Important Features to Consider When Purchasing a Barcode Scanner
Since the 1970s, barcodes, or machine-readable optical codes, have immensely grown in popularity. Some scanners are designed for specific work settings, such as harsh weather.
Others are intended for moderate circumstances and handle data more quickly. However, to choose the best one for your business, you must first understand the features and functions of the different barcode scanners.
Wireless or Wired Connection
When buying, remember that only a fast and reliable barcode scanner will get the job done right! In this regard, make sure it has the necessary Wi-Fi connections. This is usually determined by how you collect and enter data into your inventory system. If your company uses a cloud-based inventory system and collects data in real-time, Wi-Fi or a mobile broadband connection are the two wireless options to consider!
Therefore, if your staff performs all their scans in one location, you should look for scanners that transfer data via Wi-Fi. It’s especially useful when scanning within a warehouse. However, a mobile broadband connection is more beneficial if your staff is in the field or on the road. This allows them to communicate data wherever they go.
Real-time barcode scanning is important since it ensures that your inventory data is always up to date. It’s also available to everyone with access to your inventory system. As a result, your inventory management system will become both collaborative and transparent.
On the other hand, if you use wired scanners to capture data or have a locally installed inventory system, wired connections are critical. You must ensure that the scanners you select are compatible with the computers your system uses. Keep in mind that wireless data transmission scanners will also have wired data connections.
Screen
Not all barcode scanners come with a display or touch screen. When selecting a scanner, evaluate whether you require a screen and the intricacy of what it can display. Screens can assist your personnel in receiving transaction feedback. This informs your staff if there were any mistakes with the objects they scanned.
Depending on the tasks your staff performs, a simple barcode scanner may suffice. This can be useful because it just performs one job very well. As a result, it requires less training to use, lowering the possibility of input errors. However, if your scanner lacks a screen, your staff will be unable to detect errors. These inaccuracies can be corrected later, but they will reduce the overall accuracy of your data.
Ideal Environment & Portability\
Portability is an important factor to consider when purchasing a scanner. Consider the environment in which the scanner will operate. If it’s supposed to travel and go into the field, you may choose a scanner that is long-lasting, resistant to water, can be used in high temperatures and is portable. If the scanner is utilised in retail, it may not need to be portable or withstand harsh conditions.
Barcode Scanner Technology
Wand Barcode Scanners
Wand scanners, also known as barcode wands or pen scanners, work by embedding a light source and sensor at the end of a pen-like instrument. This wand is dragged over the barcode at a constant pace, and the light reflection is measured to scan the barcode. Pen-style readers are simple and affordable, making them ideal for use on a small scale. They are, however, often slower than other technologies and more susceptible to user error.
Laser Barcode Scanners
Laser scanners are the most popular type of barcode readers and are used in almost every checkout terminal. These work from a few inches to a few feet away and use a laser and a photo sensor to measure the reflection of a barcode. Laser systems can be found in all types of scanners, from small handheld machines to fixed omnidirectional scanners that can read barcodes from any angle and while moving. While laser scanners are inexpensive and readily available, they only read 1D barcodes, making them unsuitable for various applications.
Image-Based Barcode Scanners
Image-based scanners take a picture of a barcode with a video camera, which is subsequently decoded by the scanner. These scanners use ambient light rather than a specialised light source since they decode a photograph rather than a reflection. They can often read broken or badly written barcodes more easily than wand or laser scanners, making them ideal for harsh scanning situations.
2D Image Scanners
2D image scanners or area scanners are image-based barcode readers that can read any barcode, whether 1D, stacked or 2D. These latest technology scanners can read barcodes in any orientation, reducing time, and they can read codes from any surface, including phone and computer screens. These additional qualities, together with overall high performance, make 2D imagers a great fit for many industries, broadening the applications of barcodes.
GPS
If you have products travelling to different storage sites, a scanner with GPS features can help. The GPS will locate the item’s position and record the closest storage location to that item as you scan. When you scan industrial equipment into a warehouse, for example, the scanner detects the position and enters it into your inventory system. This ensures that you always know where your belongings are. GPS location scanning is an excellent choice for costly or shared equipment.
Scanner Styles
Handheld Barcode Scanners
The undeniable benefits of handheld barcode scanners make them one of the most commonly used types. Available with laser or image-based technology, these barcode readers are simple to use- aim the scanner at the barcode and squeeze the trigger. Some handheld scanners are wireless, while others need a USB or keyboard connector. Many handheld scanner models have a stand for hands-free scanning, making them excellent for applications requiring mobility.
Industrial Barcode Scanners
Some handheld scanners are designed with improved durability and toughness, making them ideal for industrial applications. Many of these devices are resistant to shock and water and some are dust and pollutant proof, making them suited for outdoor use. Industrial scanners can be identified by their yellow or red casings, rubber housing, and bigger size.
Mobile Computer Barcode Scanners
Some wireless scanners are integrated into mobile computers, allowing them to scan, decode, store, and communicate with one device. These devices may wander freely without the need for additional computer connections, making them perfect for applications such as inventory management that demand genuine mobility. Furthermore, using built-in or add-on technologies, many cellphones can be utilised as mobile barcode scanners.