Sometimes referred to as form factors because of the housing or design of the device, barcode scanners are categorized in several types, which have features unique to specific environments, applications, and industries.

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

All scanners incorporate barcode scan engines to read linear (1D) or 2D barcodes.

Handheld

The most common type of scanner, handheld barcode scanners are extremely easy to use and perform a variety of functions.

They come in both corded and cordless (wireless) styles and are available with laser, linear imager, or 2D area imager scan engines.

Corded scanners work great for manufacturing, retail, groceries, warehouses, healthcare, and logistics.

Cordless scanners also work well in these environments, but excel in companies where flexibility is essential.

Buying Tip

Handheld scanners are the most popular type of barcode scanner and are great for companies new to barcoding.

Mobile computers

Mobile computers combine the functionality of a computer and a scanner into a single device. They come equipped with your choice of operating system (OS) and allow you to upload software applications.

Like barcode scanners, they come with either a 1D or a 2D scan engine, and they are great options for mobile workforces.

However, unlike scanners, mobile computers can store data on their hard drives, which makes them perfect for companies that need to instantly edit and share information across the enterprise.

Presentation

A presentation scanner is also known as an on-counter scanner because it is designed to sit on top of a counter for hands-free operations. Users simply scan items in front of it for easy reading. Presentation scanners are the only ones that can be 1D and omnidirectional.

In-Counter

A type of presentation scanner, an in-counter scanner sits inside a counter to facilitate easy scanning.

Fixed-Mount

Fixed-mount scanners read barcodes using sensors that are triggered when items pass in front of them. These scanners integrate with large automated systems and are usually found on conveyors in assembly lines and on vehicles such as forklifts.

Wearable

Wearable scanners are typically worn on the arm, hand, or finger to expedite processing of barcodes. They are particularly useful in environments where hands-free processing is required and voice picking technology is implemented.

Pocket-Sized

Also referred to as mini scanners, these cordless devices fit inside a pocket to facilitate quick scans and easy pairing with Bluetooth-enabled devices such as tablets and smartphones.

RFID

Fixed (stationary) RFID readers and handheld RFID-enabled scanners communicate with RFID tags using antennas and radio waves that send and receive signals from microchips stored in their tags.

Compare barcode scanner types

The table on the following page compares the barcode scanner types.

BARCODE SCANNER TYPES

Type

Description

Use

Ideal for

Handheld

• The most common type of barcode scanner
• Offers both corded and cordless (wireless) versions

• Extremely easy to use
• Uses a trigger to capture the image
• Stands are available for hands-free operations

CORDED

• Manufacturing
• Retail
• Grocery stores
• Warehouses
• Healthcare
• Logistics

CORDLESS (WIRELESS)

• Retail
• Warehouses
• Healthcare
• Manufacturing
• Logistics
• Field services

Mobile Computer

• Combines the functionality of computers and scanners into one handheld device
• Commonly confused with a wireless or cordless scanners, which typically only provide the ability to scan
• Enables users to efficiently work within and beyond four walls

• Provides more processing power than traditional barcode scanners
• Stores data into internal memory
• Enables real-time transmission of information via a wireless network (WAN)

• All organizations that desire true mobility for such tasks as managing inventory and tracking assets
• Field services and other mobile workforce personnel
• Companies using voice technology

Presentation

• Also known as an on-counter scanner because it is designed to sit on top of a counter
• Considered hands-free (stationary) because users do not have to hold these scanners
• Is the only 1D scanner that is omnidirectional

• Has a wide reading area that makes it easy to scan multiple items
• Does not require a trigger-the scanner automatically reads barcodes when an item is placed in front of it

• Retail
• Grocery stores

In-Counter

• Similar to presentation counters because they are stationary and have a wide reading area
• Allows users to easily scan multiple items
• Requires a professional installation

• Embedded into counters, rather than on top of them
• Automatically reads barcodes when an item is placed in front of it without having to pull a trigger

• Grocery stores
• Self-check lines in retail stores

Fixed-Mount

• Reads barcodes using sensors or controllers that are triggered when items pass in front of it
• Most have a laser scan engine that requires users to mount them at a specific angle and distance from the barcodes that will pass in front of them
• Designed to be integrated with large automated systems

• Typically used on a conveyor line or in a kiosk and are sometimes attached to a vehicle such as a forklift
• Available in multiple speeds to accommodate fast assembly lines
• Eliminates the need for human intervention
• Extremely durable and reliable

• Work-in-progress (WIP) environments such as manufacturers
• Organizations with high-speed sorting along conveyor systems, such as warehouses and logistics
• Laboratories (use small models)
• Kiosks and security ID apps
• Vehicles

