the reader on and scan the factory reset barcode below.

The reader will play a tune and shut down.

Power the reader back on and scan the Basic Keyboard Mode (HID) barcode below. The reader will emit 3 tones and will now be discoverable in HID mode.

Open Bluetooth settings in the host device.
After a few seconds, when the Socket Mobile reader is discovered, tap it on the screen to start the pairing process.
After a successful pairing, the connection status will change to "Connected", the blue light will turn solid and the reader will emit a single beep.
To test – Open your application, position the cursor as required and scan a barcode.

Important - If connecting to an Apple device in Basic Keyboard Mode, the Apple on-screen keyboard will be disabled. Simply double-tapping the power button will toggle the keyboard up / down. See this video for details Opens new site .

Question 4

Can I use my reader in Application Mode with applications such as MS Excel, MS Word, Notes, Google Docs, or in a web browser text field?

Accepted Answer

On Apple iOS devices it's possible to use a Socket Mobile reader in Application Mode and read data into applications such as MS Excel, MS Word, Notes, or when scanning into a web-based text field. Please follow the instructions below:

Please view this walk-through video showing how to set your reader up with SM Keyboard on Apple iOS devices Opens new site if needed.

Note: This is currently only available on Apple iOS devices. Android capability will be added in the near future.

Question 5

When I read a barcode or NFC tag, no data appears on my screen.

Accepted Answer

Possible Cause:

Solution:

Although your device says it's connected, you are in the wrong mode.

Device is in wrong mode

If you are scanning into an application such as Shopify, Square or Zettle by Paypal, restart the host device and pair your reader to your host in Application Mode using Socket Mobile Companion App Opens Worldwide Website (AU, EMEA, UK).

Watch : How to pair Using Companion App .

If you are scanning into an application such as Notes, MS Word, MS Excel or you are scanning into a text field in a web browser, please follow these instructions Opens Worldwide Website (AU, EMEA, UK).

Possible Cause:

Solution:

The barcode reader is too close / too far from the barcode or the scanning angle is incorrect.

Practice scanning barcodes from different distances and angles.

Reading distance may vary according to barcode size and aspect ratio, symbology, label type and reading angle.

Barcode at a proper distance

Possible Cause:

Solution:

The barcode is either incorrectly formatted, damaged or badly printed.

Bad barcodes

Try to scan a barcode that is correctly formatted, clearly printed and of good quality.

Scanner is always on barcode

Possible Cause:

Solution:

The symbology function is disabled or not supported by the barcode reader.

Enable symbology.

If you don't know the barcode symbology, please contact us at

support@socketmobile.com.

Possible Cause:

Solution:

No application is activated to receive scanned data.

Screenshot of no apps open

Open an application (e.g. Notes). Position the cursor where you wish to enter data and try scanning again.

iOS notes app

Question 6

My reader is no longer connected.

Accepted Answer

Possible Cause:

Solution:

The host device or your software application has performed an automatic update and affected the Bluetooth pairing.

iOS software update

If you are scanning into an application such as Shopify, Square or Zettle by Paypal, remove/unpair the reader from Bluetooth settings within the host device, close all running apps, restart the host device and pair your reader to your host in Application Mode using Socket Mobile Companion App ( AU, EMEA, UK)

Watch: How to Pair Using Companion App Opens new site

If you are scanning into an application such as Notes, MS Word, MS Excel or you are scanning into a text field in a web browser, remove/unpair the reader from Bluetooth settings within the host device, reset the reader Opens new site and pair directly to the host device in basic HID (Keyboard Emulation) Mode.

Possible Cause:

Solution:

The scanner powers off and disconnects after 2 hours of no activity by default.

Turn off your host device's Bluetooth then scan the "scanner is always on" barcode below to configure your scanner.

Scanner is always on barcode

Possible Cause:		Solution:
The reader is low on battery, less than 5%.		Ensure the reader is connected to power.

Question 7

My reader frequently disconnects from Bluetooth.

Accepted Answer

Possible cause:

Solution:

Your software application or device's operating system may have updated in the background, or your device may be older and struggling to maintain a Bluetooth connection.

