Handheld Scanner Types: Which One is Right for You?

Key Highlights

• Handheld barcode scanners help make business operations run better and be more accurate.

• When you know the types of barcode scanners out there, like laser or 2D imagers, you can pick the right device for your needs.

• The key features you should look at are how it connects (is it wired or wireless), how strong it is, and if it works with your systems.

• Barcode scanning technology affects how fast you can use it, how far it reads, and if it can read damaged or on-screen codes.

• A good data capture is important. This helps with inventory management and moving products through your supply chain faster.

• Choosing the right scanner gets you ready for future needs, such as working with QR codes and advanced data matrix codes.

Introduction

Right now, every business wants to be fast and work well. You may be thinking about how to speed up checkout lines, get rid of mistakes in inventory, or make things run better in your warehouse. The good news is that there is a simple answer. Handheld barcode scanners can help change the way you run your business. People in many stores and warehouses use these devices in Canada. They make inventory management and data capture fast and correct. This guide will show you the different kinds of scanners out there, so you can get the one that fits your business.

Understanding Handheld Scanners and Their Role in Canadian Businesses

Handheld barcode scanners do more than just scan barcodes. They are at the heart of new ways to do inventory management and data capture. If you have a business in Canada and you need to keep track of items, these barcode scanners are a must. They help you keep up with work faster and with fewer errors in your day-to-day tasks.

From a busy warehouse in Toronto to a small shop in Vancouver, the right scanner can change the way you work. It can make your job faster and easier. Here, we look at the devices you use, how they work, and what they can read. That can help you run warehouse management better.

What Is a Handheld Scanner?

A handheld scanner is a small device you can carry. It is made to read barcodes and read the details inside them. When you use it, the scanner becomes the link between the things in your store and your computer system.

You point the scanner at the barcode found on the product. It turns the barcode into data that the computer or phone can read right away. This fast data capture means you do not have to fill in the details by hand, which cuts down on mistakes and saves you time on data entry.

The use cases for these scanners are many. In retail, they help the checkout process go faster. In a warehouse, people use them to track goods from when they get them to when they ship them out. Healthcare places use these scanners to check patient records and medicine. This helps everything be safe and right. A handheld 3D scanner is different because it only gets the object's shape and size. A barcode scanner is meant for reading 1D and 2D codes. People use it for data collection.

This easy-to-use function can really help with business operations. When you use it to handle data entry, you can see your inventory as it changes through the day. You also make order fulfillment faster and better. In the end, it helps everything work smoother.

How Do Handheld Barcode Scanners Work?

Have you ever thought about what goes on in the brief moment when you scan a barcode? The thing called barcode scanning is an interesting mix of light and technology. A handheld scanner uses a light to shine on the barcode. Then it picks up the light that comes back.

A scan engine in the device shines a light on the barcode. The black bars take in the light, and the white spaces bounce it back. A sensor picks up the light that comes back. It changes the light into electrical signals. These signals go to a decoder. The decoder turns the pattern into alphanumeric characters so a computer can read them. This all happens right away, which makes data entry fast.

The workflow is simple yet powerful:

• Capture: The scanner shines a light on the barcode. A sensor picks up the way the light bounces back for you and it reads the pattern.

• Decode: Inside, the decoder changes the read pattern into digital data.

• Transmit: The data then goes to your computer or your management system. This can be done with a cable or by wireless connection.

This smooth way to enter data is why barcode scanners be so important. You can use them for tasks like order fulfillment and keeping track of inventory. They help make work faster and more simple.

Types of Data Captured by Handheld Scanners

Many people think barcode scanners just read numbers. That is not true. What a barcode scanner can read will depend on the barcode type. Today, barcode scanners can read many kinds of barcodes. You can get a lot of information for your business with them. A barcode's data capacity shows how much information it can hold.

Simple 1D linear barcodes look like a "picket fence." They usually hold numbers and letters. Many times, you will see them on products for things like inventory or tracking. They store details like a product code or a serial number. But now, with 2D barcodes, data capture can do more. More types of information can be read and used. This has made data capture better than before.

2D barcodes, such as qr codes and data matrix codes, are really useful. They can keep a lot more information than the old barcodes and they do it in less space. This lets you store more data with them.

• Product Details: These include item numbers, what the product is, and when it was made.

• Website URLs: These send customers to the product page or a special offer.

• Contact Information: Here you find names, phone numbers, and where a person lives.

