Barcode Scanners - 5 Top Tips You Need To Know Before Buying

Bar code scanners are not a new technology, but in the recent years they have really become economical, durable and accurate.

Here are five things you should know about buying a bar code scanner:

(1) What Type of Barcodes Will You Be Scanning?

There are several types of bar code systems in the world and before investing in a bar code scanner you should know what types of barcodes you will be scanning. If you are simply going to be printing and scanning the most basic type of barcode which is the one with the straight black vertical lines on a white background, those types of bar codes are called 1D barcodes.

1D barcodes are the most common bar code out there and they can be scanned with 1D barcode scanners which are relatively inexpensive. These barcode types utilize what is called a laser scanner to read them. Laser scanners are one of the most economical scanners on the market and if all you need to scan is 1D barcodes there is no sense in spending more money on more expensive models that also support 2D barcodes.

2D barcodes have small pixel dots that store much more information in the bar code compared to a 1D barcode, and they require an imager scanner to read them. Imager scanners are a bit more sophisticated than laser scanners and that is why they are typically more expensive. An imager scanner can usually read both 2D and 1D barcodes, but a laser scanner can only read a 1D barcode.

(2) Do You Need Portable Options?

Another thing to consider when selecting a bar code scanner is whether or not you will need a portable function built into it. Some scanners can be made totally portable by being completely wireless, while others are semi-portable being hand-held scanner attached with a wire to the computer system.

Semi-portable scanners are typically the most versatile because they can offer you the best of both worlds, giving you multiple options to scan items quickly at checkout. You can either bring the item to the scanner by scanning it underneath the scanner which sits mounted in a stationary scanning cradle, or you can pull the scanner out of the cradle and bring it up to the item being scanned - such as in the case of heavy items being left in a shopping cart which would be impossible to scan across the counter.

(3) How Rugged Do You Need?

Most scanners today are made to withstand the daily abuse the retail environment throws at them. They are durable and can last you a really long time even in the most hectic retail conditions.

However, some types of businesses require a bit more ruggedness when it comes to their scanners - such as for example when the general public is involved in the scanning, or the scanner could be dropped or hung by its cord etc.

If your type of business functions in very rugged conditions, you may want to consider upgrading to a rugged version of the scanner you're purchasing. Often times the extra few dollars invested in a rugged design could save you money in the future having to replace a scanner.

(4) What Type of Interface Will You Need?

Different scanners offer different input options. Find out what kind of input options your computer offers and which are the most efficient for your needs. Most scanners today will work with many standard interfaces such as USB, Bluetooth for wireless, serial ports and many others. However, you may need to specify your preferred interface option before ordering your scanner.

(5) What Software Will Run Your Scanner?

Another thing to consider is the type of Point of Sale software you'll be using to run your scanner. The scanner is simply just an input device so it is only as efficient and powerful as the software that uses it. If you are currently running an old outdated Point of Sale system or even a cash register, this might be the time to look into upgrading your software as well.