Barcode scanners are not a new technology, but in recent years they have become really inexpensive, durable, and accurate.
Here are five things to know about buying a barcode scanner:
(1) What kind of barcodes will you scan?
There are several types of barcode systems in the world and before investing in a barcode scanner, you need to know what types of barcodes you are going to scan. If you are simply going to print and scan the most basic type of barcode, which is the one with straight black vertical lines on a white background, those types of barcodes are called 1D barcodes.
1D barcodes are the most common barcodes out there and can be scanned with relatively inexpensive 1D barcode readers. These types of barcodes use what is called a laser scanner to read them. Laser scanners are one of the cheapest scanners on the market and if all you need to scan is 1D barcodes, there is no point in spending more money on more expensive models that also support 2D barcodes.
2D barcodes have tiny pixel dots that store much more information in the barcode compared to a 1D barcode, and require an image scanner to read them. Imaging scanners are a bit more sophisticated than laser scanners and therefore tend to be more expensive. An imaging scanner can generally read 2D and 1D barcodes, but a laser scanner can only read 1D barcode.
(2) Do you need portable options?
Another thing to consider when selecting a barcode scanner is whether or not you will need a built-in portable feature. Some scanners can be made fully portable by being completely wireless, while others are semi-portable by being a handheld scanner wired to the computer system.
Semi-portable scanners are often the most versatile because they can offer you the best of both worlds, giving you multiple options to quickly scan items at checkout. You can bring the item to the scanner by scanning it underneath the scanner that is mounted on a fixed scan stand, or you can remove the scanner from the stand and bring it closer to the item being scanned, such as heavy items that are left on. a shopping cart that would be impossible to scan at the counter.
(3) How strong do you need?
Most of today’s scanners are built to withstand the daily abuse thrown at them by the retail environment. They are durable and can last a long time even in the hectic of sales conditions.
However, some types of businesses require a bit more ruggedness when it comes to their scanners, such as when the general public is involved in scanning, or the scanner could fall or hang from its cable, etc.
If your type of business is operating in harsh conditions, you may want to consider upgrading to a rugged version of the scanner you are purchasing. Often times, the few extra dollars invested in a rugged design can save you money in the future by having to replace a scanner.
(4) What kind of interface will you need?
Different scanners offer different input options. Find out what kinds of input options your computer offers and which ones are the most efficient for your needs. Most of today’s scanners work with many standard interfaces such as USB, Bluetooth for wireless connections, serial ports, and many others. However, you may need to specify your preferred interface option before ordering your scanner.
(5) What software will your scanner run?
Another thing to consider is the type of POS software that you will be using to run your scanner. The scanner is simply an input device, so it is as efficient and powerful as the software that uses it. If you’re currently running an old outdated POS system or even a cash register, this might be the time to consider upgrading your software as well.