ProMax BCR73 Barcode QR Code Scanner Module with USB & UART Interface GM73

Specifications

• Model: ProMax BCR73 (Engine: GM73)
• Supported Interfaces: USB (HID Keyboard / Virtual COM) & UART (TTL)
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V DC / 5V DC Compatible
• Operating Current: ~90mAmA (Active Scanning), ~30mA (Standby)
• Decode Capability (1D): UPC/EAN, Code 39, Code 128, Code 93, Interleaved 2 of 5, Matrix 2 of 5, Codabar, etc.
• Decode Capability (2D): QR Code, Micro QR, Data Matrix, PDF417.
• Screen Scanning: Highly optimized for reading from smartphone/LCD screens.
• Scan Angle: Pitch: ±55°, Roll: 360°, Skew: ±55°
• Illumination: Integrated White LED for low-light environments.
• Aiming: Integrated Red LED targeting system.

Applications

• Smart Lockers & Access Control: Generate dynamic QR codes for one-time secure physical access.
• Retail & Vending: Integrate into custom POS systems or DIY automated vending machines.
• Ticketing & Events: Build fast-scanning turnstiles for event management.
• Inventory Management: Create a custom wireless handheld scanner using an ESP32.

Unlock New Capabilities

• Past Projects: If you've mastered basic access control using RFID/NFC cards, you know the limitation of distributing physical tokens.
• The Upgrade: The ProMax BCR73 unlocks dynamic, screen-based credentialing. Instead of handing out cards, you can email a temporary QR code to a user, which the scanner will instantly decode and pass to your microcontroller.
• Effort Level: Intermediate. Requires basic serial communication (UART) knowledge and string parsing on your microcontroller (Arduino/ESP32).

Virtual Technician & Wiring Guide

• ⚠️ Voltage Warning: While the USB interface handles 5V automatically, please check the logic levels when using UART. Our modules are Probots™ Logic-Safe, meaning they can safely interface with 3.3V microcontrollers like the ESP32 and STM32 without external level shifters on the TX/RX lines.

Basic UART Pinout (Microcontroller Connection):

• VCC: Connect to 3.3V or 5V (Check specific board silkscreen)
• GND: Connect to Common Ground
• TX: Connect to MCU RX Pin
• RX: Connect to MCU TX Pin (Optional - for sending configuration commands)

Package includes:

• 1 x ProMax BCR73 Barcode QR Code Scanner Module with USB & UART Interface GM73

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• How do I switch between USB and UART modes on the BCR73?
  You can switch modes by scanning specific configuration barcodes provided in the module's user manual.
• Can the GM73 read QR codes directly from a mobile phone screen?
  Yes, the optical sensor is specifically optimized to read barcodes and QR codes off glowing LCD and OLED screens.
• What is the default UART baud rate for this scanner?
  The default baud rate is typically 9600 bps, but it can be reconfigured up to 115200 bps using setup barcodes.
• Does the GM73 support virtual COM port via USB?
  Yes, it can act as a standard USB HID (Keyboard) or be configured as a USB Virtual COM port.
• How do I trigger a scan using a microcontroller?
  You can either set the scanner to "Continuous Read" mode, "Auto-Sensing" mode, or send a specific Hex command via UART to trigger a single scan.
• Will this module work with a 3.3V microcontroller like an ESP32?
  Yes, the UART TX/RX lines are compatible with 3.3V logic levels.
• How do I add a carriage return (Enter) after every scan?
  By default, most scanners add a CR/LF. If not, scan the "Add CR Suffix" configuration barcode in the manual.
• Can the module read inverted (white on black) QR codes?
  Yes, but inverted scanning may need to be explicitly enabled via a configuration barcode depending on the factory firmware.
• Does the scanner require external lighting to read barcodes?
  No, the module features its own integrated white LED illumination for dark environments.
• Can I disable the aiming laser/LED?
  Yes, the aiming targeting light and the illumination light can both be independently disabled via command codes.
• What is the optimal scanning distance?
  The optimal reading depth of field is generally between 40mm and 200mm, depending on the barcode density.
• Do I need to install drivers for Windows to use it via USB?
  If used in USB HID (Keyboard) mode, it is plug-and-play. Virtual COM mode may require standard serial drivers.
• How do I reset the scanner back to factory defaults?
  Scan the dedicated "Restore Factory Defaults" barcode found in the manual.
• What happens if the barcode is damaged or scratched?
  The GM73 uses advanced error-correcting algorithms, allowing it to read partially damaged 2D codes (like QR) and slightly worn 1D codes.
• Can the scanner read Micro QR codes?
  Yes, Micro QR codes and Data Matrix formats are fully supported.
• Is it possible to mute the beep sound upon a successful scan?
  Yes, the buzzer volume can be adjusted or completely muted via configuration barcodes.
• What is the standby current draw of the module?
  In standby mode, the module draws approximately 30mA, making it suitable for battery-powered projects.