How Rugged Windows Tablets with Barcode Scanners Are Changing Businesses 2023
Digital transformation is a necessity for staying competitive and efficient in today’s fast-paced business environment. One technological advancement that is rapidly changing the way businesses operate is rugged Windows tablets with barcode scanners. These tablets provide a durable, portable, and versatile solution for a variety of industries, from manufacturing and logistics to healthcare and retail.
The significance of a rugged windows tablet for business operations cannot be overstated. Due to their sturdy design, these tablets can endure extreme conditions and tough handling, making them perfect for use in warehouses, factories, and outdoor locations. The inclusion of barcode scanners allows businesses to simplify their inventory management and tracking processes, lowering mistakes and improving productivity.
Rugged tablets with barcode scanners are increasingly important for industries undergoing digital transformation. They are essential tools for collecting and analysing real-time data, enabling businesses to make informed decisions and streamline their operations. These versatile devices have a wide range of applications, from inventory management and logistics to field service and retail, making them invaluable assets to businesses in numerous sectors.
In this article, we will explore the advantages, applications, and challenges of rugged Windows tablets with barcode scanners. We will also examine real-world case studies of successful implementation and discuss the future potential of this technology. Overall, it is clear that a rugged tablet with barcode scanners is a game-changer for businesses looking to stay ahead in today’s digital age.
Advantages of rugged Windows tablets with barcode scanners
A Rugged Windows tablet with a barcode scanner offers several advantages over traditional computers or handheld devices.
Durability and reliability
Rugged tablets are designed to endure harsh settings, drops, and spills. They frequently have an IP rating for resistance to water and dust, and they can function in extreme temperatures. This sturdiness and dependability make them perfect for use in demanding surroundings where other devices may not survive.
The best rugged tablets are designed to endure extreme temperatures and withstand tough handling in busy environments. They are equipped with features such as moisture protection, waterproofing, and reinforced screens to ensure durability. For businesses operating in challenging environments, a rugged tablet with robust processing power can provide the necessary support.
Portability and mobility
A Rugged tablet is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around on the job. These tablets often come with a range of mounting and carrying options, such as hand straps, shoulder straps, and vehicle mounts. This portability and mobility enable workers to move around freely while still having access to critical data. In the supply chain industry, for example, mobility is a crucial element to ensure success. When your employees can take their rugged tablet with them wherever they go, it enables them to quickly adapt to changing conditions and provide valuable input.
Barcode scanning capabilities
A rugged tablet comes equipped with a built-in barcode scanner or can be paired with an external scanner. This allows workers to scan barcodes quickly and easily, without the need for additional equipment. Barcode scanning enables businesses to track inventory, monitor production processes, and improve accuracy and efficiency.
Battery life
The best rugged tablets have long battery life, enabling workers to use them for an entire shift without needing to recharge. Some tablets even have hot-swappable batteries, allowing for continuous use.
Customization and compatibility
Rugged tablets are often customizable, with options for additional ports, accessories, and software. They can also be integrated with existing systems, such as warehouse management software or enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. This compatibility and customization make them a flexible and versatile solution for businesses.
Picking Out The Correct Operating System For Your Business Operations
When it comes to choosing a rugged tablet for business use, selecting the right operating system is crucial. The OS serves as the foundation for all software applications and hardware components on the device and can have a significant impact on the tablet’s performance, security, and overall usability.
For businesses, it’s important to choose an operating system that is reliable, secure, and compatible with their existing systems and software. One popular OS for rugged tablets is Windows, which offers several benefits for businesses, including:
Familiarity and compatibility
Many businesses already use Windows-based software and systems, making a Windows tablet a natural choice for compatibility and ease of integration. Windows also provides users with a familiar interface, minimizing the amount of time required to learn how to use it and allowing employees to be more productive right away.
Robust security features
Windows provides a range of security features, including data encryption, secure boot, and built-in antivirus software. This can help businesses protect sensitive data and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
Flexibility and customization
Windows tablets offer a high degree of customization, allowing businesses to tailor the device to their specific needs. This includes the ability to install custom software and configure the device settings to optimize performance.
