ArcaneWare has released its US$199.95 ArcaneReader USB Barcode Scanner, which is designed to work with Library, the company’s personal book cataloging utility. It’s compatible with Mac OS X 10.1 and later.
To use the new handheld solution for scanning Bookland EAN (“ISBN”) barcodes into Library, you’ll need version 1.1 of the US$10 software and a powered USB port. Library will import a book after it’s scanned with the ArcaneReader, then automatically fill in the book’s title, price, page count, publication year, publisher, and color cover art using Amazon.com.
Library 1.1’s Batch Add feature lets you scan and import several books simultaneously, retrieving information for each scanner. The application’s Web Export allows you to publish information about a library online.
ArcaneReader uses CCD technology so requires no cleaning or maintenance. A sound and a visual indicator signal a successful scan. The device offers an integrated error-checking barcode value decoder and comes with a seven-foot USB cable.
The ArcaneReader — which was developed through a partnership with Intelli Innovations Inc. — will begin shipping on July 17. Preorders are being taken now.