Which Type Of Barcode Scanner Do I Choose For My Application?
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barcode scanner will range in cost, performance, size and robustness, depending on the applications that they are required for. Determining the right barcode scanner is generally the first step when considering Auto ID equipment.A number of questions must be answered when determining which scanner is right for you. Here is a quick guide you need to ask yourself when choosing a barcode scanner.
1./ Do you need CCD, Linear Imaging, Laser Scanner or a 2D scanner?
CCD – is a contact scanner. Great for low traffic scanning and generally very low in cost.
Linear Imager – is a long range scanner.
Great when you need to scan much quicker. Will scan much wider barcodes than a CCD scanner. Can sometimes be a more cost effective solution to Laser.Laser – Generally considered to be best scanning engine for scanning barcodes. However, these days, there is little difference in performance between laser and linear imager, especially if indoors and scanning retail barcodes or barcodes on labels. Choose laser however if scanning in direct sunlight, or scanning shipping barcodes larger than 30cm.
2D – 2D barcodes ares becoming more prevalent these days. Qr codes are popping up everywhere for advertising. 2D barcodes are also becoming more prevalent in health-care and event management.– 2D barcodes ares becoming more prevalent these days. Qr codes are popping up everywhere for advertising. 2D barcodes are also becoming more prevalent in health-care and event management. 2D barcode scanners can also scan 1D barcodes as well.
2./Does the barcode scanner need to be mobile or will it be a cabled (tethered) scanner?
Think about your application and will it be sufficient to scan all items close to your host/P.C. Most cabled scanners have a cable length of around 1.8m – 2m. If you require a further distance than this, then look at a cordless barcode scanner for more freedom. Cordless scanners in the industry can range from scan distances of 10m and up to 100m.
2./Do you need to scan just the barcode # or do you require additional information such as quantity, location #, user ID #, serial #, date/time stamp etc etc?
If you need to scan more than just the barcode ID #, then you need a pda barcode scanner. Pda barcode scanners can be programmed for a wide range of applications such as stocktaking (Bin #, item #, qty, date/time). For asset managment, they usually like them to be programmed for location ID #, asset ID # and date/time. They usually have a screen and keyboard so the user is prompted to scan and collect data for that record.
3./Does the barcode scanner need to be robust? What environment will the scanner be used in?
Warehousing and Logistics, and field services usually requires barcode scanners / pda barcode scanners to be subjected to weather conditions, dust, dirt, oil, water and users who are not so compassionate about the hardware they are using. This means they will have an
IP ratingfrom IP 54 up to IP65 and drop ratings of between 1.2m -1.5m. For retail environments and clean and carpeted environments, such as hospitality, health-care and libraries, then IP Ratings are not as so important.
4./Support and Service.
Be sure what ever location, region or country you are buying a barcode scanner, that you have local support. Nothing worse than buying a scanner from a website overseas and you cannot get any support or service locally for this. Also check warranties. Most decent barcode scanners have 3-5yrs warranty. For pda barcode scanners, the standard is 12 months but you can also get extended warranties if required for most reputable manufacturers.
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Barcodes and barcode scanners are an integral part of our daily life and any high-performing business. Scanning systems play a key role across a myriad of industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, travel, retail, grocery, and government. Barcodes have made business more efficient for companies, providing an essential method to track and store information about millions of items. But information is power in every aspect of your life, so to really benefit from these products, it’s important to choose the right one for your business needs.
1. What are barcode scanners?
2. What is the difference between a 1D and 2D barcode?
3. What information is represented by 1D and 2D barcodes?
4. What is the difference between 1D laser and 2D imager barcode scanners?
5. What are the common applications for 1D and 2D barcodes?
6. Can barcode scanners read through tape?
7. Can barcode scanners read QR codes?
8. Can barcode scanners read all barcodes?
9. Can barcode scanners read phone screens?
10. Can a scanner read barcodes from any angle?
11. Where are barcode scanners used?
12. Where are barcode scanners purchased?
13. Why won't my barcode scanner work?
14. Can barcode scanners read any color?
15. I have small barcodes – is that a problem?
16. Are all barcode scanners laser scanners?
17. I want a durable barcode scanner – what do you recommend?
18. What are the different types of wireless barcode scanners?
19. Can mobile computers be used to scan barcodes?
20. What is the number one thing that impacts barcode readability?
21. Are barcode scanners able to collect information beyond barcodes?
When you think about barcode scanners, you imagine a small device that can help you read those lines you see on a label, but the mechanism is more complex. These are tools that are specifically designed not only to capture the image of a barcode, but also to decode the information and to transmit that data to a computer. This transmission is sent through wired or wireless connections depending on the model of the scanner.