Wide range of software options
Windows has a vast ecosystem of software applications, including enterprise-level software such as Microsoft Office and SAP. This enables businesses to run a variety of software on their rugged tablets, improving efficiency and productivity. One of the best reasons why Windows is a good choice for your business is its universality. According to Gartner, Windows still holds 83% market share for personal computers. This OS is flexible and intuitive making it easy for your teams to manage their preferred applications.
Why Use a Barcode Scanner?
Since their creation, barcode scanners have been an essential part of modern life, with applications in countless areas that often go unnoticed. These codes are so ingrained in our daily routines that we may not even be aware of how frequently we encounter them.
Barcode scanners are used across a wide range of devices that we use daily, and many businesses now rely on this technology to operate efficiently. Barcodes have become a valuable asset in many industries, enabling real-time tracking of goods, inventory management, and enhancing customer experiences.
The versatility and reliability of barcode technology have allowed it to become an essential component of modern-day life. Its applications range from tracking parcels during delivery to improving healthcare systems, with barcode scanners offering an efficient and accurate way to collect and manage data.

- Increased Efficiency
Humans are not perfect, therefore, errors can easily happen when recording information and tracking items like inventory and expenses. Additionally, if a person wants to find out about the history of a product on a shelf, it can be laborious to dig through thousands of files. Barcodes can easily help you find items where they are. They are the best way to collect, store and retrieve data in a matter of seconds. - Save Time
Before the advent of barcodes, inventory management involved using a lot of manpower to write or input numbers manually. This process was time-consuming, tedious, and prone to errors. Barcode technology has revolutionized this process, enabling businesses to operate more efficiently with fewer staff. Scanning a barcode makes inventory management much simpler, as all the necessary information is contained within the code. This eliminates the need for physical counting and logging of items by hand. - Reduce Mistakes
Barcode scanners can effectively eliminate the risk of human error. When data is entered manually, errors can easily occur. However, by using a barcode scanner, you can obtain accurate and quick data in a fraction of the time it would take to enter it manually. Additionally, scanning barcodes allows for easy updates to data and information storage. - Less Training Needed
A barcode system reduces employee training time. It takes very little time to master how to use a barcode scanner. Additionally, your employees do not need to become familiar with an entire pricing procedure or inventory. - Reduce Liability
Barcodes can provide asset and security tracking. They are one of the best ways companies can keep their peace of mind as they can effectively reduce loss and liability.
Reasons To Get A Rugged Tablet
In today’s market, there are various options available when it comes to barcode scanner brands. However, one brand that is gradually becoming a popular choice among companies is rugged Windows devices with built-in barcode scanners.
Rugged Windows devices are reliable and versatile, making them a preferred tool for many businesses. There are numerous advantages that rugged Windows tablets can offer to your business. For instance, you no longer need to worry about downtime due to tools getting damaged. A rugged Windows device with a barcode scanner eliminates the need for multiple tools and can perform various tasks with ease. This not only helps you save on costs but also enhances productivity and strengthens your company’s technological infrastructure.
Improve your productivity
Improved productivity is crucial, especially in fast-paced business environments. For instance, in a retail store, you wouldn’t want your employees to be constantly preoccupied with their barcode scanners and mobile devices. In this case, a rugged Windows tablet with a built-in 2D barcode scanner is the optimal choice for an all-in-one device.

A significant disadvantage of using regular barcode scanners is that they can break down unexpectedly, causing major problems for businesses that require consistent and reliable operations. In the warehousing industry, a malfunctioning barcode scanner can cause a backlog of work for everyone involved. This is where rugged tablets come in – they are built to last and perform even in the harshest conditions. With a rugged device, downtime is no longer a concern. No matter what kind of environment you need the barcode scanner for, a rugged tablet will work at full capacity.
