Barcode Readers or Scanners

A barcode reader or Scanner scan help you to perform your job better by managing your database in an organized manner, to manage your inventory, or to monitor all movements of stock.Barcode readers are used in libraries, commercial establishments, Retail stores, factories or warehouses.

However, all barcode readers are not the same. So how do you go about choosing the right barcode reader for your organization?
First of all you should be aware of the reason for the requirement of a barcode reader. For instance, you can use a barcode reader to trace the movement of items to and from warehouse. It may also be used to track the movement of people within your premises. The choice of an appropriate barcode reader depends a lot on its usage.

Barcode readers, which are used in industrial areas such as warehouses, need to be tough enough to stand the working conditions. These types of rugged barcode readers are often encased in rubber to protect them from the inevitable knocks.

There are essentially three types of barcode readers:

Laser-based barcode reader

Charged coupled device barcode reader (CCD)

Camera-based barcode reader or Imager

To verify and identify the barcode of an item, the laser-based barcode reader uses the laser beam emitted from the barcode reader itself. An advantage of this type is that it can read the barcode from a distance. CCD-based barcode readers use light, which is emitted from light sensors present in the barcode and is used to identify the items. A camera-based barcode reader identifies items by taking a picture of the barcode.

When choosing a barcode reader, you need to know what type of barcode it should read and what connection type you require i.e. through Keyboard, USB or serial connection.

Various Styles of barcodes scanners are

Handheld
Desktop
Omnidirectional
Cordless scanner
Industrial Scanners
Pen scanners
Scale scanners
Slot readers

You can also choose to buy cordless scanner if items are heavy and cannot be brought close to the computer. Cordless scanner comes with a Cradle and Scanner Gun. Cradles are connected to computer and Gun could be moved freely within a distance of 10 meter to 100 meter depending upon which scanner you buy. It could be Bluetooth scanner or RF (Radio Frequency) scanner. When you scan barcode through Gun it transmits the information to receiver (cradle) and cradle inputs the data into computer. Higher the distance higher the price of scanner would be.

Choose a reliable barcode reader company with a good past record. A good barcode reader should be able to serve your organization for a long time and be able to withstand heavy use if required.
Major brands of the barcode scanners are Motorola, Datalogic, Denso, Metrologic, and HHP.