Compact scanner module mountable to pointing instrument

Method and apparatus for scanning items with a compact scanner which is mountable onto and/or integral with a pointing instrument. The scanner module may be equipped with an aiming beam for additional help in directing the scan line toward the object to be read. The pointing instrument may be a pen or pencil or alternately a pen-based computer stylus for use with an integrated data terminal module operably connected to the scanner module. Security for preventing separation of the module may be provided by a wireless link.