A rugged tablet is also drop-tested, which means it is protected against hard knocks or accidental drops. This is the perfect device to use in industries where employees operate in a busy environment.
Utilise A Top Operating System
A rugged Windows tablet with an integrated barcode scanner offers the convenience of having a full computer in your hand. This can bring great benefits to your team, especially when it comes to scanning and storing items in real time.
There are many reasons to consider a Windows 10 device. It is a highly versatile operating system that offers regular bi-annual updates with new features and support. This means you can expect more from your device and take advantage of its full potential.
Industries that Can Take Advantage of Rugged Windows Devices with A Barcode Scanner
You will generally find barcodes in retail stores or in warehouses where it is necessary to track large inventories. However, there are numerous other possibilities and a range of sectors that barcodes can support. Having a barcode scanner for your rugged Windows tablets will improve the way you deliver your products and services.
There are several types of barcodes and the most common are the linear and QR codes. Linear codes are typically subdivided further depending on the kind of business and data that you want to store. For example, most warehouse, manufacturing, and distribution companies use a linear barcode with an interleaving of 2 and 5. On the other hand, book publishers use the International Article Number (EAN) linear codes to trace and locate books.
The Quick Response (QR) Code which has been getting more and more attention over the last decade is another type of barcode. QR codes are gaining popularity as marketing tools that allow you to link web-based information.

Hospitality Sector – Events, Movies, and Travel
Barcodes are widely used in various industries, including events, movie theatres, and the travel sector. They are used to scan tickets and ensure a smooth customer experience. Barcode scanners are used to authenticate the validity of tickets before customers can enter a venue. In the travel industry, most airlines also use barcodes to confirm that the customer is boarding the correct flight.
Barcodes are also helpful in counting the sales generated for a particular event. This means that your employees can focus on providing better customer service instead of keeping track of the tickets. Using a rugged device with a barcode scanner allows you to easily store all the information in your system. This can reduce the time spent on creating reports and enable your employees to be more productive.
Warehouse, Delivery Fleet, Retail, and Manufacturing
Barcode technology is commonly used in industries such as warehouses, delivery fleets, retail, and manufacturing. Rugged Windows devices provide a solution to the wear and tear that employees’ tools may experience in these environments.
Health and Education
Rugged Windows devices with barcode scanners can also be incredibly useful in healthcare and education. In healthcare, they can be used to track inventory, medications, and patient information, while in education, they can be used to track student attendance, equipment loans, and library book checkouts. The versatility of these devices makes them a valuable asset to any industry.
A Range of Industries Using QR Codes
Nowadays, QR codes have become the most commonly used type of barcode. These square-shaped codes were invented in Japan and are utilised across a range of industries, from loyalty cards to bus tickets. The main advantage of QR codes is that they can directly link customers to online information. However, to read QR codes, a 2D scanner is required.
Compared to regular barcodes, 2D barcodes are capable of storing more information in various languages. They can also contain resources such as a URL, making it easier for customers to navigate to a particular website. Conker’s rugged devices come equipped with the best built-in 2D barcode scanners available on the market. This means that your employees can use the most powerful tool out there, and any scanned information will be automatically stored in the system in real time.
Get to know how barcode scanning technology can improve business operations in a previous article we posted.
How To Choose The Right Barcode Scanners
It is crucial for industries that heavily rely on barcode scanners to ensure they are using the right tool for their daily operations. Sectors such as retail, warehouse, hospitality, and education can greatly benefit from barcode technology.
With technology evolving rapidly, these industries need to keep up with the latest advancements. For instance, retail distribution facilities are now shifting towards a more technology-based operation, where barcode scanners and computers are used to track and manage inventory. However, using multiple devices simultaneously can negatively impact productivity.
Traditional Barcode Scanners Versus Rugged Windows Devices with Barcode Scanners
Traditional barcode scanners are single-purpose devices and can scan items compared to multi-purpose devices. These scanners are often industry-specific and are used to read data in warehouses. They are also less expensive, making them the go-to choice for most warehouses.
On the other hand, rugged Windows devices with built-in barcode scanners can revolutionize the way you operate. They can help modernize your processes and bridge the gap between traditional and advanced technologies. Unlike regular mobile phones, the built-in scanners in rugged devices are specifically designed for scanning purposes.
Pick The Ones That Has A Powerful Operating System
Conker’s NS6 is a perfect example of a fully Windows 10 rugged tablet with a built-in barcode scanner. These devices come equipped with high-end barcode scanners such as Honeywell scanners. Additionally, since these devices run on the full Windows 10 operating system, they can be installed with some of the most user-friendly and well-known tools available for your employees.
Rugged Tablets and Devices Bring Better Durability
One of the key advantages of rugged devices is their durability, which makes them ideal for use in industries where regular devices are vulnerable to damage from machinery movement, heat, water, dust, and drops. Unlike standard devices, rugged devices are built to withstand these harsh conditions, making them a sound investment for any business that requires long-term use of their equipment.
Made To Be Compatible with a Range of Software
Ensuring that your warehouse is equipped with the latest technology is essential to keeping up with the fast-paced industry. Choosing the right tools and devices, such as a barcode scanner, can make a significant difference in your business operations. It is important to consider the type of barcode scanner that you are using, especially for industries that handle large inventories like warehouses, retail, and manufacturing.
By using a rugged Windows device with a barcode scanner, you can expect your device to be compatible with different advanced software, making it a valuable investment in the long run. With top-of-the-market barcode scanners like Honeywell and built-in 2D scanners, your employees can easily scan a variety of barcode types. Additionally, a rugged device is built to last, making it the best choice for industries that are exposed to machinery movement, heat, water, dust, and drops.
Overall, choosing a rugged Windows device with a barcode scanner is a smart investment that can improve your employees’ productivity, reduce costs, and streamline your inventory management process.
Conker Windows Rugged Tablets
Conker is a UK-based technology company that specializes in creating rugged Windows tablets that are built to withstand harsh environments. Our products are ideal for industries such as warehousing, retail, manufacturing, hospitality, and education.
Conker’s Windows rugged tablets are designed to provide reliability and durability, even in extreme conditions. These devices are resistant to water, dust, and drops, ensuring that they can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. This makes them an excellent investment for businesses that want to ensure that their technology can handle the rigors of the workplace.
Conker’s Windows rugged tablets are equipped with top-of-the-line hardware and software. They are powered by Full Windows 10, which provides access to a wide range of software applications that are compatible with Microsoft Office and other productivity tools. This means that businesses can easily integrate Conker tablets into their existing systems without any compatibility issues.
Another key feature of Conker’s Windows rugged tablets is their built-in barcode scanners. These scanners are capable of reading both linear and 2D barcodes, making them useful for a wide range of industries. They are also built to be fast and accurate, ensuring that businesses can quickly and efficiently track inventory and manage assets.
Conker’s Windows rugged tablets come in a range of sizes and specifications, allowing businesses to choose the device that best meets their needs. They are also customizable, with options for additional features such as GPS, 4G connectivity, and more.
Overall, Conker’s Windows rugged tablets are an excellent choice for businesses that need a reliable, durable, and versatile device for their daily operations. With their top-of-the-line hardware, software, and barcode scanning capabilities, these tablets are a valuable asset for any business looking to improve its productivity and efficiency.
Book your 15-minute discovery call and one of our knowledgeable consultants will help you find the perfect Windows Rugged Tablet for your business.
Scanning Barcode Technology: Improving Warehouse Accuracy and Efficiency in 2023
Barcode technology has revolutionised the way businesses manage inventory and streamline operations. From retail to healthcare, logistics to manufacturing, barcode scanning is an essential tool for enhancing accuracy and efficiency in supply chain management.
In this article, we’ll explore how barcode scanning technology, including data matrix codes, can help improve warehouse accuracy and efficiency. It’s a quick and easy way to identify and manage items, which is why it’s a go-to for many warehouses. Barcoding is the most cost-effective method of product tracing across various industries.
