Barcode Devices

Electronic devices designed to read and decode barcodes, translating the visual pattern into data that can be processed by a computer system. They are essential for automated data entry and tracking.

Types of Barcode Devices

Barcode Scanners (Readers):

Handheld Scanners: Corded or cordless (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi), common in retail and warehousing.

Fixed Mount Scanners: Integrated into production lines, POS systems, or kiosks for automated scanning.

Presentation Scanners: Designed for hands-free scanning in retail.

Ring Scanners: Wearable for mobile workers, leaving hands free.

2D Imagers: Can read both 1D (linear) and 2D (QR codes, Data Matrix) barcodes.

Mobile Computers/PDAs with Barcode Scanners:

Rugged devices with integrated scanners, often running Android or Windows Mobile, for inventory, asset tracking, and field service.

Barcode Printers: 

Machines that print barcodes on labels, tags, or directly onto products.

Direct Thermal: Prints by heating thermal paper.

Thermal Transfer: Uses a ribbon to transfer ink onto various materials.

Applications in Various Industries:

Retail: Point-of-sale, inventory management, price checking.

Warehousing & Logistics: Inventory control, shipping/receiving, order fulfillment, asset tracking.

Manufacturing: Work-in-progress tracking, quality control, tool tracking.

Healthcare: Patient identification, medication tracking, lab sample management.

Library Systems: Book check-out/in.

Technology:

Laser scanning (for 1D), CCD (Charged-Coupled Device) and Imager technology (for 1D and 2D), sophisticated decoding algorithms, wireless communication (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi), ruggedization (IP ratings for dust/water resistance, drop specifications), ergonomic design, long battery life.

Material Selection Considerations

• Housing: Durable plastics (ABS, polycarbonate) for handheld devices, often with rubber overmolding for shock absorption. Aluminum or steel for fixed-mount industrial scanners.
• Scanning Window: Scratch-resistant glass (e.g., tempered glass, sapphire) or durable plastics.
• Keypads/Buttons: Durable elastomers or plastic, designed for high cycles.
• Internal Components: Standard electronic materials (PCBs, copper wiring, silicon chips).
• Sealing: Gaskets and seals for IP ratings in industrial environments.