Which barcode scanner is right for you?
Picking the right barcode scanner
The most common questions that we get asked in our sales department is related to barcode scanners and which one that the customer should use. Requires asking the customer multiple questions to determine the right barcode scanner for their particular needs.
Questions such as:
- Do you want to scan 1D or 2D barcodes? What is the difference between a 1D and 2D barcode scanners? 1D barcodes are linear codes and 1D scanners can ready up to 39 characters and can only be scanned upright and relevantly less expensive to purchase a 1D barcode scanner. 2D barcodes are matrix codes and 2D barcode scanners can read up to 3000+ characters, the most 2D barcode scanner can read both 1D and 2D barcodes. They are typically more expensive and can be scanned in any direction making easier to capture barcodes.
- What connectivity do you require? - Corded barcode scanners are where the cord connects directly to the PC via a USB connection and Cordless barcodes scanners use Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to transfer information to PC.
- The last but not least what type of barcode scanners do you require? – believe it or not, there are quite a few different types of barcodes to cater to different scanning needs such as:
- Handheld barcode scanners – the most common barcode scanners it is handheld can be corded or wireless.
- Presentation scanners – a form of hands-free scanning that is designed to sit on a counter and scan barcodes when presented to the scanner.
- Fixed Mount scanners – these are specialised scanners design sit on a conveyor line to scan the barcode as they come down the production line.
- Mobile Computer scanners – this is both a PC and barcode scanner in a single device, allowing complete more tasks on a single device.
- Wearable scanners – this can be worn by workers around the forearm and hand to allow them to just point and scan barcodes.
- Direct Part Mark scanners – capable of reading barcodes that are etched or imprinted on material such as plastic and metal.
- Pocket-sized scanners – a small portable scanner that can fit in your pocket.
If you want more information about the different types of barcode scanners and the industries that they are best suited for please have a look at our infographic on the product matrix for barcode scanners – ideal fact checking list.
