In order to track products throughout their life cycle and to improve the performance of automatic tracking systems, many businesses today are using the Direct Part Marking (DPM) method. It involves engraving permanent barcodes directly on the products by various methods. Here are some features of direct part marking barcode scanners that are designed to read such barcodes.

Features of DPM barcode scanners
Direct part marks are 2D or 3D barcodes marked on substrates such as metal, plastic, rubber or glass. Different methods such as dot peen, laser or chemical etching, molding, and casting are used for marking them. There is low contrast between the symbol and the product surface, so it is challenging for regular barcode scanners to read them. DPM barcode scanners have special features that allow them to efficiently read those marks. They read the barcodes by determining the height of lines.

Image-based barcode reading
The most important feature of DPM barcode scanners is advanced digital imaging technology. DPM scanners use special lighting techniques to read the low-contrast barcodes. They provide a uniform illumination on the barcode through specific low-angle lighting and quadrant control features.

A DPM barcode scanner contains a high resolution image sensor that captures the image of the barcode. It can capture low and high contrast marks on any surface including reflective, irregular and curved ones. They have the ability to read even wrinkled marks on the products.

More durable
Direct part marking identification requires rugged and self-contained scanners that can read codes on a wide range of surfaces. As they are image-based scanners, they do not have any moving parts. They are less likely to fail because of damage and are shock-resistant. They are designed in such a way that they can withstand harsh environments. So DPM scanners are more durable and preferred mostly for manufacturing and warehouse applications.

Reads all types of codes
DPM barcode scanners are generally used for reading engraved 2D and 3D barcodes. However, they can also read linear barcodes printed on different types of barcode labels. You can therefore choose DPM barcode scanners when you deal with DPM as well as linear barcode applications in your business. This helps you to eliminate the need to purchase, maintain and support multiple devices for reading barcodes of various symbologies.

Easy to use
DPM barcode scanners are available in corded and cordless versions. They possess omni-directional functionality and can read marks on products aligned at any angle or direction. Hence, they are easy to use and reduce your time and effort in aligning the barcode properly. You do not need any specific training to handle them. Thus, DPM scanners help you to save your money and time that in turn improves productivity and throughput.

As discussed above, DPM barcodes are developed to avoid damage to barcodes due to high temperatures and chemical solvents. With advanced features like image-based scanning and high durability, DPM scanners are the most suitable for manufacturing, warehousing or other industries where environments are harsh.

Barcodescannersstore.com has been in the barcode scanners business since 1994 and proudly serves a nationwide customer base of more than 13,000 customers. Our dedication and focus on only barcode scanners makes us the experts in various types of barcode readers, applications and scanning technologies. We stock a wide range of symbol scanners and symbol barcode products.

Barcode scanners are important tools which ease business processes in manufacturing, education, healthcare, warehousing and many other fields. Here is a description of barcode scanners that use different technologies.

What is a barcode?
A barcode is an optical machine-readable data containing a series of black bars and white spaces of varied widths. The main aim of using a barcode is to quickly and accurately access information through the code by an automated system. The devices that read data present on barcodes are called barcode scanners.

How does a barcode scanner work?
A barcode scanner consists of an illumination source, sensor, and decoder. An illumination source is used to illuminate the bars and spaces on the barcode. The black bars absorb light from the source and white spaces reflect it. The sensor detects the reflected light from the barcode and generates a signal of varied voltage that represents the intensity of reflection. A decoder with specific software decodes the signal into a readable text that is displayed on the monitor. Data collected in this way is stored and managed by specific databases. Let us look at barcode scanners and their different scanning technologies.

Different types of scanning technologies
Barcode scanners use different scanning technologies such as laser and imaging technologies. The following are various types of barcode scanners.

Pen-type scanners
They are also called as wand scanners and are suitable for low-volume and desktop applications. They contain a photodiode that is placed next to a light source. When the scanner is swiped across the barcode in a steady motion, the photodiode measures the intensity of the reflected light. Since they are manually swiped, wand scanners are not limited by the width of the barcode. One needs to ensure that they are swiped at constant rate of speed at a particular angle. Pen-type scanners are inexpensive, small, and highly durable.

