Archive for March, 2011
Barcode Scanner Printer Combo
Barcode Scanner Printer Combo
Having a portable printer scanner offers the benefits of having a printer and a scanner with you wherever you go. This is certainly a boost compared to portable printers and portable scanners. If the question was changed into “Does everyone want a portable printer scanner?” then the answer will be very simple. It will be a yes because everyone wants something new and a portable gadget that is both a printer and a scanner is certainly something you don’t see every day.
Benefits of a Portable Printer
A portable printer certainly has a lot of uses especially if you are in a profession that requires you to travel a lot. Most people who will find this useful are traveling businessman, salesmen and photographers. Fortunately, for people like these, portable printers that are recently released offer printing speeds and resolutions compared to that of a standard desktop. The latest mobile printer released by Canon, the Pixma iP100, offers a resolution of 2400 x 9600 dots per inch. This makes great for printing photos as well as sharing them. The one released by HP currently has the highest printing speed for a mobile printer, which is at 22 pages per minute. All these features come in sleek design, which makes it very easy to store in the luggage.
Benefits of a Portable Scanner
Unlike a portable printer, the need for a scanner is not as frequent compared to a printer. Of course, there are professions that will require you to scan documents wherever you go. However, in cases where a lot of documents need to be scanned, there is usually an office involved and most offices have their own scanners. The smallest scanner in the world is about the size of a pen and you can scan any document on a flat surface. You can scan pictures, papers, IDs. It is certainly very handy whenever the need to scan something arises. However, how often does that need come up?
Needs versus Wants
A portable printer scanner is one gadget that is not very common. Most people are caught up with the hype of new things, like who’s got the latest gadget or who’s got the better gadget. We need to establish that what we need is different from what we want. Most gadgets that are coming out in the market today are expensive and sometimes luxurious. One point to consider though is that when we really need something, sometimes the price becomes reasonable. So it is important that we buy such things out of need. More often than not, most customers buy these types of gadgets, using them frequently for the first few weeks and ending up at home along with the other gadgets.
A portable printer certainly offers the advantages of having a printer and a scanner and having them with you whenever you need them. However, these features always come at an additional price. Unless you travel a lot and your job entails you to print and scan at the same time, having a portable printer scanner is nothing more than a luxury.
By Thomas Johnsen
Article Source: ezinearticles.com
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Conveyor Barcode Scanner
Conveyor Barcode Scanner
Bar code scanners serve wherever there is a need for accurate identification and product tracking. These devices increase operational efficiency and reduce errors. However, selecting the correct kind of scanner largely depends on the kind of application it will be used for. There are about four main types of scanners, pen or wand type, semi-automatic, fixed mount and reader gates.
Factors to Consider
The common factors effecting the selection of a bar code scanner include the distance of scanning, connection to computers, speed and frequency of scans and volume of scanning required. For long range scanning (currently limited at 24 inches), you would require a laser barcode scanner, as image-based scanners operate at a maximum of 4-10 inches.
Smaller bar codes require manual handling so that they can be read correctly. Larger codes, such as those on warehouse cartons, can be read from a distance. Hence, this process can be automated and integrated with a manufacturing or assembly line. If the environment in which it is to be used is dusty or humid, or products are stored in a freezer, they might be difficult to scan.
Retail vs. Industrial Use of Bar Code Scanners
Retail stores would benefit from handheld or even wireless scanners. These are mounted on a handle and have a button for switching on the light. Pen or wand scanners are similar, except you have to move the scanner across the code. Retailers also prefer stationary, semi-automatic scanners that are usually fixed around the check-out area, such as within the countertop.
A large-scale through-put of products that need to be scanned, use fixed scanners and reader gates. These automatic scanners are for industrial use and can be combined with conveyor belts on a manufacturing or assembly line for large volume processing. No operator is required and the time taken for scanning is also less. Large scale storage operations also use fixed position readers for tracking inventory, shipping destinations and even the weight of the product.
If you intend to interface the scanner with a PC or a dedicated system, you need to check out the supporting software or hardware required to process the data generated by the bar code reader.
By Gardner Wilkinson
Article Source: ezinearticles.com
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Inventory Scanners
Inventory Scanners
The barcode scanners are used in every business or industry entity for keeping track on inventory, automate checkout systems, index and manage documents, and track mail and parcels. They are divided into different groups, according to the technology that they use to read the barcodes, and the latest technological advancements have managed to turn camera cell phones into barcode readers as well.
