USB-HID
HID = Human Input Device ; output emulated like a keyboard.
The data is entered at the point of the cursor or current focus (in a form).
Language and keyboard selection need to match between scanner and host!

USB-VCP
VCP = Virtual Comm Port ; output is send to the assigned comm port.
In most cases a driver is neccessary!

USB-MSD
MSD = Mass Storage Device ; emulates storage like an USB-stick.
Plugging in the device in this mode makes the devices' internal storage directly accessible from your host.
In general in Windows you will see a pop-up/notification of a drive letter that has been mounted.

USB-OTG
OTG = On The Go ; enables the USB port to act as a host on PDA's/smartphones and tablets, allowing input from a keyboard.
The data is entered at the point of the cursor or current focus (in a form).
Language and keyboard selection need to match between scanner and host!

ETHERNET
Wired Ethernet connection via DHCP or Fixed IP.

Older supported protocols:

ActiveSync
Communication through Microsoft ActiveSync.

RS232
Communication through the wired direct RS232 protocol.

Wedge
Old style PS/2 connections for keyboard/mouse communication.

Physical connections:

USB type connections (most common):

subD9 type serial/RS232C connections:

RJ45 type serial/RS232C connection:

RJ45 type ethernet connection: