[OPLINLIST] barcode scanner suggestions

[Chad Neeper]

It has been a while since I last thought about scanners and my
libraries all use handheld (or handheld in a stand) scanners rather than
omni directional scanners, but fwiw, laser scanners have problems with
phones/screens. The laser light needs to be reflected back to the scanner
to be read and screens emit their own light rather than reflecting the
laser light back to the scanner. CCDs and imaging scanners are generally
what you want for scanning screens, or for scanning 2D barcodes or QR codes
(which lasers also can't do.)

My suggestion: start with identifying your specific needs and then find a
scanner that meets your needs. For ex:

   - omni vs directional
   - corded vs cordless
   - capable of scanning barcodes on screens?
   - maximum scanning distance (lasers typically can scan at greater
   distances, but have some of the limitations above)
   - ruggedized vs normal duty
   - type of barcode you're scanning (code 39, code 128, UPC,
   EAN, Interleaved 2 of 5, etc.) (You're probably using a common barcode type
   that most scanners will probably scan, but it would stink to buy $1,000+
   worth of scanners and find out...)
   - acceptable price range

It sounds like you've already identified some of your requirements. But
with your list, you'll be better prepared to objectively match a suitable
scanner to your specific needs.

Start with your list of feature requirements, then Google for scanner
manufacturers. Start with brand names you recognize/like and visit their
websites. You'll find the various scanners they offer and can match one
against your needs. Once you have the exact model you want, then find a
source to buy it from.

If you follow that process, you'll get exactly what you need and (chances
are good) will be happy with your purchase. However, if you start with "the
place to buy it from" and work backwards, you'll only see a small subset of
products that are actually available from any given manufacturer and will
often miss the exact item that will suit you best. (General rule of thumb
for purchasing ANYTHING, not just barcode scanners.)

2 cents,
Chad
______________________________
*Chad Neeper*
Senior Systems Engineer

*Level 9 Networks*
740-548-8070 (voice)
866-214-6607 (fax)

*Full IT/Computer consulting services -- Specialized in public libraries*


On Tue, Oct 6, 2020 at 11:07 AM Tiana McKay via OPLINLIST <
oplinlist at lists.oplin.org> wrote:

> Good day everyone,
> Our library needs to purchase new laser barcode scanners but there seems
> to be a sea of different kinds. The old single-line Voyager barcode
> scanners do not scan touchscreens and are quite slow/unreliable. We would
> like to upgrade to an omnidirectional laser scanner, preferably wired and
> with some sort of stand. Any suggestions and experiences from the
> collective library minds would be most helpful. Thank you.
>
> Tiana McKay (clerk)
> Milton-Union Public Library
>
> 560 South Main St
>
> West Milton, OH 45383
> 937-698-5515
> _______________________________________________
> OPLINLIST mailing list -- OPLINLIST at lists.oplin.org
> http://lists.oplin.org/mailman/listinfo/oplinlist
>
> *** Wondering if your library's website measures up to current best
> practices in web design? https://oplin.ohio.gov/services/audits  ***
>
-------------- next part --------------
An HTML attachment was scrubbed...
URL: <http://lists.oplin.org/pipermail/oplinlist/attachments/20201006/7a43ad89/attachment.htm>