Laser barcode scanners
A laser beam is used as a light source for capturing barcode information. They contain an oscillating mirror or a rotating prism which moves the laser beam back and forth across the barcode. Laser barcode scanners are very precise and accurate. They can read barcodes from greater distances also. They are used mostly in places where barcodes need bright light for reading. They are suitable for applications requiring long range or high density scanning.

Omni-directional barcode scanners
The name itself suggests that these scanners can read barcodes in any direction. They mostly use laser beams as a light source. A set of fixed mirrors and a rotating mirror present in omni-directional barcode scanners generate patterns of laser beams. Like laser scanners, they can also read data from greater distances. They have high efficiency and hence can even read poorly printed, torn, or wrinkled barcodes.

As they read barcodes on items irrespective of their orientation, they enhance the speed of scanning process. They are ideal for reading barcodes a few inches away for retail purposes and also for reading distant barcodes like those on industrial conveyors.

CCD scanners
CCD (Charged Coupled Device) scanners, also called as linear image scanners, measure the intensity of light by a series of tiny light sensors. Hundreds of sensors arranged in a row develop a voltage pattern that is identical to the pattern in the barcode. CCD scanners measure the emitted ambient light and hence are different from laser scanners. They are suitable for applications in retail, distribution, inventory and shipping. As they do not have any moving parts like rotating mirrors, they are more durable than laser scanners.

2D scanners
2D scanners use a small camera for capturing an image of the barcode. Advanced digital image processing techniques are used to decode the barcode from the image. The advantage of using 2D scanners is that they can read barcodes moving at faster rates and can be used for industrial conveyor scanning. They can read 1D or 2D barcodes omni-directionally and some can also capture images of damaged packages or signatures.

Choose the barcode scanner based on the type of application, type of barcode, and the environment in which you use it. Remember, selection of a right scanner helps you in improving the efficiency of your business.

Barcodescannersstore.com has been in the barcode scanners business since 1994 and proudly serves a nationwide customer base of more than 13,000 customers. Our dedication and focus on only barcode scanners makes us the experts in various types of barcode readers, applications and scanning technologies. We stock a wide range of symbol scanners and symbol barcode products.

History of barcodes
The origin of barcode systems dates back to 1932. Since then, many changes have taken place that have shaped the systems that are used currently.

Initial stages
The concept of barcodes was first started by Wallace Flint in 1932. He invented an automated checkout system for a grocery store using punched cards, which were placed in a reader. Inventory records were updated with this system.

Later in 1948, Bernard Silver along with his friend Norman Joseph Woodland researched a method that can automatically read product information. An ultraviolet light sensitive ink was used, which made patterns of ink that would glow under ultraviolet light. However, the method failed due to instability and expensive printing patterns.

In 1949, a patent was filed by them, titled as “Classifying Apparatus and Method.” A symbol made up of series of concentric circles was used by them. However, a description was given on the symbology of the current linear barcodes.

Following stages
In 1967, David J. Collins founded Computer Identics Corporation and developed a black and white barcode system read by a laser beam. This system was used for distribution, production, shipping, sorting, and other applications.

Later in 1967, one of the first scanning systems was installed by Radio Corporation of America (RCA) which used “bull’s eye” barcode symbols.

John F. Keidel invented the first commercially successful barcode reading system in 1969. The Universal Grocery Products Identification Code or UGPIC was developed in 1970. In 1970, barcodes were used for retail trade for the first time by Monarch Marking. The system was applied for industrial use for the first time by Plessey Telecommunications.

In the 1970′s, the US Supermarket Ad Hoc Committee of Uniform Grocery Product Code was established by The National Association of Food Chains (NAFC) which formulated a standardized 12-digit code. In 1973, the UGPIC was turned to Uniform Product Code (UPC) by George J. Laurer.

The first UPC barcode scanner was made in 1974 by NCR Corp. and was installed at Marsh’s supermarket in Troy. Wrigley’s chewing gum was the first product that was scanned by barcode scanner in the supermarket.

Today’s barcode systems
After undergoing many changes, the present day barcodes evolved as the most effective tools of business productivity. Today, barcode systems are available in many shapes and sizes fulfilling various needs of different businesses. The system primarily consists of four components. They are listed below.

