FAQ
Q) What is a barcode?
Barcode stores data about a certain product, which data is machine-readable.
Q) Are all barcodes the same?
There are three generations of barcode, which can further be divided by the symbols and the system that they use.
Q) How can a barcode be read?
Barcode scanners, also called optical scanners or barcode readers, are used to read a barcode.
Q) How does a barcode scanner work?
All barcodes have an input device, most have a decoder and some have cable that connects them to a computer. The input device reads the barcode, while the decoder translates the data into plain text.
Q) What types of barcode scanners exist?
According to the methods that they use the barcode scanners are divided into pen-type readers, semi-automatic handheld readers, reader gates and fix-mount readers.
Q) Do the different barcode scanners use different technology?
According to the technology that they use, the types of barcode readers are: pen-type, laser scanners, CCD readers, omni-directional and camera based readers.
Q) How is a barcode scanner connected to a computer?
The older models use RS232 serial interface, while later model barcode scanners use keyboard wedges, USB connectors or wireless networks.
Q) What is a laser barcode scanner?
The laser barcode scanner uses laser beam, which reads the barcode quickly and without errors.
Q) Do barcode scanners use software?
Yes, the barcode scanner use software, which transforms the barcode data into text.
Q) Are the barcode scanners difficult to install?
The installation is pretty straightforward – connect the scanner to the computer, install the software and the barcode scanner is ready for use.
Q) Can I connect a barcode scanner to a laptop?
Connecting the scanner to a laptop is done in the same manner as connecting it to a computer.
Q) How far can the barcode scanners read from?
At the moment, the best laser barcode scanners can read a barcode from 30 inches away. Industrial scanners can read from even greater distance.
Q) How far can a wireless barcode scanner submit data to?
The top wireless barcode scanners can submit data to up to 160 feet.
Q) What is a 2D barcode scanner?
2D is an abbreviation for two-dimensional, which refers to the type of barcode that the scanner is capable of reading.
Q) What is an omni-directional barcode scanner?
These are the scanners, most commonly found in the supermarkets. They use pattern of laser beams, instead of a single-line laser beam and can read wrinkled or damaged barcode labels.
Q) How much does a barcode scanner cost?
The most sophisticated models sell for a few hundred dollars, while the most simple models cost less than one hundred dollars.