5 Tips for How to Choose the Right Barcode Scanner

When it comes to selecting a barcode scanner, understanding your specific needs is critical. According to various experts, factors like operational environment, barcode types, and user comfort should guide your choice. Here are five essential tips to point you in the right direction when choosing the best barcode scanner for your business.

Understanding Your Environment

Consider Your Flooring

Flooring type plays a significant role in the longevity of your barcode scanner. Drops from various heights can lead to damage, and if your environment features hard surfaces like concrete, selecting a rugged scanner becomes essential. Choose devices that can withstand harsh impacts, especially if your operations involve frequent movement.

Evaluate Air Quality

Evaluate the dust levels and the potential for moisture in your working environment. High dust levels can clog scanners and impact performance. The Ingress Protection (IP) rating is crucial here; look for scanners with an IP rating of 68 or higher for maximum protection against dust and water.

Assess Your Lighting Conditions

Lighting can dramatically influence scanner performance. For low-light environments, opt for scanners designed to work optimally in such conditions. Conversely, if your operations are in brightly lit environments, a higher brightness scanner will perform better. Verify the scanner's performance under your actual lighting conditions to ensure reliability.

User Ergonomics

Evaluate the necessary keyboard layout for your users. If operators will often be wearing gloves or have specific ergonomic preferences, these factors will affect the type of scanner to choose. Consider devices with larger keys for enhanced usability.

Identify The Types Of Barcodes

Determine the various types of barcodes you will be scanning. If your applications involve scanning both 1D and 2D barcodes, it's best to select a scanner that can handle both formats. For long-distance scanning needs, seek out advanced technologies that offer extended range capabilities.

Choosing the right barcode scanner may seem daunting, but by taking these key considerations into account, you will be well on your way to making an informed decision.

Additional Considerations When Buying Barcode Scanners

Understanding what a barcode scanner is crucial. A barcode scanner, also referred to as a barcode reader, is an electronic device that captures and decodes information from barcodes. It includes several components: a light source, a lens, a photo conductor, and a decoder, all of which work together to retrieve and transmit the data encoded in the barcode.

The Most Common Types of Barcode Scanners

Handheld Scanners

Handheld scanners are widely used across multiple industries. They come in both corded and cordless formats and serve various functions efficiently.

Mobile Computers

Mobile computers integrate barcode scanning functionalities with computing capabilities, making them ideal for operations requiring real-time data management.

Pocket-Sized Scanners

Pocket-sized scanners offer convenience for quick scans and easy data pairing with mobile devices, making them versatile and user-friendly.

Conclusion

Overall, assessing your needs and the environment in which the barcode scanner will operate is crucial for making the right choice. Make sure to also consider the specific features of different scanner types to ensure functionality and reliability in your operations.