Barcode Printer:
A barcode printer is used to print barcode labels. Desktop and wireless barcode printers are available these days. Thermal transfer and direct thermal technologies are commonly used by barcode printers. When compared to conventional printers, these printers print labels faster, more efficiently, and with better print quality. Choosing the right type of barcode printer to use is based mainly on the type of label to be printed and the amount printed per day.

Barcode Label:
Barcode labels are nothing but tags on which the barcode is printed using a barcode printer. Labels are attached to the products or items which are read by scanners. The barcode label layout varies depending on the industry and application. Any combination of text, graphics, and barcode information can be printed on a barcode label. Barcode labels are available in a wide variety of materials that can work in virtually any environment.

Barcode Scanners:
Devices which are used to read barcodes are called barcode scanners. They help in reading the information accurately and reducing the rate of errors. Barcode scanners use a variety of scanning technologies such as laser, CCD, and 2D. Deciding which barcode scanner to use depends on the type of barcode symbology and the environment in which it will be used.

Database:
The process of the barcode system is not complete just by reading the barcode. The information regarding the product such as its description, price, inventory quantity, and accounting must be first stored in a database. Scanning the barcode simply accesses that information in the database. Unless a 2D barcode is used, which can store so much information that it becomes a mini-database for the item it’s marking.

From a humble beginning in early 1930’s, barcode systems gradually improved and today they are the life blood for many industries. The rise of advanced technologies led to the development of 2D barcode systems, which are catering to every need of today’s businesses.

For over 20 years, System ID has provided automation solutions and barcoding equipment to a wide range of large and small companies in virtually every industry sector. System ID offers more than 10,000 brand name products and services such as barcode printer and barcode scanner.

2D barcodes store more data
1D or linear barcodes represent data in black vertical lines. Two-dimensional (2D) barcodes are represented in different patterns such as squares, dots, hexagons and other geometric patterns. A 2D barcode can store a significantly greater amount of data compared to a 1D barcode. A single 2D barcode, the size of a large postage stamp, can store thousands of alphanumeric characters. This feature makes them more advantageous than 1D. 2D barcodes can also be easily and accurately read.

Ability to read:
Barcode scanners are classified into two types – 1D and 2D barcode scanners. The first thing you need to know is that a 1D scanner cannot scan 2D barcodes, but 2D scanners can scan both 1D and 2D barcodes. Among the 2D barcodes currently in use, the most popular symbologies are Aztec, PDF417, Intelligent Mail, Data Matrix, QR Code and MaxiCode. A 2D barcode scanner can read all these barcode symbologies along with linear barcodes, such as Code 128, UPC, EAN, and Code 39.

Aztec: In Aztec barcodes, data is encoded into a two-dimensional pictogram in concentric square rings around the bulls-eye pattern. Aztec barcodes can hold data up to 1914 bytes and don’t require any quiet zone outside the bounds of the symbol.

PDF417: Today, PDF417 is used in a wide variety of applications, including logistics & transportation, retailing, healthcare, government, identification, and manufacturing.

Intelligent Mail: It is used by domestic mail delivery in the United States. Apart from greater information and functionality, its other benefits include improved deliverability, new services and increased overall efficiency.

Data Matrix: The most popular application for Data Matrix is marking small items, as it can store thousands of characters within a very small space. Data Matrix resists printing defects and has a high degree of redundancy.

QR Code: Quick Response (QR) is one of the most popular 2D barcodes. Although initially used for tracking parts in vehicle manufacturing, today they are used in a much broader context. QR codes can be seen on everything from magazine articles, product labels, billboards, and gravestones.

MaxiCode: It is a public domain, machine-readable symbol system originally created and used by United Parcel Service and is most suitable for tracking and managing the shipment of packages.

Code 128: It is a very high-density barcode symbology. Its special version, GS1-128 is used extensively in shipping and packaging industries throughout the world.

UPC: This is widely used in US and Canada for tracking trade items in stores.

EAN: The European Article Number (EAN) was developed as a superset of UPC. It is generally used on magazines and periodicals.

Code 39: Code 39 is widely used and can be decoded with virtually any barcode reader.

