4 Advice to Choose a Barcode Scanner Distributor

Not all barcode scanners are alike. Choosing a barcode scanner for an enterprise application requires examining not only the technology used in the scanner, but also how that technology will serve your application.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website WCMI.

Below we&#;ve outlined four key decision areas for choosing a barcode scanner. While every application is different, these are some of the most important factors to keep in mind before purchasing the hardware.

1D, 2D, or Both?

Your chosen scanner must meet the scanning needs of your application. What type of barcodes do you need to scan? There are generally two classes &#; 1D or linear barcodes (like the traditional UPC retail code) or 2D codes that can hold significantly larger amounts of data. These include familiar codes like QR Code or Data Matrix.

2D barcodes require an imager-based scanner, while 1D codes can be read with either an imager or a laser scanner. If you are primarily reading UPC or &#;license-plate&#; style barcodes, then a laser scanner or linear imager scanner may suffice. If you are already scanning 2D codes, or may need to scan them in the future, then you&#;ll need an area imager.

Imagers also provide other benefits, including the ability to take photos and scan text. They also tend to be more durable.

You&#;ll also need to determine how far away from the barcode the scanner will be. Scanners have a finite read range that varies based on the model and the technology. This can range from a few centimeters up to several meters for long-range warehouse scanning. The scanner&#;s read range and the type and size of barcode mark will need to be considered in concert to make the best selection.

Ruggedness

When choosing a barcode scanner, you also have to take the environment into consideration. Select a scanner that is durable enough to operate reliably in your work environment.

In a warehouse or outdoor environment, you&#;ll want to use a scanner that has a sufficient drop rating and ingress protection (IP) rating. If the scanners will be exposed to a lot of dirt, moisture, splashing water, or chemicals, you&#;ll need even more durable hardware. There are also devices designed for specific environments like healthcare (where they must able to withstand sterilization and cleaning) or the oil/gas or chemical industries (where the devices may need to be rated for use in explosive environments).

While rugged scanners are more expensive, they more than make up for the added cost by operating reliably for many years in challenging environments.

Select a Comfortable Form Factor

Ergonomics can be just as important as durability when it comes to choosing a barcode scanner that will make employees more productive.

Barcode scanners come in a variety of form factors. It&#;s important to choose scanners that your employees will be comfortable using for an entire shift. In retail applications, the scanners should be light enough and designed to help prevent repetitive motion injuries. In the warehouse, workers should be able to comfortably carry the scanners and aim them at the barcodes they need to read without straining themselves.

In-counter or fixed-mount presentation scanners can be used for stationary scanning operations. If the application also requires additional data collection or data entry, then a handheld computer or tablet with a scanner may be the best option.

Can You Take It Where You Need It?

When it comes to handheld scanners, there are both corded and cordless models. Make sure you provide your employees with devices that will allow them the freedom to scan at the point of activity.

In retail environments, if employees will be scanning large items from a variety of angles, then a cordless scanner is the best option from both a productivity and ergonomic perspective. If the scanners are attached to point of sale terminals or computers without wireless support, you&#;ll need a corded device.

For mobile computers or cordless scanners, make sure the device offers enough battery life to last for an entire shift &#; otherwise the recharging process can eat into employee productivity.

Choosing a barcode scanner can be a complex process. By thoroughly evaluating your application needs, environment, and ergonomic considerations, you can quickly narrow down your choices and purchase the right hardware for your enterprise.

How to choose the best barcode scanner:

1. Consider Your Flooring
2. Think About Air Quality
3. What Are Your Lighting Conditions
4. Which Keyboard Do You Need
5. What Type of Barcodes Will You Be Scanning

Options Abound

Do you need some guidance on how to choose the best barcode scanner? Choosing the right barcode scanner for your warehouse can be a challenge. This is especially true with the wide range of handheld devices on the market today.

First thing&#;s first. Let&#;s review the many types of barcode scanners available. Once you understand the options of types and capabilities, you can narrow your search based on your specific needs.

[button link=&#;https://www.radley.com/hardware/#scanners&#; newwindow=&#;yes&#;] View Barcode Scanner Options[/button]

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Barcode Scanner Distributor.

Types of Barcode Scanners

Fixed Scanners

Commonly used in retail environments at point of sale, fixed barcode scanners are attached to a terminal and transmit data as a single barcode is scanned. These are also referred to as &#;tethered&#; scanners.

Portable Batch Scanners

Portable batch scanners store data which is later transferred to a host computer. They are battery-operated which allows for greater flexibility than a fixed scanner. Also, portable batch scanners contain an LCD monitor and keypad. This allows users to perform tasks from the device. Batch scanners come in hand-held, wearable and truck mounted styles.

Wireless Scanners

Wireless barcode scanners also store data in memory like batch scanners. But, they transmit their data to a back-end system in real-time. Wireless scanners provide the highest level of worker productivity. At the same time, it&#;s a great benefit to have instant access to your data. For instance, accurate information is always available when it comes to managing inventory. This is also helpful when performing asset tracking.

[button link=&#;https://www.radley.com/contact&#; newwindow=&#;yes&#;] Ask a Product Specialist[/button]

Five tips for how to choose the best barcode scanner

Consider Your Flooring

Did you know that drops are the leading cause of damage to mobile computers? So, the flooring in your warehouse is a top concern. Barcode scanners can be rugged or general purpose. Rugged devices can perform under harsh conditions. If you drop your mobile device, will it land on a soft surface like carpet or on a surface like concrete? Look for a handheld computer with a rugged classification if you have hard flooring.

Think About Air Quality

Is there a high level of dust in your warehouse? What about sawdust or other small particles?

If the answer is yes, make sure you look at the Ingress Protection (IP) rating of any model you consider. This is also the case if it&#;s possible that a handheld scanner could be dropped in water. To maximize the chances of your device surviving these elements, look for an IP rating of at least 68.

What Are Your Lighting Conditions

Do you work in a warehouse with low light levels or is your environment full of light? Lower brightness on your barcode scanner is suitable for a low light environment. But, you&#;ll need a higher brightness level if you plan to use the device in bright sunlight or a bright warehouse.

Whatever the lighting conditions in your warehouse, ask your vendor for a demo in those conditions. You&#;ll want to ensure that the scanner can read barcodes correctly in your environment.

What Are the Keyboard Needs of the User

If the employees are typing in numbers, find a barcode reader with a number key location that is ergonomic for them. If the user will often be wearing gloves when typing on the unit, you need one with larger keys. Consider anything else that may impact the size or location of keys for the device users.

What Type of Barcodes Will You Be Scanning

If you will be scanning barcodes, consider the code type and scanning distance. 2D imaging is appropriate for any type of barcode scanning. Linear barcode scan engines are appropriate only for 1D barcodes.

If you&#;ll need to scan from long range, look for a unit with Advanced Long Range or Extended Range capability. These scanners can read with either laser scanning or 2D barcode imaging from 45 to 50 feet away.

The question of  how to choose the best barcode scanner for your warehouse can be a daunting one. Consider the five items above, and you&#;ll be on your way to the right decision.

Contact a Radley product specialist today for advice on how to choose the best barcode scanner for your company. 

For more information, please visit Barcode Scanning Handheld Devices.