Barcode scanners or barcode readers are electronic devices used for reading printed labels. These devices consist of light source, light sensor and lens that translate ocular impulses into electrical impulses. Almost all these devices contain a “decoder” circuitry that analyzes the image data of the barcode. The sensor provides the image data and sends the content of the barcode to the output port of the scanner.

Kinds of Barcode Scanners

There are different kinds of barcode scanners depending on the method employed. The methods of scanning are usually distinguished by the amount of required operator manipulation. Below is a detailed list of scanning methods.

First is the pen type reader. It needs the operator in order to swipe the pen onto the code.

Next, we have the handheld readers, considered semi-automatic. With this scanning method, the operator does not need to swipe the item though he or she must position the scanner near the item's label.

There is also the fix-mount reader. This method of scanning is done by laterally passing the item's label over the scanner or reader. It is used for automatic readings. This method does not need any operator although the code target's position must match with the reader's imaging capability.

The fourth type is reader gates. It is used by positioning the code under the gate for a short period of time. It enables the scanner to sweep and capture the code successfully.

Types of Housing

The packagings of the readers are distinguishable from one another. A handheld scanner or reader has a typical trigger button and a handle for switching the light source on and off.

The wand or pen scanner is a barcode scanner shaped like a pen. It reads the code when swiped.

The stationary scanner is a fixed device. This can either be a table or wall-mounted scanner. The barcode is passed beside or under the wall or table. It is very common in supermarkets and other retail shops.

The fixed position scanner is an industrialized barcode reader used so as to identify the products during its logistics and manufacture. This is commonly seen on conveyor tracks in order to identify pallets or cartons needed to be routed to another shipping location or process.

Yet another application of this scanner is the joining of checkweighers and holographic scanners in order to detect the barcodes of any placement or orientation as well as the weight of the package. This kind of system is generally used in farm automations and factories for shipping and quality management.

PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) scanner comes with a built-in barcode scanner or an attached barcode scanner. A good example of this scanner is the Grabba. It is a useful accessory to your PDA device.

The automatic reader is an office equipment used to read barcoded documents. It also processes at high-speed or about 50,000 per hour. An example of this reader is the Multiscan MT31.

Barcode Scanner Products

There are so many models but we discuss here only three. First is the ID Tech Econo-Scan Scanner. This has a rugged design suitable for an industrial environment. This has a superior decoding of all the popular symbologies. It costs 74 US dollars.

Second is the Metrologic Scan Pal 2 Barcode Scanner Wireless. It is a portable and lightweight data terminal designed for everyday use. It costs 512.10 US dollars.

And third example is the Symbol LS 2008 Barcode Scanner. This is an innovative handheld scanner that provides performance features at a very low price. If you buy this product, it has a 5-year warranty. The product costs 135 US dollars.