Difference Hand Held Barcode Scanners with Fixed Barcode Scanners

Difference Hand Held Barcode Scanners with Fixed Barcode Scanners

Barcode scanners are not something new. Ever since barcodes cam about so did, of course the scanners. Barcodes became revolutionary because of the speed that it brings in cataloguing various merchandise and items. More than that, it allows for faster transactions and tracking of items. The scanners, are the hardware that translates these bar codes into a more understandable format. With a simple barcode, you can already see various data about the item such as product name, colour, size and the like. There are two types of scanners that are available today which are the fixed barcode scanners and the hand held barcode scanners.

Fixed Barcode Scanners
These are the scanners that you would usually see in big retail stores, mostly at supermarkets or groceries. Once installed over the counter, it stays in one place which makes it stable. So when transactions happen, it is the item that you bring towards the scanner so that it can read the barcode. The main advantage of this barcode scanner is it's built for huge amounts of transactions that need speed. It can usually read even barcodes that are not in the best condition such as those that are a little soiled or damp which is why you usually see these in supermarkets. The main disadvantage is when the item is huge, it becomes a hassle to bring the item up to the scanner. There are also times when it would be easier to have a scanner which you can bring around such as when you are performing inventory checks.

Hand Held Barcode Scanners
These are the small scanners that you would usually see in small to medium retail stores, usually at clothing and apparel stores. It works just as like the fixed barcode scanners although it might not be advisable to use this for soiled barcodes. The main advantage of a hand held barcode scanner is its flexibility. It comes with a stand which you can install on the counter. So when you place it on the stand, it can work as a fixed barcode scanner. Then you can also take out from the stand and bring it over to the barcode which makes it easier and faster if you need to scan something that is hard to put over the counter. You can also bring it with you as you do inventory checks. The only disadvantage that this poses is its ability to handle soiled barcodes.