This beam of light is directed back and forth by a rotating mirror or prism. The scanner directs a red beam of light toward a horizontal variable-width row of black and white lines and spaces. Laser barcode scanners were the original 1D barcode scanner. When this information is sent to the computer database, the information can then be associated with data specific to the item such as price, number of items in stock, item description, and item image.Ī 2D barcode encodes alphanumeric information as well as images, pricing, website addresses, voice, and other types of binary data. When a 1D barcode is decoded, it translates into alphanumeric digits (i.e., numbers and letters), which represent a kind of “license plate” for a specific item. You can use the information whether you are connected to a database or not.īarcodes are a low-cost method of helping businesses track large amounts of information. 2D barcodes have nearly a 100% read rate from any angle, even if slightly damaged, due to redundant data and error correction technology.Ī 2D barcode encodes alphanumeric information as well as images, website addresses, voice, and other types of binary data. 2D barcodes remain legible when printed at a small size or etched onto a product. An example of a 2D barcode would be a QR or Data Matrix code. This dramatically increases the amount of information that can be represented by the barcode: This little shape can hold over 4,000 characters and 7,000 digits while still appearing physically smaller. The 2D code uses patterns of squares, hexagons, dots, and other shapes to encode data. Unlike the 1D barcode that is read horizontally, the 2D (two-dimensional) barcode, looking like a square or rectangle, stores information both horizontally and vertically, thus it is read in two dimensions (INTSERT IMAGE). Many businesses have settled on using 8–15 characters, which keeps the barcode at a respectable and printable size. When you see multiple layers of bars and spaces, this is referred to as stacking, which allows the user to extend beyond the 25 characters. The first six numbers are the manufacturer identification number, the next five digits represent the item’s number, and the final number is referred to as the check digit which is used to help the scanner determine if the code was read correctly.Ī single 1D barcode line typically contains between 8–25 characters of text information. The most recognizable 1D barcode is the 12-digit UPC number. This group of lines and spaces, bounded by unprinted areas on either end (the “quiet zone”), represents the information the scanner will read. When most individuals think of barcodes, they picture a horizontal linear code made up of variable-width lines and spaces spread from left to right as ubiquitously seen on consumer goods. Rather than typing the number, which can leave room for human error, the scanner simply adds information to a database or your business application. This transmission is sent through wired or wireless connections depending on the model of the scanner.Īnother way to put it, a barcode scanner enters data just like you would with a keyboard, but much faster. These are tools that are specifically designed not only to capture the image of a barcode, but also to decode the information and to transmit that data to a computer. When you think about barcode scanners, you imagine a small device that can help you read those lines you see on a label, but the mechanism is more complex. Are barcode scanners able to collect information beyond barcodes? What is the number one thing that impacts barcode readability?Ģ1. Can mobile computers be used to scan barcodes?Ģ0. What are the different types of wireless barcode scanners?ġ9. I want a durable barcode scanner – what do you recommend?ġ8. Are all barcode scanners laser scanners?ġ7. I have small barcodes – is that a problem?ġ6. Can a scanner read barcodes from any angle?ġ2. Can barcode scanners read phone screens?ġ0. Can barcode scanners read all barcodes?ĩ. Can barcode scanners read through tape?Ĩ. What are the common applications for 1D and 2D barcodes?Ħ. What is the difference between 1D laser and 2D imager barcode scanners?ĥ. What information is represented by 1D and 2D barcodes?Ĥ. What is the difference between a 1D and 2D barcode?ģ. But information is power in every aspect of your life, so to really benefit from these products, it’s important to choose the right one for your business needs.Ģ. Barcodes have made business more efficient for companies, providing an essential method to track and store information about millions of items. Scanning systems play a key role across a myriad of industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, travel, retail, grocery, and government. Barcodes and barcode scanners are an integral part of our daily life and any high-performing business.
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