Fixed mount barcode scanners provide high-speed and hands-free scanning for applications such as airport kiosks, retail POS, grocery store checkout, and manufacturing and logistics operations. Barcode technology can accurately capture data almost instantaneously in contrast to how long it takes to manually enter information. Fixed mount barcode scanners can streamline operations and enable efficiency for high volume lines without user intervention.
Saving time and money is paramount for companies to compete in the marketplace. Fast, high-volume scanners make operations more productive and efficient, saving companies a substantial amount in labor cost. Fixed mount scanners have a small footprint that fits in the most space-constrained areas. They can be fixed to a mounting bracket, embedded in a kiosk, attached to the top of a counter, or be mounted underneath.
Fixed mount barcode scanners have many options and features to choose from. Here are 7 things to consider when making the best investment for your operations.
Scanner type
One of the most important concerns when choosing a suitable scanner is the type of scan engine it has. There are 3 main types of scan engines:
- Laser
- Linear Imager
- 2D Area imager
Barcode Type
With many types of barcodes, variants, and characteristics to choose from, it can be tough to determine which barcodes will provide the highest efficiency and business value for your company.
- Symbology
- 1D or 2D
- Direct Part Mark (DPM)
- Optical Character Recognition (OCR)
- Printed Label, Mobile Phone, Computer Screen
Connectivity
Every scanner has to communicate with a host to transmit the decoded information into the software that you are using. The two main ways scanners communicate are:
- Wired (USB or Serial)
- Wireless (Bluetooth)
Readability
Fixed mount scanners are generally used in automated environments where the barcodes are being presented to the scanner. Several factors can affect the ability of the scanner to read a barcode:
- Orientation (Vertical, Horizontal, Variable)
- Motion Tolerance (Scanning Speed)
- Read Range and Field of View
- Barcode Quality
Triggering
A barcode scanner needs to be illuminated in order to scan a barcode. The most common operation modes for fixed mount scanners are:
- Presentation (always on)
- Sensor (by motion)
- Controller (by software)
Mounting Options
There are a few options to enable hands-free or automated scanning operation:
- Brackets
- Stands
- Kiosk
- Mounting Kits
Environment
The environment will determine several factors about the type of barcode scanner you need. Industrial or rugged barcode scanners are designed to be durable and reliable even in harsh conditions including:
- Dust
- Moisture
- Temperature
- Chemicals
- Lighting
Contact one of our scanning specialists to help you find the best solution for your operation, or to request a quantity discount.
Top Manufacturers of Fixed Mount Barcode Scanners
Code
Cognex
DataLogic
Honeywell/Metrologic
Jadak
Microscan
Newland
Zebra/Symbol
