Barcode scanners work in different ways

There are four main reading methods of barcode scanners, namely: handheld barcode scanners, wireless barcode scanners, omnidirectional barcode scanners, and industrial fixed barcode scanners.
1. Handheld barcode scanner

Handheld barcode scanners are the most commonly used and most flexible barcode scanning and identification equipment, generally including laser type, linear array CCD type, and matrix CCD type. They are suitable for scanning items of different sizes and shapes. The operator can work at a fixed station, or connect to a handheld data terminal or a vehicle-mounted data terminal to work mobile. The barcode code system that needs to be read (one-dimensional or two-dimensional, stacked or matrix), scanning distance, reading depth of field, reading resolution, industrial level, interface mode, shape structure, application occasions, and the way of feedback information, etc. Factors must be considered when choosing a handheld barcode scanner.
2. Wireless barcode scanner
Generally speaking, a handheld barcode scanner needs to be connected to a PC, POS, or another fixed terminal via a cable to work. In most cases, this mode of operation is acceptable. However, in some cases, the operator needs to scan the barcode in a large range, and the communication cable becomes a great limitation. The wireless barcode scanner uses a large-capacity rechargeable battery, replaces the cable connection with a wireless communication method, gets rid of the distance limitation with the fixed computer, and facilitates mobile work. In addition to point-to-point communication, that is, a wireless barcode scanner communicates with a computer through a wireless communication base, the wireless barcode scanner can also achieve multi-point-to-point communication, that is, multiple barcode scanners communicate with a computer through a wireless communication base. Computer communication, connect multiple barcode scanners wirelessly to the same communication interface of the computer.
3. Omnidirectional barcode scanner 
In retail chains, convenience stores, bookstores, or drugstores, cashiers often have to bring items to the counter for barcode scanning. The desktop barcode scanner has a compact structure and is usually placed on the cashier counter and connected to the POS system. It forms multiple intersecting mesh scanning lines through a large scanning window, thereby realizing omnidirectional barcode scanning. The operator does not need to carefully adjust the direction of the barcode, and can quickly and easily read the barcode of the product to speed up the checkout process.
4. Industrial fixed barcode scanner
Automatic control or tracking of work-in-progress on a manufacturing production line, or automatic sorting of items on a conveyor belt, requires accurate, reliable, and unattended barcode identification. Fixed barcode scanners can have various dimensions, scanning forms, reading resolutions, scanning distances, scanning areas, reading depths of the field, installation methods, and interface methods. They can also form barcode scanning networks and work in groups. Combined with sensors and a variety of advanced intelligent analysis technologies, it can complete any complex barcode automatic identification work in various environments, and transmit data or signals to computers or PLCs. Specific solutions are based on specific application environments and requirements and constraints. The important feature of the two-dimensional barcode is its high coding density, which is especially suitable for the automatic control and tracking management of small-sized products, such as the manufacturing process of printed circuit boards and electronic components. The fixed two-dimensional barcode reader adopts matrix CCD image technology, integrates lighting, image acquisition, image processing, decoding, and communication modules, and can quickly and easily identify one-dimensional barcodes and stacked barcodes in all directions. Two-dimensional barcode (such as PDF417) and matrix two-dimensional barcode (such as Datamatrix and QR code). Due to its very compact structure and Omni-directional recognition, fixed 2D barcode readers are easily integrated into automatic production lines or automatic equipment.