Versatile method and system for VCSEL-based bar code scanner

The present invention relates, in general, to data coding and, in particular, to a versatile system for Vertical Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser (VCSEL)-based bar code reading and scanning. A versatile system and method for VCSEL (vertical cavity surface emitting laser) bar code and data scanning is disclosed, including a housing () having a scanning surface (), a detector element () disposed within the housing in close proximity and normal to the scanning surface, a VCSEL component () disposed within the housing in close proximity to the detector element and scanning surface, and an aperture () formed within the housing between the scanning surface and the detector element.