10 Tips for How to Choose the Right Barcode Scanner

10 Tips for How to Choose the Right Barcode Scanner – Barcode scanners have become an essential tool for streamlining operations and maximizing efficiency in the current fast-paced and data-driven business environment. These tools are quite vital for many purposes from retail operations to warehouse management, So, special consideration should be given when choosing a barcode scanner. Following this blog we will explore the 10 Tips for How to Choose the Right Barcode Scanner.

Barcode scanners are a great piece of technology that is being used by many businesses across various industries. These electronic devices are used to decode and physically capture information contained in a barcode. Barcode scanners usually consist of three parts namely the illumination system, the sensor, and the decoder. In general, they “scan” the black and white elements of a barcode by illuminating the code with a red light, which is then converted into matching text. Then this converted text is delivered by the scanner to a computer software system with a database of the maker, cost, and quantity of the sold products.

 These scanners are very beneficial in many industrial or business functions, including inventory management, tracking, identifying products, streamlining checkout processes, and more. Due to all these benefits, they hold a quite huge market value. 

According to some recent industrial insights, the global barcode scanner market is expected to reach a value of US$ 14.88 billion by 2034 from US$ 7.91 billion in 2024 at a whopping CAGR of 6.52% during the forecast period.

10 Tips for How to Choose the Right Barcode Scanner

We completely understand that it can be quite overwhelming to choose the right bar scanner for your organization. But don’t worry anymore as we have curated a list of 10 Tips for How to Choose the Right Barcode Scanner. So, please be seated. 

Flooring –

Flooring of the warehousing or operation area is a top concern when choosing a barcode scanner. So, make sure to choose a rugged device that can withstand hard conditions and can work efficiently even after an accidental drop. 

In the case of hard concrete flooring, look for a scanner with drop ratings, tumble ratings, shock protection, or certification by various safety standards. In the case of soft flooring, go for a barcode scanner with reinforced housing, plastic covers, rubber bumpers, and a lower drop rating.

Waterproofing and Air Quality –

If your facility is highly prone to dust, dirt, moisture, and chemical vapors, that can damage the performance of barcode scanner components, then choosing a model with an IP (Ingress Protection) rating will be ideal. But make sure that the rating is at least 68.  

Lighting –

The type of barcode scanners also depends on the lighting condition of your facility. An ideal barcode scanner requires adequate light to scan the code, so, in low-lighting conditions, you can choose a scanner with illumination capabilities. 

Temperature –

The temperature conditions in the warehousing facility can also impact the efficiency and performance of a barcode scanner. So, make sure to select the one that can handle the extreme environment. 

Scanning range of the scanner –

Scanning range is another great thing to consider while selecting a barcode scanner. It is defined as the distance from which a scanner can read the barcode. The range usually carried from as close as a fraction of an inch or as far as a few feet. 

So choose accordingly.  If you need to scan barcodes from a distance, then a scanner with a longer range is a better option and if your scanning needs are limited to a shorter range, then a scanner with a shorter range is appropriate. 

Connectivity –

Barcode scanners can be available as a wired or wireless model, depending upon your specific need. These two varieties are quite different from each other.  Wireless scanners are a bit expensive and can offer more flexibility, as they require no physical connection. On the other hand, Wired scanners are more affordable, but are limited by the length of the cable.

Scan Speed –

The speed at which a barcode scanner can scan a specific code also helps in selecting the right barcode scanner. Fast and quick scan speed helps directy affect the throughput and efficiency of the process in the most positive and productive way.  So, look for a scanner with a quick and accurate scanning speed. 

Battery life and charging options – 

To avoid and prevent unexpected downtime during peak periods of scanning, make sure to look for scanners with long battery life and reliable charging options. Besides, this there is another variety also available that offers a ‘hot-swappable’ battery feature, allowing the replacement of the depleted battery with a fully charged one without turning off the device.  

User-friendly features – 

It is very important to make sure that the chosen barcode is not only reliable and accurate but also easy to use as difficult and complex functionality can lead to confusion and errors during data entry. To ease out the workflow make sure to choose a model with backlit display, graphical menus, audible beeps, and others. Make sure that the chosen is very comfortable and easy to use bu]y the employees. 

Pricing –

The last and most important tip for choosing the most appropriate barcode scanner is the price point consideration. The price range can vary as low as a few hundred dollars to several thousand depending on the features and capabilities of the device. So, determine your budget and choose a scanner that fits the best within your budget. Make sure to compare prices between different brands and models so you get the best value for your money.

Conclusion 

Barcode scanners are transforming the business world with their flawless inventory management benefits. Choosing the right bar code can be a bit tricky and requires several factors to consider. We hope that through this blog regarding the “10 Tips for How to Choose the Right Barcode Scanner”, we were able to resolve all your queries and doubts. 

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the “10 Tips for How to Choose the Right Barcode Scanner”

Question 1. What are the potential benefits of using a barcode scanner for inventory management? 

Answer 1. Barcode scanners are revolutionizing the business industry and offer many benefits along the way such as. 

• Eliminates the possibility of human error
• Provides better data
• Improves inventory control 
• Time efficient 
• Easy implementation 

Question 2. What is meant by a barcode?

Answer 2. A barcode is defined as the method of representing data in machine-reliable form. These codes are used for tracking products, prices, and stock levels for centralized recording in a computer software system.

Question 3. Which is the best company for offering a range of high-quality barcode scanners?

Answer 3. Unseen Era is a reputed name for providing the best engineering services and solutions through barcode scanners in various industries like Pharmaceuticals, Food & Beverage, Automotive, Chemical, FMCG, Cosmetics, and other industries.

Question 4. What is the usual cost of a barcode scanner?

Answer 4. The price of a barcode scanner usually ranges between INR 1,000 to INR 10,000+ depending upon scanning speed, connectivity, and additional features.