CSSI is your partner for reliable barcode scanners

Barcode scanning technology is a long proven way to improve accuracy and efficiency through the use of automatic data capture (ADC). Barcodes eliminate human factor mistakes made in reading or writing which can have a huge impact upon your business. With a variety of form factors and feature sets for a broad range of use cases, barcode scanners exist to offer simple, reliable and affordable scanning for day-to-day operations.

Barcode Scanners from CSSI

CSSI offers scanners designed for demanding manufacturing and warehousing environments. Barcode scanning operations must be fast and reliable to support your day-to-day operations. We offer handheld scanners which provide rapid scans of a broad range of barcode symbologies or formats. A wireless scanner can improve productivity by untethering your workers from their workstations. From retail-ready high scan intensity scanners to rugged warehouse scanners, CSSI has a variety of hand-held scanning solutions to meet your business needs and will work with you to select the right barcode scanner. