An Overview of Barcode Scanners
We\’ve all heard of barcode scanners. If you haven\’t, allow me to fill you in. Also known as barcode readers, barcode scanners are machines that read the barcode on most products sold in stores; like a digital price tag. Similar to your standard flatbed scanner (like an average copy machine), barcode readers consist of a lense, light and a sensor that converts optical current into an electrical one. Once the current has been converted, it is then decoded by the scanner so that the computer can read it. It\’s as easy as that!
Unless you are in the retail business, you may be unaware of the many different types of barcode readers there are. There is much confusion about the types of scanners out there, but don\’t worry, I will break it down for you. Generally speaking, barcode scanners can be broken down into four different groups, according to the technology used: Pen scanners, Laser scanners (inluding omni-directional scanners), LED scanners, & Camera scanners. However, if you\’re like me, you are probably more interested in categorizing by the housing type; i.e. pen scanners, handheld scanners, fixed scanners, etc.
Pen scanners are held like a pen, and swiped over the barcode as if you were drawing a line with the tip of the scanner. Handheld scanners are probably the most popular, as they simply need to be held in front of the barcode. Fixed scanners, or stationary ones, can be found at most supermarkets.
As for the guts of a barcode scanner, they vary according to the main purpose of the scanner. I won\’t get into the technical details, as this article is meant to inform readers and consumers of the various barcode scanners out there and the basic variations. Some scanners use photodiodes and light to decode the bars (such as pen scanners), others use lasers (very common with handheld or stationary scanners), and others use LED lights. There are more variations, but these are the most common.
Again, this is not meant to be the end-all-be-all, definitive, one-stop, explicitly explanatory barcode scanner guide. It is, however, a simple guide for the average consumer, to help provide you with a better understanding of the various types of scanners and what they can be used for. Also, please note that the terms barcode scanner and barcode reader are virtually synonymous. So, with that in mind, please take a few minutes to browse the site and I hope it serves you well. Happy learning!
Learn more about handheld barcode readers. Stop by Derek Mattos\’s site where you can find out all about handheld scanners and what they can do for you.
