Choose the equipment that suits your needs
There are many types of readers with specific features for different functions, so choosing the one that suits your needs will pay off more in the long run.
Your business needs must match your scanner's capabilities. If your small business has slow traffic, a wired barcode scanner will be the most economical option. If you need to read barcodes on the move, a wireless barcode scanner will be the right investment. If your business has a high volume of transactions, a desktop barcode scanner that can read many barcodes quickly is ideal.
Before we expand on this, let's explain the main differences between the most popular barcodes.
The most traditional barcodes you'll find on the labels of most products are called 1D codes, and are used to store alphanumeric information, whether it's a product's origin, an identification code, or an expiration date. To decipher these codes, scanners use laser light, which makes the process error-free and very fast.
You must have come across the famous QR codes by now, these are examples of two-dimensional barcodes that use geometric patterns like squares and hexagons to encode information. These codes are much more complex because they can hold many types of information, such as images, Internet URLs, or voice files. 2D readers use lasers to read 1D barcodes and imaging technology, allowing them to read more complex codes.
All barcode scanners can read 1D codes, but not all can read 2D codes, so if these are the barcodes you will be using in your business, you should make sure the scanner you choose can read both Types of.
Barcodes sometimes get crumpled, damaged, or appear on mobile phone screens, so you should choose a device that can easily read the information.
Another detail you should pay attention to before buying a barcode scanner is its connections. Most of them connect via a USB cable, so make sure it's compatible with your all-in-one POS system.
Another important detail to consider before buying a barcode scanner is its connections. The most common models connect to the computer via a USB cable. You can also find wireless scanners that connect via Bluetooth to compatible devices like tablets or smartphones. The two connection methods have their own advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, the cable restricts your scanning action, and on the other hand, there is a risk of running out of battery power.
You should make sure that handheld scanners are ergonomic and lightweight as they will be used many times throughout the day and shouldn't become a taxing task. On the other hand, if you decide to buy a desktop scanner, it is important to pay attention to the size it will occupy at your point of sale.
The points we've explored should be considered when choosing a barcode scanner for your business. Selecting the ideal equipment is critical to the uptime and agility of your business.
WANG