Force close your software application and relaunch it.
If relaunching your software application doesn't resolve the issue, reset/restart your device.

Possible cause:

Solution:

Your iPad/tablet's Auto-lock feature is enabled.

iOS auto Lock on

Disable iPad/tablet's auto-lock feature.

iOS auto lock off

Question 8

My reader turns off randomly on its own.

Accepted Answer

Possible Cause:

Solution:

Your batteries need to be reset.

Remove the batteries from your reader, leave them out for 10 minutes, re-insert and recharge the scanner overnight.

Batteries

Possible Cause:

Solution:

The reader is being charged incorrectly.

Important! - Charging your reader using an incorrect source (such as a computer USB port) will not provide enough current to charge reader. This may result in the reader registering as having more charge than it does and shutting down.

We recommend charging your reader using a suitable AC Power Adapter Opens Worldwide site .

AC Power Adapter

Possible Cause:

Solution:

Your reader has not been used in 2 hours. By default, the reader powers off and disconnects after 2 hours of no activity.

Turn off your host device's Bluetooth then scan the "reader is always on" barcode below to configure your reader (barcode readers only).

Scanner is always on barcode

Question 9

I still can't connect my reader.

Accepted Answer

Possible Cause:

Solution:

Your reader does not have enough power.

Please ensure your reader is sufficiently charged. If your reader is brand new it requires an initial charge of up to 8 hours.

If your reader does not fully charge, please submit a Hardware Support request for your region: WW, AU, EMEA, UK.

Question 10

Can I pair and connect my Socket Mobile scanner to multiple host devices at the same time?

Accepted Answer

In short, no. Socket Mobile readers can only be paired and connected to one host device at any one time. To switch your reader to a different host device please reset the reader to make it discoverable and follow the relevant pairing instructions to pair and connect to the desired host.

To re-pair to a previous host device, the Socket reader must also be removed from the host device's Bluetooth settings.

Question 11

How do I replace my SocketScan 700 Series batteries?

Accepted Answer

What you will need:

A Phillips screw driver
(2) AA rechargeable batteries with NiMH

Instructions:

Loosen screw with a screw driver.
Remove battery door.
Remove and replace batteries.
Warning: Installing the batteries incorrectly may damage the scanner.
Attach battery door and tighten screw.

Battery life may vary with vibrate settings and work environment. Replace within 2 years.

Important: Only charge NiMH rechargeable batteries. Charging alkaline or other battery types will damage the scanner.

Recommended: Use the same 2000 mAh batteries (brand name not necessary). Note that using lower capacity may not meet its advertised specifications.

Question 12

The iPad's keyboard won't pop up.

Accepted Answer

Possible Cause:

Solution:

You are paired and connected in Basic Mode (HID).

Double tap the power button to enable/disable the on-screen keyboard.

Watch: How to Enable On-Screen Keyboard for Apple iOS

Question 13

I have an Apple device and my keyboard is missing. How do I enable it?

Accepted Answer

If you have paired a Socket Mobile barcode reader to an Apple device in Basic Keyboard Mode and the iOS keyboard is missing, simply double-tap the power button to toggle the iOS keyboard up/down as required.

Question 14

I have an android device and my keyboard is missing. How do I enable it?

Accepted Answer

To enable the on-screen keyboard when connected to an Android device in Basic Keyboard Mode, please follow the instructions below:

Open Settings in your device
Select Language and Keyboard
Select Physical Keyboard
Toggle "Show on-screen keyboard" to the on position

Please note, the wording above may vary between different versions of Android. For example, below are two different screens with the setting in question outlined in red:

Question 15

How do I pair my Socket Mobile scanner in Application mode on my PC?

Accepted Answer

Please download and install the Companion App for Windows Opens Worldwide site .

Once downloaded please run the application and follow the on-screen instructions.

Question 16

My scanner will not automatically scan barcodes.

Accepted Answer

Possible Cause:

Solution:

Your scanner is not placed in Auto Scan mode.

