Bar Code Scanner

A Barcode Scanner (or barcode reader) is a computer peripheral for reading barcodes printed on various surfaces. A barcode reader consists of a scanner, a decoder (either built-in or external), and a cable used to connect the reader with a computer. Additionally, nearly all barcode readers currently produced contain decoder circuitry analyzing the barcode’s image data provided by the photo conductor and sending the barcode’s content to the scanner’s output port.

Types of Barcode Scanners

By Technology:

  • Pen type readers: Pen type readers consist of a light source and a photo diode that are placed next to each other in the tip of a pen or wand. To read a bar code, tip of the pen moves across all the bars in a steady even motion.
  • Laser scanners: Laser barcode scanners work the same way as pen type readers except that they use a laser beam as the light source and typically employ either a reciprocating mirror or a rotating prism to scan the laser beam back and forth across the bar code.
  • CCD Readers: CCD (Charge Coupled Device) readers (also referred to as LED scanner) use an array of hundreds of tiny light sensors lined up in a row in the head of the reader. The important difference between a CCD reader and a pen or laser scanner is that the CCD reader is measuring emitted ambient light from the bar code whereas pen or laser scanners are measuring reflected light of a specific frequency originating from the scanner itself.
  • Camera-Based Readers: 2D imaging scanners are the fourth and newest type of bar code reader currently available. They use a small video camera to capture an image of a bar code. The reader then uses sophisticated digital image processing techniques to decode the bar code.

By Housing:

  • Handheld scanner: With a handle and typically a trigger button for switching on the light source.
  • Pen scanner (or wand scanner): A pen-shaped scanner that is swiped.
  • Stationary scanner: Wall- or table-mounted scanners that the barcode is passed under or beside. These are commonly found at the checkout counters of supermarkets and other retailers.
  • Fixed position scanner: An industrial barcode reader used to identify products during manufacture or logistics. Most often used on conveyer tracks to identify cartons or pallets which need to be routed to another process or shipping location.
  • PDA scanner: A PDA with a built-in barcode reader or attached barcode scanner e.g. Grabba.

Bar code Scanner Supplier

A barcode is compiled of machine-readable information, which is commonly used on retail merchandise and other tangible products. Standard barcodes feature a series of printed parallel lines with numbers located just below. Barcodes are read by barcode scanners, which are also known as barcode readers.

A barcode scanner is a computer device used for reading printed barcodes. This type of product is commonly found in retail stores. A small handheld unit that reads, translates and provides information from a product is one type of popular scanners. As you pass through the checkout line, if you notice the checker searching for a tag, he or she is likely looking for the barcode. Among other things, a barcode scanner can interpret an item description and price from just one quick swipe.

Similar to a flatbed scanner, barcode scanners consist of a light source, lens and photo conductor. These come together to translate optical impulses into electrical impulses. The vast majority of all barcode scanners feature decoder circuits, which analyzes the barcode´s image date.

There are a variety of barcode scanners on the market, including the handheld model as previously mentioned. Pen scanners are small and look exactly like a writing pen. In order for them to work, you must point the tip at the beginning of the barcode and slide it across until the entire code has been scanned. Stationary scanners are similar to those found strategically placed throughout retail stores. These are usually posted for customers who wish to find out the price of an item without standing in the checkout line, which they can quickly accomplish by holding the barcode underneath the scanner window and, within a few seconds, the product name and price is displayed on a small screen.

Barcode scanners have helped to make the retail world, along with other businesses, work more efficiently and accurately. With computerized data being stored in one main location, a barcode automatically reads the product data and allows customers to get through the checkout line much faster. In addition, barcode scanners are beneficial in helping to keep track of sales, measure accurate sales records and provide an efficient way for stores to reorder a product.

Barcode scanners are available at most office supply stores, specialty business centers and at business liquidation sales. Prices vary depending on the model, performance and warranty that you select. Barcode scanners are a good investment if you need to have an efficient way to distribute, manage or keep track of sales, revenue and reorders. Before choosing a barcode scanner, be sure to realistically assess your business needs, size requirements, a reasonable budget and performance guidelines. For example, will you be using the scanner in a retail setting? Will it be used by cashiers, stationed throughout the store or both? As with any business equipment, always select a reputable dealer and inquire about product warranties. Retain all warranty information, along with the owner´s manual, in case of future technical problems. All paperwork should be tucked away in a safe location, which is easily accessible incase it is later needed.