10 Things to Consider When Buying Handsfree Barcode Scanner

Customers new to barcoding typically ask, "What is a barcode scanner?" The answer is actually quite simple.

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A barcode scanner-also known as a barcode reader-is an electronic device that decodes and physically captures information contained in barcodes.

It consists of the following components, which work together to collect, analyze, and transmit data contained in a printed barcode:

• Light source: Illuminates the barcode for proper reading.
• Lens: Scans the barcode image.
• Photo conductor: Translates optical impulses into electrical ones.
• Decoder: Analyzes the data and sends the content to the scanner's output port. A decoder can be internal or external.

Buying Tip

Automating the data collection process using barcode scanners reduces human error and expedites processing of everyday tasks.

How does it work?

A scan engine sits inside a barcode scanner. When the device is activated, the engine works with the light source, lens, photo conductor, and decoder to read the barcode. This allows organizations to extract information stored in the code.

After capturing an image, barcode scanners link to a host computer to pass along the scanned information. This process automates the data collection process so organizations can reduce human error and expedite tasks such as tracking inventory, managing assets, and monitoring point-of-sale transactions.

There are three primary barcode scan engines: laser, linear imager, and 2D area imager. Each works differently in mobile computers and barcode scanners to accommodate the needs of specific environments and industries.

Laser

Laser scan engines are the most popular type of barcode scan engine because they can scan barcodes at distances from 1 inch to 3.5 feet. A laser scan engine shoots a laser beam toward a mirror. The mirror moves, which causes the laser to sweep across the barcode in a straight line. A diode measures the level of reflection and translates it into a digital signal.

While popular, laser scan engines only read linear, or one-dimensional (1D), barcodes such as UPC-A, which is widely used by retailers and grocers. Therefore, laser scan engines aren't always a fit for everyone.

PROS

CONS

• Ensures precise scans in areas with good lighting
• Scans at distances from 1" to 3.5'
• Most affordable

• Only reads linear (1D) barcodes
• Doesn't read damaged or poorly printed barcodes very well

Buying Tip

Determine which scan engine you need before deciding on a scanner type. Imagers are best for reading damaged or poorly printed barcodes.

Linear imager

Another example of a 1D scan engine is a linear imager, which is also known as a charged coupled device (CCD). Linear imagers are a great option when scanning barcodes that are less than two feet away.

Unlike a laser scan engine-which uses a beam and mirrors to read barcodes-a linear imager captures an image of a 1D barcode by aligning hundreds of tiny LED lights in a row and shooting light directly onto the barcode. A sensor measures the voltage of the light directly in front of each light bulb. Like laser scan engines, linear imagers only read 1D barcodes. However, because they take a digital image of the barcode, they can read poorly printed and damaged barcodes better than lasers.

PROS

CONS

• Fewer moving parts, which minimizes risk of failure
• Works great in environments with low lighting
• Reads damaged or poorly printed barcodes better than lasers

• Doesn't read 2D barcodes
• Costs more than laser

2D area imager

A 2D area imager scan engine also captures digital images. But unlike a linear imager, a 2D scan engine reads both 1D and 2D barcodes by flashing light onto multiple rows of tiny light bulbs.

Because a 2D scan engine takes a picture of the barcode, they, too, can read damaged barcodes, which makes them ideal for environments where reliability and flexibility are important.

Another advantage of 2D scan engines is that they can read barcodes from any orientation. This makes them faster and more accurate than laser and linear imagers.

Companies with field service personnel tend to prefer 2D barcode scan engines because they can capture images of documents and signatures, which minimize their risk of fraud.

PROS

CONS

• Reads both linear (1D) and 2D barcodes
• Reads damaged or poorly printed barcodes better than lasers or linear imagers
• Scans from any angle

• Most expensive
• Usually difficult to read when less than 6" away

Compare scan engine types

The following table provides a quick overview of each barcode scan engine.

Engine

Description

Use

Ideal for

Laser

• The most popular type of barcode scan engine
• Uses a laser beam to read the difference in the spaces between a barcode's vertical lines
• Rapidly toggles mirrors back and forth to produce the thin red laser line

• Only reads linear
  (1D or one-dimensional) barcodes
• Works best when precise scanning is necessary
• Easily targets a laser line
• Comes in three basic configurations: moving beam (single line), rastering (lines that cover an area), and omnidirectional

• Environments with low lighting
• Scanning at distances from 1" to 3.5'.

