Choosing a Barcode Scanner: 1D or 2D, Wired or Wireless?

1D or 2D: which code type fits?

A 1D scanner reads linear barcodes such as EAN-13, Code 128 or Code 39, which store information only across their width. A 2D scanner also captures matrix codes like QR Code, Data Matrix and PDF417, which hold data in both height and width and therefore fit far more characters.

2D codes still read even when partly damaged because they include built-in error correction. Data Matrix is common in goods receipt and electronics because it can be printed very small directly on components.

Laser or imager: how is it read?

Laser scanners sweep a barcode with a red line and read 1D codes only. Imagers work like a camera, capture an image and decode both 1D and 2D codes in any orientation.

The imager is less sensitive to minor damage and reads codes off a smartphone or monitor screen, which a laser cannot. The classic laser still scores at very long read distances and is often cheaper.

• Laser: reads 1D only, needs clean straight alignment, robust at long range.
• Imager: reads 1D and 2D, omnidirectional, reads from a display too.
• Imager copes better with scratched or poorly printed labels.
• For mixed supplier codes the imager is the safe choice.

Wired or wireless: which for which process?

Wired scanners connect via USB and are ready instantly without a battery, which makes them ideal for fixed checkout and packing stations. Wireless Bluetooth scanners give the operator freedom to move and reach up to 100 metres to the base station depending on class.

In goods receipt and with bulky pallets wireless shows its strengths because you bring the scanner to the goods rather than the other way round. Watch out for battery life, buffer memory for offline operation and the charging cradle.

How rugged does the scanner need to be?

In tough warehouse use, ingress protection and drop resistance decide the service life. The IP rating per EN 60529 states how well a device is protected against dust and water, for example IP54 for splash water or IP65 for jet-water-protected units.

A further figure is the drop height a scanner survives onto concrete, typically 1.5 to 1.8 metres. For use in cold storage you should also check the permitted temperature range.

• IP54: protected against dust and splash water, for normal warehouses.
• IP65: dust-tight and jet-water-protected, for harsh environments.
• Drop height of 1.5 to 1.8 m onto concrete as a guide value.
• Check the temperature range, especially in chilled and frozen storage.

Frequently asked questions