Barcodes provide automatic identification of products, fast recognition, and efficient implementation of data. Barcode labels are highly cost-effective, even when dealing with complex applications. Additionally, barcodes help to reduce capital costs by preventing the need to carry excess inventory, as they provide accurate information on what is in stock and prevent over-ordering.
Many companies are planning to upgrade their warehouse mobile devices because of these benefits. Barcodes allow businesses to track the “who,” “what,” and “when” of any activities within the warehouse. It is not surprising that businesses with portable barcode scanners are enjoying the efficiency that barcoding brings.
Whether you’re a warehouse manager, a logistics professional, or simply interested in learning more about the benefits of barcode scanning technology, this article will provide invaluable insights into how a barcode reader can improve accuracy and efficiency in supply chain management.

How Does A Barcode Scanner Work?
Barcode technology involves the use of a barcode scanner, which is a handheld device that reads information encoded in a barcode. When a barcode is scanned, the scanner uses a laser or camera to read the pattern of bars and spaces that make up the barcode. This pattern represents a unique identification number that is associated with a specific product, inventory item, or other data.
There are several types of barcodes that a warehouse might use these include:
- UPC (Universal Product Code) – used in retail for product identification and inventory management. UPC barcodes also have additional subtypes such as UPC A and UPC E.
- EAN (European Article Number) – similar to UPC and used for product identification in Europe
- Code 39 – used for alphanumeric data and inventory management
- Code 128 – is a barcode type that is used for alphanumeric data and more complex supply chain management
- QR (Quick Response) Code – can store more information than traditional barcodes and is used for a variety of purposes including advertising and product tracking
- Data Matrix – similar to a QR code and used for tracking and managing inventory and products
- PDF417 – is a barcode type used for storing large amounts of data, often used in transportation and logistics
- MaxiCode – used for package tracking and high-speed scanning
- Aztec Code – used for tracking and managing inventory in small spaces
- Interleaved 2 of 5 – used for inventory management and product identification
These are just a few examples of the many types of barcodes used today. Each barcode type has its own specific use case and advantages, and businesses may choose to use different types of barcodes depending on their needs and industry.
By using a scanner to read the unique identification number encoded in a barcode, warehouses can then use this data to track inventory, manage data, and improve accuracy and efficiency in supply chain management.
Advantages of using barcode technology in warehouse management
Improved accuracy
A study conducted by PeopleVOX revealed that the leading problem in warehousing operations is human error, accounting for approximately 46% of all issues.
Barcode scanning is much more accurate than manual data entry, reducing the risk of errors and improving inventory accuracy.
Increased efficiency
Utilising a barcode scanner is a faster alternative to manual data entry, enabling workers to complete tasks more efficiently and boosting overall productivity.
Real-time tracking
Barcode scanning enables real-time tracking of inventory, making it easier for managers to monitor stock levels and adjust orders as necessary. Implementing barcode scanners can increase efficiency and conserve resources, particularly when onboarding new employees. Instead of training staff on an entire inventory of products, a barcode scanner can automate much of the work.
Improved inventory management
Zoho’s report indicates that accidental redundancy, picking errors, a disorganised warehouse layout, and inadequate preparation for seasonal demands continue to pose significant challenges for many warehouses. However, implementing a barcode reader can simplify inventory tracking and reduce the risk of stockouts and overstocking by keeping tabs on inventory levels and movements.
Reduced labour costs
Using devices that read barcodes reduces the need for manual data entry and paperwork, saving time and reducing labour costs.
Better decision-making
By having access to real-time data on inventory levels and movements, managers can make better-informed decisions regarding purchasing, production, and supply chain management.
Enhanced customer service
Barcode technology enables faster and more accurate order fulfilment, reducing delivery times and improving customer satisfaction.