Wearable

• Also known as a back-of-hand scanner
• Straps a small box with the laser barcode scanner to either the back of the hand or on a finger (like a ring)
• Keeps scanners conveniently close

• Allows users to more freely use their hands
• May have automatic scanning or be activated by a trigger so the scanner doesn't inadvertently scan the wrong barcode

• Environments such as warehouses where hands-free processing for tasks like picking products and carrying boxes is required
• Organizations using  voice-picking technology

Pocket-Sized

• Also known as a mini scanner
• Fits in your pocket
• Provides on-the-go convenience

• Enables you to wirelessly transmit data to your smart or tablet from up to 33 feet
• Fast, accurate scans of 1D barcodes
• Long battery life

•  Retail
• Office
• Healthcare
• Warehouse management
• Libraries and tool rooms

RFID

• Also known as a handheld RFID reader
• Can be used as a handheld or hands-free device

• Requires RFID tags and system
• Adjustable power levels for inadvertent RFID tag reads
• Withstands the rigors of everyday use, including drops
• Accurate and ultra-fast

• Asset management
• Retail POS
• Transportation & logistics
• Healthcare
• Pharmacy
• Library
• Government

11 Facts You Should Know Before Starting a Barcoding Solution

Barcode technologies are used to quickly identify items. As a provider of professional barcode SDKs, Dynamsoft has been involved in computer vision for more than ten years. In this post, we list 11 facts you should know to help you choose a barcoding solution.

We aim to make that selection process easier by highlighting some key considerations. We&#;ve also put together an ebook that helps software developers and IT managers understand the technologies behind barcoding and the steps necessary for enabling adoption and implementation.

DOWNLOAD THE FREE EBOOK

1. Where are Barcodes Used?

Barcodes are used in almost every industry including retail, education, entertainment, financial, government, healthcare, and manufacturing. Here are just some examples:

We have posted an article about some benefits achieved using barcodes in business. Read about the managers&#; experiences and how they were able to help their customers.

2. How do Barcodes Work?

A barcode encodes information into black and white bars and elements that can be read by a barcode scanner. Once a barcode is identified, the barcode API decodes it into binary digits like . After that, the system converts the binary digits into human-readable data according to standardized specifications, such as numbers, letters, and special characters. Data can be retrieved from a database and can show information such as price, origin, production date, and weight of each product.

Want more information on Benefits of Barcode Scanners? Feel free to contact us.

3. Choosing the Right Barcode Types

There is a lot to consider when choosing the right barcode to use. You should familiarize yourself with the various barcode types, their capabilities, and their requirements to ensure a proper barcode selection for your given scenario.

UPC-A, UPC-E, and EAN-13 barcodes are generally found on packaging for consumer goods. This includes items on the shelves of your local supermarket, as well as books, magazines, and newspapers. QR codes appear on the packaging to encode a link to a company website or online instructions for a product&#;s use.

Dynamsoft Barcode Reader supports all major 1D and 2D barcodes, and we are expanding the list constantly. You can review our Comprehensive Barcode Guide to learn more about which barcode types we support.

We also list some sets of comparisons of commonly confused barcodes:

If you&#;d like to compare other barcode types, check out our online barcode comparison tool.

4. Choosing the Right Barcode Scanner

Once you have decided which barcode type you are going to use, the next step is to choose the right scanner. There are two common barcode scanners: laser-based barcode scanners and 2D imagers.

Laser-based Barcode Scanners

Laser-based barcode scanners were invented to read linear barcodes and are simple and low-cost barcoding solutions for many industries, while still being reliable.

2D Imagers

With 2D barcodes becoming more prevalent, the market for 2D imaging scanners continues to grow. 2D imaging scanners use a camera and image processing techniques to decode barcodes. In the barcode world, smartphones can be classified as 2D imagers. They are now widely used as barcode readers, in particular for QR codes.

Depending on your needs, you will want to consider which hardware scanners work best for your application because each comes with its pros and cons.

5. Scanning Capabilities

At the heart of any barcode reader is the ability to efficiently scan barcodes, but not every barcode will be perfect. Consider whether your barcodes will be on shiny or reflective surfaces, will the barcode be distorted from condensation, will it be flat or curved, and at what orientation and angle will it be?

Barcode readers should be capable of reading perfect barcodes that are flat and have clear black and white edges. However, how will they perform with barcodes that are damaged or distorted?

There is a variety of commonly occurring damaged barcode scenarios that could be encountered. For example:

• Improper lighting
• Screen glow and reflection
• Blurriness
• Poor contrast
• Damage and distortion

Be sure to test your barcode reader SDK under these sub-optimal conditions. A good barcode reader app should be able to scan despite obstacles.