• Text and Images: This can hold full instructions or even small pictures.

This feature makes today's handheld scanners very useful. People can use them in marketing, and also for handling supply chain needs, no matter how big or small.

Key Features to Look for When Buying a Hand Scanner

Choosing the right hand scanner is not just about picking the first one you see. You need to look at key features like battery life, how it connects, and how tough it is. Thinking about these things will help make daily operations better. Go for a scanner that fits your workflow and gives you good value.

Thinking about these features from the start helps you get barcode scanners that fit what you need now. This way, the scanners can also grow with your business down the road. Looking at the total cost of ownership, not just the starting price, helps you make a good choice that will last for your barcode scanners.

Compatibility With Computers and Operating Systems

One thing you need to think about is if the device will work with your computer and software. Hand scanners do not be compatible with every computer and operating system. You need to check if the scanner can talk to your software and hardware before you buy it. Make sure the hand scanner will fit with what you have, so it works well for you.

Most barcode scanners you find today are easy to use. They are plug-and-play, so you can just unpack the scanner and connect it to your computer. These work with big operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux. When you plug in your barcode scanner, the computer sees it just like a keyboard. So, if you scan something, the numbers and text show up wherever your cursor is waiting. But some barcode scanners or mobile computers that use Android have more features. With these, you may need to install certain drivers or software development kits (SDKs). This is needed if you want the scanner to work well with your inventory or POS system.

You should always look at the product information to make sure it will work on your computer. Make sure the scanner is good with your data management software, too. This is important. It helps you avoid problems so your new tool can help your business operations right from the first day.

Connectivity Options: Wired vs Wireless Hand Scanners

The way you set up your scanner on your system can change how easy it is to use. You can pick a wired connection, or you can go with wireless connectivity. Both options have their good points, and each is better for certain types of work spaces. It helps to think about where you use your scanner and how you use it. This will help you choose the best connection for you.

Wired scanners use a USB cable to connect, so they are simple and steady to use. You do not need to charge them. The connection stays strong and works all the time. This makes them good for places like a checkout counter or a packing station where things do not move much. You never have to worry about the battery going out or losing the signal.

Wireless hand scanners are great because you can take them anywhere. The wireless connectivity makes them flexible and easy to use. You can move around in a warehouse, stockroom, or shop without any wires getting in your way. These devices work through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. So, you get more freedom to work.

Key benefits of wireless connectivity include:

• Mobility: You can scan things anywhere without needing to be connected to a computer.

• Efficiency: It helps you cut down the time you spend walking to a workstation to do data entry.

• Advanced Features: A lot of wireless models are mobile computers with full systems, so they can do much more than just scan.

It depends on how you work. If you want to move around while you work, go for more freedom. If it is better for you to stay in one spot while you work, a fixed setup might be best.

Portability: Handheld vs Desktop Scanners

When you look at how easy it is to move barcode scanners, there is a big difference between handheld and desktop types. Handheld barcode scanners are made to be easy to carry. They are small and feel good in your hand. You can walk around with them for a long time without getting tired. This makes them a good choice for jobs where you need to move, like checking inventory in a large warehouse or doing price checks around a store. The main thing that makes handheld barcode scanners better for moving around is their form factor and the way they are meant to be used. Desktop models, by contrast, are not as easy to carry and work best when they stay in one place.

Desktop scanners are also called on-counter scanners or presentation scanners. They stay in one place, usually on a counter. You put items over the scanner so it can read them. This type of scanner is good for places where you need to scan many items, like at a grocery store checkout. But, you can't carry a desktop scanner around. You can't go into an aisle and use it to scan shelf tags.

The best thing about handheld barcode scanners is that you can take the data collection tool right to the product. You do not have to move the product to the tool. This is important in places where stock is always moving. If your business needs to scan items away from a desk, handheld barcode scanners are the best way to do it.

Popular Brands of Handheld Scanners in Canada

When you go to get a handheld scanner, you will see some names that people trust for their good quality and for how long they last. If you pick a brand that is known to be good, you get a strong device, great customer service, and a scanner that can read your product barcodes well every time for many years.

DuraFast Label Company has a large range of barcode scanners from top brands in Canada. If you have a small business, we have simple barcode scanners for you. If you work in a warehouse, we offer strong mobile computers you can trust. No matter what you need, you will find a good solution with us.

