A barcode scanner is an electronic device used in shopping malls, departmental stores, inventories to scan the barcode behind every product. These cordless phone-like devices scan the codes behind the products and obtain the information embedded in these codes. Barcode scanners find ample usage in all kinds of stores. They are also known as price scanners or point-of-sale (POS) scanners.
How Does It Work?
The working process of a barcode scanner is very simple. It is pointed towards the barcodes printed behind the products, with a beam of red light directed towards them. This is how the data incorporated within the barcodes are read by the scanner.
Types Of Barcode Scanners
There are several types of barcode scanners with different working processes and functions. The most common types of barcode scanners are –
- Slot Scanner – This is a stationary barcode scanner in which the product that has to be scanned is taken through the slot provided in the slot scanner. These are generally used for scanning cards.
- Pen Wand – The simplest and cheapest type of scanner, this is very easy to use. This has to be kept in direct contact with a barcode and moved at a certain pace and angle which will extract the data from the code.
- Laser Scanner – These can be both stationary and moving. These can read barcodes from a long distance.
- CCD Scanner – CCD Scanners are most commonly used in retail stores. They are pointed towards the barcodes from a minimum distance and moved slowly to obtain the information.
You are going to need this device if you have a departmental store or an inventory. Not only will it make your task easier but also help you save a lot of time.