a multiple technology data reader , for reading bar code labels and rfid tags . the multiple technology data reader includes a bar code reader and a radio frequency identification reader , connected to a host computer via a computer bus , such as a universal serial bus . the bar code reader and the rfid reader communicate with the host computer through logically independent data pipes and device drivers . compound , composite , or complex interface implementations are possible . a single electronic interface may be configured to allow a single host computer to logically communicate with the bar code and rfid readers as either separate independent readers , or as a single cooperative multiformat label / tag data reader . thus , the bar code and rfid readers may be operated independently , or powered and operated simultaneously .