What is a barcode scanner is a commonly asked question that we receive. Simply put, a barcode scanner – also known as a barcode reader – is able to read information on an item and pass it through a decoder to a computer where the information is stored. The information on the item is in a series of parallel black lines known as the barcode. The scanner gives out a beam of light which when it is passed over the barcode the information is recorded.
Barcode scanners are used extensively in shops, stores and supermarkets. Here they are often a handheld scanner where the shop assistant moves the scanner over the barcode, or it is stationary and the item is passed over the scanner. In shops barcode scanners are also known as POS (point of sale) scanners or price scanners. The price of each item is stored in the barcode. So when the goods are scanned at the checkout the price appears on the till.
The barcode scanner does more than just record prices. The information fed back to the central computer lets the shop or chain know the level of a particular stock. This is ideal as the information gives an up-to-date account of when stock is running low and what should be reordered. It is a very convenient way to stocktake.
There are several different types of barcode in common use. The cheapest is the pen scanner. The pen scanner has to physically touch the bar code to take a reading. With a slot scanner is used for some kinds of credit and debit cards. The card is slid through the slot and its barcode identifies the user. More commonly used in retail is the CCD barcode scanner. The CCD scanner takes several simultaneous readings to eliminate error.
An image barcode scanner can read a barcode up to nine inches away. It incorporates a small video camera. A laser scanner can read a barcode up to two feet away and can complete 500 scans a second to eliminate errors.