Electronic key with optical scanner

A method of using a hybrid electronic key and optical scanner device, comprising:

• using the hybrid device to gain access to a locked door at a site;
• logging access data within the hybrid device, the access data indicating the identity of the site;
• delivering one or more articles to the site;
• scanning optical data on the articles using the hybrid device;
• logging the scanned optical data within the hybrid device;
• and
• later downloading both the access data and the scanned optical data from the hybrid device to at least one database.

An access and scanning system, comprising:

• an electronic key for accessing an electronic lock, the key comprising:
• a key case sized for holding in one hand,
• a optical scanner coupled to the key case and storable within the key case, the optical scanner comprising an optical scanning element connected to an optical scanning circuit,
• a user interface on the exterior of the key case that can receive user input for accessing locks and performing scanning operations. and
• a circuit housed within the key case and being connected to the user interface and the optical scanner, the circuit comprising:
• a first memory serving to store access data detailing identities of locks accessed by the key,
• a second memory serving to store data scanned by the optical scanner, and
• a shared data transfer circuit by which both the access data and the scanned data can be downloaded from the key,
• wherein the key allows for single-handed scanning of optically readable media;
• and
• a stand having a receiving portion within which the electronic key is engageable that makes an electrical connection with the data transfer circuit of the electronic key, the stand having a link to a remote computer over which data can be exchanged between the key and the remote computer, wherein when the key is engaged within the stand, the stored data in the key can be automatically uploaded to the remote computer over the link.