Another way to put it, a barcode scanner enters data just like you would with a keyboard, but much faster. Rather than typing the number, which can leave room for human error, the scanner simply adds information to a database or your business application.
When most individuals think of barcodes, they picture a horizontal linear code made up of variable-width lines and spaces spread from left to right as ubiquitously seen on consumer goods. This is a 1D (one-dimensional) barcode. This group of lines and spaces, bounded by unprinted areas on either end (the “quiet zone”), represents the information the scanner will read.
The most recognizable 1D barcode is the 12-digit UPC number. The first six numbers are the manufacturer identification number, the next five digits represent the item’s number, and the final number is referred to as the check digit which is used to help the scanner determine if the code was read correctly.
A single 1D barcode line typically contains between 8–25 characters of text information. When you see multiple layers of bars and spaces, this is referred to as stacking, which allows the user to extend beyond the 25 characters. Many businesses have settled on using 8–15 characters, which keeps the barcode at a respectable and printable size.
Unlike the 1D barcode that is read horizontally, the 2D (two-dimensional) barcode, looking like a square or rectangle, stores information both horizontally and vertically, thus it is read in two dimensions (INTSERT IMAGE). The 2D code uses patterns of squares, hexagons, dots, and other shapes to encode data. This dramatically increases the amount of information that can be represented by the barcode: This little shape can hold over 4,000 characters and 7,000 digits while still appearing physically smaller. An example of a 2D barcode would be a QR or Data Matrix code. 2D barcodes remain legible when printed at a small size or etched onto a product. 2D barcodes have nearly a 100% read rate from any angle, even if slightly damaged, due to redundant data and error correction technology.
A 2D barcode encodes alphanumeric information as well as images, website addresses, voice, and other types of binary data. You can use the information whether you are connected to a database or not.
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Barcodes are a low-cost method of helping businesses track large amounts of information. When a 1D barcode is decoded, it translates into alphanumeric digits (i.e., numbers and letters), which represent a kind of “license plate” for a specific item. When this information is sent to the computer database, the information can then be associated with data specific to the item such as price, number of items in stock, item description, and item image.
A 2D barcode encodes alphanumeric information as well as images, pricing, website addresses, voice, and other types of binary data.
Laser barcode scanners were the original 1D barcode scanner. The scanner directs a red beam of light toward a horizontal variable-width row of black and white lines and spaces. This beam of light is directed back and forth by a rotating mirror or prism. The light reflects off the barcode into a light-detecting electronic component called a photoelectric cell. The white areas of the barcode reflect the most light and black the least light. The scanner detects the width and sequence of black and white stripes and converts them into decimal numbers. Historically laser barcode scanners are eventually prone to failure due to the moving parts. Laser scanners can only read linear barcode symbologies such as Code 39, Code 128, UPC, and others. Standard laser scanners can read from a few inches to a few feet depending on the barcode. Extended range laser barcode scanners can read over 30 feet when using reflective labels.
The 2D imager barcode scanner functions like a digital camera. These scanners can read both 1D and 2D barcodes. Rather than using a laser, the imager barcode scanner takes a picture and uses a decoding algorithm to locate the barcode within that image and then decode the data from that barcode within that image. Unlike a laser scanner, the imager does not require the barcode to be oriented in a specific way to be read. Most barcode scanners today are camera-based. 2D imagers can read barcodes off any surface including smartphones.
1D barcodes are commonly used for consumer goods and usually represent 8–15 alphanumeric digits. They are best used for identifying items where associated information may change frequently. For example, an item associated with a UPC code may not change, but the price does. The code represents a static item in a database that can have a pricing change. This is a better option than encoding the price into the barcode. These codes can be read by laser and imager scanners.