CipherLAB Barcode Scanners

CipherLAB is a trusted brand. It makes many types of barcode scanners. You can use these in places like stores, hospitals, and warehouses. The barcode scanners from CipherLAB help make the job easy and quick. This is why many companies choose them to better their data capture and warehouse management.

One great thing about CipherLAB is that they have many different scanner types. You can get a basic CCD contact scanner if you want something affordable for easy retail jobs. They also have more advanced 2D imagers and mobile computers if you need something that can handle complex data management. So, it’s easy to find the one that fits your needs and your budget. A lot of people like their handheld scanners because the shape feels good to hold and helps lower user tiredness during long working hours.

If you want to set up a new system or make your current one better, CipherLAB scanners are a good pick. These scanners work well and last a long time. This focus on making handheld scanners that are both reliable and strong makes them one of the top brands in Canada. Many businesses choose CipherLAB because they want to get a good return on their money.

Datalogic Handheld Scanners

Datalogic is known around the globe for its strong hold in the automatic data capture market. The company has top-notch barcode scanners that people use by hand. These barcode scanners are tough, work well, and use new ideas. Many people pick Datalogic for their work in places like warehouses, factories, and transport areas because the devices last long and keep performing in busy settings.

What makes Datalogic different is its strong focus on making technology help with real-world problems. The scanners from Datalogic have special features like 'Green Spot' technology. This gives a visual read signal right on the barcode. The 'Green Spot' is helpful in places that are noisy, where you may not hear a beep. This helps improve inventory accuracy and quality control. Their scanners have use cases in many places. Some of these are point-of-sale scanning, and other more complex tasks, like track-and-trace in the supply chain.

For businesses that do not want errors or any downtime, Datalogic handheld barcode scanners give peace of mind. The company has a good name for making strong and reliable barcode scanners. Many people trust them when they need tools to help their company work better and faster.

Godex Barcode Scanners

Godex is known by many people for making good barcode label printers. But the company also has reliable barcode scanners. These scanners work well with other Godex products. Godex barcode scanners are made to be useful and low in price. They offer a good option for small and medium-sized businesses.

The biggest benefit of using a Godex scanner is that it works well with Godex printers and many other systems. This helps you set up printing and scanning of barcode labels easily. The scanning technology from Godex is made for simple uses like retail point-of-sale, shipping, receiving, and light order fulfillment. These scanners are dependable and make data capture fast and accurate. You get a straightforward tool without extra hassles.

If you already use Godex, or you are looking for barcode scanners that do not cost much, Godex barcode scanners are a good choice. You can get fast and correct barcode scanning without spending a lot of money.

Honeywell Handheld Scanners

Honeywell is a leading name in data capture. The brand offers many handheld scanners and mobile computers. These products are known for strong technology and tough build. People use Honeywell devices on sales floors and in warehouses. The devices help workers do more and last a long time.

A big thing that makes Honeywell different is how they always push for new ideas in scanning technology. A lot of their barcode scanners read codes from far away, pick up barcodes that are torn or damaged, and still work well even if you move the scanner a lot. This helps people scan items fast and right, even if things are not perfect at work. Their barcode scanners really help to take away problems and keep all jobs moving.

Honeywell has many products. They offer general-purpose handheld scanners and ultra-rugged mobile computers. You can use them in places that are hard on equipment. This range gives you a good choice if you need data capture tools that work well and last a long time. Many businesses like their handheld scanners. It does not matter if your company is small or big, you can trust the brand for high performance and reliability.

SATO Handheld Scanners

SATO is a big name in the AIDC (Automatic Identification and Data Capture) field. The company is well known for its printing solutions. Along with these printers, SATO offers hand scanners that help keep the work moving smoothly. These tools work together from making a label to data collection. This is very helpful for people working in the supply chain to manage data capture and other tasks.

The strong point of SATO scanners is how well they fit into systems that use SATO technology. The use cases for these scanners are in fields where barcode quality and read-rate matter most. You see them often in healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics. SATO works hard to make sure their scanners always give reliable results. Their barcode scanners read the high-quality labels from their printers again and again, which helps keep the data safe all the time.

If your business uses SATO for labeling, picking a SATO hand scanner makes sense. A SATO hand scanner works well with other SATO products. This helps your company keep a simple and reliable way to identify and track items. Third-party devices may not give you the same smooth work or strong results. Companies wanting an easy and sure tracking system often choose SATO hand scanners.