The utilisation of barcode technology can offer substantial advantages for warehouse management, including enhanced accuracy, efficiency, and inventory management, while also reducing labour costs and improving decision-making. By adopting barcode technology in their operations, businesses can gain a competitive edge in the fast-paced and data-driven marketplace of today.

Rugged Devices With Barcode Scanners Vs Commercial Devices
Barcode scanners are essential tools for efficient warehouse management, but not all scanners are created equal. While commercial mobile phones like Android and iPhone can be used for barcode scanning, they are not always the best choice for rugged warehouse environments. Rugged devices with integrated barcode scanners offer several advantages over commercial mobile phones, including:
- Durability – Rugged devices are built to withstand harsh environments and can handle drops, vibrations, and extreme temperatures better than commercial mobile phones.
- Longer battery life – Rugged devices typically have larger batteries than commercial mobile phones, allowing for longer usage times and reducing the need for frequent charging. With longer battery life, your teams can scan through multiple shifts.
- Better scanning performance – Rugged devices with integrated barcode scanners are specifically designed for fast and accurate scanning, with advanced scanning technologies and better optics.
- Improved ergonomics – Rugged devices with integrated barcode scanners are designed for comfortable use over long periods of time, with ergonomic handles and buttons that are easy to use even while wearing gloves.
- Enhanced connectivity – Rugged devices often have better connectivity options than commercial mobile phones, with features like 4G LTE, GPS, and Bluetooth for improved communication and tracking.
- Security – Rugged devices are often more secure than commercial mobile phones, with features like encryption and secure boot for protection against cyber threats.
Using rugged devices with integrated barcode scanners can significantly improve efficiency and accuracy in warehouse management, especially in rugged and challenging environments. By investing in the right technology, businesses can optimise their operations and gain a competitive edge in today’s fast-paced marketplace.
Tips on How to Get the Most Out of Barcoding
- Include your label manufacturer and vendors on the planning team. Your label manufacturers can help in the installation process. Furthermore, the vendors can also help ease the installation process by labelling the products beforehand, provided that they also have the technology.
- Choose which kind of barcode works best for your facility. There are two kinds of barcodes, a 1D barcode (also known as linear barcodes) or a 2d barcode (e.g., QR code). Barcodes should be selected and labelled based on the environment in which they will be used, taking into consideration factors such as foot traffic, temperature, and durability requirements.
The installation process for barcode technology can be a bit laborious, and there are associated costs, but the overall benefits far outweigh these expenses.
Four reasons why barcoding is so helpful in increasing a company’s accuracy and efficiency
- Mistakes are less likely to happen
Human errors can have severe consequences for businesses. Mistakes in manually entering data on receiving documents, transfers, and cycle counts can result in inaccuracies. Furthermore, there is a risk of items being misplaced. Such errors can have a range of negative impacts on businesses, including damage to reputation and loss of sales. In contrast, barcode scanning is 99.9% accurate, eliminating the risk of human error.
If barcoding is implemented in your warehouse, simple mistakes can be avoided completely. With barcoding, you can save money, time, and energy.
- It makes an employee’s work easier
In a warehouse without barcoding, employees must constantly move back and forth to access inventory. With mobile barcode scanning devices, however, employees can quickly retrieve items and get to work immediately, saving time and reducing workload. Barcoding significantly streamlines warehouse operations.
- Processes are much faster with barcoding
Training employees to use barcode devices is relatively easy since barcoding is a simple tool. Barcoding is also the fastest way to streamline processes, as scanning a barcode is quick and instantaneous. This reduces the overall workload and minimises the time required to complete tasks.
- Accuracy = Efficiency
Barcodes are highly beneficial in managing inventory and tracking key performance indicators in a facility. They assist in monitoring the accuracy of inventory levels and shelf life of items, reducing the workload significantly. Barcodes can also enhance a company’s performance by providing valuable insights into the inventory management process.
Conclusion
Implementing barcode technology in a warehouse is crucial for cost reduction and achieving higher throughput. If your business aims to minimise errors, enhance warehouse operations’ efficiency, and capture information quickly, using warehouse barcode scanners is essential.
