To sort, deliver, load and unload goods quickly and without errors, barcodes are now actively used. All necessary data is encoded on them. And for their reading, barcode scanners are used - devices that can be stationary, manual and combined. They recognize the information and transmit it to the computer, where it is processed depending on the task.
Which barcode scanner is better: manual, stationary or combined
Absolutely all equipment copes with its tasks, and the choice of a particular model depends on the situation.
If the operator working with the scanner constantly moves around the room and is forced to process packages of different sizes, a hand-held scanner wireless barcode is suitable. Stationary equipment is needed when the workplace does not change, and the production parameters are always the same. If the work is performed in two ways (both on the spot and on the move), combined devices are best suited.
Among stationary barcode scanners, embedded models are also distinguished. Most often they are used at retail outlets - in shops, supermarkets. They are mounted in a cash register, and even such devices are often combined with scales, which is also very convenient.
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Types of scanners by type of information recognition
The way in which the code is read and what technology is used for this plays an important role in choosing a device. Now there are three main groups of scanners based on these characteristics.
LED Barcode Scanners
These are the simplest and cheapest models that appeared on the marking equipment market the very first. They provide reading even from strips of small thickness, scan quickly enough and are characterized by reliability. There are also minuses: the device needs to be brought close enough to the code, it has a limited scanning width. The device reads only smooth and high-quality codes.
Laser devices
Products using laser technology are very common today. Of their advantages, we highlight:
- Read codes with a high strip frequency.
- Use when working with wide barcodes.
- Work at a great distance. If LED models are brought up to a label of 5-8 cm, then the laser barcode scanner also works at a distance of 15-30 cm. In industrial designs, the reading range can increase to 10 (or more) meters.
Laser scanners also have disadvantages. So, the presence of movable elements in the working module makes falls and impacts of equipment very dangerous. If possible, it is better to choose devices with a reinforced case and additional protection. And also such equipment is not suitable for working with two-dimensional codes, as well as labels that are damaged, glued to an uneven surface.
Image (image) barcode scanners
These are the most modern scanners. They not only read information about goods, but they are also able to recognize damaged, partially erased codes, areas with creases, etc. They work at a great distance. There are models that work equally well with both linear and two-dimensional barcodes. Image scanners usually have shock and drop protection.