A barcode reader (or barcode scanner) is a is used for reading barcodes printed on various surfaces. The unit contains decoder circuitry which converts the barcode image into a number.
2D barcodes contain more information than conventional 1D linear barcodes. 1D barcodes have a single row of bars. In a 2D barcode, data is encoded both horizontally and vertically. Only a 2D scanner can read a 2D barcode. It is also capable of reading 1D barcodes.
From cashiers moving around the register to scan large, heavy items and check for missed items to healthcare workers double checking that the right patient is receiving the right medication, integrated Bluetooth wireless personal area networking (WPAN) provides reliable and secure wireless transmission of data between the scanner and your host.
CCD scanners work by illuminating red LED light onto the barcode and capture the reflected code. They work well in an indoor environment, but poorly in well lit areas. They are often used to scan small barcodes and have a shorter capture range than a Laser barcode scanner
Some industrial laser scanners, developed for a warehouse type environment, can scan up to ten metres away. Laser scanners are made up of a number of oscillating mirrors that are subject to wear and mechanical failure
These types of scanners are easy to use and are suited to a fast pace environment such as a retail store or supermarket. The scanner send beams in multiple directions allow for an easy 'swipe and scan' system. No need to position a barcode is an exact location.
Commonly found in your local supermarket checkout, in-bench scanners are usually fitted into the bench. These models are available in Vertical and Horizontal.
These are similar to an omni-directional scanner, but with a built in scale, allowing you not only scan your products, but weigh them.
Benefits of Using a Barcode System
Warehouse Management & Stock Control
Keep your systems up to date by using barcodes to control your stock and manage your warehouse. Scan goods as the come into the warehouse, even assign and print a barcode for each product. By using a cordless scanner you are able to scan products as they come in, without having to move each item to your desk and back onto the shelf.
Asset tracking
As your company grows and acquires more assets and technology you will want a system that allows you to track where and who has what equipment. Tamper proof labels can be printed with a barcode enabling each asset to have is own unique identifier. Scan equipment as it comes in or is loaned out, check the status of a repair or rental and conduct inventory management quickly and easily - all through the use of a barcode system.
Price and Stock Checking
Need to know how many boxes of detergent you have in the warehouse, but don't want to waste time going down to the warehouse? Through a stock control system you can organise, track and count stock levels through a barcode system. Need to check a price? Scan your product with a hand held portable data terminal or a cordless scanner with user interface.
Point-of-sale management
Rather than manually enter in each product into your system, a barcode system can be used to automatically add the item your the customers' orders.
Inventory Control
Tracking inventory has never been easier. By applying barcodes to each item in your inventory, portable scanners can be used to track incoming and outgoing inventory. The data from portable scanners can be uploaded to your computer system. Some portable scanners can even update inventory in real-time (using wireless technology).
