With so many modernization options available today, it may be tempting to just jump into the latest and greatest device. However, the key to a successful modernization strategy lies in careful planning. That’s where versatile technologies such as Zebra’s CS60 barcode scanner can be quite useful as it provides an adaptable and scalable modernization option to overcome present and future retail challenges.

Who Can Benefit from the No-Compromise Companion Scanner?

While Zebra’s new CS60 companion scanner is set to enhance storefront workflows, there are a few questions you can ask yourself to assess implementation possibilities before integrating the next generation of mobile retail data capture:

1. Are you currently using multiple scanners for varying scanning needs?

Different tasks may require different scanning capabilities such as hands-free for contactless transactions. Instead of managing multiple corded and cordless scanners throughout the store, convertible scanners like the CS60 can reduce the number of deployed devices, ultimately reducing TCO in the long run.

2. Are associates utilizing scanners in non-traditional settings consistently?

While handheld scanners are traditionally used in the checkout lanes, they have also made their way into inventory management and cycle counting as automated data capture is proven to reduce data entry errors. Mobile scanning enables automated data capture in space-constrained counters, self-service kiosks, and shopping aisles, allowing your associates to stay efficient anywhere they go.

3. Do you need to simplify your device management plan?

Multiple devices mean multiple service and repair plans. Not only does the CS60 preform in various scanning scenarios but its inductive charging feature also eliminates the need for constant recharging. Zebra’s WiFi Friendly mode also secures scanner efficiency without WiFi interruptions. Lastly, pre-installed Virtual Tether prevents device loss by keeping scanners within range and locating misplacements within seconds.   

If you answered yes to any of the questions above, your operations may benefit from new data capture devices like the Zebra CS60. To learn more about how you start modernizing your storefront, contact us for a free consultation.

Wireless scanners have become commonplace in many retail environments for the convenience they provide by removing a cable from the picture. All cordless scanners have a battery in them that is often the main point of wear on the device and requires several hours to fully charge on many models.  It may seem that the battery is an unavoidable consequence of being wireless but Honeywell is leading the way towards a more environmentally friendly scanner that also requires less maintenance long term.

Shedding the traditional battery pack, Honeywell has introduced their Super-Capacitor technology on their Xenon 1902g-bf and Voyager 1202g-bf scanners. Super-Capacitors are capable of achieving a full charge in less than two minutes via the standard USB port or under 30 seconds when using a powered USB port or external wall adapter. After a quick charge the Voyager 1200g-bf can scan at least 100 codes while the Xenon 1902g-bf can read at least 450 codes.

This sort of quick and easy charging feature makes these scanners ideal for applications centered around POS, workstations and counters – for example, as the secondary scanner to a bioptic (in-counter) scanner, or in support of shipping and receiving functions at warehouses. With no battery, a common maintenance hassle is removed and the scanner is lighter and more environmentally friendly.

Both scanners are built on the proven Voyager and Xenon platform offering superior scanning performance on linear and 2D barcodes respectively. With multiple-interface options, these scanners are plug-in-player ready to start inputting scanned data into any application.

For assistance finding the right battery-free scanner for your needs, contact us at Barcodes Inc.

Cordless scanners provide a world of convenience with their ease of mobility. Unfortunately, one drawback of being untethered to computer is that it now becomes possible to misplace your scanner. Especially in applications with multiple cordless scanners, it is very easy to lose track of one during the hustle of the work day.

Honeywell has a great feature for all their devices that helps customers keep track of their wireless scanners. However, it is a feature that will not work out of the box. Using the programming guide that come with each scanner you can set the following step to enable an out-of-range alarm.

• Out-of-Range Alarm is set to “No Alarm” by default.  You have to turn it on by setting the time out duration to > 0.
• Both the base and the scanner sound off on the Xenon, but only the scanner for the Granit.
• Alarm duration is programmable (0-3,000 seconds).
• The alarm stops when the scanner is moved closer to the base, when the base connects to another scanner, or when the alarm duration expires.

The applications using 2D barcodes continues to expand from couponing and loyalty cards to shipping and product labels.  Now, with more affordable pricing and virtually no drawbacks with area imaging technology, 2D barcode scanners are in high demand as businesses begin to futureproof their scanning technology and optimize their marketing capabilities with QR and other 2D barcodes.

AirTrack’s new S2-W brings all the benefits of a 2D imager and cordless scanner in an affordable package for retail, hospitality, logistics/warehouse, and manufacturing environments. Easily scan any barcode type and transmit the data with the convenience of Bluetooth connectivity. Improve the effectiveness of any application with the unmatched performance of the S2-W.

• Long distance, stable Bluetooth connection
• Easy to connect to your phone or computer
• Rich decoding types and long battery life
• Keyboard that supports more than 20 languages
• Fast and accurate scanning
• Ergonomic design to prevent strain from extended operation
• Durable anti-shock design

Healthcare professionals have a noble but challenging occupation – taking proper care of patients while juggling administrative duties critical to positive patient outcomes. So, when it comes to providing patient care and comfort, settling for anything but the best isn’t an option. That’s why Zebra is introducing the DS8100-HC (Healthcare) Series: a difference-making imager purpose-built to assist healthcare professionals with improving the quality and efficiency of patient care.

The DS8100-HC Series combines performance, adaptability, and manageability so healthcare professionals can perform their data capture tasks accurately and more productively without disturbing their patients. From medication administration to specimen collection, admitting and inventory and dietary management, the DS8100-HC Series is the ideal solution to enhance patient safety, the productivity of staff members and the efficiency of point-of-care operations.

