What is Barcode Reader ?
Barcode readers are a sort of scanner that reads white and dark bars that contain bits of information (Descriptive information in the form of numbers and letters). It operates primarily on electro-optical principles. Barcode readers are made up of three components. The converter, decoder and the illuminator.
What are the types of Barcode Reader ?
According to the need, there are different types of barcode readers available each with its specific pros and cons. For an example two different barcode readers that are used to read linear barcodes as well as 2D barcodes.
Where is Barcode Reader used ?
Most commonly used in the retail and production industries, most warehouses are benefited through read barcode. Today, businesses cannot be effective without the use of barcode technology. Using the barcode informations you can determine if the barcode reader will best suit your needs.
In this article I will talk about 6 Advantages and Disadvantages that come with Barcode Reader | Drawbacks & advantages of Barcode Reader. Through this post you will learn about the advantages and disadvantages of using barcode scanners.
Let’s get started,
1. Universal
Barcodes are an accepted technology. They are used in nearly all items sold throughout the world. So, with an electronic barcode reader, these devices can be read from anywhere you are in the world.
2. Accuracy
Human errors can cause problems across all aspects of business. With barcode readers, users can significantly reduce the amount of errors that occur. Barcode readers are believed to be more accurate than entering data by hand. This is higher than an RFID technology. It doesn’t matter the type of material on the surface they are scanned on their accuracy is the same.
3. Productivity
The ability of tracking data fast and accurate can result in improved decisions in every department. So, overall productivity of the business is enhanced.
4. Time Saving
The information of barcodes are readily shown since the data are immediately scanned. In a matter of seconds all of the relevant information about the item are shown. This is particularly beneficial for grocery stores, in which customers buy multiple items and each item must be checked individually. Thus, there is small amount of time wasted.
5. Training for Employees
The entire process of learning to use a barcode reader is less costly and simpler. With a shorter period of time employees can be taught how to use them without having to pay other coworkers. So, the learning times are significantly reduced for new employees.
6. Inventory Control
Barcode readers help make it easier for inventory control to be controlled so precisely. No matter what items are scanned, the information is transferred to a computer immediately in order to be calculated through stock inventory. Thus, they can give the status of inventory for individual items and also the overall inventory.
Advantages and disadvantages of Barcode Reader
1. Cost
To use a barcode technology, a reader must be purchased which is expensive. The costs are more expensive for an 2D barcode scanner. Particularly, for small companies, this price isn’t justified. An additional analysis must be carried out to make sure that the investment of the barcode scanner will be beneficial.
2. Range
To allow barcode readers to be able operate, the reader must not be kept above 15 feet away from the label of the barcode. If it is located further than that, the reader might have trouble scanning. In certain cases the shorter range could create problems.
3. Physical Damages
Barcode readers are extremely susceptible to physical damages. Much like other equipments, it’s subject to wears and tears. When it experiences damage and a resultant damage, it will incur additional costs in repairing.
4. Damage to the Label
Typically, barcodes are printed on labels that are always open to the view of the world. This makes it easily prone to environmental damages. Even if just one area that is damaged, it could cause problems when scanning.
5. Informations
Barcode readers are able scan a small amount of information. They only provide information about the product and manufacturers. Details about manufacturing dates and expiry dates are not included.
6. Security
Some barcodes may not be genuine. There can be malicious barcodes designed by cybercriminals. If an individual happens to scan a barcode that is malicious then the system could be taken over by a hackers. Because the USB that connects the scanner and the computer acts as a secondary keyboard hackers can be able to gain entry to your operating system.