Zebra Handheld Scanners

Zebra Technologies is the most well-known name in the world of barcode scanning. They have a big share of the market because their handheld scanners work well and last a long time. People choose Zebra scanners for tough jobs in warehouse operations and busy shops all over the globe. Their scanners are also known for new ideas that help make work easier.

Zebra’s way of thinking is all about making tools to help workers and boost efficiency gains. The scanners from Zebra are built to read almost any barcode, no matter if it’s broken, dirty, or printed badly. The smart shape of these scanners helps cut down tiredness for people who use them. They are tough and can take drops, spills, and hot or cold weather that often happens at work sites.

Zebra has a big range of products. You can get anything from 1D scanners that cost less to 2D mobile computers that have long battery life. Zebra makes sure there is something for every need and budget.

If you want your business to get the most out of speed, accuracy, and up-time, go with a Zebra scanner. It will help your work be better. Mobile computers from Zebra also last longer between charges, so you can use them all day.

Barcode Scanning Technologies Explained

Not every barcode scanner is the same. The type of barcode scanning technology inside matters a lot. It decides what the device can read. It also affects how fast you get the result and from how far away you can scan. Knowing about all the different scanning technology options—like basic CCD scanners or high-level 2D imagers—will help you choose the right barcode scanner for your needs.

Every technology is good in its own way. Some work better with certain barcodes and in different places. If you scan linear barcodes or read complex QR codes, picking the right scan engine will help a lot. Let's see what the main types are.

CCD Contact Scanner Technology

CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) scanners are also called contact scanners. They be one of the simplest and cheapest types of scanning technology. These use a row of small light sensors to read the light that bounces back from a barcode. Unlike laser scanners, they do not have moving parts. That is why they are very tough and last longer.

A CCD scanner takes a picture of the barcode to read it. The sensors notice the black bars that take in light and the white spaces that send light back. After this, they turn the pattern into electrical signals that go to the decoder. This type of technology is mostly for reading 1D barcodes. A big thing to know is that the scanner has a short range. You need to be right on or very close to the barcode for it to work.

A good example is the CIPHERLAB A1000ACBU0001. It is a contact scanner and the price is around $113.46 CAD. CCD scanners are strong and low cost. You can use them for work that is not heavy and is up close. These scanners work well at retail registers or tracking papers. They are a smart pick when you want to save money.

Linear Image Scanner Technology

Linear image scanners be better than CCD contact scanners. The scanners give you more ways to scan a barcode. They also take a picture of the barcode to read it, just like CCD scanners do. But, linear imagers have a read range that is a lot wider and easier to use. You do not have to put the scanner tight up next to barcode labels. This makes barcode scanning simpler for many people.

This technology uses a light to shine on the barcode. It takes a digital photo of the whole 1D code. This makes it read barcodes more well, even if the barcode is hard to read, messed up, or on a screen. These work faster and read better than simple CCD scanners. Because of this, they fit more jobs and uses.

The CIPHERLAB A1500PCBKU001 is a well-liked scanner that uses linear imaging. It costs about $178.36 CAD. This scanner is good for anyone who needs to read 1D barcodes quickly and at a short distance. It's often used in stockrooms and is helpful for small warehousing jobs. Linear imagers give you a good mix of value and how well they work for the price.

Laser Barcode Scanner Technology

Laser barcode scanners are a type of scanning technology that many people know. You can spot them by the bright red line they show. This scan engine uses a laser beam to read barcodes. A moving mirror sends the laser back and forth over the barcode. A photodiode checks how much light comes back from the black and white bars.

The main benefit of laser scanners is how far they can read. You can use them to read 1D barcodes from a few inches away or even several feet, based on the scanner type and barcode size. This works well in places where you have items on high shelves or out of reach. The sharp laser line helps you aim at the right barcode even when many are placed close together. This boost data entry accuracy.

The CIPHERLAB A1502LBK0H001 is a laser scanner that costs around $439.24 CAD. This model shows what laser technology can do. If you work in warehouse operations or need inventory management, laser scanners like this bring more speed. They help you scan from far away. You will notice good efficiency gains when you use them for your work.

2D Imager Barcode Scanner Technology

2D imager barcode scanners are easy to use and work with many types of barcodes. These barcode scanners are strong when it comes to scanning technology. Other scanners can read only simple barcodes, but 2D imagers use a small camera to take a picture of the whole barcode. This means that they read both 1D and 2D codes. With this, you can read complex barcodes like QR codes and data matrix codes. These can hold much more information than a simple barcode.