The Symbol barcode scanners, which are now under the umbrella of Motorola Solutions, are amongst the best-selling and known to be robust, well-built, and with superior performance. They also come in a wide variety and models, which are suitable for different businesses – the range carries from the most simple and affordable handheld Symbol scanners to the long-range models, which are perfect for industrial use.
Amongst the most basic, yet excellent performing models, is the Symbol LS2208, which is affordable, robust, and easy to use. It is tough enough to work even after a five feet drop, can read barcodes from as far as seventeen inches, and has an ergonomic design. Another great, general purpose Symbol barcode scanner is LS4208, which comes in two variations of its own, LS4208-SR and LS4208-PR. This model has a wide working range, robust construction, and it is easy to set up. On the other side of the range is the Symbol LS3578-ER, which is a cordless scanner, using the Bluetooth technology that allows labels to be read from as close as 0.25 inches and as far as 45 feet. Its base could work with three scanners at the same time, the unit comes with a bright laser-aiming dot, which allows more accurate scanning, and is extremely robust. The LS3578-ER is ideal for use in manufacturing plants, industrial environments, and large warehouses and is extremely robust and capable of withstanding multiple drops from 6.5 ft. to concrete. The wide range of Symbol scanners allows businesses, large and small, to pick the best product that could easily meet their own needs; if you are on the market for a new barcode reader, then the Symbol models should be on the top of your list.
By Peter Kerl
Article Source: ezinearticles.com
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Virtual Barcode Scanner
Virtual Barcode Scanner
If you’re part of the growing number of professionals who have made the decision, or are otherwise able, to work from home you’ve probably put together a “virtual office” in order to conduct business remotely. If you like to travel, or your business requires you to do so, your virtual office probably has some degree of mobility. The basics would be a notebook computer, removable storage devices and an online collaboration service or access to your company’s network via VPN. There are some types of office equipment that just don’t lend themselves to travel, especially if you like to travel light. Scanners, for example, come in portable versions but it’s just one more piece of equipment to purchase and lug around. Why not use something you’re going to carry anyway? Your camera or camera-enabled mobile phone could be the perfect substitute.
Your digital camera or mobile phone camera can double as your scanner when you’re on the road. Combine that with an online fax, or email-to-fax, service and you’ve got a portable fax machine. The quality may not be as good as your office scanner, but acceptable reproductions are possible. Some digital cameras even have a built in “document mode” which configures the camera settings to effectively photograph print on paper. Check your camera’s documentation to see if yours does.
If you’re a smartphone user and your phone has a built-in camera, there is software available designed to turn your phone’s camera into a document scanner. iPhone users have options as well that will enable them to make electronic document reproductions using their phones. An important note for iPhone users is that they will have to find the optimum distance from the camera to the document in order for the ‘scan’ to be in focus. The key to quality reproductions, regardless of the device you use, will depend on focus and lighting. One thing to keep in mind is that you want to keep your camera as parallel as possible to the document being ‘scanned’. You may have to turn off your flash in order to avoid glare that will render your image unreadable.
By Kevin A O’Brien
Article Source: ezinearticles.com
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3d Barcode Scanners
3d Barcode Scanners
The handheld laser scanners are being used by many industries like aerospace, manufacturing, multimedia and medicine as they provide easy and fast way to create 3D objects. It gives the designers and engineers a completely new way to capture 3D data with extraordinary speed, easy procedure and versatility for a wide range of new and emerging applications. This self positioning scanner has changed the way shape acquisition, reverse engineering and 3D inspection are done. This innovation in the field of scanning has revolutionized the world of 3D scanning.
The scanner is used in accurate part digitizing for consistency assessment. It facilitates the design process from existing concepts to hand made models for easy scanning of prototypes in performance simulations. It can be used to easily capture mock ups for further modifications and to obtain 2D or 3D CAD files. In medical science it creates highly exhaustive reproductions of intricate organs and bone structures. Scanner scans hand-crafted samples to produce multipart designs from scratch. Digital Archiving can be done to save money by storing tooling, samples and prototypes digitally. It is ideal in support of producing digital media for computer games and movies from artists’ perception models. The scanner produces high-resolution, low-impact scans for exact restorations and renovation of invaluable artwork and architecture.
