What are Barcodes?-Barcode Reader, Types of Barcode Scanners

A barcode is a machine-readable symbol consisting of black bars and white spaces. Barcode is a unique identifier that is assigned to each product at point-of-sale (POS). Barcodes are used in many industries including retail, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and food & beverage.

Barcodes are printed directly onto products, packaging, labels, etc., using a computerized printer. A barcode consists of the data characters and the encoding scheme. Data characters represent information about the item being scanned while the encoding scheme represents how the data characters are encoded

Barcode Reader

Barcode readers are input devices that are used to read barcodes and convert them into data. Barcode readers are commonly used in retail stores to track inventory and manage sales.

There are many different types of barcode scanners that can be used to read barcodes. Each type of scanner has its own advantages and disadvantages.

• Laser scanners are fast and have good resolution. However, they tend to be expensive and require a lot of maintenance.

• CCD readers are less expensive than laser scanners and have lower power consumption. However, they do not provide as high-quality scans as laser scanners.

• 2D scanners are the least expensive and easiest to use. They are also the slowest type of scanner.

Types of Barcode Scanners

Barcode readers can be either handheld or fixed mounted or wearable etc.

Handheld Barcode Scanner

A handheld barcode scanner is a device that reads data encoded on a label or product packaging using a laser beam. Handheld barcode readers are small and portable and great for scanning items while customers wait in line.

These scanners are small enough to fit in your pocket and are often used at checkout counters to scan items for inventory purposes. A handheld barcode scanner is useful for scanning products in bulk, such as grocery store shelves, warehouses, and retail stores.

Fixed Barcode Scanner

 A fixed barcode scanner is a larger version of a handheld barcode scanner. It is placed on a shelf or counter and scans labels or packages as they pass over it. Fixed barcode readers are commonly used in manufacturing facilities to track inventory.

Wearable Barcode Scanner

Wearable barcode scanners are similar to wristwatches. They are worn on the body and read data encoded on a label as it passes over them. Wristwatch-style barcode scanners are useful for tracking inventory in healthcare settings.

Barcode Printers

Barcode printers are devices that print out the same type of codes as barcode scanners. However, instead of reading the code, these printers create the code by printing dots onto paper. Barcode printers are useful for labeling products, packaging, and shipping boxes.