Try our free online demo to test how Dynamsoft Barcode Reader works with your specific barcodes.

6. Improve Barcode Recognition

Recognition Speed

Barcode reading speed and accuracy are desirable for maximizing efficiency and enhancing customer experiences. Retailers and warehouse managers need a barcode scanner that works quickly and accurately every time, and customers don&#;t want to be held up any longer than necessary.

To maximize performance, learn about how to improve barcode recognition speed with:

• Location
• Quiet zone
• Direction
• Rotation
• Smooth-zooming
• Multi-threading

Recognition Rates

What is the difference between recognition speed and recognition rate, you ask? Great question! Recognition speed has to do with how fast a barcode scanner is able to scan a barcode. Recognition rate is the number of barcodes recognized compared to the number of barcodes on the images.

Learn more about how to improve barcode recognition rates with image pre-processing.

7. Barcoding Solution with Different Development Environments

Whether someone is scanning with an iOS or Android device, and whether they have the latest operating system (OS) or an older version, platform support should be exhaustive to avoid alienating customers. 

The solution should be easy to integrate into your application. Dynamsoft Barcode Reader offers C, C++, .NET, and JavaScript, and 32-bit or 64-bit environments on Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android. It also supports commonly used programming languages including C#, VB.NET, Java, C++, Python, JavaScript, etc.

Determine all the possible barcodes your end-users will scan, and test each of them. This might include considering any industry and related regulation needs and requirements.

8. Integration to an Existing Web or Mobile Application

As modern technology developed along with a wide adoption of mobile devices, a new two-dimensional imaging scanner emerged. A webcam or a mobile with a camera can be easily converted to a barcode scanner. This allows for easy integration to an existing web or mobile application.

To learn more about implementing a barcode reader into a browser application with JavaScript, check out this tutorial video:

9. What about Open Source?

While it may be tempting to go with an open source barcode SDK, they have many hidden drawbacks. Although the initial cost appears to be cheaper, you have to factor in all the labor involved with problem-solving and configuring, de-bugging, figuring out compatibility issues, ongoing maintenance, and so on. In the long run, open source barcode SDKs tend to be much more costly and less effective. An analogy would be like running a business and handling all the accounting on your own, if that isn&#;t your specialty. It&#;s possible to do, but not advised. Instead, it&#;s better to trust an expert in that area.

It has taken us years to perfect our SDKs and our work is still ongoing. We&#;ve invested heavily in research and development &#; tweaking and debugging so that you can leverage our SDKs into your desktop, web, and mobile applications. This can save you months, or years, of development time and cost so you can get your application up and running today.

With just a few lines of code, Dynamsoft Barcode Reader SDK integrates into your solution today. Utilizing our experience and expertise will drastically reduce your development time and headaches. Plus, we offer technical support, security, updated versions, etc., which is not something you get with open source solutions.

Reading opinions in online forums, you will find that, most of the time, open source barcode SDKs only resulted in a waste of time. As one user put it:

&#;We are using a free library called ZXing but it has not performed as we would like. We have about 30 apps that we have built that we use internally and they all use this free lib and is manageable but not good enough for external apps.&#;

10. Customer Service

An often overlooked consideration is the need for prompt and reliable technical support. It&#;s all too common nowadays to send people to hunt through a knowledge base first, then sending an inquiry but only getting a response days or weeks later. Dynamsoft offers immediate technical support options, such as Chat or support at 1-877-605-.

11. More Than a Barcode Reader SDK

Flexibility and Versatility

To help customers achieve the best barcode readability, a good barcoding solution should offer a framework based on flexible scan settings. We touched on the importance of being able to customize the area on a page where a barcode reader should scan. In addition to zonal scan capabilities, a good SDK will also let developers set page numbers to scan. This includes allowing a single barcode scan per page or multi-code scans across single or multiple pages.

User Experience

Another often overlooked consideration when choosing a barcode reader SDK is how users will interact with the device. Some may point their cameras at an angle, which will skew the barcode, or the scan distance will vary. A reliable barcode SDK should be able to adapt and handle most of these scenarios.

A barcode scan is accomplished by using a video stream, so a good SDK algorithm will automatically select the best frame from many frames captured in a video stream. Or the SDK should have the flexibility to let app designers identify which frame to use, such as returning the one in the center, or returning the code with the highest confidence level.

Taking the Next Step

Ready to take the next step and see why many of the world&#;s best companies trust Dynamsoft? Please check out our Online Demo, sign up for a Free 30-day Trial, or speak to one of our Technical Support Members.

Online Demo of Barcode Scanner

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Are you interested in learning more about Scanning Equipment in Product and Pricing Management? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!