How do I use a bar code reader?

Monday, May 17, 2010

There is nothing in history that has revolutionized the retail industry more than bar code readers. In the past clerks in stores had to visually see a price stamped on their product, and physically punch the numbers into their register. Now a clerk simply pulls an item across a scanner and the price is entered into the register.

Not only do retail stores use bar code scanners, but many other businesses as well. There are several different types of scanners, the client using the one that best suits their needs.

A hand held scanner can be picked up and moved across the bar code to read it. The laser on the scanner reads the barcode and sends the information to the attached device.

A “fixed mount” scanner can be attached to a counter and items are pulled across it, or the reader can be placed horizontally and items are moved in front of it. At grocery stores many times the “fixed mount” scanner will have a built in scale for weighing produce. Another advantage of this type of barcode reader is it allows both hands to move the products across the scanner, shortening the amount of time it takes for check out.

The laser pen, or wand, is an older type of less used scanner device. The laser is on the point of the pen and can be run across the barcode, reading it frontwards or backwards. This reader is better for smaller areas where there isn’t enough room for the larger “fixed mount” scanners.

Whichever barcode reader devise is used, the many uses and convenience will make it well worth the investment.