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 .