An optical scanner for reading indicia such as barcode symbols is usable in a first, hand-held mode and in a second, hands-free mode in which the scanner is mounted to a fixed stand. Switching means are provided so that when the scanner is lifted from the stand, for hand-held use, it automatically switches to a first working range, and when it is replaced onto the stand it automatically switches to a second, closer, working range. In the first working range, the software is optimised to read barcode symbols at a relatively long distance from the scanner; in the second working range the software is optimised to read barcode symbols which are relatively close to the scanner. The switching means may comprise any type of contact or non-contact switch such as a reed switch or a Hall effect switch.