Barcode Scanner reads information printed on barcode

Types of barcode scanners

Assuming basic, background knowledge of what a Barcode is as well as some knowledge of the functions of a Barcode Scanner or Reader, before you can embark on choosing the right barcode scanner you need to be aware that a variety of  barcode readers or scanners exist in the market each applying a slightly varying technology when reading and decoding barcodes and all being available at different costs.  These may either be:

• Camera or Image Based Barcode Scanners.  These capture an image on a miniature camera that sends the digital form of this picture for processing via a computerized system.
• Pen Type Barcode Scanners or Barcode Wands.  Detect the barcodes by passing the light emitting photo diode that is located at the tip of the pen, which then passes this information on to the computer
• Laser Barcode Scanner. Similar to the pen type barcode readers, these use a laser beam as an alternative source of light to read off the barcodes
• Charge Couple Device (or CCD) Barcode Scanners. Works by passing the barcode reader close to the item to be scanned or pressed against it, for the data to be transmitted.

Determining factors

In choosing the right barcode scanner that fits your purpose, you will need to start by seeking some recommendations from a supplier or a person who is well versed with the use of barcode scanners and one who, probably, has some experience in their use.  Other than this you need to have some background information of your own that will help a supplier assist you in making your choice.  The following are some of the considerations you need to bear in mind:

• The environment that you intend to use your barcode scanner matters as it will need to cope with certain elements such as dust, moisture, temperature or the possibility of falling or getting scratched.
• Your budgetary constraints or the amount of money you are willing to spend on the equipment as barcode scanners vary in price, mainly due to differences in make, model, size, technology and functionality
• A portable scanner is quite effective if you intend to be mobile or carry out activities at different locations, or better still, a wireless, hand-held scanner may be of interest to you if you have a wider area to cover.
• The barcode scanner must be able to read the barcode symbols that are in use in your organization or the relevant field of interest. This addresses issues of compatibility.
• A barcode scanner is usually connected to a computerized network system that contains further information that is needed to make sense of the barcodes and the items, objects or products that the barcodes refer to.  The entire system needs to be taken into account to know whether the barcode scanner is intended as a replacement for a workstation, keyboard or other input as well as the types of connections available such as USB, PS2  or RS232, which act as the medium of connecting the source and destination of the data being acquired or manipulated.  This point could also be viewed as addressing other issues of compatibility.

Armed with this knowledge, you can seek guidance on the best barcode scanner that meets these requirements or at least one that scores the highest on the same.