Barcode scanners are essential pieces of technology for businesses across a variety of industries. These devices quickly capture information from barcodes and are invaluable for inventory management and tracking, identifying products, streamlining checkout processes, and more.
You will get efficient and thoughtful service from WCMI.
But with so many barcode scanners on the market, choosing the right one for your organization can be overwhelming. In this buying guide, we will discuss several key considerations that should factor into your decision-making process when selecting a barcode scanner.
Well cover topics such as types of scanners, scanning range and accuracy, wireless capabilities, ergonomics and more. By the end of this guide, youll have all the information necessary to make an informed purchase and choose the best barcode scanner for your needs.
So without further ado, lets get started.
Scanners may have become easier to use than ever but choosing one from the long list of models out there is a challenge. Â Luckily, you dont need to know all the technical ins and outs of scanner technology to find a good fit for your business. Â With the following 4 questions youll be able to narrow down your options to the right one for you.
This is one of the most important questions since you can end up paying too much for a scanner or get one that doesnt work at all. Â There are essentially 2 types of barcodes:
Depending on which of the 2 type of barcodes you are working with, there are 3 types of scanners youll want to choose from.
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit 2d Barcode Readers.
This question is really concerned about what form factor your scanner should be. Most scanners are the typical handheld gun-style type but depending on where and how youll be using the scanner other form factors might be more productive.
Every scanner has to connect to a PC to transmit the barcode information into the application that you are using. Most scanners are going to connect to a PC or laptop through a USB connection, but Serial (RS-232) and PS/2 are also available.  Corded scanners are easy to get up and running by simply plugging them in.
Handheld scanners also offer options for cordless scanners that allow you to walk around freely. These scanners function the same way a corded scanner does except that the scanner communicates to a base station wirelessly. This base station is then connected to your PC through a cable. Your PC does not need to have any wireless support since the cradle and scanner handle all of this. Most cordless scanners, like the Motorola LS,  use Bluetooth to communicate, which normally gives you a range of 33ft. There are also some specialized Bluetooth and proprietary wireless units that can transmit beyond 200ft.
Ruggedness should always be a concern when selecting a scanner to make sure it can handle whatever you put it through. Most scanners are designed for daily use in an office or retail environment. An accidental drop once in a while will be ok, but if you are using your scanners in a warehouse or outdoor environment you will want to consider a ruggedized unit  You can always tell a ruggedized scanner by their bright yellow or red cases like on the Motorola LSFZ.  Ruggedized units are completely sealed against dust and can handle repeated 6ft drops to concrete. With a rubberized case, they can handle any mistreatment.  More rugged units may be more costly, but the time saved and costs from replacing broken scanners quickly balances out the initial cost difference.
With all the options available for barcode scanners today, its important to find the right device for your business needs. Determining how you will use the scanner and what features you need will make the decision process easier. Our convenient scanner selector tool will even help you get to a specific model. If you are still having difficulty or have additional questions, give our scanner experts a call. Were happy to help you out.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website Benefits of Barcode System.