Choosing Barcode Scanners

Barcode scanners are used to read the barcodes you see on all the tangible products you purchase. In most cases, the barcode scanners are attached to a computer, laptop, or cash register via RS-232 or PS2. The information the barcode scanner reads is collected and stored on the computer for either storage or processing. You have seen these items at practically every store in which you buy products including the grocery store.

 The various barcode scanners range in price from fifty dollars to thousands of dollars, which can be a very confusing matter for individuals, and companies that wish to implement this technology into their business. There are two main types of barcode scanners the image based barcode scanner and the laser based barcode scanner. The image based barcode scanners have an embedded camera that captures the images of the barcode then utilizes a processing method that decodes the information found in the numbers and parallel lines of the barcode.

Laser based barcode scanners uses mirrors and lenses instead of a camera to read the information on the barcodes. In the majority of cases, the laser based barcode scanners are more expensive. Laser scanners have their advantages and disadvantages. Laser scanners are a bit more fragile than image scanners due to internal movable parts. Laser scanners can scan from a farther distance up to 24 inches away whereas image scanner can only scan items within 4 to 10 inches away. Of course, this information can vary as new more advanced laser and camera scanners are being created all the time.

When you begin your search for the best barcode scanner for your business you will need to take into consideration the size of scanner you need, the type of business you own such as a manufacturer or a retail shop, the distance of the scanning you need, if you need a hands free scanner or a hand-held scanner, and of course your budget.

The best recommendation is if you need long range scanning then you should look at your options with a laser barcode scanner and for short range scanning, an image barcode scanner will do the trick. You also need to look at where you will be using the scanner and if the scanner my be dropped or moved around quite a bit, remember the laser scanner is a bit more fragile.

There is a large array of barcode scanners available in today's market. To ensure that you purchase the size and type you need for your company, it would be best to talk with a professional that can help you decide on the equipment you need as well as ensure you stay within your budget. You surely do not want to waste money on a barcode scanner that will not do what you need it to do or have one that will cost you more in the long run due to dropping and bumping.