Conker’s rugged devices go beyond the features of standard mobile phones, providing excellent durability and functionality.
Conker is a company that specialises in rugged mobile devices for various industries, including warehousing, logistics, manufacturing, and retail. Our devices are built to withstand harsh environments, drops, water, and dust, making them ideal for use in tough working conditions.
A standout feature of Conker’s rugged devices is their built-in barcode scanners. These scanners make it easy for workers to quickly and accurately scan barcodes, improving inventory management and reducing errors. With real-time data on inventory levels and movement, a user can make better-informed decisions about purchasing, production, and supply chain management.
In addition to their barcode scanning capabilities, Conker’s rugged devices also come with other useful features, such as long battery life, fast processing speeds, and multiple connectivity options. This makes them highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications.
Furthermore, Conker is committed to providing excellent customer service and support. Our team of experts is available to assist with device setup, training, and troubleshooting, ensuring that businesses can fully utilise the benefits of their rugged devices.
Overall, Conker’s rugged devices, equipped with barcode scanning technology, offer a range of benefits for businesses, including improved accuracy, efficiency, and inventory management, while reducing labour costs and improving decision-making. With their durable construction and versatile features, they are a valuable investment for any business operating in challenging environments.
To find the right rugged device for your needs, contact Conker today.
How to scan a barcode
There are many different situations whereby you may find yourself needing to scan a barcode. From getting the price of something in-store to effectively storing products in a warehouse, scanning a barcode can be central to ensuring that everything is organized and operating as it should be. Therefore, it can be essential to provide your workers with a barcode scanner in many different industries and work environments.
No matter what you need barcode scanning for, one thing you will want is the ease of operation! There is nothing worse than finding yourself having to try 10 different angles in order to get the barcode to scan, is there? That is why we have put this post together; to help you get a better understanding of how to scan a barcode without feeling like you want to throw the device out of the window! So, let’s take a look at everything you need to know about successful barcode scanning.
What is a barcode?
We have all seen barcodes many times before. We know that they feature different-sized black stripes. But what is this? Barcodes encode information using visual patterns. This information can be read by a machine, i.e. a barcode scanner.
Barcodes are used for a number of different reasons, including tracking stock levels, prices, and products for centralized recording in a computer software system.
Do you know where the first barcode appeared? This was actually back in 1974, with the barcode featuring on a packet of chewing gum from the Wrigley Company.
Today, you can find barcodes on pretty much every item that is available for sale within a store, as well as any inventory that is waiting to be shipped to a consumer or store premises.
From small-town, local business stores to worldwide powerhouses like Amazon, they all use barcode scanners when they are sending out their online orders.
The two types of barcodes
Did you know that there are actually two different types of barcodes? You have 2D and linear barcodes.
The most recognizable barcode is the UPC barcode, with UPC standing for Universal Product Code. This is a linear barcode that has two parts; a 12-digit UPC number and the barcode itself. The manufacturer’s identification number makes up the first six numbers of the barcode. You then have the item’s number, which is represented by the next five numbers.
The final number is what we call a check digit, which allows the scanner to decipher whether or not the barcode has been scanned properly.
A linear barcode will typically hold any type of text information. However, on the other hand, a 2D barcode is more complicated. It can incorporate more details within the code. For example, it can hold information regarding the web address, quantity, price, or image.
You need to make sure that you have the right scanner for the sort of barcodes that you are going to be scanning. This is because you would not be able to use a linear barcode scanner to read a 2D barcode.
The barcode scanner
Now that we have talked you through the barcode side of things, let’s take a look at the actual barcode scanner. A barcode scanner will typically have three different parts, which include the decoder, sensor, and illumination system.
Generally speaking, the barcode scanner will scan the white and black elements of the barcode by using red light to illuminate the code, and this will then be converted into matching text.
More specifically, the barcode scanner’s sensor will detect the illumination system\s reflected light. Next, it will create an analog signal, sent to the decoder. Moreover, a decoder will interpret the signal. Finally, the barcode will be validated using the check digit, and then it is converted into text.