The biggest benefit you get from 2D imagers is the way they scan. You can use them to read any barcode from any angle. You don’t have to line up the scanner with the code. This helps you scan faster and more easily. They are great for reading barcodes on screens, like from a customer’s phone. The 2D imagers can also read barcodes that are not clear or are scratched up. You get high data capacity with these devices, and their flexible use means they will keep working well as things change in the future.

The CIPHERLAB A1504P2BKU001 is a 2D imager. It costs about $275.54 CAD. This device shows how easy it can be to get this kind of technology. If you run a business and you already use qr codes, or you want to start using them for things like marketing, mobile payments, or tracking products better, a 2D imager is something you will need.

Detailed Comparison of Handheld Barcode Scanner Types

With several kinds of scanner types out there, you might feel unsure about which one to pick. A simple, clear look at what each has to offer, how well they work, and the price range will make things easier for you. When you know these details, you can choose the scanner type that fits your needs and your budget.

Each scanner type has its own strong points when it comes to speed and strength. Handheld barcode scanners work best in certain places and for certain jobs. By looking at different barcode scanners, you can see how they are not the same. This can help you choose the right one for your needs.

Features, Speed, and Range Differences

The type of scanning technology is what makes a scanner fast, good, and able to read from far away. A simple CCD scanner does not cost much. But it has a short reach. You often have to put it right on the barcode to read it. This kind of scanner works okay for jobs that are slow and small. If you need it in places with a lot of work and people, the speed could slow everything down and cause problems.

Laser scanners let you scan things from several feet away. You can use them to read 1D barcodes, and they work fast. The visible laser line helps you aim on the barcode. Linear imagers are the middle choice. They can read from a screen and reach a better distance than CCD scanners, but they only read 1D barcodes. 2D imagers give the best results for scanning in every way.

• Speed: 2D imagers read codes very fast. They can scan in any direction.

• Range: Laser scanners get the longest read on 1D codes. Still, 2D imagers work well and read codes from many distances.

• Features: You can read QR codes and Data Matrix codes only with 2D imagers. These work best for data entry today.

Durability and Suitability for Canadian Environments

Durability is very important, mainly for scanners that are used in warehouses or on delivery jobs. You need the scanner to work well in tough places. These places in Canada can have drops, dust, and many kinds of temperatures. A scanner that is made for these areas should be strong enough to handle all that. Look at the IP rating and drop test results to know how tough the scanner will be.

Rugged scanners have strong cases and sealed parts. These things help protect the scanner from damage. Because of this, the scanner lasts longer with less downtime. You also save money since you do not need to replace them often. This helps improve operational efficiency. A simple CCD or laser scanner might work well in a clean shop. But if you work in a warehouse in Edmonton, you need a scanner that can stay working in cold weather and after falling onto concrete.

Technologies that do not have moving parts, like CCD and imager scanners, usually last longer than laser scanners. Laser scanners have a moving mirror, which can cause problems over time. If you want your work to go on without trouble, even in tough spots, it is good to get a strong scanner that has good error correction. This will help you get the most out of your tools and keep things working you the way you want.

Price Comparison Table for Hand Scanner Models

The price range for hand scanners is wide. It depends on the technology and things each scanner can do. You need to think about the total cost of ownership before you buy. A cheaper scanner may not last as long or work as well. Picking the right technology from brands like CipherLAB, Zebra, or Honeywell can help you save money. These scanners boost efficiency and help cut down on mistakes.

Here is a look at the four main kinds of scanners. We show how they are different when you have very specific needs. You can see what each one can do and their possible starting prices. To make it easy, we use CipherLAB models for these examples.

Feature	CCD Contact Scanner	Linear Imager	Laser Scanner	2D Imager
Technology	LED Light Sensors	Digital Imaging (1D)	Laser Beam & Mirror	Digital Imaging (1D/2D)
Distance	Contact to 1-2 inches	1 to 24 inches	Several inches to feet	1 inch to several feet
Speed	Slow to Moderate	Moderate to Fast	Fast	Very Fast (Omnidirectional)
Durability	High (No moving parts)	High (No moving parts)	Moderate (Moving mirror)	High (No moving parts)
Range	Short	Medium	Long	Medium to Long
Best For	Low-volume retail, document tracking	Retail, stockrooms, screen reading	Warehousing, long-distance scanning	All applications, QR codes, future-proofing
Price (Example)	~$80 USD	~$126 USD	~$311 USD	~$195 USD

Best Applications for Each Type of Handheld Scanner

Now that you know about the different technologies, you can see how they work in real life. The best scanner type to use will depend on what the work needs you to do. A scanner that works well at a retail checkout may not be good for inventory management in a busy warehouse.

