Laser Barcode Scanner

A Laser Barcode Scanner uses a rapidly-moving laser to shine a particular frequency of light at the black and white bars of a barcode. The laser light is reflected off the barcode and read by a photo diode in the barcode scanner. The barcode scanner then interprets the reflection data and decodes it into useful data. To use a Laser Barcode Scanner, simply hold it near the barcode (read distances vary by model) and click the button or trigger. A Laser Barcode Scanner is suitable for almost any use, reads barcodes quickly and is very affordable.

CCD Barcode Scanner

A CCD Barcode Scanner works much like a Laser Barcode Scanner, but instead of shining a laser at the barcode, the CCD Barcode Scanner measures light reflected from a series of light-emitting diodes (LEDs). This technology is older and not as fast as a Laser Barcode Scanner, but usually costs less. Some CCD Barcode Scanner models can read 2D barcodes. To use a CCD Barcode Scanner, hold it near the barcode (read distances vary by model) and click the button or trigger.

Linear Imaging Barcode Scanner

A Linear Imaging Barcode Scanner works much like a camera, taking a picture of the barcode and then using software to collect the barcode data from the image. An Imaging Barcode Scanner is ideal for two-dimensional (2D) and PDF417 barcodes and generally read quickly.

Omni-Directional Barcode Scanner

An Omni-Directional Barcode Scanner (also known as a Projection Barcode Scanner) works just like a Laser Barcode Scanner with the addition of several mirrors and other reflective devices to transform one laser line into many, all at different angles. This allows fast reading of barcodes at any angle, making an Omni-Directional Barcode Scanner perfect for point of sale installations, such as at a grocery store.

2D Barcode Scanner

A 2D Barcode Scanner can interpret two-dimensional barcodes, which store data in two dimensions, rather than in just a series of black and white bars. 2D barcodes look like checkerboards or a series of traditional barcodes stacked atop one another. 2D Barcode Scanners use both CCD and Imaging technology to read barcodes.

PDF417 Barcode Scanner

A PDF417 Barcode Scanner is just like a 2D Barcode Scanner, but also includes the ability to read PDF417 barcodes, which are a specific type of 2D barcode. PDF417 Barcode Scanners use both CCD and Imaging technology to read barcodes.

USB Barcode Scanner

A USB Barcode Scanner uses the computer's USB (Universal Serial Bus) connection to transmit data from the barcode scanner to the computer. USB is a fast, easy-to-use connection which uses the computer's own power supply to power the barcode scanner. Through the use of a USB hub, many USB peripherals can be connected to the same computer at the same time.

PS2 Keyboard Wedge Barcode Scanner

A PS2 Keyboard Wedge Barcode Scanner connects to the keyboard port on a computer. When a barcode is scanned, the data appears on the screen just as though it had been entered via the keyboard. Keyboard Wedge Barcode Scanners come with a 'Y' connector which allows the keyboard and the scanner to be connected and used at the same time. This is a very simple and easy-to-install type of Barcode Scanner, but it does not allow any modification or re-ordering of the barcode's data before displaying it on the screen.

RS232 Serial Barcode Scanner

A RS232 Serial Barcode Scanner connects to the computer's serial port and sends its information to the screen or to any program. A Serial Barcode Scanner is more complex than a Keyboard Wedge Barcode Scanner, but much more versatile: barcode data can be edited, re-ordered or otherwise changed before it is displayed, allowing customization of applications collecting and using barcode data.

Wireless Barcode Scanner

A Wireless Barcode Scanner (also known as an RF Barcode Scanner or a Cordless Barcode Scanner) operate on wireless frequencies like a cordless phone. A Wireless Barcode Scanner transmits scanned data to a base station which is connected to the computer. The base station also doubles as a battery charger for the scanner. Wireless Barcode Scanner models vary by transmission range and by battery life, and are ideal for warehouses and retail stores.

Batch Barcode Scanner

A Batch Barcode Scanner work much like a Wireless Barcode Scanner: A base station is connected to a computer, while the scanner can move freely without wires. The difference is in transmission: A Batch Barcode Scanner scans barcodes and stores the data until it is returned to its cradle. A Batch Barcode Scanner is excellent for store inventory processes.

Bluetooth Barcode Scanner

A Bluetooth Barcode Scanner is very similar to a Wireless Barcode Scanner but uses Bluetooth technology to transmit its data. The Bluetooth interface has a shorter range than other wireless technologies but is found in many small devices such as cell phones and PDAs. This makes the Bluetooth Barcode Scanner flexible since it can interact with a much wider array of devices.

Handheld Barcode Scanner

A Handheld Barcode Scanner has a formed handle that allows comfortable use for long periods of time. Retail, Warehouse and other applications benefit the most from user comfort since employees must use the scanner daily. This is the most typical type of Barcode Scanner and can be found in many different styles and shapes.

Pen Barcode Scanner

A Pen Barcode Scanner (also known as a Wand Barcode Scanner) is the simplest type of barcode scanner. The tip of the Pen Barcode Scanner contains a light source and a photo diode. The pen is dragged across the barcode evenly and steadily and interprets the data. Since the tip must be in contact with the barcode and the motion steady, scans are not as quick as with a Laser or CCD Barcode Scanner. At the same time, the lack of moving parts means this type of scanner can withstand harsh conditions and can be made very small, making it good for portable devices.

Wearable Barcode Scanner

A Wearable Barcode Scanner fits on the hand or finger to provide ergonomic benefits to the user. Wearable Barcode Scanner models are usually wireless and can be found at sporting events and theatrical performances for scanning tickets, plus anywhere the user benefits from having two hands free without having to pick up the scanner to use it.

Fixed Mount Barcode Scanner

A Fixed Mount Barcode Scanner is installed at a predetermined position and used by dragging items over or past it. Grocery and Retail checkout lanes use fixed mount scanners to speed scanning of customer purchases: only the item must be moved, allowing users to move heavy objects without having to handle the scanner as well. A Fixed Mount Barcode Scanner is ideal for assembly lines or in shipping facilities - when items move past on a conveyor they are scanned automatically, without requiring a manual presence.