Everything you need to know about barcode scanning in one simple guide ...

What is a barcode scanner?

A barcode reader or scanner is an electronic device for reading printed barcodes. Like a flatbed scanner, it consists of a light source, a lens, and a light sensor that translates optical impulses into electrical ones. In addition, almost all barcode readers contain decoder circuitry that analyzes the barcode image data provided by the sensor and sends the barcode content to the scanner's output port.

Initial investigation

The first step in finding the right scanner is identifying your specific needs ...

1-In what environment will the scanner be used?
2-How often will it be used?
3-What kind of barcodes are you going to read?
4-Do you need the scanner to be wired or wireless?
5-What kind of barcodes do you need to read?

1D

If you are looking to read "conventional" 1D barcodes (these are the ones commonly found on most supermarket products you would buy), all you need is a 1D barcode scanner. 1D barcode scanners are capable of reading 1D barcodes ONLY. 1D barcodes typically contain a single line of information, such as a part number.

2D

If you are looking to scan 2D barcodes (these are the ones found on billboards or magazine articles, for example, and they look like a square maze) then you will need to look at 2D barcode scanners. 2D barcode scanners are capable of reading 1D and 2D barcodes. 2D barcodes are capable of containing multiple lines of information, such as someone's name, address, and phone numbers.

Barcode Scan Engines

One of the most important concerns when choosing a suitable scanner is the type of scan engine you have. This ultimately depends on the type of barcodes you will be reading and how aggressive you need the scanner to be. There are 3 main types of scan engines:

To be

This is the most popular type of scanner. It uses a red diode laser to read the reflectance of black and white spaces in a barcode. Laser scanners can only read standard linear bar codes (1D), but they are also the most cost-effective option. Standard laser scanners can read from a few inches to a foot or two away, depending on the size of the barcode. Lasers tend to be more accurate in terms of aiming, so if you have close barcodes this is a real bonus.

Linear imager

Linear image scanners are similar to lasers in that they only read 1D barcodes. But instead of reading the reflected light from the laser, they take a picture of the barcode. Then analyze this image to extract the information from the code. Linear imagers have become a very good replacement for the laser scanner as their reading ranges and costs have become similar. A linear imager also does a better job of reading badly printed or damaged code compared to lasers. For applications that need a more aggressive scanner, a linear imager will be ideal for the same cost.

2D imagers

Like linear images, full 2D images also capture an image for analysis. But compared to linear devices, these scanners can read any type of barcode. 1D, stacked and 2D barcodes are compatible with a 2D imager. Another advantage of these imagers is that the orientation of the barcode is not important when reading. With laser and line imaging, you must align the indicator horizontally across the barcode. A 2D camera takes a more detailed image and is smarter, so it can read code in either direction. This results in faster reads with less aim. 2D imagers can also read barcodes from any surface, including a PC monitor or phone screen.

Form factors

Once you know what type of scanner you'll need, the next big question is what form factor the scanner will have. Most of us are familiar with the basic gun-style and counter-top scanners in supermarket retail stores. There are 4 main form factors for scanners, each having advantages depending on your application and how you will use the scanner.

Handheld scanners are by far the most common form that scanners come in and they are very easy to operate. Just point the scanner at the barcode and pull the trigger. Most models will also offer a stand for hands-free operation. Handheld scanners are also available wirelessly to avoid cable clutter and increase your mobility.

Presentation scanners are designed to sit on a countertop and do not need to be picked up or held. These scanners are designed for hands-free operation and do not require activation to read. Similarly, instead of a single aimer like handheld scanners, presentation scanners have wide reading areas to reduce the need for pointing. You will find these types of scanners at retail checkouts as it is easy to scan many items quickly. Simply present the barcode in front of the scanner and it will read it automatically.