2D barcodes allow companies to encode more product information, making it easier to track more data on items as they move through the supply chain. These devices are used in a wide variety of industries from manufacturing and warehousing to logistics and healthcare. Because of their high data density, 2D codes can be used on very small items where 1D codes would be impractical. For example, 2D barcodes are used by hospitals to ensure patients get the right medications on the right schedule, and by sales and marketing teams to embed links to websites, videos, brochures, and more.
Yes, barcode scanners can read through tape. Tape can create a glare that can cause the barcode to be hard to read, just like the glare of the sun can make it hard for you to see an object. By simply changing or tipping the scanner a few degrees, your scanner will be able to read the barcode.
QR codes belong to the family of 2D barcodes. Rather than being a series of bars that track from right to left, 2D barcodes consist of black squares and dots that represent different pieces of information. You will need a 2D image barcode scanner to take a picture of the entire image at one time, which is then analyzed through a decoding algorithm to define the information contained in the QR code. With a 2D barcode scanner, you can read other common 2D symbologies such as Data Matrix and Aztec code.
There are two classes of barcodes: 1D and 2D. 1D codes, such as the UPC code, are usually variable-width black and white spaces. 2D codes, such as QR codes and Data Matrix, use squares, hexagons, and other shapes to store data.
Not all barcode scanners can read all barcodes. Laser barcode scanners and linear imagers read only 1D barcode scanners. Imager (camera-based) 2D barcode scanners read all common 1D and 2D barcodes.
With the advent of shopper loyalty programs, being able to read barcodes on phones has become very important in retail settings. In order to read a barcode on a phone screen, you will need a 2D barcode imaging scanner. Reading barcodes on a phone can be challenging for scanners to read because of screen polarization, levels of brightness, surface gloss, and reflectiveness. Honeywell has put extensive effort into designing technology that allows our 2D barcode scanners to read phone screens.
1D barcode scanners can only read 1D barcodes in a very limited angle that is perpendicular to the horizontal variation of white and black bars. 2D image scanners have the benefit of being able to read 1D and 2D codes from any angle.
Barcode scanners are used in almost every conceivable industry and application around the world. For example, these devices are used in:
You can purchase barcode scanners from Honeywell, distributors, partners, and retail outlets around the world.
There could be a number of reasons why a barcode will not scan. The most common causes of unreadable barcodes are as follows:
Barcode scanners cannot read all colors or color combinations. The main reason why barcodes can be hard to scan is, as we said before, the lack of contrast between the background and bar colors. Black, dark blue, dark green, and dark brown work well for barcode print, but not label backgrounds. The best combination barcode labels include:
Color combinations to avoid include:
Each scanner will have a minimum resolution for cell-sized specification. If your barcode minimum X dimension for cell size is smaller than can be read by your scanner, then that could be problem. Additionally, if you are creating labels as part of the compliance program that must be read elsewhere in the supply chain, then ensuring that your barcodes meet the specifications required by your downstream recipients would also be an important element to validate.
In a linear 1D barcode (such as a Code 128 or UPC), the X-dimension refers to the width of the narrowest bar in the symbol. In a 2D symbol (such as a Data Matrix or QR Code), the X-dimension refers to the height and width measurement of one cell (square element).
No. Laser barcode scanners were the original 1D barcode scanner. They were fast and efficient but were limited to reading 1D barcodes (e.g., Code 39, Code 128, UPC) and were historically prone to failure due to the moving parts.
Many of the barcode scanners today are 2D imager barcode scanners. It is a camera-based scanner and functions like a digital camera. These scanners can read both 1D and 2D barcodes. Rather than using a laser, the imager barcode scanner takes a picture and uses a decoding algorithm to locate the barcode within that image and then decode the data from that barcode within that image. Unlike a laser scanner, the imager does not require the barcode to be oriented in a specific way to be read. Most barcode scanners today are camera-based. 2D imagers can read barcodes off any surface including smartphones. The Honeywell Granit™ family of barcode scanners is a good example of 2D imager scanners.