The converted text is going to be sent from the scanner to a computer software system, which holds a database of the quantity, cost, and maker of all of the items sold.
There are many different barcode scanners on the market today
Barcode scanners come in different sizes, functions, and capabilities. As a result, you will find that some are better suited to some industries than others. Factors such as work volume capacity and reading distance will all play a role.
We will give a brief overview of some of the different types of barcode scanners so that you can see what we mean. Firstly, we have laser scanners, which use a laser beam to scan the barcode. Another popular type is the pen-type reader, which consists of a photodiode and light source on the tip of the pen. Camera-based readers are also available. This uses image processing and camera techniques to read barcodes.
You also have CCD readers, which have a number of light sensors to scan the barcodes. One of the most advanced options on the market is the Omni-directional barcode scanner. A highly advanced and efficient scanner when it comes to decoding barcodes. I can read barcodes even when used on torn, crumpled, or badly printed barcodes.
Boosting the efficiency of your business with a quality barcode scanner
If you are looking to improve the efficiency of your business with effective barcode scanning practices, we have got you covered here at Conker. With one of our rugged Windows handheld scanners, your employees will be able to scan with confidence and ease, which is something we are looking for in the workplace, right?
One of the best products that we have when it comes to barcode scanning is the Conker NS6 – 6″ Rugged Windows Handheld device. This tablet comes with a full Windows OS and barcode scanner. Weighing just 380 grams and coming with a six-inch portrait display, it has everything that your workforce needs.
The scanner is a 2D barcode scanner, which means you will be able to read the barcodes that contain more information, such as quantity, price, web address, and so on. The specific barcode scanner with this model is the Honeywell N3680. It comes as an optional feature.
Some of the other features that you can expect from this handset include the following: GPS, 3G dual-band cellular, Bluetooth 4.2, Wi-Fi dual-band, 5,000 mAh battery that has six hours and 20 minutes of video playback at full brightness, 2-megapixel front camera, 5-megapixel rear camera, 64 GB solid-state storage, 4GB ram, Intel Quad-core CPU, six-inch Gorilla Glass touchscreen, IP65 ruggedized, and Windows 10 Enterprise.
Get to know the benefits of using barcode scanners for your business here.
Excellent Barcode Scanner Benefits
The benefits keep coming as well, as you get a number of different accessories with your purchase. This includes a micro-USB to USB-A adapter, hand strap, and a micro-USB charger. There are also optional accessories, including a charging dock.
This is not the only Android barcode scanner that we have available for you and your team to ensure the efficient operation of your business. You may also want to consider the Conker SX50 – Rugged Android PDA, which comes with a unique productivity-boosting angled barcode reader.
You and your workforce will find this product very easy to use. It weighs just 250 grams, which means it is very lightweight and easy to use.
Because of this, this scanner is popular across a number of different industries and businesses, including those in hospitality, distribution, wholesale, retail, and manufacturing.
There are a number of great features that you can expect with this product, including a fingerprint reader, GPS, 4G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 4,000 mAH battery with nine hours of video playback and four hours charge time, an 8-megapixel camera with flash, 64GB storage, 4GB RAM, 2.0GHz Octa-core Helio CPU, a five-inch toughened screen, IP67, and the Android 10 OS.
Start scanning more efficiently at your business
So there you have it: some of the different approaches that you can use when it comes to barcode scanning, as well as some of the different products that are available. We hope that this blog is helpful in helping you understand how barcode scanners is important for businesses. With the right products, barcode scanning can be a breeze - something that you do not even need to think twice about!
It is all about choosing devices with care, and if you opt for one of the products that we have mentioned in this post, you can be sure that you will not have anything to worry about.
Should you have any queries about any of the barcode scanners that we have for sale here at Conker or if you need advice on choosing the best device for you and your team, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us for more information. We will be more than happy to assist you in any way that we can. The number you need is 01279 295800.