Warehouse technology
USB, Bluetooth, camera or integrated scanner?
The cheapest scanner may be perfect at a packing bench. Mobile warehouse work may justify something more capable.
USB scanner connected to a computer
A USB barcode scanner usually behaves like a keyboard. Scan the barcode and the value is entered into the active field.
- Low cost
- Fast and reliable at a fixed workstation
- Simple to deploy
- Best for packing benches, counters and fixed receiving points
- The operator remains tied to the computer
Bluetooth scanner with a phone or tablet
A cordless scanner can pair with a phone, tablet or computer.
- Better mobility
- Faster scanning than a camera in many jobs
- Can reuse existing mobile devices
- Requires two charged and paired devices
- Pairing, battery and device management need attention
Phone or tablet camera
The camera can scan barcodes without separate hardware.
- Very low setup cost
- Useful for occasional users
- Can take photos in the same workflow
- Usually slower and less comfortable for high-volume scanning
- Performance can depend on lighting, focus and barcode condition
Integrated warehouse device
A rugged mobile computer combines the screen, scanner, battery and camera.
- One device to carry
- Fast scanning throughout the day
- Designed for drops, dust and warehouse use
- Higher purchase cost
- Best value where scanning speed and reliability matter
1D and 2D barcodes
- 1D barcodes include common linear formats used on products and internal labels
- 2D codes include QR and Data Matrix formats
- A 2D imager can generally read both 1D and 2D codes
- Choose the scanner based on the codes the business actually uses
Use the simplest scanner that keeps the work moving
Tall Emu can support fixed workstations, mobile scanning and integrated warehouse devices.
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