The Best Barcode Scanner
To help you find the perfect barcode scanner, we continuously put forth the effort to update and expand our list of recommendable barcode scanners. Our team collects, edits and publishes new information, in order to present it to you in an accurate, significant and neatly arranged way.
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Table of Contents
Buying Guide
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
If you're looking into finding the best rated barcode scanner, you should probable check out the NETUM Bluetooth Scanner. We looked at various sources of reviews and found this one to have the best mix between review count and average rating stars.
The Lowest Price We Could Find
Often, going for the best price is a simple but good option. With a price of $23.99 (last checked this morning), we do not list any other barcode scanner cheaper than the Eyoyo Handheld USB 2D Scanner. Just remember that it's not always the best option to go for the cheapest one.
The Barcode Scanner With the Most Reviews
With at least 42 reviews and counting, the Zebra Symbol LI4278 Wireless Bluetooth Scanner might be another option to consider. This large amount of reviews signalizes that many people are using it, with most of them beeing satisfied.
High Quality Barcode Scanners
It's quite rare that the saying "You get what you pay for" turns out incorrect. If you have the money on the sideline, feel free to choose the most expensive item from our list: The Zebra Symbol LI4278 Wireless Bluetooth Scanner currently sells for $152.71.
The Barcode Scanner With the Most Clicks
If you trust us and our users, feel free to check out the NADAMOO Wireless Scanner. Our statistics say that it is the most favorite Barcode Scanner from the list above.
Our Bestseller
If you're still undecided, I would recommend that you go with the masses and choose the top selling barcode scanner: The NETUM Bluetooth Scanner is the hottest bestseller in this category right now.
Barcode Scanner Reviews
Further Reading on Barcode Scanners
Research
Wikipedia Article for Barcode Scanner
The invention is optical assembly for use in a barcode reader that includes a frame having a rear housing and a pair of arms outwardly extended from the housing. An optical card containing an imaging lens is slidably received in a rear guideway situated between the …
These and other objects of the present invention are attained by apparatus for adjusting the position of a line of light in barcode space that includes a support frame having a rear housing containing a solid state imager and a pair of support arms extending forwardly from …
These and other objects of the present invention are attained by apparatus for adjusting the position of a line of light in barcode space that includes a support frame having a rear housing containing a solid state imager and a pair of support arms extending forwardly from …
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About this Article
It was last updated on 2024-10-10 08:10:09 and has been viewed 6107 times.