To understand how a barcode scanner works, it is important to first understand how barcodes are produced and read.
Each barcode has specific symbols defined as a series of bars in a barcode. The way to differentiate the barcode is by height and width, as well as the space between bars. Each bar stripe can represent a number, character, or alphanumeric character depending on the type of barcode symbology set being used.
A barcode typically contains a start and end slash to indicate the start and end point of the barcode. Sometimes there is an additional bar called a checksum bar. The purpose of the checksum bar is used to determine if the barcode is correct after calculation and to ensure the accuracy of the barcode.
The barcode scanner photo sensors can read the barcodes and convert them into electrical pulses. Since each bar strip equals one character, barcode software can easily convert these electrical pulses into readable text that can be displayed on a monitor. This process is actually very fast and only takes a few milliseconds.
Today there are many types of barcode reader models. Its use depends a lot on the type of industry and the work environment. Some examples are desktop models, portable and handheld models.
One of the most popular types is the wireless barcode scanner. They connect to the base station or workstations wirelessly and can transmit data to the terminal as long as they are within wireless range.
Wireless barcode scanners are often used in the warehouse industry, where workers can easily scan a barcode that can be placed in awkward positions or angles. It is also used in industries where goods are often moved from one place to another. Using a wireless barcode scanner allows freedom of movement and is therefore more efficient.