The self positioning feature of the scanner prevents the use of external tracking or positioning devices. This enables the engineers and designers to have more freedom and flexibility to scan any part, even in places where regular CMMs or arms cannot go or reach. Traditional CMMs are bulky, static, massive slabs of stone and iron moreover measuring arms require the use of unwieldy tripods. It is portable and can be easily carried from one site to another. It provides extended scanning due to its light weight and with accurate results. Being a hand held device it provides flexibility of use during scanning. The scanner has the versatility to scan the objects of any shape, size or color. It does not require any costly setups for its operation. The user friendly application does not involve any special training sessions to become skilled at its functioning.
The advantages offered by the innovative handheld scanner has completely accelerated and simplified the scanning processes. Powerful, precise and truly portable, the scanner surely maintains its technological edge. It has simplified the data acquisition work plus enables one to use 3D in innovative as well as creative applications and in ways never imagined before.
By Jon T Smith
Article Source: ezinearticles.com
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Best Barcode Scanner For Android
Best Barcode Scanner For Android
This list of the most popular free Android apps run the whole gamut, showing the range and the power of free Android apps in general. These apps can really turn your Android phone into a stronger and more helpful device. Surely, you wouldn’t want to miss that opportunity? Here are ten of the most popular free Android apps available:
Compass
In a way, it would be very surprising if a run-of-the-mill compass app was on this list. Well, it’s not and this Android app is far more than a mere tool to tell you which way is north. To name a few of the features this app brings to the table will be enough to sell most on the idea that it’s a practical, handy app to have on their Android phone. Essentially this is a half compass, half GPS Android app. It tells you the direction, but it also tells you the speed at which you’re traveling, the exact coordinates of your location and more things that can be used for fun or to potentially save your life if you’re trapped somewhere.
Handcent SMS
Do you want to send SMS and MMS messages through your Android phone? Don’t get what I’m asking? More simply: do you text? If you do, you need to get Handcent SMS for Android. Basically, it takes your phone to entirely new level and texting dimension. Trust me, when you’ve used this app for a while, you’ll wonder how you lived without it for so long!
I really shouldn’t have to say a single word about this app. I do feel it’s necessary to say that it’s the *Official Facebook App for Android*. Enough said!
Ringdroid
Perhaps one of the most hands-on free Android apps, Ringdroid allows you to edit various audio files so you can create your own ringtones and alarms. Tired of editing songs to create your own ringtone? Well, they’ve thought of that too! You can create ringtones for your Android phone from scratch as well (using the Ringdroid app on your phone).
Places Directory
This Android app does exactly what it sounds like. It allows you to find the nearest gas station, shopping mall, shoe store, movie theater, or even a great place for a burger. It is simple to use yet very efficient and effective: a must-have Android application!
Backgrounds
Do you want to keep your phone looking new and fresh every so often? Get Backgrounds, one of the most popular free Android apps that has more than 10,000 wallpapers for free. With this app, your phone will never look drab again.
Google Sky Map
Probably not the most useful on this list, but it’s definitely one of the most interesting. The Google Sky Map is exactly that: a planetarium right inside your Android phone. What’s more? No need to say more than it’s a Google program!
Astro File Manager
You wouldn’t know it from this app’s name, but Astro File Manager is among the top most popular free Android apps. It is a task manager and among Android’s best one at that. You will be able to manage files, read and open.zip files, send files, backup applications and much more with this amazing app.
Barcode Scanner
Perhaps one of the most ingenious free Android apps on this list, this bar code scanner app lets you access prices, reviews, and other related files by scanning the barcodes on various items in stores and elsewhere. Most importantly for Android phone users, it will easily decode the QR Codes attached to Android apps that you find all over many of the Android websites online. Just download this free app, click the icon and take a quick snapshot of an app’s QR Code. Next thing you know, you’ll be at the Android Market again, but this time at that app’s info and download page!
Shazam
Everyone loves music; well most of us love it. I’m guessing if you haven’t heard of Shazam and what it does by now, you’re probably part of the minority. If that’s the case, this app will nearly instantly identify songs playing, even in noisy environments. That’s the core of Shazam, but luckily for all of us, it’s spawned into much more than that! You’ll just have to download it (for free) to see all of the possibilities!
By Jed Lampi
Article Source: ezinearticles.com
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Inventory Barcode Scanner System
Inventory Barcode Scanner System
Most retailers today use UPC bar code merchandise scanning at the point of sale, and for receiving merchandise into inventory. Everyone from the large well known retail chain, to the small independent retailer uses the UPC bar codes as an essential part of their retail business operation.
