Types of Barcode Reader

A barcode reader (or barcode scanner) is an optical scanner that can read printed barcodes, decode the data therein, and communicate the information to a computer. It has a light source, a lens, and a light sensor for transforming optical impulses into electrical signals, just like a flat bed scanner. In addition, virtually all barcode readers have decoder circuitry that can analyze the picture data produced by the sensor and deliver the barcode's information to the scanner's output port.

Working on Barcode Reader

A white and black bar makes a bar code. When bar code scanners shine a light on a bar code, the reflected light is captured, and the black and white bars are replaced with binary digital signals. White areas have high reflections, whereas dark parts have faint reflections. To obtain analogue waveforms, a sensor receives reflections. The analogue signal is converted to a digital signal via an A/D converter. When a coding system is derived from the digital signal obtained, data extraction is enabled.

Types of Barcode Reader

Pen Wand

This is the simplest and most affordable type of barcode reader. It is sturdy and free from moving parts. To pick up the data, it mustre main in close contact with the barcode and be kept at a specific angle. It also has to travel at a specified pace over the barcode.

Slot Scanner

This is a stationary barcode scanner, and the object to be scanned is dragged through the barcode reader device's slot by hand. This sort of barcode reader is typically used to scan barcodes on identification card sand swiped cards. Bar codes on identity cards are commonly scanned by slot scanners.

CCD Scanner

A CCD scanner has a better read range than the pen wand and is widely used in retail transactions. A CCD scanner often has a"gun" interface and must be held no closer than one inch from the barcode. To limit the chance of mistakes, numerous readings are obtained each time the bar code is scanned.

Image Scanner

An image scanner, also known as a camera reader, captures a picture of the bar code with a tiny video camera and then decodes it using advanced digital image processing algorithms. It can read a bar code from a distance of 3 to 9 inches and is less expensive than a laser scanner.

Laser Scanner

To execute its work, a laser scanner, whether hand-held or fixed, does not need to be close to the bar code. It employs a system of mirrors and lenses to allow the scanner to read a bar code from any angle, and it can read a bar code from a distance of up to 24 inches. Laser scanning can run up to 500 scans per second to minimize the chance of mistakes. Long-range laser scanners can read a bar code from a distance of up to 30 feet.

• Last updated on Sep 29, 2022