Ability to read omnidirectionally
2D barcode scanners have an added capability of reading barcodes omnidirectionally. Unlike a 1D scanner that must have its scan line aligned perpendicularly to the barcode, a 2D scanner can read barcodes from any angle. They capture the whole image of the object to be identified, thus avoiding any alignment constraint between the scanner and the barcode to be read.
This improves productivity and efficiency in any application.

More faster and reliable
Data entry with 2D barcodes is much faster so you can process forms faster and more accurately compared to 1D. 2D barcodes offer excellent reliability and error correction capabilities. Unlike 1D barcodes, 2D barcodes can have error correction formulas, so the data can still be retrieved even if the barcode is poorly printed. 2D barcode scanners can also read barcodes that are damaged by rugged or harsh conditions.

The above mentioned advantages clearly state that 2D barcodes represent one of the biggest advances in automated data collection market. Although 2D barcode scanners were far more expensive than 1D scanners when they were introduced, the recent microprocessor developments have brought the cost of 2D scanners down significantly. With advancing decoding algorithms, they made scanning quicker and easier along with greater readability of excessively-damaged barcodes.

Barcodescannersstore.com has been in the barcode scanners business since 1994 and proudly serves a nationwide customer base of more than 13,000 customers. Our dedication and focus on only barcode scanners makes us the experts in various types of barcode readers, applications and scanning technologies. We stock a wide range of symbol scanners and symbol barcode products.

Barcodes provide many advantages such as accuracy, ease of use, timely feedback and improved productivity. Because of this, almost every industry is using this technology today, which includes but not limited to:
• Manufacturing – picking, packing, assembly, shipping and receiving
• Warehousing – making inventory tracking easier, faster, and accurate
• Retailing – point of sale, price check, inventory control, anti-counterfeiting
• Education – library book tracking, time and attendance, asset control
• Healthcare – bedside medication administration, pharmacy, labs, asset control

Applications
The transportation and logistics industry is fast paced and involves complicated tasks that require 100 percent accuracy, while maintaining costs. Therefore, it is very important to employ the most sophisticated technology to be successful. Barcode technology is extensively used in this sector because of its ability to eliminate human errors and expedite the work flow process.

Tracking and safety
In the transportation/logistics sector, tracking and safety of the products is as important as successfully delivering them on time. Perfect asset management is very important in transportation and logistics industry. Barcodes are used at the various points of the flow of goods right from the point of origin to the point of consumption – and even if it comes back for support.

Each and every time the product switches hands, vital information such as sender, receiver, product details, etc. must be recorded. Recording these details manually has low efficiency and is more prone to human error. Using barcode technology can be very helpful as it quickly and accurately records all the details at every check point.

Advanced data capture
Fixed mount barcode scanners capture the information on a barcode on the pallet or carton through the transportation process. As human intervention is eliminated in this process, errors are reduced and processes go faster. Barcode scanners help in collecting detailed information easily and save it for later analysis. Barcode technology makes it very cost efficient to capture information at any point.

Load planning
All the crucial information such as order number, items packed, final destination, etc. can be encoded in barcodes, which makes it easy for load management. This technology helps to verify loads and to handle seamless load sequencing. It also helps in order planning and picking those loads.

Routing and scheduling activities
A typical transport procedure starts from the provider (or manufacturer), transport company, distributor, retailer, and ends with the customer. Planning the routes and scheduling the activities is very important to make sure that the items reach the correct destination on time. Using the traditional bills consumes a lot of time, effort, cost, and, of course, is prone to errors. That may prove costly if the product lands in a wrong place. Barcode usage provides a better solution – all the bill information is encoded into a single barcode. By scanning the barcode during the bill recording provides fast and accurate details assisting in proper planning and scheduling.

Barcode technology is used in every application in the transportation and logistics industry, such as load management, route planning and scheduling activities. The businesses or companies in this sector cannot afford to ignore it.

For over 20 years, System ID has provided automation solutions and barcoding equipment to a wide range of large and small companies in virtually every industry sector. System ID offers more than 10,000 brand name products and services such as zebra printers and barcode scanners.