Although UPC Bar Code usage is widespread, most retailers should be taking greater advantage of this technology as part of their inventory control solution. In POS management, bar code usage can greatly help the retailer increase sales, profitability, and operational efficiencies while improving customer service. Here are a few examples:
Faster customer check out time
Nothing is more frustrating to a customer than waiting in line while a cashier fumbles at the register looking up a price or department, or checks with their manager to see if an item is on sale. When scanning bar coded merchandise at the point of sale, merchandise information is controlled through software, making check out time much faster and accurate than manual entry or typing a SKU number. This provides better and faster customer service, while ensuring that merchandise is sold at the correct price.
When used with a good POS Inventory Control system, UPC bar code scanning can facilitate the handling of quantity price breaks automatically, or enable preferred pricing for customers who are part of store loyalty programs.
Pricing Control
Protecting your profit margins and selling your merchandise at the appropriate price point is vital for the success of any retail operation. Nothing erodes margins faster than ringing up merchandise at an incorrect price due to cashier error or price tag switching. Price changes and discounts can be implemented immediately, saving valuable time and handling costs.
Inventory Control
In a point of sale system when a bar code Scanner used with inventory control software, scanning bar coded merchandise as items are sold, returned and received ensures that on hand inventory levels are accurately adjusted. Scanners are extremely accurate compared to key entry, which helps maintain more accurate inventory levels.
By monitoring and tracking inventory levels, the retailer can make better informed decisions. Knowing which items are selling fast and need to be re-ordered prevents revenue loss due to out-of-stocks, or perhaps losing a valuable customer altogether because the competitor down the street always has their favorite item in stock. Valuable inventory capital can be released for more open-to-buy when the retailer can quickly identify their slower selling items, and reduce them for clearance.
By Kathy De La Torre
Article Source: ezinearticles.com
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Programmable Barcode Scanner
Programmable Barcode Scanner
POS is a short form for point of sale. POS hardware is basically used at trade or retail level, a checkout counter in a shop, or changeable sites where a deal occurs in this type of environment like restaurants, hotels, stadiums, casinos, as well as retail environments. POS hardware uses computers and dedicated workstations that are connected with money records, barcode readers, ocular scanners and magnetic band readers for correctly and right away capturing the business. POS hardware includes label printers, cash drawers, Barcode scanners, pole display, card swiper or reader, POS Monitor, POS Touch Screen and receipt printers. To use POS hardware, retailers need to know about them.
A vital element of POS hardware is the cash drawer. It is used to store Money, credit card receipts and other paperwork. Cash drawers receive a signal from the computer or receipt printer. The cash drawer should be compatible with the rest of the system if purchasing the POS hardware separately. Cash drawers should be strong and survive the steady opening and closing. Pole display is an elective POS hardware. It is a lighted display used to display the transaction totals, sum tendered and to display feature modified messages or to show advertisement.
POS Monitors may be a flat-panel LCD monitor or a standard CRT monitor; the LCD monitor may be more expansive than the standard but takes up less space at the checkout counter. POS Touch Screens are easy and faster to use than traditional keyboards and monitors and save counter space. The keyboards serve as a main POS hardware. Keyboards could differ in complexity and technology. They range in choices from a standard 101-key model like you may have on your home PC to industry-specific POS keyboards. Where special functions are required like Grocery stores and restaurants, only programmable keyboards are used.
Bar code scanners are used at many shops and restaurants for checking out the price of the product. They can be of a different size and technology. Hand-held scanners are the most common in use for the small retailers. Bigger stores with important checkout doings may require an embedded scanner, which mostly can be seen in supermarkets. Barcode scanners read a series of numbers and the barcode, decode the information, and send that information to the computer. Credit card readers or swipers may be included in the POS hardware. The Credit Card Reader is used for credit card reading. In addition to credit and debit cards there are some devices, which can work with gift cards and other loyalty programs, these are called signature capture devices. These devices help in making more efficient transactions and lessen the costs and errors linked with deposit documentation.
Conversely, receipt printers are used to print a documentation of the transaction for the customer. Receipt printers may be a Serial dot-matrix printer or a Thermal receipt printer. Dot matrix printers are normally cheaper than Thermal receipt printers but not as durable. However, Thermal receipt printers are very expansive and are suitable for long use.
By Tony E. Mcday
Article Source: ezinearticles.com
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Barcode Scanner Windows Mobile 6
Barcode Scanner Windows Mobile 6
Implementing a barcoding system can be an invaluable part of any successful business. It can make the work of the retailer, management, and the employees easier. In return, they can give better service to the customers and focus more on keeping the clients happy.
