Business Software Review

Using Barcode scanners in retail

Linear barcodes—the ubiquitous alternating black and white stripes whose relative widths encode information—are used in shipping, tracking, and identification and come in more than 250 varieties. The most common barcode application is probably the UPC barcode used in retail stores. Today, barcode scanners have found many applications in retail environments either at the register, in the backroom, or roaming the store. In this paper we take a closer look at these three general applications for scanners and the appropriate scanner for each function.

At the checkout

Based on their grocery shopping experience, most readers probably consider the reading of barcodes a trivial challenge. That’s because the supermarket features built-in countertop laser scanners equipped with mirrors that obtain signals from multiple angles. Such devices provide superior recognition of even smudged barcodes very quickly. Handheld laser scanners are by necessity less powerful and less accurate—they are not capable of gathering multiple signals, and the optical devices cannot be as large and unwieldy as those of their countertop counterparts. However the built in scanners are not mobile, so they require the object being scanned to be in motion. A handheld may be required as a backup scanner for larger items. Built in scanners also tend also to be quite expensive at $1,500 and up and so are not common in small shops.

Handheld barcode scanners are quite common at the checkout counter. Newer models have electronics that simulate the effect of spinning mirrors for better bar code recognition. These devices tend to be tethered to the cash register via a long cord which limits mobility, but keeps the device from becoming lost. Cradles are available to hold the scanner giving much the same effect as the built in models. Handhelds are in the $400 price range.

Less expensive yet are countertop scanners. They work well and are intended to sit upon the counter while the merchandise is passed before them.

In the back room

Scanners can really simplify receiving. Accurate count of new merchandise received helps keep the books straight and saves time for the receiving clerk and truck driver.  Handheld scanners are best for this task, with cordless models offering the most mobility.

Using scanners everywhere

Physical inventory is every shopkeeper’s nightmare. With a portable scanner the task becomes less daunting. Cordless scanners come in two varieties, either docking or wireless. This type of scanner has no cord, and either remembers the inventory scanned and later docks with a computer to upload the information, or uses a wireless radio link to confer the information.

The wireless models are pricier, but offer greater mobility and real time update of inventory information. Batteries in these models tend to deplete more rapidly as the radio transmitter is used heavily. Docking models have no radio with which to exchange data, instead relying on the physical engagement with the dock to connect and upload data. This forces batch uploading and offers the advantage that batteries will be recharged during docking.  A possible disadvantage is the periodic need to stop scanning and upload a batch of data, but this is performed at your convenience as the scanner can remember inventory information for many tens of thousands of SKUs. Both models offer exposure to becoming lost, dropped, or otherwise damaged.

If a scanner is used infrequently, such as for semi-annual inventory, batteries should be removed between uses to protect from leakage.

In summary

Scanners can pay for themselves through time savings and accurate inventory maintenance. Although some types of multipurpose scanners can be used for all functions, this involves compromise.  Since receiving and sales can occur at the same time, a minimum of two scanners is required.  Most POS software will support most scanners, but check with your POS vendor, or JCS computer to be sure before you buy.

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JCS Computer Resource Corporation

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Arlington Heights, IL

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