The most popular barcode scanners utilize laser barcode scanning technology. A laser barcode scanner is 50 times faster and 10,000 times more accurate when compared to manual data entry. They use a laser beam instead of a light source to capture information in the barcodes. So, they have increased data retrieval and processing speed. A laser barcode scanner can perform up to 500 scans per second. Laser barcode scanners are more convenient to use as they come in both handheld and fixed mount configurations.

1. Types in terms of read range
A laser barcode scanner need not be in contact or very close to the barcode to retrieve information. Depending on the model, they can read a barcode which is several feet away. They can be classified based on their read range into three types. There are standard barcode scanners, long-range barcode scanners and extra long-range barcode scanners.

Standard barcode scanners
Standard-range laser barcode scanners scan barcodes which are fairly close. A barcode that is 6 to 24 inches away can be read by a standard-range laser barcode scanner. They are generally used in department stores or retail outlets as point of sale equipment to perform mass scanning.

Long-range barcode scanners
Long-range laser barcode scanners are used to scan barcodes which are placed at long distances. A long-range laser barcode scanner can read a barcode that is 2 to 8 feet away from the scanner. They can read barcodes at varying distances. They are mainly used in small warehouses, manufacturing plants, etc.

Extra long-range barcode scanners
Extra long-range laser barcode scanners are very efficient barcode scanners. They can even scan barcodes which are placed at a distance of 30 feet. They are highly durable and can withstand harsh environments in warehouses. This type of extra long-range laser barcode scanners are ideal for work-in-process, in transit visibility applications, and warehouse management.

2. Other benefits
Generally, barcode scanners can read barcodes which are just few inches away. As mentioned above, today’s several kinds of laser scanners can read barcodes which are at longer distances. It is one of the main reasons why more and more people are using laser barcode scanners. Apart from this, there are many other reasons why people choose laser barcode scanners such as:

Reads better than other type of scanners
Laser barcode scanners are highly efficient when compared to other type of scanners. They produce bright and sharp laser beams to ensure preciseness and greater accuracy in reading barcodes. Laser scanners can read barcodes even in bright light.

Long range or high density scanning
The major advantage of laser barcode scanners is that they can read barcodes which are placed several feet away. Because of more powerful light emission, they can be used to read even a barcode which is 30 feet away. They offer high density scanning which helps in scanning even very small barcodes on electronic components accurately.

Most helpful in the industries
Laser barcode scanners are very helpful in the industries because of their ability to withstand harsh environments. They can scan many barcodes within few milliseconds. Laser barcode scanners are used almost in all industries including manufacturing, healthcare, retailing, libraries, warehouses, education, cargo and shipping businesses.

There are numerous benefits of laser barcode scanners as mentioned above. You should be aware of their types and benefits to choose a right one for your business. The right barcode scanner is essential for better inventory management and customer service.

Barcodescannersstore.com has been in the barcode scanners business since 1994 and proudly serves a nationwide customer base of more than 13,000 customers. Our dedication and focus on only barcode scanners makes us the experts in various types of barcode readers, applications and scanning technologies. We stock a wide range of symbol scanners and symbol barcode products.

Barcode scanners are probably the most widely used tools today. They are being used in different industries including manufacturing, warehousing, education, healthcare, and field service. The high utility aspect and the popularity of the barcode scanners have resulted in the introduction of many varieties of barcode scanners.

Different varieties
Barcode scanner varieties are distinguished by their form factor and their scanning technologies. The main difference in form factors is the amount of operator manipulation required. There are wand or pen-style scanners, fixed-mount scanners, and handheld scanners. Handheld barcode scanners vary the most in available scanning technology. There are laser scanners, CCD scanners, which are also called linear imagers, 2D scanners, also called area imagers, and omnidirectional scanners. The scanning technology should be chosen based on the application and requirements.

Wand Barcode Scanners
Wand or pen-style barcode readers must be swiped over the barcode at a consistent rate of speed and at a particular angle. This makes them the least efficient scanner to use, but they are the least expensive. They are also small, extremely durable, and not limited by the width of the barcode.

