How To Choose A Barcode Scanner?

Barcode scanners are light emitting devices that are used to read barcodes. Usually attached to a computer or laptop via PS2 or RS-232, the data collected is stored on a computer for processing or storage. It is now used in many different industries such as retail or production.

They have been on the market for many years now with new versions of barcode scanners available every year. The prices can vary from as low as $50.00 to as high as several thousand dollars. So how do you pick a good barcode scanner?

To answer that question, it is important you know there are 2 major classes of barcode scanners, image-based and laser-based. Image-based barcode scanners use a camera usually embedded in a barcode scanner. The camera will capture the images and then processed by complex image techniques to decode the barcodes. Laser-based barcode scanners uses mirrors and lenses to read the barcodes.

Laser barcode scanners are usually more expensive than image-based scanners. They have their own pros and cons. An image-based barcode scanner do not have internal movable parts therefore are more resistant to drops or knocks than laser barcode scanners. Also, image-based barcode scanners have a shorter scanning distance (4 to 10 inches) compared to laser barcode scanners. On the other hand, laser scanners are more prone to wear and tear due to their lenses. They not only have a longer scanning distance (up to 24 inches) but also are able to scan from a wider angle from the barcode.

Be aware that the scanning distance for both image-based and laser barcode scanners have already improved dramatically over the years and I wouldn't be surprised if a barcode manufacturer claims an image-based scanner has a scanning distance of 24 inches.

Here are some questions you need to ask yourself before getting a barcode scanner. The size of scanner required? Type of environment the barcode scanner will be using (outdoors, shop, warehouse)? The scanning distance required? Are they to be used hands free or hand-held? Your budget?

So my suggestion is if you need a barcode scanner for long range scanning, get a laser barcode scanner. For short range scanning, use an image-based barcode scanner such as a CCD barcode scanner. The environment as I asked earlier also plays an important part. If the barcode scanner is being used outdoors or in rugged environments where it is expected to take a drop or knock or two, then it is best to get an image-based barcode scanner. If it were for example being used in a retail shop, then a laser barcode scanner would be the best choice.

There are such a wide variety of barcode scanners available that I just can't explain completely in this article. If you are in doubt, consult the barcode manufacturers such as symbol or metrologic who have sales consultants who are able to do an analysis of the type of barcode scanners needed by your business.

Ricky Lim is the owner of http://all-barcode-scanners.info. Visit his site for more barcode scanners reviews and recommendations

RF Barcode Scanner and ID Barcode Scanner Review

Barcode scanner technology has improved a lot since the early days of barcode reading and RF barcode scanners and ID barcode scanners are great examples of this development.

RF Barcode Scanners

RF stands for radio frequency and many companies find this type of scanning technology very useful. RF barcode scanners are cordless and they use similar technology to cordless telephones. The information is scanned by the RF barcode scanner and sent back to the base computer. An RF scanner will have a reliable, large range and a long battery life.

If your company deals with receiving or shipping, a cable might limit access to items which need to be scanned or the cable could be damaged. This is why RF barcode scanners are so popular.

Symbol LS 4278 Scanner Review

This machine helps to cut costs and increase productivity. With this wireless scanner, workers can move freely without worrying about cables and the Bluetooth wireless technology allows workers to scan large or bulky items with ease instead of having to lift anything. This machine also allows an operator to check all sides of a shopping cart for items that have not yet been scanned. Bluetooth allows the scanner to communicate with the cradle, which connects to the computer.

Datalogic PowerScan M8300 Scanner Review

This scanner has a standard range of up to 3.3 feet or an auto range of up to 33 feet. If you are looking for more flexibility and productivity in the workplace, this barcode scanner uses the STAR cordless system for narrow band radio communications, is able to withstand extreme environmental or weather conditions, dust, water and drops and is easy to use with a useful display screen. If your workplace is dirty, dusty or wet, this is a reliable barcode reader to choose.

ID Barcode Scanners

ID barcode scanners are for verifying ID documents. These are useful for car rental companies and car dealers who need to see a customer's driver license, bars and liquor store workers who need to verify a customer's age, mortgage brokers and loan companies who need a copy of someone's ID card or organizations that need to have access and visitor control. You can learn how to use a handheld ID scanner very quickly.

A good ID barcode reader is easy to use, can scan both 1D and 2D barcodes and has database capabilities. These capabilities mean that you can sort, store, arrange, retrieve or print images and data obtained via barcode scanning. You can export the data to other applications such as FTP, email or the internet. A handheld ID scanner is a useful piece of equipment which is portable and easy to use.

You might find that an RF barcode scanner or ID barcode scanner can simplify your business procedures and increase overall productivity. There are different scanners available for different working environments and many companies see these scanners as the perfect solution for them.

Before buying a RF barcode scanner, you should visit barcodescanner101.com, a site that provides advice and reviews of the best barcode scanner on the market today.