
Frequently Asked Questions
Janus BCR
How do I load the software?
To reload the scanning software into the Intermec Janus 2010/2020 BCR:
- Turn BCR on and Reboot the BCR. At the “C:>” prompt,
you can load the AMS software into the BCR.
- Open the PCMCIA cover located under the scanning window, on the front
of the BCR (See Photo). Press down on the release bar, while
simultaneously moving the cover forward. This procedure may take some
practice, as the cover might have a tight fit.

- Next, insert the SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) Card (also known
as the PCMCIA or PC Card) into the BCR.
Note: The SRAM card must be loaded with the AMS BCR
software.
While facing the handle of the BCR, ensure the word “SRAM”
is facing towards you when it is placed in the BCR. The holes at the
bottom of the SRAM Card fit into pins located at the bottom of the
PCMCIA slot. The SRAM seats snug in the BCR. When the SRAM card is
secure in the BCR, audible tone sounds, signaling it is ready to
download the AMS software. (See Photo)

- When the SRAM Card is installed, at the “C:\>” prompt,
type in “g:load.” This is done by pressing the “G”
on the keypad, then the function key (denoted by having four horizontal
lines and an f), then the “F” key, then the word
“load.”
- Place the BCR in the loading dock and press the “enter”
key. The AMS software then downloads into the BCR.
Note: Do not remove BCR from the loading dock while
the BCR is loading.
Note: Do not remove the SRAM card from the BCR while the BCR is loading.
- When it is complete, the “E:\>” prompt appears. Type
in “ams” and press the “enter” key again.
- A multiple audible tone sounds and the Main Menu appears.
- Remove the SRAM Card, close the PCMCIA cover and place the SRAM card
back in to the protective case.
Why can’t I download data from my BCR?
If you have trouble downloading data through the Communications Dock, do
the following:
- Check to make sure that the JCOMM software is running. There should
be a button on the windows bar at the bottom of the screen that says
“AMS Scanner Communications.” If it isn’t displayed, go to
the System menu in AMS and select “BCR Communications Program”
or exit and restart AMS.
- Check to make sure all cables are connected correctly and are seated
tightly.
- Check to make sure the interface connections are clean.
- Check to make sure the Intermec Janus 2020 BCR is seated correctly
and the green connection light is lit. With the Janus 2010, make sure
the download cable is properly connected.
- Check to make sure the Intermec Janus power supply is connected to
the Communications Dock. You must use only an Intermec Janus
Communications Dock power supply.
Why is the data I scanned not available in AMS?
- Make sure the BCR is seated correctly in the dock and downloaded
completely.
- Make sure that the JCOMM BCR software is installed in the directory
that AMS is expecting it to be. To do this:
- Select the System Menu.
- Select Setup. You will be prompted to enter the setup password.
- Select the Peripherals Tab.
- Verify that the Janus 2020 BCR directory is C:\JCOMM.
- Open Windows Explorer and verify that JCOMM is installed in the
C:\JCOMM directory. If not, uninstall JCOMM then reinstall it to
the C:\JCOMM directory.
How do I increase the screen brightness?
To increase or decrease the Intermec Janus 2010/2020 BCR display contrast
or turn on the backlight:
- Go to the AMS menu screen.
- To change the contrast, use the F1 and F2 keys.
- To toggle the backlight on or off, press the F5 key.
When do I need to put the BCR into storage mode?
The Intermec Janus 2010/2020 is equipped with a built-in lithium backup
battery. This backup battery was designed to prevent data loss only for
the brief period of time that it takes to remove the main battery and
replace it with a fresh one. The built-in battery can discharge prior to
its expected life of 3-4 years when:
- The units main battery is removed (or completely discharged) while
the unit is not in storage mode.
or
- The units main battery is installed, while the unit is in storage mode.
If the built-in battery discharges, all of the data is lost, and the BCR
must be sent back to the factory for repair. To avoid discharging the
backup battery, please follow these steps:
- When pulling a battery out of a Intermec Janus 2010/2020 BCR for
charging, immediately install another one.
or
- Place the Intermec Janus 2010/2020 BCR in “storage mode”
without a battery whenever it is to be out of service for long periods
(more than a day).
How do I put the BCR into Storage Mode?
To place the Intermec Janus 2010/2020 BCR into “storage mode:”
- Turn the BCR “OFF.”
- Press the F3, 2, and Left Arrow keys simultaneously then release.
- Press the 2 key again.
- Turn the BCR “ON.” The “Boot Loader Menu”
should be displayed. If it is not, repeat steps 1 - 4.
- Press the Down Arrow key to move the highlighted bar to “Storage.”
Then press Enter. The BCR should shut down and is now in storage mode.
- Remove the battery pack.
How do I take the BCR out of Storage Mode?
To Take the Intermec Janus 2010/2020 out of “storage mode:”
- Place a fully charged battery into the BCR.
- Turn the BCR “ON.” The “Boot Loader Menu”
should be displayed.
- Press the Arrow keys to move the highlighted bar to “Reboot.”
Then press Enter.
- The BCR will prompt Backup Battery Tests Good Storage Mode Is On
Please Press Enter To Continue ESC To Go Off. Press Enter.
Note: If this message does not appear or the backup
battery does not test “Good” you should have the BCR
serviced.
- At the “C:>” prompt follow instructions 2-8 of the
Reload Program help screen.
If the scanner software does not start you need to reload the BCR.
Contact your technical support for details.
Where can I get another SRAM card?
The SRAM (Static Random Access Memory also known as a PCMCIA or PC Card,
see photo) is like a diskette, except it has no moving parts and
contains a battery. This SRAM contains the AMS software that, when loaded
into the BCR, can scan the needed information to download the data into
an AMS workstation. The SRAM card is a PCMCIA Type I JA Series, requiring
a 3-volt CR2325 battery to retain its memory, and can be obtained from
any computer supply store.