Fixed-Mount Barcode Scanners
Fixed-mount barcode scanners read barcodes as they are passed in front of the scanner. They are widely used in work-in-progress applications and for high-speed sorting along conveyor systems. Smaller models are commonly used in laboratory, security identification, and kiosk applications. Most fixed mount barcode scanners have a laser scan engine, so they must be mounted at a specific angle and distance from the barcodes that will pass in front of them. Unlike other barcode scanners, most fixed-mount barcode scanners are typically integrated with other equipment and automation systems.

Linear Imager Barcode Scanners
Linear imager barcode scanners are also known as CCD scanners, CCD LR (long range) scanners, and full array imagers. The scanning technology they employ uses no moving parts, thus making the linear imager barcode scanners more durable than laser barcode scanners, but they do have a shorter reading distance of contact to two feet. Linear imagers are ideal for reading damaged or poorly printed barcodes and for reading barcodes under plastic film or covering.

Laser Barcode Scanners
Laser barcode scanners are the most popular scanning technology in the industry. The brightness and sharpness of laser scanners offer greater preciseness and visibility when targeting a barcode, especially in bright light. Laser barcode scanners are also available in several variations to meet the needs of special applications, such as long range or high density scanning.

Omnidirectional Barcode Scanners
Unlike handheld linear barcode scanners that must be lined up perpendicular to the barcode, omnidirectional barcode scanners can read a barcode no matter how it is orientated. Therefore, they speed up the scanning process and reduce user fatigue. Omnidirectional scanners are typically used in retail environments and are available in on-counter and in-counter models. On-counter models are good for applications with limited counter space, such as convenience stores. In-counter models are ideal in high-volume applications, such as grocery stores.

2D Barcode Scanners
2D barcode scanners can capture 2D barcodes as well as 1D, or linear, barcodes. They are gaining popularity because of their versatility and the future-proofing they offer as an investment. 2D barcode scanners use a combination of digital camera technology and software to capture barcodes. They read barcodes omnidirectionally, so the barcodes can be orientated in any direction. Some models can also capture digital images and signatures.

With such a wide variety of barcode scanners in the market, always make sure that you buy the right barcode scanner for your application. Different types of barcode scanners fit different working environments. Choose the barcode scanner based on your requirements and industry.

Barcodescannersstore.com has been in the barcode scanners business since 1994 and proudly serves a nationwide customer base of more than 13,000 customers. Our dedication and focus on only barcode scanners makes us the experts in various types of barcode readers, applications and scanning technologies. We stock a wide range of symbol scanners and symbol barcode products.

Advantages:
Using a barcode asset management system reduces human error and increases accuracy.
Immediate Access to Asset Location
A barcode asset management system can help organizations to effectively track and manage their assets. Once crucial information about the assets is stored in the database, it becomes easy to track assets by location, update the records, track further movement, and maintain service histories. As an asset management system provides capability to track asset by location, it becomes easier to find the present location of the asset quickly.

Provides High Level of Data Integrity
Implementing a barcode asset management system ensures a high level of data integrity as data loss due to human error is negligible. The data integrity and consistency is maintained as data from asset tags is electronically read by a barcode scanner. Unlike a manual system of asset management prone to human error, data loss, and data redundancy, the barcode asset management system ensures high data integrity as computer errors are much less.

Increases Efficiency
Organizations can experience improved business process efficiency achieved through faster and accurate data capture, automation of asset lifecycle process, and reduced human error. The barcode asset label applied to assets makes it easy to track the assets, know their location, and update the database, thereby increasing efficiency of asset lifecycle management.

Lowers Costs
A barcode asset management system helps to improve the efficiency of business processes, optimize asset performance, and integrate them effectively in the business process thereby reducing the operational costs. Efficient inventory tracking helps to reduce the excessive or obsolete inventory thereby saving carrying costs. Improved efficiency of asset management leads to greater return on investment on assets and more savings for organizations.

Deliver Goods Faster
The improved efficiency of business processes brought about by a barcode asset management system also produces better customer service by providing goods and services at faster rate. The barcode system ensures seamless integration with work processes thereby increasing the speed of delivery of goods and services.

Increases Accuracy
A barcode asset management system can capture and handle large volumes of data and store it in the database for future use. As the data is captured electronically, the accuracy of entire asset lifecycle management increases.

