The barcode scanners facilitate easy inventories in commercial businesses. The newer models are wireless. Learn more about this wonderful technology.

Barcode scanners are electronic devices that reads unique codes imprinted on a special sticker. It basically is composed of a light source, light sensors and lens. The light sensor translates the optical impulses to the electrical ones. The machine has a decoder circuitry that analyzes the image data provided from the sensor. Data will then be sent to the scanner’s output port.

Each commercial item is given a unique code. It could be a combination of letters, numbers and/or other characters. This is then imprinted on special stickers or labels which the barcode scanner could read.

There are many types of barcode scanners available in the market today. It differs from how it works (method), the type of technology and the housing type. The methods of scanning are distinguished from the amount of manipulation that the operator has.

There is a pen type, semi-automatic handheld, fix-mount for automatic scanning and reader gates type for automatic scanning. The pen type scanners are used by swiping over the code to the pen. Semi-automatic handheld scanners are held very close to the label. In fix-mount scanners, the target must coincide with the scanner’s imaging capability. The label will be passed over the scanner. In the reader gates for automatic scanning, the code is under the gate for scanning purposes.

We could differentiate the three in further detail. The pen type scanners have light source and photodiode. In this type, there is a steady move of the tip of the pen to the bars. This is done in steady motion. The laser type functions the same as the pen type. The only difference is that the first one works with a laser beam.

CCD readers are often referred as LED scanners. This scanner uses light sensors. Camera Based Readers use 2D imaging. This uses small video camera to be able to capture the bar code image. Omni Directional Scanning use pattern of beams so the scanner can read barcodes.

The housing types of barcodes include handheld scanner, Pen Scanner, Stationary Scanner, Fixed position scanner, PDA Scanner and Automatic Reader.

The major role or use of barcode scanner is to capture the data in the printed material. The data is then transmitted to the computer system to translate this information and save it to a database. All scanners are compatible with different computers.

The wireless barcode scanner was recently introduced. This is the most modern innovation so far. It is more expensive since it is a fairly new product, yet very portable and handy to many businesses. It makes it easier to use without cords. It can be taken anywhere without limitations.

Stockrooms are usually very big and the ceilings are very high. The employees could easily bring this machine with them without having to drag a long uncoiled wire, or without thinking of where the nearest power outlet is.

There are also two types of wireless barcode scanners: the cordless and the Bluetooth. The cordless barcode scanners are just like the cordless phones. They function even without a wire. The Bluetooth barcode scanner is a different one. This type of scanner works by receiving frequencies on air. It could easily transfer data also in computers or any device with Bluetooth USB ports.

Wireless or traditional, these barcode scanners have revolutionized the operation system of many businesses. It made dealings, record keepings, inventories and sales more reliant and effective. It also greatly reduced cases of pilferage, theft or stealing.