INDUSTRIES

• Almost any environment, especially retail

Linear Imager

• Also known as a charged coupled device (CCD);
• Doesn't use lasers to read barcodes; instead takes a digital image (picture) of the barcode

• Reads linear
  (1D or one-dimensional) barcodes; some models read stacked 2D barcodes and composite symbols
• Usually more durable than laser scan engines
• Fewer moving parts, which minimizes risk of failure

• Scanning at distances from 1" to 3.5'
• Reading barcodes under a reflective surface such as plastic wrap
• Reading poorly printed or damaged barcodes 

INDUSTRIES

• Retail
• Shipping
• Receiving
• Inventory

2D Area Imager

• Also known as a 2D or digital imager
• Uses a combination of digital camera technology and software to capture barcodes
• Functions like a digital camera; bounces a burst of light off of the barcode and back into the lens

• Reads both linear (1D) and 2D barcodes
• Can read barcodes from any orientation
• Captures digital images such as signatures and documents with printed fonts

• Scanning hard-to-reach images from any direction and distance with extended range capabilities
• Reading poorly printed or damaged barcodes
• Organizations that need versatility and want to future-proof their operations

INDUSTRIES

• Most any industry including those that specifically use 2D barcodes, such as the USPS

Sometimes referred to as form factors because of the housing or design of the device, barcode scanners are categorized in several types, which have features unique to specific environments, applications, and industries.

All scanners incorporate barcode scan engines to read linear (1D) or 2D barcodes.

Handheld

The most common type of scanner, handheld barcode scanners are extremely easy to use and perform a variety of functions.

They come in both corded and cordless (wireless) styles and are available with laser, linear imager, or 2D area imager scan engines.

Corded scanners work great for manufacturing, retail, groceries, warehouses, healthcare, and logistics.

Cordless scanners also work well in these environments, but excel in companies where flexibility is essential.

Buying Tip

Handheld scanners are the most popular type of barcode scanner and are great for companies new to barcoding.

Mobile computers

Mobile computers combine the functionality of a computer and a scanner into a single device. They come equipped with your choice of operating system (OS) and allow you to upload software applications.

Like barcode scanners, they come with either a 1D or a 2D scan engine, and they are great options for mobile workforces.

However, unlike scanners, mobile computers can store data on their hard drives, which makes them perfect for companies that need to instantly edit and share information across the enterprise.

Presentation

A presentation scanner is also known as an on-counter scanner because it is designed to sit on top of a counter for hands-free operations. Users simply scan items in front of it for easy reading. Presentation scanners are the only ones that can be 1D and omnidirectional.

In-Counter

A type of presentation scanner, an in-counter scanner sits inside a counter to facilitate easy scanning.

Fixed-Mount

Fixed-mount scanners read barcodes using sensors that are triggered when items pass in front of them. These scanners integrate with large automated systems and are usually found on conveyors in assembly lines and on vehicles such as forklifts.

Wearable

Wearable scanners are typically worn on the arm, hand, or finger to expedite processing of barcodes. They are particularly useful in environments where hands-free processing is required and voice picking technology is implemented.

Pocket-Sized

Also referred to as mini scanners, these cordless devices fit inside a pocket to facilitate quick scans and easy pairing with Bluetooth-enabled devices such as tablets and smartphones.

RFID

Fixed (stationary) RFID readers and handheld RFID-enabled scanners communicate with RFID tags using antennas and radio waves that send and receive signals from microchips stored in their tags.

Compare barcode scanner types

The table on the following page compares the barcode scanner types.

BARCODE SCANNER TYPES

Type

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Description

Use

Ideal for

Handheld

• The most common type of barcode scanner
• Offers both corded and cordless (wireless) versions

• Extremely easy to use
• Uses a trigger to capture the image
• Stands are available for hands-free operations

CORDED

• Manufacturing
• Retail
• Grocery stores
• Warehouses
• Healthcare
• Logistics

CORDLESS (WIRELESS)

• Retail
• Warehouses
• Healthcare
• Manufacturing
• Logistics
• Field services

Mobile Computer

• Combines the functionality of computers and scanners into one handheld device
• Commonly confused with a wireless or cordless scanners, which typically only provide the ability to scan
• Enables users to efficiently work within and beyond four walls

