Types of Barcode Scanners – A Detailed Guide - Triton Store

Barcode scanners are a vital component in the supply chain management process, streamlining operations and facilitating data capture. With technological advances, barcode scanners have become even more powerful, providing various features that can simplify the barcode scanning process.

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Today, numerous varieties of barcode scanners are available in the market, each with its own capabilities geared towards specific industries and business needs. Knowing about each type of barcode scanner and what makes them unique will help you choose the right one for your particular application. (Refer to our guide on how to choose a barcode scanner for more information)

So, to help you make an informed decision, we have listed down the main types of barcode scanners. We have categorized them based on various factors such as contact with barcodes, build quality, form factor and more. By the end of this guide, you will have a better idea of what each type of barcode scanner offers and which is best suited to your requirements.

So put on your learning caps and get ready to learn about the different types of barcode readers.

barcode scanner types

Type

Description

Use

Ideal for

Handheld 

 

 

 

• The most common type of barcode scanner

• Offers both corded and cordless (wireless) versions

• Extremely easy to use

• Uses a trigger to capture the image

• Stands are available for hands-free operations

CORDED

• Manufacturing

• Retail

• Grocery stores

• Warehouses

• Healthcare

• Logistics

CORDLESS (WIRELESS)

• Retail

• Warehouses

• Healthcare

• Manufacturing

• Logistics

• Field services

Mobile Computer

 

 

 

• Combines the functionality of PCs and scanners into one handheld device

• Commonly confused with a wireless or cordless scanners, which typically only provide the ability to scan

• Enables users to efficiently work within and beyond four walls

• Provides more processing power than traditional barcode scanners

• Stores data into internal memory

• Enables real-time transmission of information via a wireless network (WiFi or WLAN)

• All organizations that desire true mobility for such tasks as managing inventory and tracking assets

• Field services and other mobile workforce personnel

• Companies using voice technology

Tablet

 

 

 

• Considered a type of mobile computer

• Also known as a rugged tablet PC

• Similar to consumer versions except they are more rugged and durable

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• Includes Windows, Android, and iOS operating systems

• Environments where durability and ruggedness are desired for tablets and smart phones

Presentation 

 

 

 

• Also known as an on-counter scanner because it is designed to sit on top of a counter

• Considered stationary (or hands-free) because users do not hold these scanners

• Functions similarly to in-counter scanners

• Has a wide reading area that makes it easy to scan multiple items

• Does not require a trigger&#;the scanner automatically reads barcodes when an item is placed in front of it

• Retail

• Grocery stores

In-Counter 

 

 

 

• Similar to presentation counters because they are stationary and have a wide reading area

• Allows users to easily scan multiple items

• Requires a professional installation

• Embedded into counters, rather than on top of them

• Automatically reads barcodes when an item is placed in front of it without having to pull a trigger

• Grocery stores

• Self-check lines in retail environments

Fixed-Mount 

 

 

 

• Reads barcodes using sensors or controllers that are triggered when items pass in front of it

• Most have a laser scan engine that requires users to mount them at a specific angle and distance from the barcodes that will pass in front of them

• Designed to be integrated with large automated systems

• Typically used on a conveyor line or in a kiosk and are sometimes attached to a vehicle such as a forklift

• Available in multiple speeds to accommodate fast assembly lines

• Eliminates the need for human intervention

• Extremely durable and reliable

• Work-in-progress (WIP) environments such as manufacturers

• Organizations with high-speed sorting along conveyor systems, such as warehouses and logistics

• Laboratories (use small models)

• Kiosks

• Security identification apps

• Vehicles

Wearable 

 

 

 

• Also known as a back-of-hand scanner

• Straps a small box with the laser barcode scanner to either the back of the hand or on a finger (like a ring)

•  Keeps scanners conveniently close

• Allows users to more freely use their hands

• May have automatic scanning or be activated by a trigger so the scanner doesn&#;t inadvertently scan the wrong barcode

• Environments where voice technology is used

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