Scan the appropriate command barcode to configure your scanner.

Auto Scan Mode barcode

Please ensure the reader is not connected to the host device when scanning a programming barcode.

When a programming barcode is read successfully, you will hear this noise:

If your reader emits a single beep, please disconnect from Bluetooth and try again.

Possible Cause:		Solution:
Your barcode scanner does not support Auto Scan mode.		Only 2D Socket Mobile barcode scanners support Auto Scan mode - See all 2D models (AU, EMEA, UK).

Question 17

I cannot download or use the Companion app to pair. What do I do?

Accepted Answer

Possible Cause:

Solution:

Password not available to download the app.

Use the instructions below.

Turn off host device's Bluetooth.
Power on the scanner.
Scan Factory Reset.

Watch: How to Perform a Factory Reset
Power on the scanner again and scan Bluetooth connection barcode.

Basic Mode for all OS:

Application Mode (MFi-SPP) for Apple iOS:

Application Mode (SPP) for Android or Windows PC:
Turn off host device's Bluetooth back on and pair.

Complete user guide

Possible Cause:

Solution:

You have a laser barcode scanner that can only scan printed barcodes.

Use instructions below.

Complete user guide

Question 18

How do I pair my Socket Mobile reader in Basic Keyboard Mode (HID)?

Accepted Answer

Basic Keyboard Mode Set-Up Instructions

The barcodes contained within the set-up instructions can be read directly from the screen. However, if you have a laser engine model (S730, D730, DS900, XS930, XG930, 7Mi, 7Pi) you will need to print the barcodes.

If the Socket Mobile reader has previously been paired to your host device, please remove it from Bluetooth settings.
Turn on the Socket Mobile reader.
Scan the Factory Reset barcode below, the reader will shut down.

Turn the reader back on and scan the Basic Keyboard Mode barcode below.

Open Bluetooth settings in the host device.
When the Socket reader is discovered, tap it on the screen to start the pairing process.
After a successful pairing, the connection status will change to "Connected", the blue light will turn solid and the reader will emit a single beep.

You are now connected in Basic Keyboard Mode

Question 19

My Charging Dock/Charging Stand does not charge my scanner.

Accepted Answer

Possible Cause:

Solution:

There is no power in the outlet.

Plug the power adapter into a different power outlet.

Possible Cause:

Solution:

The Charging Cable is not plugged securely into the Charging Stand or Charging Dock.

AC plug is loose

Ensure the Charging Cable is plugged in securely.

AC plug is properly secured

Possible Cause:

Solution:

The charging pins are not making contact with the Charging Stand/Charging Dock.

Scanner is loose on the charging pins

Check the scanner’s charging pins are contacting the pins on the dock/stand.

Scanner properly on charging pins

Possible Cause:

Solution:

The screw on the battery door is loose.

Battery door is loose

Make sure to tighten the screw on the battery door.

Battery door is properly closed

Question 20

How do I clean and care for my Socket Mobile reader?

Accepted Answer

To clean your Socket Mobile reader simply wipe with a cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Alternatively, wipe with a Sani-Cloth.

Warning:

DO NOT IMMERSE IN WATER (Reader's mechanics could be damaged)
DO NOT USE BLEACH FOR CLEANING (Reader's material property may be affected)

Question 21

The scanner does not scan the whole barcode when we are scanning in the Safari, Chrome or Firefox web browser. Is there something wrong with my scanner?

Accepted Answer

This is an issue with the IOS 10 and newer updates. Socket Mobile has notified Apple of this issue and we are hoping that Apple will be addressing this in a new IOS (operating system) update.

For the time being we are asking our customers to use another web browser, such as Dolphin or Opera Mini instead.

If you continue to have this issue in different web browsers, please submit a service ticket to Socket Mobile’s Support Center (WW, AU, EMEA, UK, JP)

Question 22

What affects my scanning speed?

Accepted Answer

Socket Mobile’s barcode scanners were designed for efficiency, delivering both speed and accuracy to users. If at some point you find that your scanner is not performing as quickly as you would like it to, there are several reasons why your scanner may not be performing to its fullest potential. There are simple explanations and remedies to these issues.

