The sort of barcode scanner you require depends on the type of application you’ll be utilizing it for, and there are many options available.
First and foremost, you must decide on the kind of barcode to scan. It’s up to you;
One-Dimensional Bar codes
A basic line-based barcode that we’ve all seen on most grocery store items is a 1D barcode. In addition to UPC-A, Code 128, and GS1 Databar Stacked, these barcodes are available in various other forms. Because they are the most popular and widely used barcodes on the market, 1D barcodes will suffice for the vast majority of enterprises.
Two-Dimensional Bar Codes
There are a few differences between 2D barcodes and traditional line-based barcodes. 2D barcodes include tiny square pixel dots and are commonly seen printed in the shape of an about 1-inch by 1-inch square. Known as Aztec Codes, these sorts of barcodes are sometimes caught in the medical field.
PDF417 Bar Code
A unique barcode called the PDF417 combines the lines and pixels dots of 2D codes into one considerably larger barcode, which may be several inches wide in most cases.
Barcode Imagers vs. Barcode Laser Scanners
There are two sorts of barcode scanners, based on the type of barcode you’ll be scanning. When scanning 1D barcodes, a laser scanner is all that is required. In most cases, 1D scanners are enough for firms using barcodes to manage inventory. Thus, laser scanners are their best choice. An imager barcode scanner is required if your firm uses 2D or PDF barcodes since they function differently from laser scanners and are often more costly to purchase.
Portable vs. Fixed Mount
Barcode scanners may be either fixed or portable, which is a choice you have when purchasing one. Hand-held scanners may either be used to scan a barcode with a laser-powered barcode scanner, or they can be docked in a stand and used to scan an item from beneath.
They can’t be relocated since they’re permanently fixed in situ. Instead, the object to be scanned must be moved in front of the scanner before it can be scanned.
There are some applications where a fixed mount scanner is better suited than a portable scanner, and there are others where both types are appropriate. For example, most grocery stores use fixed mount scanners for the majority of their scanning but also have a portable scanner for scanning heavier items left in the shopping cart after customers have checked out.
General Purpose vs. Rugged
Another choice is between a general-purpose scanner used in most retail settings and a powerful scanner explicitly designed for circumstances where the scanner will be mistreated beyond usual wear and tear.
This kind of scanner isn’t necessary for the majority of enterprises, but it may serve a specific purpose in some instances when a more robust scanner is needed.
USB, Bluetooth, and Wireless Scanners
Scanners of all varieties, including laser and imager scanners, often include a variety of port choices, including USB, serial, and other wired connections in addition to wireless ones, such as Bluetooth.
