| A barcode scanner is an electronic device for reading | | | | are capable of reading longer and smaller density |
| barcodes. Most scanners contain decoder circuitry that | | | | barcodes as well as having increased scanning |
| analyzes the barcode's image data that is provided by | | | | distances, more so than the less expensive LED or |
| the sensor and sends the barcode's content back to | | | | CCD scanners. Most barcode scanners are easy to |
| the scanner's output port. Laser scanners are the | | | | install and easy to use. |
| most common type of barcode scanners. They are | | | | The Wasp WLS9500 laser barcode scanner is a top |
| easy to use, as they do not need to be in direct | | | | seller. It is very durable and offers many features not |
| contact with a barcode in order to read it. A standard | | | | available in other scanners. Its innovative design pretty |
| range laser scanner will be able to read a barcode | | | | much eliminates the need for end use training. It can |
| from approximately 6 to 24 inches away. A long | | | | scan all types of 1D (one dimensional) barcodes and |
| range barcode scanner will be able to read a barcode | | | | can even scan damaged symbols or stacked reduced |
| from approximately 2 to 8 feet away. There are | | | | space symbology (RSS) symbols. In tests, the scanner |
| some extra long range barcode scanners that will be | | | | continued to work even after repeatedly being |
| able to read a barcode from approximately 30 feet | | | | dropped from 6 feet onto cement. It also has an |
| away. | | | | optional hands free stand and is great for use in retail, |
| A decent laser scanner that is handheld will start at | | | | healthcare, light warehouse and pharmacies. It is priced |
| approximately one hundred fifty dollars. Some | | | | at approximately three hundred dollars. |
| scanners offer exceptional speed and precision and | | | | The Motorola Symbol LS 2208 laser barcode scanner |
| they are also quite durable. They offer outstanding | | | | will give you great performance at the affordable price |
| performance even in harsh environments. | | | | of approximately one hundred sixty dollars. It is a |
| Laser scanners consist of a laser and a photodiode (a | | | | lightweight scanner that assures maximum productivity. |
| type of detector that converts light into either voltage | | | | It is great for retail, healthcare and education (library) |
| or current) that are placed next to each other in the tip | | | | purposes. It is easy to use and has been tested to |
| of a wand. They have either a reciprocating mirror or | | | | withstand multiple 5 foot drops to concrete. |
| a rotating prism that scans the laser beam back and | | | | There are other laser scanners available like the |
| forth across the bar code. | | | | Honeywell Metrologic series and other models by both |
| Many industries use laser barcode scanners; retail | | | | Wasp and Motorola. It is wise to always check for |
| establishments, healthcare, laboratories, libraries, and | | | | warranties and do an online comparison of features so |
| they are used for document management, tracking | | | | you can be assured that you will purchase a scanner |
| parcels and mail and even for issuing tickets. These | | | | with every feature that you will need. Remember to |
| scanners offer preciseness and visibility as they can | | | | also check out online auction houses like Amazon and |
| read a barcode at any angle. Laser barcode scanners | | | | eBay, as you may be able to find a bargain. |