• Provides more processing power than traditional barcode scanners
• Stores data into internal memory
• Enables real-time transmission of information via a wireless network (WAN)

• All organizations that desire true mobility for such tasks as managing inventory and tracking assets
• Field services and other mobile workforce personnel
• Companies using voice technology

Presentation

• Also known as an on-counter scanner because it is designed to sit on top of a counter
• Considered hands-free (stationary) because users do not have to hold these scanners
• Is the only 1D scanner that is omnidirectional

• Has a wide reading area that makes it easy to scan multiple items
• Does not require a trigger-the scanner automatically reads barcodes when an item is placed in front of it

• Retail
• Grocery stores

In-Counter

• Similar to presentation counters because they are stationary and have a wide reading area
• Allows users to easily scan multiple items
• Requires a professional installation

• Embedded into counters, rather than on top of them
• Automatically reads barcodes when an item is placed in front of it without having to pull a trigger

• Grocery stores
• Self-check lines in retail stores

Fixed-Mount

• Reads barcodes using sensors or controllers that are triggered when items pass in front of it
• Most have a laser scan engine that requires users to mount them at a specific angle and distance from the barcodes that will pass in front of them
• Designed to be integrated with large automated systems

• Typically used on a conveyor line or in a kiosk and are sometimes attached to a vehicle such as a forklift
• Available in multiple speeds to accommodate fast assembly lines
• Eliminates the need for human intervention
• Extremely durable and reliable

• Work-in-progress (WIP) environments such as manufacturers
• Organizations with high-speed sorting along conveyor systems, such as warehouses and logistics
• Laboratories (use small models)
• Kiosks and security ID apps
• Vehicles

Wearable

• Also known as a back-of-hand scanner
• Straps a small box with the laser barcode scanner to either the back of the hand or on a finger (like a ring)
• Keeps scanners conveniently close

• Allows users to more freely use their hands
• May have automatic scanning or be activated by a trigger so the scanner doesn't inadvertently scan the wrong barcode

• Environments such as warehouses where hands-free processing for tasks like picking products and carrying boxes is required
• Organizations using  voice-picking technology

Pocket-Sized

• Also known as a mini scanner
• Fits in your pocket
• Provides on-the-go convenience

• Enables you to wirelessly transmit data to your smart or tablet from up to 33 feet
• Fast, accurate scans of 1D barcodes
• Long battery life

•  Retail
• Office
• Healthcare
• Warehouse management
• Libraries and tool rooms

RFID

• Also known as a handheld RFID reader
• Can be used as a handheld or hands-free device

• Requires RFID tags and system
• Adjustable power levels for inadvertent RFID tag reads
• Withstands the rigors of everyday use, including drops
• Accurate and ultra-fast

• Asset management
• Retail POS
• Transportation & logistics
• Healthcare
• Pharmacy
• Library
• Government

Sometimes after determining the barcode scan engine and scanner type, users need help deciding whether to purchase a corded or cordless barcode scanner.

The most important thing to consider is connectivity-you must know your requirements for scanning and transmitting information before buying a scanner. Location of items also factors in, as does the types of items you are scanning.

Corded scanner

As its name implies, a corded barcode scanner has a cable attached to it. The cord enables you to upload information in real time by communicating directly with the host computer using one of the following interfaces:

• USB

  A widely used interface, USB is found on most barcode scanners. Simply plug the cord directly into the host computer to quickly transfer data. This minimizes your risk of losing scanned information.

• PS/2

  This interface (also known as keyboard wedge) decodes and converts characters so it appears they came directly from the keyboard. This makes it easy to integrate with any application that accepts keyboard input.

• RS232

  Some scanners have an RS232 port that feeds data from the scanner to the application using a "software wedge" program.

  A popular type of scanner, corded devices are usually less expensive than cordless ones; however, your scanning distance is limited to the cord length, which is typically five to six feet from the base. This means you must bring certain items to the scanner for reading.

  Another drawback is their failure rate. Due to repeated use, cords often wear out before scanners do, which may necessitate frequent replacements.

  Presentation scanners, such as counter-top designs, are usually corded because they in constant use. Devices like these enable quick, hands-free scanning. There are also corded barcode scanners for nearly every industry.

Buying Tip

The number one failure of corded scanners is the cord! So while cordless models cost a little more, they tend to last longer.

