If you’re looking to purchase a barcode scanner, it can be difficult to know which one is right for your needs. That’s why we’ve created this guide. We’ll walk you through all the features and considerations that go into purchasing a barcode scanner so that you can make an informed decision.
This article will teach you about the different types of scanners available, how they work, what their benefits are, and more. If you’d like to continue learning more about this, feel free to explore more in our article below!
What Is A Barcode Scanner?
A barcode scanner is a device that reads and processes information from linear or two-dimensional symbols, known as “barcodes.” Barcodes store information about items such as price, quantity on hand, brand name, etc., all of which are important for manufacturers to know especially during production.
A barcode scanner works in a way that is similar to the human eye. You can think of it as an optical reader, scanning information from one place and recording it at another point through light waves reflected off the barcode. It is a hand-held device that uses light to scan the lines and curves of black bars on an item’s label into binary form. The data then goes through software, which translates this information back into text so it can be used for inventory or other purposes.
The barcode scanner is an invention that has been around for a long time. It was originally created to make it easier for people who were scanning groceries at the grocery store, but now you can find them in almost every industry and they are being used by small business owners all over the world.
Why Would I Need A Barcode Scanner?
The barcode scanner is a great way to read and input data quickly. It can lead to quicker customer service, better inventory management, the reduction of errors in supply chain planning – just about anything!
The benefits of using barcode scanners are many: they can help reduce wait times at busy retailers such as supermarkets or shops; they prevent cashiers from making mistakes with prices and other information while working quickly on multiple transactions simultaneously, and their ability to accurately read product data decreases chances of human error.
Barcode scanners also help you save time because it only takes milliseconds to scan a barcode! One can see that there are many benefits of barcode scanners that point to why you would need one.
What Type Of Barcode Scanners Are Available?
There are many types of barcode scanners on the market. The first thing you need to know is what type of scanner will work for your needs. Common types of barcode scanners include the following:
- Pen Type Readers. This wand-like scanner consists of an LED light and photodiode at its tip that work together to read barcode information. The device is simply slid over the barcode, though you will need to slide the scanner over the barcode at a consistent pace. Pen type readers are known for their versatility and small size, which makes them ideal for use in retail or field service environments where space is limited.
- Laser Barcode Scanners. These barcode scanners are the most popular type. A laser is shot at a mirror on the inside of the unit that moves to sweep across all lengths in one direction. A photodiode captures light from the reflection and converts it into digital information with this scanning process.
- Charged Coupled Device (CCD) Barcode Scanners. These devices are often expensive and can only scan barcodes a few inches away.
- Image Barcode Scanners. This barcode scanner makes use of an internal camera to take a picture of the barcode and decode it.
How To Choose The Right Barcode Scanner?
Choosing a barcode scanner can be tough because there are so many options! There’s wireless connectivity, range requirements, scanning speed – what do you really need?
The first step in choosing the right barcode scanner is to figure out your needs. Your decision should be based on a number of factors, such as: What will you scan? How often do you need to replace them? Do they have any special features that other scanners don’t offer? Will it fit into your budget or not cost too much money over time because of how frequently it’s used and its lifespan?
Depending on your answers to the questions, you can choose from a variety of barcode scanners. There are many models of scanners for different needs and purposes, such as handhelds, cordless models, fixed-mount devices, or carousels designed to accommodate an entire warehouse. It’s important that you conduct research on which of these models fit you best.
Regardless of what your answers are to these questions, key features to look out for when buying a barcode scanner are durability and accuracy. Durability is how many times will someone be able to use the barcode scanner before needing to replace it. On the other hand, accuracy is the ease at which barcode scanners can identify certain types of data. In this regard, reading codes can vary significantly between models even among those made by the same manufacturer.
What Else Should I Consider When Purchasing A Barcode Scanner?
In addition to the previously mentioned factors, you may also want to consider whether you want one or two-dimensional scanning.
2D scanners are great for reading small and medium-sized text, but it can be difficult to read numbers from the perspective of someone standing at eye level with them on high shelves. On the other hand, 1D scanners usually cover more surface area than their 2D counterparts. They also have a sharper focus which makes it easier to identify digits in larger groups as well as those that might not stand out enough if scanned by a less powerful device like an iPad’s camera lens.
You will also need to consider the ergonomics of the device itself and what barcode scanner realistically fits into your budget. After all, you wouldn’t want to be making financially unwise decisions that could lead to discomfort in the workforce!
So how do you choose? The best advice we can offer is: know what your needs are before making any purchasing decisions!
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Buying A New Barcode Scanner
Some of the most common mistakes when buying a new barcode scanner are not taking into account what brand, model or type to purchase. Ensure that you take time in researching which brands and models will best suit your needs before making any purchases. Otherwise, you might end up with an item that doesn’t work effectively for your business’s environment.
The wrong scanner can also cost you a mountain of time. In order to avoid these pitfalls, make sure that the barcode scanners in question are compatible with your software and hardware setup. For example, if your computer is running Windows 7 or 8 OS then only purchase Bluetooth-enabled models because they will work better than USB ones which require an installation process on each new machine.
As for quick tips: don’t go for the cheapest option you can find; make sure it is compatible with your computer system or mobile device beforehand; and be wary of refurbished products as they often come without warranties or guarantees.
Summary
Barcodes scanners are becoming more and more popular because they allow retailers to track their inventory with ease. Barcode scanning is also an excellent way for retail managers to monitor what customers are buying, as well as keeping tabs on which products need to be restocked the most often.
Whether you’re running a small store or large warehouse, it’s essential that your staff have access to efficient tools like these in order to keep up with customer demand.
For more information about barcode scanners, particularly for stocktaking purposes, please visit our website.
If you would like to know more about the best stocktake software and how the right set of software and point of sale systems could help you, give us a call.
Our team would be happy to discuss your needs and to help you build new, more efficient workflows that will support the best operation of your warehouse or store.
We have the right tools for companies of all sizes and will work to accommodate your business, supplying you with technologies that are tailored to suit your business to help improve your efficiency and accountability.
We are the market leader when it comes to the development of customised and packaged solutions.
This includes Inventory Management, Portable Barcode Readers, Supply Chain Management, Time and Attendance and Asset Tracking to name but a few.
Please call us today on 03 9578 7600 or 1800 061 642 or contact us through our website.
