Barcode scanner - How to buy and use them
The retail industry is facing no small competition. Many shops with a variety of fields and goods are opening vigorously. With that situation, stores, factories as well as many distributors are looking for a barcode reader solution that can quickly collect information and support management as quickly as possible, from there. There are new plans to increase revenue for businesses.
That requires managers or store owners to find a solution for fast input of information between many bar code devices on the market. Below are your concerns about buying a barcode scanner as well as using it.
1. What is a barcode scanner?
With another name of a barcode reader, this machine has the function of reading information encoded in the form of barcodes. This barcode is printed on any product by the barcode printer. Inside the barcode contains information about the printed product. After scanning, the machine will transfer the information to the output device. Product information previously stored on the server via the printer will appear.
The process of moving from barcodes to information on the output device is not too complicated either. The machine will take advantage of reflection to convert information obtained from bar codes into electrical signals. Then send that signal to the information display device. Finally, the display device will convert that signal into information to the screen.
2. What is the scanning range of a barcode scanner?
A scanner has a typical reading range of about 30 to 60 centimeters. So they are a good solution for retail, wellness as well as inventory where items are in close range, like office supplies.
However, in environments that require longer reading distances such as warehouses, factory floors, docks, yards, and stations, long-range barcode guns are required. These barcode checkers can read up to more than 21 meters away. When you have the product on a shelf high out of reach, you won't have to create an obstacle or spend a lot of time scanning the barcode.
3. The sensitivity of a barcode reader
The sensitivity, or speed of a scanner, is a very common question from many businesses. Typically 1D barcode scanners provide this information on their configuration tables. And on average, the sensitivity of the 1D reader ranges from 100 to 400 scans/second.
In 2D barcode scanners, it will usually be in the number of scans per minute. This is just an approximate number set by manufacturers. And imager technology is always in the approximate range. So with a 2D reader, you can consult the video review before deciding to buy any device.
4. Classification of barcode scanners and their application
4.1. By reader technology
Pen-type Scanner: The device includes an LED light and a photodiode at its end. This is also the cheapest scanner among the types. However, you will need to scan the code at the appropriate speed to get results. So few companies currently manufacture such equipment. It is used in large retail stores and warehouses because of its portability.
Laser barcode scanner: This is the most common type of reader and is widely used in the retail sector. The principle of operation is similar to the pen-type but gives accurate results with a much longer reading range.
Charge Coupled Device (Charge Coupled Device): CCD scanner costs quite high, but in return gives you very accurate reading results. They are also known as LED scanners. Constructed with many row-ordered LEDs, you have a good light source for accurate illumination results. The POS point of sale is where you see them being popular. However, you need to hold the machine 1 to 3 inches ahead of the barcode, and they cannot read bar codes longer than the machine length.
Image barcode checkers (Imager or Camera-based scanner): They use imaging technology to capture barcodes, then analyze the code using digital decoding techniques. The advantage is that the machine can scan any 1D or 2D barcode in any position. Especially the ability to read 2D barcodes, which the above technologies cannot do.
Multi-beam / omnidirectional scanning technology: the device uses multiple straight or curved lines arranged in polygons to penetrate the shopping cart. That's why you see them in supermarket scanners like the Magellan 9300i. Another application is horizontal technology barcode scanners such as the Jade X7. These machines are usually very expensive but are also very durable and can also scan 2D codes.
4.2. Sort by connection port/interface
Based on the connection type, you can have a wireless and wired barcode reader. Wireless devices are best suited for industrial applications, warehouses, factories, where wired machines will restrict your movement. Harsh environments where the fishing line is susceptible to failure are also best for cordless scanners. If you come across heavy or bulky objects at the checkout, a wireless machine is also the wiser choice.
The wired machine is cheap, so it is suitable for retail stores where small items such as pharmacies, convenience supermarkets, distributors of consumer products, etc.
4.3. Classified by the working environment
If you look at this perspective, you have 4 types of scanners to choose from:
- Desktops: They have a table stand and are commonly found in retail stores, major supermarkets, and drugstores. The advantage is a large scanning field and fast scanning speed.
- Desk reader: The tabletop machine allows you to save space by placing the unit under the table. They are similar to desktops with fast scanning speeds, large scanning angles, and are used mostly in supermarkets.
- Industrial barcode readers: Machines for harsh environments such as warehouses, customs, and import and export. They are thick but not heavy in structure with high resistance to water, dust, and electromagnetic waves.
- Medical scanners: These devices have an ergonomic construction, a durable shell that is resistant to microbial agents and harmful substances. They function similarly to conventional handheld scanners.
5. Are barcode scanners durable?
To answer the question of whether a barcode scanner is durable or not, there are many factors you must look at. They determine how much impact the barcode checker device you buy can withstand.
The first is the drop parameter. Cheap barcode scanners give you low impact resistance. The more it withstands an impact from a great height, the more durable it is. This is the reason the barcode readers check out low collisions, ranging from 1.2 to 1.5m falls. Meanwhile, industrial scanners are more powerful, mostly from 1.8m to 2.4m.
The second is dust water resistance. This factor is usually expressed in terms of the IP rating. You can check out these indicators here. The higher the number, the greater the barcode reader's resistance to dust and water vapor.