PROS

CONS

• Transmits data in real time
• Most common type
• Least expensive
• Easy to implement
• Captures precise, visible images
• Offers proprietary connections on certain models

• Cords can cause scanners to fail and are not always safe
• Limited to the scanner's working range, which is typically as long as the cord (5 - 6' on average)
• Does not have the option to transmit data via batch
• Requires you to bring certain items to the scanner for reading

Cordless scanner

Cordless barcode scanners (also known as wireless or portable scanners) store data in the device.

On most models, you have the option to transmit data to the host computer in real time using Bluetooth or radio technologies, or you can wait and send it later after returning the scanner to its base station.

In addition, most Bluetooth-enabled scanners can pair directly with other devices-such as laptops, tablets, and smart phones-without having to place the device in a cradle.

Easy to use and set up, cordless scanners are ideal for most applications because they travel wherever they are needed-provided you stay in working range, which is usually up to 100 feet or more. This capability proves popular for scanning large items with awkwardly placed labels that are difficult for corded scanners to reach.

But because they cost slightly more than corded scanners, cordless barcode scanners aren't always the best option for some businesses.

PROS

CONS

• Can transmit data in real time or in batch
• Has a working range of up to 100+ feet
• Easy to set up and use
• Cost-effective
• Ideal for most applications
• Doesn't require a wireless computer
• Won't impact existing software systems

• Doesn't work when out of range
• Costs slightly more than corded scanners
• Requires extra batteries for uninterrupted scanning

Compare corded and cordless scanners

The table below compares corded and cordless barcode scanners by providing a high-level overview of each.

COMPARE SCANNERS

Corded

Cordless

Description

• Has a cord
• Comes in a variety of types, including handheld, presentation, and in-counter
• Less expensive than cordless

• Does not have a cord
• Comes in a variety of types, including handheld, mobile computer, fixed-mount, wearable, and pocket-sized
• More expensive than corded

How They Work

• Offers one transmission mode:
• Real time - instantly transmits data to the host computer via an interface cable
• Available connectivity interfaces:
• USB
• PS/2 (keyboard wedge)
• RS232

• Offers two transmission modes:
• Real time - Instantlytransmits data to the host via Bluetooth or radio technologies
• Batch - Stores data in internal memory and sends it when the scanner returns to its cradle
• Can pair directly with another device-such as a laptop, tablet, or smart -without placing it in the cradle (Bluetooth-enabled devices only)

Range

• Limited to the scanner's working range, which is typically is as long as the cord (5-6' on average)

• Typical working range of 100+ feet

Ideal use

• Ideal for organizations that scan items within close distance

• Ideal for organizations that require a better range of motion and longer scanning distances

Industries

• Manufacturing
• Retail
• Grocery stores
• Warehouses
• Healthcare
• Logistics

• Retail
• Warehouses
• Healthcare
• Manufacturing

Bluetooth barcode scanners are becoming the most preferred scanners of small businesses because they offer ease of use and flexibility. If you often need to move away from the counter to scan items or do inventory, then this is the kind of scanner that you should buy for your business. Here are features to look for if you’re thinking of buying Bluetooth barcode scanners:

Barcode compatibility

Naturally, you want to make sure that the scanner can read the barcode that you are using. But if you can find a scanner that reads different types of barcodes like UPC, EAN, ITF, QR codes, and Data Matrix codes, then choose that one. This way, you won't need to buy a brand-new scanner if you happen to change your barcodes in the future.

Battery life

One of the drawbacks of Bluetooth barcode scanners is that they run on batteries. Unlike those with cords, they have a limited power supply. That's why checking the battery life of the scanner is a must. A good unit will last about 15 days without charging.

Auto-induction mode

Find a Bluetooth barcode scanner with auto-induction mode for more efficient and hands-free scanning. With this feature, there will be no need to press the trigger every time you scan a barcode. All you need to do is to put the scanner in a stand and make sure that the laser light is pointing on the barcode. This way, you can use both of your hands at the sales counter and finish work quickly.

Storage mode

Another essential feature to look for in any barcode scanner is storage mode. It comes in handy when you are bulk scanning. What happens when this feature is turned on? It will allow your barcode scanner to continue storing data even if it has lost connection to the receiver due to distance or transmission signal problems. The device stores the barcodes in the built-in memory card. Once you are done, you can upload the stored data to your system.

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