Types of Barcode Scanners

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

• 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