Inventory Visibility
Inventory visibility is necessary for better functioning of organizations and to reduce the operational costs of maintaining the inventory. A barcode asset management system helps to efficiently manage inventory allowing greater visibility into current stock level status and reduce inventory carrying costs. The inventory that is obsolete or excessive can be removed.

A barcode asset management systems help organizations leverage their assets and resources to achieve operational excellence, gain higher ROI, and increase their bottom line profits. Organizations can keep track of their assets for better resource utilization, productivity, maintenance, and extend asset life.

For over 20 years, System ID has provided automation solutions and barcoding equipment to a wide range of large and small companies in virtually every industry sector. System ID offers more than 10,000 brand name products and services such as barcode labels and barcode printers.

Barcode Reader Technologies:
Deciding on which barcode reader technology depends upon the type of barcode that will be scanned, the environment in which it will be used, and the connection type required (i.e. USB, serial, or keyboard).

Pen-Style Readers
Pen-style barcode readers, also called wand barcode readers, consist of a light source and a photodiode placed next to each other at the tip of the pen. As the pen is swiped across the barcode, the photodiode measures the intensity of light reflected from the surface. A waveform is generated that represents the exact widths of bars and spaces in the barcode. The dark color of bars absorbs light while the white spaces reflect light, thereby making a specific pattern of waveform. This voltage waveform is then converted by the pen-type reader to retrieve product information quickly. Because wand readers are manually swiped across the barcode, they are not limited by the width of the barcode. They do require the user to pass the wand over the barcode at a consistent rate of speed and at a particular angle. The pen-type readers are not the most efficient scanners, but they are small, extremely durable, and economical. Pen-style barcode readers are suited for low-volume and desktop applications.

Laser Scanners
Laser barcode scanners offer more precise readability of barcodes as a laser beam is employed instead of a light source. An oscillating mirror or a rotating prism is used to move the laser beam back and forth across the barcode. The brightness and sharpness of laser beam ensures preciseness and greater accuracy in reading barcodes. Laser scanners can read the barcodes from greater distances and are ideal for applications where barcodes need to be read in bright light.

CCD Readers
CCD (Charged Coupled Device) readers, also called linear imager barcode scanners, consist of a series of tiny light sensors that measure the intensity of light that is right in front of them. Linear imagers can effectively read barcodes from a few inches to several feet away. They are more robust and are designed to withstand harsh working conditions. Linear imagers are suited for use in various sectors like retail, distribution, shipping, receiving, and inventory.

Camera Based Readers
The latest in the barcode reader technology is the camera-based barcode readers or 2D imaging scanners. They utilize a small camera to take an image of the barcode and then process this image using advanced digital image processing techniques to decode the barcode. This reader forms an image using sensors arranged in hundreds of rows. 2D barcode scanners can even retrieve information from barcode labels that they are wrinkled or damaged. These scanners have capability to read barcodes moving at faster rates like cartons on a conveyor belt. 2D Barcode Scanners read barcodes omnidirectionally, so the barcodes can be orientated in any direction. Some 2D barcode scanners can also capture digital images and signatures.

Omnidirectional Barcode Scanners
Omnidirectional barcode scanners disperse laser beams in every direction making it possible to read the barcode from every possible angle. A rotating mirror and a set of fixed mirrors are used in omnidirectional barcode scanners to generate the pattern of laser beams. These scanners have higher barcode scanning capability with scan ranges varying between few inches to several feet. Omnidirectional barcode scanners can be put to use in retail environments where barcodes have to be read at a distance of few inches or in industries where barcodes have be read from a distance of few feet in harsh conditions. It can also read barcodes if they are torn, wrinkled, or damaged.

Cell Phone Cameras
Barcode scanning apps are now available for certain cell phones with cameras. Some 2D barcodes like QR and Data Matrix codes are optimized for scanning by cell phones. Although this technology is still in its nascent stage, it opens a wide range of opportunities for possible applications. At present, iPhone and a few phones using the Google Android platform have barcode scanning apps available for use. Most of these apps are designed as shopping tools. They use the barcode number to search a number of web sites, like Amazon and Google, to pull up product information, price comparisons, and customer reviews. Some will even utilize the GPS in the phone to locate the nearest store that has the item in stock. Cell phone barcode scanning can be put to various other uses like giving access to valid ticket holders at venues, personal finance, inventory reporting, asset tracking, shopping etc.

