Choosing a bar code reader is a decision mostly based on the shape, color and size of the bar

codes you will be reading.

If the bar codes are flat, black and white and no more than 2 inches in length, (as in a video store),
a CCD reader is receommended. These are extremely durable.

If the bar codes are curved (as on a can of soda) a laser scanner is the preferred method.
If the bar codes need to be read from a distance - such as 5 or 6 inches away, you will need a laser
scanner.
If the bar codes are long - 3,4 or 5 inches long, you will need a laser scanner.

Most office environments can do very well with a CCD reader, while laser scanners are generally
recommended for food stores. Video stores will do just fine with a CCD reader, as will book or
magazines stores.

Other things to consider include whether you want a "hands free" scanner. Some scanners have to
be picked up to use them. Other scanners can mount in the counter, or on top of a counter and
then you would move the item near the scanner to be read. A liquor or convenience store would
want an in-counter or on-counter scanner for efficiency. This would allow a clerk to hold the
bottle or item near the scanner and hold the shopping bag with the other hand, thus speeding up
the checkout. Most pharmacies seem to prefer the small on-counter scanners so the clerk can just
wave the item near the scanner.

There are an increasing number of bar code readers from which to choose as well as an increasing
number of situations to which bar coding can be applied. Together, these two facts make the
choice of a bar code reader a difficult one, but not impossible. Above all, you must remember to
look at the whole picture, in other words, to take a systems approach that takes into account your
choice of a symbology and a printer. With this mind-set, you can then ask yourself
the following questions that are typical of all applications of bar coding.

• Do I want an automated or hand-held scanner? A portable or stationary scanner?

This depends on how many reads you will make in an hour and whether it is easier to bring the
item to thescanner or the scanner to the item.

• How easy is it for an operator to get to the label?

Hard to reach labels will require non-contact scanners. The distance between the scanner and
label is a related factor here. Different models have different optical throws and depths of field.
Determine the distance you will need in your application before making a choice.

•What type of surface will the label be attached to?

Hard, flat surfaces are more conducive to contact readers whereas curved or pliable surfaces are
read better by non-contacts.
• What environmental conditions will the label be subjected to?

Heat and light will cause thermal labels to darken. Dirt, oil or grease will cause bad reads unless
infrared scanners are used which can detect high-carbon inks below the smears and stains that
occur on factory floors. Remember, too, that if you laminate or otherwise protect the label, this
will affect your choice of scanner. In addition, ambient light can also curtail the effectiveness of
fixed beam readers.

• Will all labels in your application meet the specifications of the reader?

In a closed system, in which no labels from outside suppliers intrude, you have control over label
quality and density. However, in an open system, you will probably need a reader or readers
capable of scanning varying densities and levels of quality.

• What is a desirable first read rate?

The answer to this question is directly related to the amount of training and education you will
need to put into place for operators. As we have noted, moving beam scanners require less
training, but cost more. What trade-off is best for your application?

• Do you need a programmable reader?

This depends on the complexity of your application. Ask yourself how many repeatable
operations there are and whether they can be encoded into a label which an operator then uses. As
with the previous question, an increase in complexity means an increase in education and
training. The costs and time may be well worth it, however, if it means greater inventory
accuracy, improved tracking or higher levels of productivity.

• How much post-sales support does the bar code vendor supply?

You will have questions once you begin to implement your system. Support is a cost factor that
cannot be ignored. If you have any questions about which reader you need please feel free to
contact us. We will be able to work with you to find the solution to fit your needs.