Barcodes have proven to be useful in various types of business ventures. It makes inventory management easier for everyone involved as scanning the barcodes using handheld scanners makes inventory count quicker and more accurate. It can also be used to better track documents and assets, and monitor field employees. Combined all of these benefits lead to increased sales and improved profits.
Are you already planning to use barcodes in your business, but don’t know how? The answer lies in barcode software programs and barcode printers. Here are some barcode solutions for you:
Dot matrix printers are the most common barcode solutions. Dot matrix was the first ever method used in making barcodes, and it is still sometimes used today because it is readily accessible and relatively inexpensive. It also uses multi-pass ribbons that are generally cheaper than toners or inks.
Ribbons should always be monitored because as the ribbon wears down, the contrast of the printed labels get affected. In barcode systems, the color contrast is very important in order for the barcode scanner to decode the barcode accurately. Bleeding, caused by ink saturation, can also affect the quality of the barcode. A limitation of the dot matrix label maker is that it is difficult to produce small barcodes due to the limitations of the dot-size of the printer. Also, it can only print on paper so the labels are not that durable.
Another barcode solution is the ink-jet printer. This type of printer is also relatively inexpensive and papers with adhesives (sticker papers) are readily available in many stores. However, ink-jet printers print very slowly. Aside from that, the printer itself is less durable to dust, dirt, vibration, and other environmental factors, and there is a very limited number of barcode software that support ink jet printers.
Laser printers are better barcode solutions. They act like a photocopier, which means they are able to print fast. Also, laser printers print with high resolution and high density resulting in a high-quality image. This type of printer is often the choice when documents with barcodes need to be printed.
A disadvantage of laser printers is the cost of supplies. Laser printers use up a lot of black toner when used as barcode label makers. Also, it cannot print on chemical and water-resistant paper so the labels are also less durable.
Thermal printers have special functions that can be used to print single, individual labels rather than by batch or sheet. This eliminates the need of printing extra labels, such as is often needed with dot matrix or laser printers, which can save you money on supplies.
Among the barcode solutions already mentioned, thermal printers are generally the only barcode label maker that is capable of individual label printing. Thermal printers also produce high-quality barcode labels at a low cost, since the only printing supply it needs is the special thermo-sensitive paper to be used. One downside of thermal printers is that the labels produced are sensitive to heat and light, and can fade after 6-8 months.
The most important advantage of thermal printers is that they can be synchronized with point of sale software. Thermal printers can interact with POS programs to print product information such as model number, price, and product names or short descriptions.
Overall, the thermal barcode printer is the most efficient to use because it is specifically made for barcode printing, and with thermal printer prices now being relatively inexpensive they are the best choice for businesses looking to print durable, fast speed barcode labels.
By Nelson J. Packard
Article Source: ezinearticles.com
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Remote Barcode Scanner
Remote Barcode Scanner
Most bar code scanners bought are those that uses USB connection to connect the scanner to a computer. These days portable bar code scanners are also available just as any other devices today that were made portable.
Why do we need a portable devices in our business instead of wired devices? Portable bar code scanner’s main goal is to make it more convenient and easily carried in every corner of a big storage room or in a large building. People who uses portable devices may scan even if it is not directly connected to a computer.
The wireless connections used in many wireless devices today are the same connections used for portable bar code scanners. Wireless connections such as bluetooth and WiFi or wireless fidelity 802.11 b and g are two of the mostly used wireless connections by many. When choosing a portable device, consider how large the area of your room or building is. For a small area, a blue tooth scanner will suffice. For wider area, a WiFi scanner should be used to facilitate scanning.
Bluetooth scanners can scan for at least ten meters in distance. It can connect to various computer devices however be aware of some compatibility issues regarding bluetooth.
A WiFi enabled bar code scanners can connect of up to a hundred meters. They used 802.11 b or g. These technology can immediately send a scanned information to a computer server and saved there. This is what they call remote scanning.
Interruptions regarding EMI is very common. This is now being addressed through DECT technology.
If you are about to purchase a portable bar code scanner now or later, search for those with good batteries. Those that can handle hours of use and will only need a few number of hours of recharging. Some will give you the option to use wireless technology or USB connection with the aid of a USB cable.
By Johny Ferdor
Article Source: ezinearticles.com
