ZenCraftStudent Management System
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Desktop application

Attendance Scanner guide

Install, connect, and operate the Windows attendance station for students, teachers, and staff.

For Authorized scanner operatorsLast reviewed August 2026
On this pageInstall and open the scannerConnect to ZenCraftRefresh people recordsRecord attendanceWork offline and synchronizeDesktop updates

01

Install and open the scanner

Use the school-approved Windows installer and an authorized attendance computer.

  1. 1

    Close any older scanner window before installation.

  2. 2

    Run the approved ZenCraft Attendance Scanner installer.

  3. 3

    Choose the installation folder if requested and complete setup.

  4. 4

    Open ZenCraft Attendance Scanner from the desktop or Start menu.

02

Connect to ZenCraft

The scanner validates its server and authorization settings before synchronization.

  1. 1

    Open Settings using the gear button.

  2. 2

    Enter the Server URL provided by the system administrator.

  3. 3

    Enter the scanner Authorization Code.

  4. 4

    Select Test Connection.

  5. 5

    Save settings only after the connection succeeds.

03

Refresh people records

The scanner keeps a local list so attendance can continue during a temporary connection problem.

  1. 1

    Open Settings.

  2. 2

    Under Students / Teachers / Staff, select Refresh.

  3. 3

    Wait for the success notice and confirm the displayed record count.

  4. 4

    Repeat after major enrollment or personnel changes.

04

Record attendance

The scanner accepts RFID, LRN, student number, or personnel ID configured in the system.

  1. 1

    Keep the main scanner screen active.

  2. 2

    Present the authorized ID to the scanner or enter it in the manual scan field.

  3. 3

    Wait for the status notice before scanning another ID.

  4. 4

    Confirm the person and attendance status shown on screen.

  5. 5

    Use Logs to review recent records when needed.

05

Work offline and synchronize

Unsynchronized attendance is queued locally and sent when a connection is available.

  • An unsynced badge shows records waiting to reach the server.
  • Select Sync Attendance Records to retry queued records manually.
  • When the computer comes back online, the scanner attempts to send queued records.
  • Use Today, Yesterday, or a limited day range only when an administrator requests a re-sync.

06

Desktop updates

Installed scanners check the configured server for approved updates.

  • The application checks at startup and periodically while running.
  • A newer version downloads in the background when available.
  • The update installs when the application exits.
  • Contact the system administrator if an expected update repeatedly fails.