A combined barcode scanner and radio frequency identification reader includes a microprocessor control unit, an RFID module, a barcode scanner module, a host interface, and user interface(s). The microprocessor control unit utilizes a Field Interpretation Array to parse data into discrete fields that can be input into a host as if typed on a keyboard. The host interface permits the exchange of information between the apparatus and a host computer, and may take the form of an RS-232 connector, a USB connector, or a PS/2 keyboard connector. The user interface(s) may have one or more of a trigger, an LED light, and/or a beeper. When the trigger is in an undepressed state, the apparatus is in program mode. When the trigger is depressed the apparatus can enter one of multiple trigger modes. The trigger mode activates one or both of the RFID module and/or barcode scanner module.