Barcode Scanners
Wednesday, September 17th, 2008
Image by cesarastudillo via Flickr Barcode scanners are an invaluable tool for businesses of all types and sizes. These scanners are used to “read” barcodes on products; they can access your central computer system, call up the details of the item scanned, and add the cost of the item to a customer’s bill while simultaneously keeping your inventory up-to-date – in seconds! After installing stock control software on your computer system and making sure each item in your inventory has been labeled with its own unique barcode, you’re ready to choose the barcode scanners for your business. But which type of barcode scanner should you choose? A careful examination of the three main types of barcode scanners is necessary before making a decision.
Choose Wand Barcode Scanners for Maximum Affordability
Wand barcode scanners – also known as pen-type scanners – are the most affordable option. These scanners emit light, which reflects off the barcode and is later decoded by the computer system. Their price is usually anywhere from 1/5th to 1/10th the cost of more sophisticated barcode scanners. However, they do have their drawbacks. First of all, the wand must be kept in direct contact with the barcode while scanning. Second, the wand must be held at a precise angle relative to the barcode, and slid across at precisely the right speed. And third, this type of barcode scanner has serious limitation when it comes to resolution, which means that many wand scanners are unable to read barcodes with very fine resolutions. If your business is very small or brand new, you may be able to get away with this type of barcode scanner; otherwise, you should consider a CCD or laser scanner.
CCD Scanners Offer Greater Versatility at a Relatively Low Cost
CCD, or charged coupled device, scanners are easier to use and more versatile than wand scanners. They cost more than the wand scanners, but are still roughly 1/3rd of the cost of a laser scanner. Basically, CCD barcode scanners photograph the barcode and then send it into the computer, where it is digitized and decoded. As with the wand scanner, CCD scanners require direct contact with the barcode, but there is no movement required to read the code: Simply press the CCD scanner against the barcode and pull the trigger. These barcode scanners are ideal for the business that wants to scan inventory quickly and easily, but may not have the money to invest in a laser scanner.
Laser Barcode Scanners Provide Speed, Ease and Accuracy
Laser barcode scanners may sport the biggest price tag of the three types of scanners, but for the business seeking speed and ease of use, they’re certainly worth the cost. Laser scanners use a beam of light to quickly scan the barcode and automatically decode the information. Unlike the other types of barcode scanners, no contact between the scanner and the barcode is required. This type of scanner is a very popular choice in stores, particularly in grocery stores, where the laser scanners are usually embedded in a conveyor system, or in retail stores where clerks and sales personnel must quickly and accurately check out customers. Laser scanners can also read barcodes from any angle or surface – even rounded surfaces, which can confound wand and CCD scanners. Unfortunately, their lenses make them easier to damage, so if you’re planning to use the scanner in an outdoors or warehouse setting, you may want to choose a more durable type of scanner, such as the CCD scanner.
Barcode Scanners for Every Need
Essentially, when purchasing barcode scanners, keep in mind that the type you need depends largely upon the nature of your industry and the pace of your work environment. There is truly a barcode scanner suitable for every need, from desktop or handheld scanners to portable and even wireless models. Examine your options carefully and you can find the barcode scanners that are right for you!