Consider the Honeywell Granit or wearable barcode scanner families. With any serious decision about investing in handheld devices for your various workflows, you need to define your business requirements. For example, warehouses may incorporate several types of barcode scanners than can include ruggedized for dock and outdoor use, scanners for freezer conditions, and scanners for high-volume picking/inventory. You may need to address issues related to low lighting or applications requiring wireless models. The following are some of the key questions that you need to ask to help narrow your focus:
How mobile are your workers and do they need to scan items that are dispersed? This question helps to define whether you should use a corded or wireless barcode scanner.
For example, in the Honeywell Granit family of barcode scanners, you have corded versions that connect to the host device such as a PC or forklift vehicle-mounted computer. Cordless versions communicate wirelessly with the communication base or when docked with the base. The worker is free to operate without a cord dangling across the work surface. Some versions give the worker the ability to roam and scan, and when the scanner is in range of the base it will download scanned data.
And then there are the Honeywell wearable devices, the 8670 and 8680i. The 8670 can be either a two-piece scanner that has a small scan head that sits on top of the index finger of the user and has a cable that connects to the wrist-worn Bluetooth® unit; or it can be paired with another device such as a mobile computer, fixed workstation, or vehicle-mounted computer. It effectively operates as direct data entry to the secondary device.
The 8680i is designed to be a simpler form factor than the 8670. It’s a one-piece that has two ergonomic versions: one is a two finger–triggered ring and the other goes on a strap glove. The 8680i is available in a Standard version, which basically provides standard Bluetooth scan and data entry. And then there is an Advanced version that has customizable workflow instructions on the user-facing display and Wi-Fi access, so you can communicate directly with the network application rather than needing a paired mobile device or workstation computer.
There are essentially two types of wireless barcode scanners: handheld and wearable. For example, in the Honeywell Granit family of barcode scanners, the 1911i cordless version communicates wirelessly through the communication base or when docked with the base. The worker is free to operate without a cord dangling across the work surface. Workers can roam and scan; when the scanner is in range of the base it will download its scanned data. These area-imaging scanners are for businesses where arm's length 1D and 2D barcode scanning in harsh, unpredictable environments is the norm.
And then there are the Honeywell wearable devices, the 8670 and 8680i. The 8670 can be either a two-piece scanner that has a small scan head that sits on top of the index finger of the user and has a cable that connects to the wrist-worn unit or is a Bluetooth wearable ring scanner, so you pair it with another device such as a mobile computer, fixed workstation, or vehicle-mounted computer. It effectively operates as direct data entry to the secondary device.
The 8680i is a different, simpler form factor than the 8670. It’s a one piece that has two ergonomic versions: one is a two finger–triggered ring and the other goes on a strap glove. The 8680i is available in the Standard version that basically provides standard Bluetooth scan and data entry. And then there is an Advanced version that has customizable workflow instructions on the user-facing display and Wi-Fi access so you can communicate directly with the network application rather than needing a paired mobile device or workstation computer.
Yes. Mobile computers like Honeywell’s CT40 and CT60 are equipped with a high-performance barcode scanner. They can do much more than scan. They have the ability to run multiple business applications such as inventory and asset tracking. Mobile computers have rugged designs that make them extremely durable and weather-resistant. This type of device is suited for almost any work environment. For workers in the field or rough industrial areas, the scanner can be used to view, edit, and adjust orders and data in the system. In retail settings, workers can quickly look up stock locations, make adjustments, place orders, and perform other tasks straight from their scanning device.
Label quality – a barcode is only as reliable as the application that it is printed on. If a label falls off or the ink smudges, your barcode is essentially useless. Choosing the right label and label printer can make all the difference. Label printers are best for printing barcodes and shipping labels. They come in three types, which include industrial, desktop, and mobile. Honeywell has a complete line of label printers to support every application and environment.
Honeywell is beginning to include Operational Intelligence in many of its barcode scanners. Operational Intelligence collects information such as scanned barcode volume, which can be a proxy for site productivity. In the warehouse it can define the throughput of packages. In retail it can denote how your sales are doing. It can also denote if specific barcodes are becoming hard to read and much more.
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