Barcode scanners and how they work

[Dr Who]

Hi All

I am not sure if this is the correct place to post, but I am looking into creating a barcode system for our warehouse. I am looking to buy the scanners and get my Developer to create an inhouse program for our own use to manage the system.

What I wanted to know is the following

• What is the best hand held scanner to buy?
• Is the details around the barcode stored in the software or in the barcode?
• What are the most common types of barcodes I should plan for?
• WHich is the preferred connection method between the PC and the scanner, USB or the keyboardwedge?

Thanks

 

[mercurial]

The barcode is just a number. Your database will then pull details on a product based on the barcode, which means you will need to add a barcode for a particular product or product range. It's basically a unique identifier which you will use for queries etc. Code 39 is a very common barcode format. Some modern scanners use bluetooth as well as USB. Not sure which is the best but there are plenty out there. The Janus product range is very reliable. The newer ones can cost up anywhere up to R30K depending on features etc. There are plenty of free resources on the net to guide you along.

 

[Nether]

Barcode scanners are basically just keyboards.

They plug into your usb connector (or whatever), once they scan a barcode, the scanner sends the information as keys typed from a keyboard, which the computer can then capture.

Easiest test ever: Open notepad, scan a barcode, see if the number appears.

This allows for easy development.

We prefer the USB versions of it, they just plug in and voila, work.

 

[Saajid]

You get WiFi-enabled barcode scanners as well. Nice if you're dealing with a big warehouse and need your clerks to be mobile.

You also get barcode scanners with onboard storage, which contains the lookup database. You then manually sync it to your system later on.

 

[Dr Who]

Thanks for all the advice.

 

[patrick]

Personally I think smartphones and QR codes work better and offer a more versatile solution.

 

[goga]

Personally I think smartphones and QR codes work better and offer a more versatile solution.

How on earth would QR codes and smartphones work in a warehouse setup, with numerous staff required to scan items etc.
Nice technology but not the right solution for the OP.