Can I use a BCR from another system?
Yes, you can use a BCR from another system provided it is loaded with
the AMS scanner software.
Can I use this scanner to scan 2D barcodes?
Most of the Janus 2010/2020 scanners in use are not capable of scanning
2D barcodes. In addition, the AMS scanner software for the Janus 2010/2020
does not support scanning 2D barcodes. The Symbol PDT 3500 and 7240 models
have been integrated into AMS to support 2D barcode scanning.
Can the Janus 2010 run the Janus 2020 software?
Yes. The Janus 2010 can run the Janus 2020 software.
Can this scanner work in RF mode?
Most of the Janus 2010/2020 scanners used with AMS are not capable of
operating in RF mode. In addition, the AMS scanner software for the Janus
2010/2020 does not support operating in RF mode. The Symbol 7240 models
have been integrated into AMS to support RF data collection.
How do I recharge the battery?
The Janus JZ2020 battery charger allows you to:
- Charge up to four Intermec Janus 2020 battery packs at one time.
- Discharge up to four Intermec Janus 2020 battery packs at one time.
Charging Battery Packs
(You can charge up to four Intermec Janus 2020 NiCad battery packs
concurrently.)
To charge a battery pack:
- Push each battery pack into an empty battery slot on the charger.
- The charger begins charging the battery packs. This is indicated by
the Discharge and Charge LED’s flashing. If none of the lights start
flashing, make sure the battery pack is inserted fully into the slot.
Each battery slot works independently to completely charge its own
battery pack within 2.5 hours.
- When a battery pack in a slot has been fully charged, the Charge LED
flashes and the Ready LED is lit to indicate the charger has finished
charging the battery pack. If you leave the battery pack in the slot,
the charge current to the battery pack is reduced to maintain the full
charge, but will not overcharge the battery pack.
The optimum battery temperature to begin charging battery packs is +68°F
(+20°C). Battery packs charged at these temperatures have a higher charge
capacity and hold more charging cycles than battery packs charged at a
higher temperature.
How do I change the battery?
To install the battery pack:
- Hold the BCR with the handle pointing down. Position the battery pack
underneath the empty BCR handle with the molded rubber end of the pack
on the bottom.
- Slide the battery pack up into the handle. Push very firmly on the
bottom of the pack until it locks into the handle. You will hear two
clicks as the battery pack latches into the reader handle.
To remove the battery pack:
- Turn the BCR off.
- Hold the BCR with the handle pointing down. Press firmly on the top
part of the raised circular button and, at the same time, push the
battery pack up until you hear a click. Pull down gently. The pack will
release from the handle and slide down approximately one-half inch
before stopping.
- With your thumb and forefinger, firmly squeeze the two yellow buttons
that are now visible on the sides of the battery pack. Continue
squeezing and push the pack up a little to release the latches inside
the handle. You will hear a click when the latches are released. Pull
down gently and the battery pack will slide out of the handle.
To install the SRAM card battery:
The SRAM card requires a 3-volt CR2325 battery to retain its memory. The
SRAM card is designed to have a very low-power consumption. The battery
lasts approximately two years depending on usage.
To replace the battery:
- Unlock the battery. The battery lock is located on the top of the
card and is designated on the back.
- Take out the battery cover.
- Take out the old battery. Make sure to note the position of the
battery.
- Insert a new 3-volt CR2325 battery into the card.
- Insert the battery cover into the card.
- Lock the battery cover.
Will I lose data if I change the battery?
Yes. The main battery for the BCR is a NiCad battery pack. When the
battery charge is low, the BCR will beep and the battery icon (top right
of display) will blink. You should replace and recharge the battery
immediately otherwise you may lose your data. You should keep a supply of
batteries fully charged. A fully charged battery should last for about 10
hours of continuous use.