What's a bar code reader?

There are several types of bar code readers. Which one you use depends on how you plan to use it. We will cover all of the major types below. Wand Scanner Sometimes referred to as a Wand Scanner, Bar Code Wands may be the most popular Bar Code readers or scanners, due to their low cost. They resemble a pen and require you to make contact with the bar code. Wands are manually moved across Bar Codes to perform the reading function, hence their classification as "contact" scanners. Bar Code Wands are extremely simple to use, but require users to keep a reasonably constant scanning motion across the Bar Code, and a flat surface behind the Bar Code to support the pressure applied by the operator during the scanning motion. Laser Scanner Bar Code Laser Scanners are faster and easier to use than Wand or CCD Scanners. The user simply holds the Laser Scanner above the Bar Code, and pulls the trigger button. Laser scanners typically read Bar Codes from near contact to about 12 inch distance. ...  more