Key Features

• Unparalleled Performance on Virtually Every Barcode in Any Condition
• First-of-its-kind Housing Offers Maximum Protection Against the Spread of Infection
• Flexible User-Selectable Feedback Including Night Mode with Vibrate
• Continuous 24 Hour Scanning
• Exclusive Battery Charge Gauge
• Choice Of Compact USB Powered Cradles
• Doubles as a Workstation Lamp
• FIPS 140-2 Certified
• Apple Certified for iPads and iPhones
• Easy Application Development

Datalogic has announced the release of the PowerScan 9500 Retail series (PD9500-RT, PM9500-RT, PBT9500-RT) based on the industry-leading PowerScan family. These new scanner series brings unique features to the Retail industry.

The rugged mechanics of the PowerScan Retail Series delivers reliable long-term operation in retail applications. Repeated shocks at the POS checkout do not affect the scanner’s performance or reliability, protecting the retailer’s investment.

The PowerScan Retail 9500 imager is the first handheld scanner capable of reading digital watermarks including the Digimarc Barcode, significantly reducing time at the checkout. Cashiers can scan items quicker without having to hunt for the bar code or lift bulky items from the trolley. Continue reading »

If your business is experiencing network performance issues and you suspect that the Bluetooth scanner is interfering with other devices, you can turn down the power output of the Bluetooth scanner by simply scanning a barcode.  There are four barcodes you can scan in the Xenon/Granit/Voyager 1452/1602g User’s Guides:

• Low Power (1%)
• Medium Low Power (5%)
• Medium Power (35%)
• Full Power (100%).

A by-product when you turn down the power output is reduced range between the scanner and its base/access point/host.  I get asked a lot about the Bluetooth ranges at those power levels – scanner to base station.  So I tested several scanners (because I am a scan-nerd), and here is what I found.  Measurements are approximation – RF isn’t exact.  Also – I stopped at 100 feet because that’s how big my yard is…and because I’ve never seen an application that requires the Xenon to scan that far from the base station.

	Xenon 1902G	Granit 1981i	Voyager 1452g
Low Power (1%) Line of sight between scanner and base With my body between scanner and base	35-40 Feet 10 Feet	35-40 Feet 10 Feet	20 Feet 5 Feet
Medium Low Power (5%) Line of sight between scanner and base With my body between scanner and base	>100 Feet 30 Feet	>100 Feet 30 Feet	40 Feet 28 Feet
Medium Power (35%) Line of sight between scanner and base With my body between scanner and base	>100 Feet >100 Feet	>100 Feet >100 Feet	75 Feet 50 Feet
Full Power (100%) Line of sight between scanner and base With my body between scanner and base	>100 Feet >100 Feet	>100 Feet >100 Feet	>100 Feet >100 Feet

Bottom line is that if you are really concerned about RF interference, don’t be afraid to turn down the power on the Xenon & Granit.  They’ll still have plenty of range. That being said, in the vast majority of cases, the interference has nothing to do with the Bluetooth scanner.

Zebra has announced the release of their new 3600 Ultra-Rugged series of scanners. They are purpose-built to exceed industry standards for durability, scan performance and manageability in demanding industrial environments such as warehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing shop floors and do-it-yourself (DIY) retail stores.

1D and 2D versions of the 3600 series are available with corded and cordless options for fast, accurate performance in picking, packing, shipping, receiving, work in progress (WIP), inventory tracking, track and trace, cross docking and point of sale (POS) applications. Built to perform in extreme conditions, the ultra-rugged scanner series offers the industry’s highest drop, tumble and sealing specifications in its class and is the industry’s first IP67-rated scanner capable of enduring complete water immersion for up to 30 minutes.

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What are they?

Barcode scanners come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and connection types. In the past, most businesses would utilize a corded barcode scanner that would connect to a PC computer via a USB, Serial, or PS/2 Keyboard Wedge interface. Now, with the world migrating towards a mobile, or cordless, platform, Bluetooth is becoming more prevalent in the data capture industry. Bluetooth is a short-range wireless communication standard that interconnects electronic devices. Similarly, Bluetooth Barcode Scanners are offered in a handheld cordless form factor, and communicate to their respective base/cradle or directly to a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet, via Bluetooth. After a huge demand from small and medium-sized business owners to incorporate iPads, iPhones, Galaxy Tabs, and other smartphone or tablet devices into their workforce management workflow, Honeywell invested extensive time and resources into building barcode scanners that are equipped with Bluetooth technology in order to pair them with consumer mobile devices. Now, business owners have the ability to manage inventory or track assets at the tip of their hands by pairing a Bluetooth barcode scanner with their smartphone or tablet.

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Datalogic has recently announced that the PowerScan PBT9500-DPM Evo rugged handheld imager is now available.

The PowerScan DPM family is relying on the new enhanced Datalogic DPM decoding software and new electronics for improved results when scanning standard barcodes as well as bar codes marked with DPM (Direct Part Marking) technology.

Direct Part Marking is a process that allows users to imprint a bar code directly on an item instead of printing the code on a paper label. Different technologies are available to directly mark objects: laser/chemical etching, dot peening and ink jet printing. Each of these methods has specific advantages and disadvantages in terms of durability, cost and ease of reading. The PowerScan PBT9500-DPM Evo reader is a cordless rugged handheld area imager specifically addressed and capable of reading codes marked with DPM.

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