A handheld scanner fits in the palm of your hand. It uses optical technologies to read and decode encoded information. Its principle of operation is based on the emission and reception of light.
What is a handheld scanner? Basic information
The handheld scanners are tiny tools that decode 1D and 2D codes. They are battery-operated. They can be easily carried in a pocket, on a belt, or around the neck.
The handheld scanners transform visual data into digital information in seconds. They help workers in logistics, production, retail stores, and healthcare; they are commonly used also during various events. They increase productivity and reduce human error.
Handheld scanner: construction
The essential components that make up handheld scanners are:
- a front window through which the light beam is emitted and received,
- a light emission system (LED or laser),
- an optical sensor to detect the reflected light,
- an internal processor to decode the information,
- a long-life rechargeable battery,
- a button to activate scanning,
- a small screen to display basic information,
- wireless connectivity (Bluetooth or WiFi).
Handheld scanner: principle of operation
The scanning process is simple. The information can be instantly visible.
First, the scanner illuminates the code with a beam of red light. The light reflects off the bars and spaces in the code. Then, an optical sensor captures the reflected image. That light is converted into electrical signals. A decoder interprets them into readable data. Finally, the information is transmitted to a connected device: a computer or cash register.
Modern models have interesting extras, such as the ability to work with different types of codes and read the codes from any angle (omnidirectional).
These two types of handheld scanners are commonly used:
- the laser barcode reader that decodes linear barcodes (1D); it works well at a greater distance and in low light;
- the imager barcode readers that use a matrix similar to that found in digital cameras or camcorders, such as CMOS or CCD, which decode 1D and 2D codes; their advantage is versatility.
Please notice that scanners can also capture, e.g., passport and ID card data. Whereas they take images using white, infrared, and ultraviolet light. They then process them to enhance details. They extract data from the mechanical reading area and, in electronic passports, from the RFID chip. Finally, they verify security measures and transmit the information.
Applications of handheld scanners
Logistics and warehousing. The handheld scanners help to manage inventories, receive goods, and prepare orders. The devices quickly scan product codes. Each scan updates the database instantly. It is possible to establish the exact level of stock in a warehouse.
The scanners verify if incoming goods match orders. They automatically record each receipt. They detect errors or differences between what was received and what was ordered.
During order picking, the scanners notify the workers where each item is located. When scanning a product, they verify if it is the correct one and update the inventory.
Retail. Handheld scanners reduce errors and improve quality at every step of the shopping process. Before products are shipped, the scanners support the final check. They make it possible to print updated labels and record the output of each package.
The scanners track specific batches and record the results in the system. All of these ensure thorough control and make it easy to recall defective products if necessary. Returns are quickly recorded when products are scanned. Live synchronization ensures that the entire company operates with up-to-date information.
Contact us to learn more about scanning technologies.
