Bar code scanner

(Redirected from Scanner)

"Scanner" redirects here. For other uses, see Scanner (disambiguation).

A bar code scanner captures the image of a bar code using sensors.

Technologies

There are several technologies used for bar code scanners:

Laser bar code scanners use a single spot of light to sweep across the bar code in a linear fashion.
CCD bar code scanners use an LED array with thousands of light detectors; the entire bar code image is captured and then transmitted.^[1]

Fixed position bar code scanners are in a fixed position and read bar codes as they go by on a conveyor.

Countertop bar code scanners sit on a desk or countertop and are generally designed to detect the presence of nearby objects, turn on automatically, and capture the bar code.
In-counter bar code scanners are often used in grocery stores. The scanner is mounted below the surface of the counter and aims an interlocking laser beam pattern up through a glass faceplate.
Above-belt bar code scanners look down from above a conveyor and read bar codes on moving containers. They are often used for high-speed package sortation.
Fixed mount bar code scanners are intended for industrial applications to read bar codes on machinery, parts, or containers. They are generally built into very tough housings and are solidly mounted.^[2]

Handheld bar code scanners,such as wands, are portable and may be carried from place to place, as in a warehouse.

There are a number of scanner interfaces commonly used for bar code scanning:

Keyboard wedge bar code scanners attach to a computer through a keyboard.
Serial port / USB bar code scanners attach to a computer directly through a USB or serial port.
Short-range RF bar code scanners are wireless handheld scanners that use RF signals to communicate.
Portable batch bar code scanners are handheld scanners with a keyboard and display.
RF wireless systems use a private digital network to communicate.^[2]