In today’s post we are looking at choosing the right barcode scanner for your business. As you are probably already aware, barcodes are used as a way to identify a product or item by a number. This number is usually 11 or 12 digits.
The information is analysed by a computer which matches the barcode to a product or item in a database. It can then retrieve the information associated with the product whilst also updating the inventory and the purchase of the item.
Regardless of what the barcode is being used on, the information needs to be entered into a computer so that it can be interpreted. This is where a barcode scanner can be used.
A barcode scanner works in a similar way to all other input devices. It sends data to a computer either in a wired (USB) or wireless way. It is easy to install and easy to use. Barcode scanners range in price too depending on the application and the technology being used. In order to choose the right barcode scanner it is important to understand what you are looking for.
There are two different kinds of technology used in barcode scanners.
Image Based Barcode Scanners
These work by using a small camera to capture the barcode in a digital format. The barcode is then scanned into a computer where it is processed and interpreted. The data is retrieved from a database and then updated as needed for the sale or inventory. Image based scanners have fewer parts and are more affordable than laser based scanners.
Laser Based Barcode Scanners
Laser based scanners work by reflecting lasers through a series of lenses and mirrors to read the barcode. The computer then reads this data in the same way it does with image based scanners and repeats the same steps required to update the data. These barcode scanners have multiple moving parts and the lenses are made from glass or plastic making them more susceptible to breakages. They have a longer scanning distance than image scanners too.
Before making your selection it is important to ask what the barcode scanner is going to be used for. This will help you identify the technology required to provide the more efficient result. Laser based barcode scanners are perfect for stationary environments because of their long scanning distance. If your barcode scanner is going to be used in close or extreme environments such as outdoors or in very hot or cold environments, then an image barcode scanner might work best because of its durability.
At AIS Ltd, we offer a range of barcode scanners and readers to suit all business environments.
- General Purpose Handhelds
- Industrial Handhelds
- Fixed Position Scanning
- Mobile Barcode Scanners
- Datalogic Tablets
- On-Counter Readers
- Industrial RFID
- Customer Scanning Software
If you need any help in determining the model that will suit you, be sure to get in touch with one of our barcode scanning experts who will be happy to advise and answer any questions that you might have. Our barcode scanning products page is filled with information too.