CueCat barcode scanning

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1 Where do I get a CueCat?
2 I got my CueCat in the mail, but how do I use it?
3 It's not working! More help?
4 Other things to try
5 See also

[edit] Where do I get a CueCat?

You can buy a CueCat from LibraryThing, if you'd like.

[edit] I got my CueCat in the mail, but how do I use it?

Plug the CueCat into the USB port on your computer. When you plug it in, the nose of the CueCat will light up red. You don't need to install any software or drivers, your computer will recognize the CueCat as a keyboard. (If a box pops up asking you to configure the device, just close the box, you don't need to do anything).

Open LibraryThing to the Add books tab, and make sure the cursor is blinking on the Search line. Take a book with a barcode, line up the CueCat's paws with the bottom of barcode and pass the CueCat quickly across it until a line of gibberish appears in the Search box. LibraryThing will translate that gibberish into an ISBN, and will automatically add the book to your list.

[edit] It's not working! More help?

You need the ISBN barcode. Some US mass market paperbacks put this barcode on the inside of the cover. The one on the back is not an ISBN barcode, it may scan but won't allow you to Add the book from LibraryThing. If you're having trouble scanning paperbacks, make sure you have the right barcode. It is possible to convert from a UPC barcode to an ISBN barcode, using a spreadsheet or equivalent tool. Some information is recorded under ISBN.

Because the CueCat works like a keyboard, it will give you trouble unless your NumberLock key is on. If your keypad won't give you numbers, then neither will the CueCat.

If the CueCat's giving you problems and you have a non-English keyboard, try setting English as the input language of your keyboard device.

You can find more tips and trade CueCat advice in the CueCat LT Group, dedicated to CueCatting. User GreyHead also has made up a very detailed CueCat Guide which is worth reading if you have any problems.

[edit] Other things to try

The real clue was that the keyboard numeric keypad didn't work upstairs. The solution is to go to the Start menu, to Control Panel, to Accessibility, to Mouse, and clear the Use MouseKeys selection, and check to see if you can then use the numeric keypad.

If so, then check to see if the cuecat is able to scan.

From a Talk post by webecca

Categories: FAQ | CueCat