The barcode reader technology should be selected based on each business’ specific application. The barcode reader should be fast, easy to use, and durable enough to withstand the working conditions, whether it be in an office, retail store, factory, warehouse, or outside in a work yard or vehicle.

Barcodescannersstore.com has been in the barcode scanners business since 1994 and proudly serves a nationwide customer base of more than 13,000 customers. Our dedication and focus on only barcode scanners makes us the experts in various types of barcode readers, applications and scanning technologies. We stock a wide range of symbol scanners and symbol barcode products.

Linear Barcodes:
Linear or 1D barcodes consists of parallel black bars and white spaces that can represent any form of data. UPC, Code 128, and Code 39 are some of the common 1D symbologies presently used.

Stores data only in horizontal direction
The bars and spaces in linear barcodes are grouped together to represent a specific ASCII character or a numeric digit. As the linear barcodes contains only vertical bars and spaces, the data can be stored only in horizontal direction. Even while reading the data from linear barcodes only the width of the bars and spaces is considered. Thus, linear barcodes are also referred as one-dimensional barcodes.

Stores much less data
Linear or 1D barcodes store a smaller amount of data, usually up to 12 or 20 digits. The linear or 1D barcodes contain information, which when scanned is matched with relevant data stored in local or central database leading to retrieval of a large amount of information about the item scanned.

Cannot retrieve data when erased or damaged
One of the drawbacks of linear barcodes is that it is difficult to retrieve stored data when the barcode label is damaged or poorly printed. Addition of a single extra line at the start or end of barcode can impair the readability of the linear barcode. A small tear or drawing a line through the barcode parallel to bars can disturb the decoding algorithm that makes it difficult to retrieve or read data.

2D Barcodes:
Two-dimensional barcodes have more data representation capability and can contain more detailed information. 2D barcodes can be in a matrix or stacked format. Stacked-barcodes are like a set of linear barcodes literally stacked on top of each other. PDF417 is the best example of a stacked barcode. Matrix codes are made up of a pattern of cells that can be square, hexagonal, or circular in shape and are similar in appearance to checkerboards. Data Matrix and MaxiCode are two commonly used matrix barcodes.

Store data in horizontal and vertical direction
Two-dimensional barcodes have larger data storage capacity as the data is stored in both horizontal and vertical directions of the barcode. In contrast to the 12-20 characters that a typical linear barcode can store, 2D symbologies are able to encode up to several thousand characters of machine readable data.

Stores large data
The amount of data that can be stored in 2D barcodes can reach up to thousands of alphanumeric data. The 2D barcodes ensure faster data processing as it can act as a database itself storing all the necessary data. They can condense the information from numerous linear barcodes into a single 2D barcode thus saving considerable space. The need to have external database is eliminated as accurate information can be received from the product itself. By providing immediate access to large stored data, 2D barcodes can make business process faster, accurate, less costly, and reliable.

Easy to retrieve data when erased or damaged
Unlike 1D barcodes, 2D barcodes can have error correction formulas built into the symbol which allow data to be retrieved even if the barcode is damaged. In fact, a significant portion of the surface area can be damaged and the information will still be intact. For example, some 2D symbols can lose up to a third of its surface and still be decoded. The Error Correction Code (ECC) has ability to rebuild the data from sections of barcode that has been damaged and deliver consistent correct information. Also, 2D barcodes printed on hard surfaces exposed to rugged or harsh conditions can be easily read by 2D barcode scanners.

Both 1D and 2D barcodes ensure functional enhancement of business process, efficient automated data collection, and processing of large amounts of data with accuracy across any industry. There are a number of factors to consider, like symbology compliance to industry specific standards, amount and type of data to be encoded, etc., before deciding on which type of symbology to use.

For over 20 years, System ID has provided automation solutions and barcoding equipment to a wide range of large and small companies in virtually every industry sector. System ID offers more than 10,000 brand name products and services such as barcode labels and symbol barcode scanners.