Barcode reader facts for kids
A barcode reader, also called a barcode scanner, is an electronic tool. It can read and understand barcodes. These devices use light technology, like infrared light.
Some barcode readers have a built-in part called a decoder. This decoder helps them understand the barcode. Other readers have one part to scan the code and another part to decode it.
You might see barcode readers called price scanners. They are often used at stores to check out items. A barcode reader can be held in your hand or stay in one place. It takes information from a barcode.
A barcode reader has three main parts: a scanner, a decoder, and a cable. The cable connects the reader to a computer. The scanner just reads the barcode. It turns the lines and spaces into numbers or letters. Then, this data is sent to a computer. A special program on the computer makes sense of the data.
Barcode scanners can connect to a computer in different ways. They might use a serial port, a keyboard port, or a special connector called a wedge.
A barcode reader works by shining a beam of light across the barcode. It then measures how much light bounces back. The dark lines on a barcode reflect less light than the white spaces. The scanner turns this light energy into electrical signals. The decoder then changes these signals into data. Finally, this data goes to the computer.
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Types of Barcode Readers
There are five main types of barcode readers. Each type works a bit differently.
Pen Wands
A pen wand is the simplest type of barcode reader. It has no moving parts, which makes it very strong and cheap.
However, using a pen wand can be tricky. You have to touch the barcode directly with the pen. You also need to hold it at a certain angle. And you must move it over the barcode at a steady speed.
Slot Scanners
A slot scanner stays in one place. You slide the item with the barcode through a slot by hand.
Slot scanners are often used to read barcodes on ID cards. They are good for scanning many cards quickly.
CCD Scanners
A CCD scanner can read barcodes from a bit further away than a pen wand. These scanners are often used in stores.
A CCD scanner usually looks like a "gun." You need to hold it close to the barcode, usually less than one inch away. Each time you scan, the device takes several readings. This helps to avoid mistakes. One downside is that a CCD scanner cannot read a barcode that is wider than its scanning face.
Image Scanners
An image scanner is also called a camera reader. It uses a small video camera to take a picture of the barcode. Then, it uses smart computer programs to understand the barcode from the picture.
Image scanners can read a barcode from about 3 to 9 inches away. They usually cost less than laser scanners.
Laser Scanners
A laser scanner can be held in your hand or stay in one place. It does not need to be very close to the barcode to read it.
Laser scanners use mirrors and lenses. This lets them read the barcode no matter which way it is turned. They can easily read a barcode up to 24 inches away. To prevent errors, a laser scanner can perform up to 500 scans every second! Some special long-range laser scanners can even read a barcode from 30 feet away.
Images for kids
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A stationary barcode scanner for a conveyor line
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A large multifunction barcode scanner being used to monitor the transportation of packages of radioactive pharmaceuticals
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PS/2 keyboard and mouse ports
See also
In Spanish: Lector de códigos de barras para niños
