The world of barcode scanners is vast, with many different types available. To help you narrow your search for the perfect handheld device we’ve compiled this buyer’s guide to show what capabilities each type offers and which ones may be best suited based on individual needs.
As you search for a barcode scanner, it is important to know the many types and capabilities of these devices. Once knowing which one best suits your needs based on cost or features desired can help narrow down what may be right for someone who has just started their business with inventory management.
TYPES OF BARCODE SCANNERS
WIRELESS SCANNERS
Wireless Scanners have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their many benefits. For one, they allow workers to be more productive as they can transmit data in real-time. This is especially helpful in industries where accurate information is essential, such as inventory management and asset tracking. In addition, wireless scanners are often more affordable than their traditional counterparts, making them a great option for businesses on a budget. Finally, wireless scanners are easy to use and require little to no training, making them a convenient choice for busy businesses. With so many benefits, it’s no wonder that wireless scanners have become the go-to choice for businesses of all sizes.
PORTABLE BATCH SCANNERS
As its name suggests, this device is portable and can be carried around with ease. It is also battery-operated, meaning that it does not have to be tethered to a power outlet. This allows for greater flexibility in terms of where it can be used. In addition, the portable batch scanner comes with an LCD monitor and keypad.
FIXED BAR CODE SCANNERS
FIXED BAR CODE SCANNERS, also known as “tethered” scanners, are commonly used in retail environments and transmit data as a single barcode is scanned. They are attached to terminals at the point of sale and, as the name suggests, stay in one place. This makes them ideal for high-traffic areas where space is limited, such as checkouts. However, it also means that they can’t be used to scan items that are out of reach or in hard-to-reach places. Fixed scanners are usually battery-operated, which makes them more expensive to run than cordless scanners. But they’re less likely to be lost or stolen, and you don’t have to worry about replacing batteries.
Guidelines for Picking the Best Barcode Scanner
- Look at Your Flooring
The most common reason for damage to Barcode Scanner is dropping. So, if you’re looking into whether or not your warehouse’s flooring can withstand harsh environments – like concrete- look no further than barcode scanners with rugged qualifications.
General purpose scanners are less durable but usually offer more features, such as the ability to connect to Wi-Fi networks. When choosing a handheld scanner for your warehouse, you need to consider the type of flooring you have.
- Consider Air Quality
Do you have a lot of dust in your warehouse? What about sawdust and other microscopic particles?
If you answered yes, make sure to check the Ingress Protection (IP) rating of any model you are considering. This is also true if a handheld scanner is accidentally dropped in water. Look for an IP rating of at least 68 to increase your device’s chances of surviving these elements.
- Lighting Conditions
When it comes to barcode scanners, one of the most important factors to consider is the level of brightness that the device offers. In a low-light environment, you’ll want to make sure that the scanner can be set to a lower brightness level in order to avoid any glare or reflection off of the barcodes.
However, if you plan on using the scanner in a bright environment such as direct sunlight or in a bright warehouse, you’ll need to make sure that the scanner can be set to a higher brightness level in order to be able to read the barcodes correctly. Whatever lighting conditions you’re working in, it’s important to choose a scanner that can be easily adjusted to meet your needs.
- A keyboard that Fit Your Needs
Consider what you want your employees to be able to accomplish with their barcode scanner when deciding on the right type of keypad. If they’re going into full-on typing mode, find one that has large keys and easy navigation so there’s less chance for errors or fatigue from repetitive movement, especially if users will often wear gloves while working! But make sure it fits correctly too; any size discrepancy can lead to not only frustration but also injury (plus who wants longer fingers?).
- Which Kind of Barcodes Are You Scanning?
If you plan to scan barcodes, take the code type and scanning distance into account. Any kind of barcode scanning can use 2D imaging. Only 1D barcodes should be scanned with linear barcode scanners.
Look for a device with Advanced Long Range or Extended Range capability if you need to scan from a distance. These scanners can read from 45 to 50 feet away using either laser scanning or 2D barcode imaging.
The barcode scanner has quickly become an essential tool in business productivity. It’s fast, efficient, and can save your team a lot of time when it comes to tracking inventory or ordering supplies.
If you haven’t already started using one, we highly recommend that you do. And if you have any friends who run their own businesses, be sure to share this article with them – they’ll definitely appreciate the tips!