Every time we buy something, we come into contact with a barcode, yet we seldom notice it. Yet, from tiny enterprises to enormous global corporations, barcodes play a crucial part in the successful and efficient running of our economy. Therefore, in this post, we will provide a complete guide on how to use a barcode scanner.
Overview
What is a barcode scanner?
A bar code scanner, also known as a bar code reader, is an electronic device that can read data from a printed barcode. A bar code is made up of a series of lines that convey product information. To retrieve and save information about the object, the scanner must be connected to a computer system.
Barcodes are used on items to make them easier to identify. They’re used at retail locations as part of the buying process, in warehouses to manage inventory, and on invoices to help with accounting, among other things.
Types of barcode
1-dimensional (1D) barcode
1D barcodes are a series of black and white bars that may hold data such as the category, size, and color of a product. 1D barcodes can be found on the top of a product’s packaging’s universal product codes (UPCs).
2-dimensional (2D) barcode
Two-dimensional barcodes are more complicated than one-dimensional barcodes. They can feature more than simply text, such as pricing, inventory levels, and even a picture of the object. 2D barcodes are supported by a large number of barcode scanners.
How to use a barcode scanner
Handheld bar code scanners are popular, however stationary bar code scanners are also available. The handheld variants are portable and link to a computer system by USB or wirelessly. This makes them perfect for use in an inventory warehouse. When using a stationary scanner, such as those used by supermarket cashiers, the customer must bring the goods to the scanner in order for it to read the barcode.
A slot scanner is another form of stationary barcode scanner that allows the user to swipe a card with a barcode. If you want a membership at your service, you may need this form of scanner.
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Meanwhile, a barcode is a method of encoding data into a visual pattern (the black lines and white gaps) that can be read by a machine (a barcode scanner). The black and white bars represent different text characters that follow a barcode’s predetermined algorithm. This pattern of black and white bars will be scanned and converted into a line of tests. With this, your retail point of sale system will recognize.
Whatever type of barcode scanner you use, here is a guide on how to use it. Once you’ve set up a barcode scanner, it’s easy to operate. First, make sure the scanner’s reader light is turned on. After that, position the scanner light in the middle of the barcode and wait for the data to be read by the scanner. To acquire a reading, you may need to move the scanning light up and down the bar code. When first setting up a barcode reader, you may be asked to scan a few preliminary codes in order to correctly configure the device.
Conclusion
We hope that this blog post has provided a brief but useful overview of barcode scanners. If you are finding a POS system that can work with different barcode scanners, don’t hesitate to try ConnectPOS. It is available with a 14-day free trial.
