Due to rapid growth in science and technology, there is increased usage of gadgets which has enhanced our comfort levels. One of the biggest and valuable innovation in science and technology is invention of barcode scanners. In general, they are used to crack information present in the barcodes and to convert it into a readable format in a quick, effective and accurate manner. They have a huge positive impact on both the industrial and commercial sectors. Barcode products have reduced the time and effort required in the process of billing in the commercial segment and are vital in increasing operating efficiency and the productivity in the industrial sector.

The most popular barcode products utilize laser barcode scanning technology. A laser barcode scanner is 50 times faster and 10,000 times more accurate when compared to manual data entry. They use a laser beam instead of a light source to capture information in the barcodes. So, they have increased data retrieval and processing speed. A laser barcode scanner can perform up to 500 scans per second. Laser scanners are more convenient to use as they come in both handheld and fixed mount configurations.

1. Types in terms of read range
A laser barcode scanner need not be in contact or very close to the barcode to retrieve information. Depending on the model, they can read a barcode which is several feet away. They can be classified based on their read range into three types. They are standard, long-range and extra long-range barcode scanners.

Standard
Standard-range scanners scan barcodes which are fairly close. A barcode that is 6 to 24 inches away can be read by a standard-range laser barcode scanner. They are generally used in department stores or retail outlets as point of sale equipment to perform mass scanning.

Long-range
Long-range scanners are used to scan barcodes which are placed at long distances. It can read a barcode that is 2 to 8 feet away from the scanner. They can read barcodes at varying distances. They are mainly used in small warehouses, manufacturing plants, etc.

Extra long-range
Extra long-range scanners are very efficient barcode products. They can even scan barcodes which are placed at a distance of 30 feet. They are highly durable and can withstand harsh environments in warehouses. This type of extra long-range laser scanners are ideal for work-in-process, in transit visibility applications, and warehouse management.

2. Other benefits
Generally, barcode scanners can read barcodes which are just few inches away. As mentioned above, today’s several kinds of laser scanners can read barcodes which are at longer distances. It is one of the main reasons why more and more people are using laser scanners. Apart from this, there are many other reasons why people choose laser scanners such as:

Reads better than other type of scanners
Laser barcode scanners are highly efficient when compared to other type of scanners. They produce bright and sharp laser beams to ensure preciseness and greater accuracy in reading barcodes. Laser scanners can read barcodes even in bright light.

Long range or high density scanning
The major advantage of these scanners is that they can read barcodes which are placed several feet away. Because of more powerful light emission, they can be used to read even a barcode which is 30 feet away. They offer high density scanning which helps in scanning even very small barcodes on electronic components accurately.

Most helpful in the industries
These are very helpful in the industries because of their ability to withstand harsh environments. They can scan many barcodes within few milliseconds. Laser These are used almost in all industries including manufacturing, healthcare, retailing, libraries, warehouses, education, cargo and shipping businesses.

There are numerous benefits of laser barcode scanners as mentioned above. You should be aware of their types and benefits to choose a right one for your business. The right barcode scanner is essential for better inventory management and customer service.

Source by Nate Rodnay