Intercept Barcode Scanner, Pass to Application with Focus When Done?

Question

Is there a way to intercept USB Barcode Scanner input, utilize it, then pass it on to the application that has focus?

We currently use Barcode scanners load order sh

Answer 1

You can use the SendInput function to send keystrokes to the currently focused window, as long as that window has a lower or equal integrity level. Plenty of information on the web for calling that function from C#.

Many barcode readers can be configured to put an arbitrary keycode at the start of a scan. Have it output a code that you have defined as a hotkey on your PC to start up your program or bring it to the foreground. Once you've input the barcode, destroy or hide your window to restore focus to the previous application and call SendInput.