If you make sure the scanner matches the needs of your job, you can get the most out of your money. This can also help make the way you work better. Here are some of the top ways people use each type of handheld scanner.

Finding the Right Scanner for Inventory Management

If you want a handheld scanner for your small warehouse, you need to choose between a 1D or 2D barcode scanner. The difference can have a big impact on inventory management. A 1D scanner is enough for simple jobs. A 2D scanner gives you more options. A 2D model can also help your business grow moving forward.

A 1D scanner, such as a laser or a linear imager, works well for scanning old-style barcodes on products. You can use it to keep track of stock levels. If all you need to read are basic serial numbers for inventory management, a 1D scanner is the cheaper option. Still, most of us now need to manage more than just the product number. A 2D scanner helps with that.

• Store More Data: Scan one Data Matrix code to get the part number, batch number, and expiration date in your warehouse management system.

• Improve Tracking: Use QR codes on shelf labels or bins. This helps you quickly find the right spot in your warehouse.

• Reduce Errors: Read barcodes from any direction. This makes counting faster and stops wrong reads.

If you have a small warehouse, using a 2D imager can be a good choice for the future. This device lets you read all your current 1D barcodes. You can also read 2D codes when you grow and your business needs more data. A 2D imager can help you today and later on.

Use Cases for Retail, Warehousing, and Manufacturing

Different industries need barcode scanning for different tasks. Having the right scanner helps a lot. Warehouse managers and people who work in the supply chain want everything to be quick and correct. You should know how barcode scanning is used in your work area. This will help you choose the best scanner for your job.

Every moment matters in a busy business. Here are some ways people use this in important fields:

• Retail: 1D scanners work well at the checkout to read barcodes. Many stores now use 2D imagers to scan digital coupons from customers’ phones and manage stock in the back room.

• Warehousing: Laser scanners help read barcodes from far away, like on pallets stored high up. Rugged 2D mobile computers let workers move around, pick and pack orders, and send out shipments. They also let them get real-time data.

• Manufacturing: 2D imagers read Data Matrix codes marked on small parts as they go through each stage. This helps people track every part, gives quality control, and shows the full history of each piece.

• Logistics: Delivery drivers need rugged mobile computers with 2D scanners. They use these to scan packages, collect proof they delivered something, and follow items as they move through the supply chain.

Conclusion

In the end, picking the right handheld barcode scanner can help Canadian businesses work better and faster. It’s important to know the scanner type you need, like CCD contact scanners, linear image scanners, laser scanners, and 2D imagers. Each one has different features and prices. CCD contact scanners are good for people who want to spend less. Laser scanners can do more and give you new options. You should look at things like speed, how strong the scanner is, and what your business needs most. A scanner that fits your work will help make your job easier. If you want better inventory management or want to make retail work smoother, check out the handheld barcode scanners at DuraFast Label Company.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can handheld scanners read both barcodes and documents?

Some handheld scanners—especially 2D imagers—can do more than read barcodes. The main job of these scanners be data capture from a barcode type like QR and Data Matrix codes. Some models also come with Optical Character Recognition (OCR). This means they can read text from documents too. But not all scanners have this feature. It's not standard on every scanner.

Are hand scanners compatible with all software and devices?

No, barcode scanners are not always compatible with everything. Basic barcode scanners usually be plug-and-play with computers. You can use them right away without extra steps. But advanced mobile computers or scanners may need their own drivers or added software for full use. It is good to read the specs of any scanner to be sure it will work with your system and inventory management software.

What’s the difference between a handheld barcode scanner and a handheld 3D scanner?

A handheld barcode scanner uses scanning technology to read 1D and 2D barcodes. It gets data from a label. This scanner is mainly for data collection.

On the other hand, a handheld 3D scanner works in a different way. It uses things like lasers or structured light. This scanner can read the shape, size, and feel of an object. It makes a digital 3D model of what it scans.