Finally, there is ESD resistance. The higher the kV number, the less susceptible your bar code launcher will be affected by electromagnetic waves.
There are also other factors such as light, temperature. These indicators can be seen in the specification sheet of each device. The larger the temperature range, the higher the diversity of the working environment.
6. Are barcode readers new or do you sell old products?
At Radiant Global, all barcode scanning equipment is genuine imported from the manufacturer itself. So you can be assured of the real goods, the real price comes with a warranty as well as support from the company. We are committed not to sell old or disposed machines.
7. Compatibility of a barcode scanner
Most barcode readers can be connected to a computer and used in any operating system. Most of the software for sales will be integrated with the machine easily. The device usage will depend on the driver and connection port you use. Commonly used ports are USB, RS-232, and Keyboard Wedge. So most of you will find single-beam and multi-beam machines integrated through wired communication at major supermarkets, retail, and convenience stores.
In addition to the wired connection, some devices will let you connect wirelessly like WiFi or Bluetooth. And they are becoming more prevalent with the need to freely move and manage goods. Therefore, a wireless wifi barcode scanner is gradually more prevalent in pharmacies or new generation facilities. That is mostly because the devices used in it are not really big cash registers or computers anymore, but instead are tablets, mobile inventory machines. The wireless connection of the BlueTooth barcode reader allows multiple devices to be integrated into the system, thereby providing automation and enhanced productivity.
8. How much does the barcode scanner cost?
With this device, depending on the configuration and the store, the price may vary slightly. But the price of barcode readers is about as follows (the price is in Vietnamese dong):
- Datalogic models are priced from 1.4 million to 22 million dong.
- Zebra scanners range from 1.5 to 25 million dong.
- Denso barcode reader from 1.5 to 19 million.
- Barcode scanner Microscan products from 9 to 30 million.
- Champtek barcode scanners go from 2 to 12 million.
- AIDA barcode checkers go from 4 to 11 million.
- Honeywell barcode scanners range from 1.4 to 17 million dong.
9. A detailed barcode scanner buying guide?
1D or 2D readers: Choosing the checkout device comes from the type of barcode you work with. The 1D code is commonly used on retail products, pallet boxes, cartons, shipping containers, and many other applications. The 2D code is more complex for the forms of marketing, coupons, promotions, and internal management.
Wired or wireless: You need to operate away from the counter, the wired readers will affect your working. And vice versa, the wired devices will save money and quickly transfer information.
Handheld - desktop or tabletop: Supermarkets have a combination of handheld and desk scanners. The tabletop machines are suitable for large grocery stores. Retail stores, clothing stores, and warehouses only use fixed desktop scanners.
10. Details on how to use a barcode scanner
Check where the barcode is on the product. Most of them are located in the bottom left or right corner of the packaging of the goods or cardboard box. If the object is other objects such as the barcode of the container, it is located directly at the door and on the customs declaration.
Point the machine's reader at the barcode position - Keep the distance from minimum to maximum depending on the machine. In the case of desktop or stationary, put the barcode in front of the reader. If you are holding a CCD and Laser barcode shooter, make sure the barcodes fit within their scan line.
Pressing the button activates the scanning process with gun grip devices. With desktop and stationary machines, it scans itself. After hearing the beep, the reading is done.
Check the scanned information with the system. If there's something wrong, check the reader.
11. Is a cheap barcode scanner a good choice?
Many customers and businesses wonder about the problem of cheap barcode scanners. Many devices cost less than 1 million dong, but they are not durable and lack warranty and after-sales services. So you won't get any lasting benefits from them.
The second case is an old barcode scanner used, usually, the price will be very good. But they have the weakness of fast breakdown and fast shutdown because of being used for a long time. And you will have to pay the cost to repair those check devices. And the total amount will be more when you spend to buy a genuine device.
If you are wondering where to buy good equipment, then contact us - Radiant Global for advice, affordable prices, and a free product demo.
12. Can I use the barcode scanner with Excel?
You can absolutely use the barcode scanner for sales with Excel. However, it is not merely connecting the barcode reader to a computer that can be used. You need software that comes with a few tweaks to Excel so that each cell is a barcode.
13. Is the barcode reader defective? What should I do if I get an error?
Faulty barcode scanners are still a common problem. However, with completely new equipment there will be almost no damage. If there is a case where the machine fails while you are using it, do not take it apart by yourself, but check for software or hardware errors. Then contact us for assistance with repairing the barcode scanner.
14. What are the best barcode scanners?
In terms of general premises, then you can refer to the star suggestions for devices as follows:
- Cheap 1D scanner: Datalogic QW2100 or Zebra Symbol LS2208
- 2D Imager dedicated camera gear (handheld and hands-free switchable): Zebra DS9900 Series, Denso AT30Q
- Best Industrial Barcode Scanner: Honeywell Granit 1280i, Datalogic PBT9500 DPM Evo
- Multi-beam barcode reader: Zebra DS9208 Omnidirectional, Honeywell Genesis 7580g
- Laser barcode scanner: Quickscan QW2400
If you need advice, liquidation, or purchasing barcode equipment, you can contact us at this hotline 0903 803 810.