Barcode
The amount of data a barcode holds can affect the scanning speed. If a barcode carries a small amount of data, then using Basic Mode (HID) for your scanner will work smoothly. However, in HID Mode the scanner behaves like a keyboard, so it takes a significantly longer time when you have a barcode with a large set of data to pass.
Host Device
The distance between the scanner and host device can affect the scanning speed. As long as your scanner remains within its designated range, the scanning speed should not be affected. (Note: If the speed is running slow, a restart of your host device may be required.)
Scanner
An old scanner may run slower with an updated host device. Depending on the age, older scanners may not have the necessary updates to work seamlessly with a newer host device’s system.

All Socket Mobile scanners have an Application Mode in which the data can be transferred in large blocks, resulting in significant time saving for large barcode scanning, which is common for 2D Barcodes. Watch the video to see the different speeds and uses between Basic Mode (HID) and Application Mode (SPP).

Question 23

What kind of Warranty does Socket Mobile offer?

Accepted Answer

Socket Mobile devices ship with a limited 1-year warranty. Optional 2-year and 4-year warranty extensions are available. Full details are available at SocketCare Extended Warranty Service: WW, AU, EMEA, UK, JP

Question 24

How to Scan 1D and 2D Barcodes.

Accepted Answer

Reading distance depends on barcode size, symbology, label media, narrow and wide ratio, and scan angle. Minimum barcode size is 5 mils. Ensure your barcode is correctly formatted, not damaged or poorly printed.

Hold your scanner 4-5 inches away and center your beam.
Press and hold the scan button to start scanning barcodes.

How to scan 1D and 2D barcodes Opens new site

Question 25

How to scan OCR and travel documents.

Accepted Answer

Currently, only the D760 and the later version of the S740* are capable of reading OCR characters and travel documents such as a passport.

Scanning OCR fonts is like taking a photograph with a barcode scanner.

Hold your scanner 5-6 inches away and center your beam.
Press and hold the scan button to start reading OCR.

How to scan OCR and travel documents Opens new site

* The later version of the S740 has a green/white scan beam Opens Worldwide Website . The previous S740 version with a red beam will not read OCR characters or passports

Question 26

What do the reader's beeps and tones mean?

Accepted Answer

Visit our sounds and indications page Opens Worldwide Website (AU, EMEA, UK) to hear the various reader tones and their meanings.

Question 27

My reader is getting hot.

Accepted Answer

If your Socket Mobile reader gets too hot while charging, unplug it right away.

Charging can make your reader a little warm, but if it feels hot to the touch, you should immediately disconnect it from its power source, then, contact our support team via the Hardware Support form Opens Worldwide Website (AU, EMEA, UK).

Question 28

What do the reader's lights and scan beams look like?

Accepted Answer

Visit our lights and scan beams page Opens Worldwide Website to see how they appear.

SocketScan 300 Series

FAQ

How do I pair my SocketScan S370 to my host device?

How do I charge my SocketScan S320 or S370?

Is the SocketScan S320 or S370 battery-powered, or does it need to be plugged in?

Can I pair the SocketScan S370 to my host device in Basic Keyboard Mode (HID)?

Can I pair my SocketScan S320 to my tablet, smartphone, or PC in Bluetooth settings?

What barcodes does the SocketScan S320 and S370 scan?

What NFC/RFID tags does the SocketScan S370 read?

How do I reset my SocketScan S370?

How do I reset my SocketScan S320?

How do I pair my SocketScan S320 to my host device?

Can I pair the SocketScan S320 to my tablet, smartphone, or PC in Basic Keyboard Mode (HID)?

What warranty comes with the SocketScan S320 or S370?

How do I read QR Codes or NFC tags with the SocketScan S320 or S370?

My host device cannot find the SocketScan S370.

What do the reader's beeps and tones mean?

My reader is getting hot.

What do the reader's lights and scan beams look like?

Side Navigation

MORE FAQS & TROUBLESHOOTING

Can't find the answer you need?