The Best Barcode Scanner

Once upon a time, the barcode scanner came with a decoder box and a multitude of cables. Today, a barcode scanner can easily be plugged into a computer, and it is ready to use. With this ease of use, comes a variety of options and features. It can be a challenge to find the right one without more information.

Needs

The first stage in choosing the correct scanner is understanding a person’s particular needs. Some questions need to be answered before the next step:

- Can the scanner be connected to a computer?
- How will the scanner be put to use?
- Are there particular kinds of barcodes to be read?
- Will the scanner be used frequently?
- Where will the scanner be kept?
This information will help a customer decide which scanner is the best for him or her. The next stage is to become familiar with different options and features to make an informed decision before purchasing a barcode scanner.

Scan Engine Types

Barcode scanners come in a variety of options and types. Understanding the type of scan engine is knowledge necessary to make a decision. Three types of scan engines are available.

The first type of scan engine is a laser. These scanners can only read standard linear barcodes and can only read a few inches to one foot away from the barcode. This type of scan engine is the most common because it is cheaper than the other two categories.

The next type is a linear imager which will only read the standard linear barcodes, also. However, instead of reading the reflecting light as the laser, the linear imager takes a picture of the barcode.
This scanner can read poorly printed and damaged barcodes. This type of scanner does cost a little more than the laser, but it may be worth the price if a person deals with a lot of damaged or poorly printed barcodes.
The last scan engine type is the 2D area imagers. This scanner also takes a picture of the barcode, but can read any kind of barcode including 1D, 2D, and stacked.
This scanner can also read any barcode in any direction unlike the laser and linear imager which needs the barcode lined up horizontally. If the scanner will frequently be used, this type is well worth the extra funds.
Form of Scanners

Some common forms of scanners are the hand-held and the in-counter scanners, but five different forms are available.

A handheld scanner just requires the gun to be aimed at the barcode and the trigger pulled. These scanners are easy to use and can be cordless to provide mobility.
The next type is presentation scanners. These scanners sit on a counter top and do not require a trigger to be pulled. They also have a wide reading area and are commonly used for retail stores.
Mobile computer scanners are typically used for inventory because they provide complete freedom due to the computer being included in the device.
Similar to the presentation scanner, the in-counter scanner does not require a trigger and has a wide reading area. The main difference is these scanners are embedded into a counter top and are commonly used at grocery stores.

For an assembly line, a fixed mount scanner is necessary. These scanners are meant to be part of a larger automated system and would not be useful to a small business.

Wired vs Wireless

Every scanner must be connected to a computer. However, it can be wired with a USB cord or completely wireless.
The wired scanners are the most common scanner type and can be connected to a PC through a USB connection. This scanner is the least expensive and is easy to begin to use.

A wireless scanner typically has a base that is directly connected to the computer. This feature does not require the computer to have Bluetooth capabilities, even though, some wireless scanners have a Bluetooth option.
With the Bluetooth option, the scanner has a range of about 30 feet, but specialized scanners can have a range of over 200 feet. These models have special features such as batch memory and direct pairing.

Environment

The environment where the scanner will be used can be a significant factor. If the scanner is employed in an office setting or retail environment, it may occasionally be dropped which most scanners can withstand.
However, if the scanner will be utilized in a more rugged area such as a warehouse or outdoors, a person should consider purchasing a ruggedized unit. A rugged unit is sealed against dust and can withstand numerous drops from high areas.
Most ruggedized units are red or bright yellow and can cost more. The price is worth it if the scanner will be in a tough environment.

Top Rated Barcode Scanners

The Lowest Price We Could Find

The Barcode Scanner With the Most Reviews

Be the first to write a review, or check for additional reviews in the Further Reading section below.

New: Our editorial list of additional articles. We decided to gather informartion all around the internet and present you a list of helpful, external links to interesting reads about reviews, pros & cons and similar products.

Do you want to know more about barcode scanners? Check out the links below to gain knowledge about the whole topic of barcode scanner products.

This page about Barcode Scanner was composed by V. Tobies and published by Alternative.me.
It was last updated on 2024-05-08 08:09:48 and has been viewed 5599 times.