Post Link: Barcode Scanning: What to Look for in a Scanner

Barcode Scanning: What to Look for in a Scanner

Barcode scanning can be hugely helpful to wholesale sales reps taking orders during storevisits when used in conjunction with mobile order writing software.

Just think––rather than filling out a paper order form, sales reps can simply go around the storewith their customers, scan products that need to be restocked, and then see those productsshow up in the order on their smartphone or tablet. This can also be done at trade shows forfaster, more efficient order taking.

In order to do this kind of barcode scanning, you may be able to simply use the built-in cameraon your device. Alternatively, you may want to invest in a bluetooth barcode scanner. For thosein the latter category, we’ve put together this post on what to look for in a barcode scanner, aswell as a few scanners that could work for your business.

Barcode Scanning: Things to Consider When Choosing AScanner

1. Handheld vs. Desktop

It’s more than likely that you’re going to be looking for a handheld scanner that you can use onthe go. We will be focusing on these handheld options in this post, but take note that there aremany desktop options out there if that’s what would work for your business.

2. Device Keyboard Use While Scanning

Most bluetooth scanners act as an external keyboard for your device. In other words, when abarcode is scanned, the barcode is entered into an input field on your device––almost as ifsomeone typed the barcode in very quickly.

You may, however, want the option to use your actual device keyboard while using the scanner.If, for example, you’ve scanned a product and then want to make notes or change a quantity,you’ll need your device keyboard to do that. Find a scanner that has a switch function that willallow you to move between the scanner and the mobile device’s keyboard.

3. Multiple Device Use

Figure out if you want the scanner to pair with multiple devices. Some scanners can be pairedwith multiple devices, connecting via bluetooth to whatever devices they pick up. This is anecessary feature if the device will be shared among several employees.

Others require you to pair with one designated device at a time. If you want to pair it with a newdevice, the scanner will “forget” the old one in order to pair with the new one. This scenarioworks for individual sales reps who will be using the scanner exclusively.

4. Battery Life

Be sure to look into the average battery life of each scanner you consider. If your reps are goingto be on the road for most of the day and going to multiple appointments, they’ll need enoughjuice to get through the day.

5. Durability

How important is durability? It might be worth it to spend a little more on a scanner that’s solidlybuilt, rather than a cheaper one made with light plastic. Will the scanner still work if dropped?Does it have any external padding to protect it?

6. Warranty

Check out each device’s warranty policy. You don’t want to be left in the lurch if the scannerbreaks or malfunctions.

7. Barcode Support

As you already know, there are many different barcode formats out there. Some scannerssupport more than others. Make sure that the scanner you’re looking at supports the barcodesyou use.

8. Customization

What kinds of customizations are important to you? Changing the beep volume, setting anautomatic shut-off time? A button scan vs. continuous scan function?

9. Clip-on vs. Separate Unit

Having a barcode scanner that can clip onto your device can be much easier than juggling twodevices. However, these clip-on units tend to be a bit pricier than the regular bluetoothscanners. It’s something to consider.

Start Barcode Scanning with These Scanners

1. The Socket MobileCHS-7Ci

The Socket Mobile CHS-7Ci handheld scanner comes in at around $200 each. The scannerhas a keyboard switching feature that allows you to temporarily show the on-screen keyboardwhile the scanner is paired with the device. As mentioned above, this allows you to convenientlyadd notes, change quantities, etc. while writing the order.

With a 19-hour battery life, this scanner will last you a whole day on the road. It also includes alanyard/belt clip, so that you can keep your hands free when you’re not using it.

2. The TaoTronics TT-BS016

The TaoTronics TT-BS016 Wireless Barcode Scanner is a great choice for those who’re lookingfor an economical solution. At around $66, this scanner is definitely the cheapest on the list,making it an option for businesses who have to equip large sales teams with these devices.We’ve also found it to be quite reliable in terms of performance.

The scanner does have some limitations, however. While barcode scanning, you cannot usethe device keyboard. It also doesn’t have a power button, so you’d have to wait for it to turnitself off if you needed the keyboard. On the bright side, however, you can set it to automaticallyturn off after 30 seconds of inactivity.

Another downside is that this scanner will only remember one device at a time. If it needs to beconnected to multiple devices, it will need to be re-paired every time (rather than just turning iton and having it automatically connect). If each sales rep is going to be using his or her ownscanner exclusively, however, this isn’t a huge issue.

3. The KoamTac KDC410i-OP-R1 Snap-On Scanner

The KoamTac Snap-On Bluetooth Scanner is a great choice for those who want to work withone device. It attaches to your mobile device, whether it’s a smartphone or tablet. Instead ofhaving to hold a mobile device and a scanner at the same time, you’ll be holding one all-in-one

tool.

It also has a built-in 1200 mAh rechargeable battery, which can be used as an external powersource for your mobile device. The downside? At around $319, it’s the priciest scanner on thislist.

Questions about barcode scanning or any of the scanners we’ve included in this post? Let usknow in the comments.Post originally located at: https://www.handshake.com/blog/barcode-scanning/

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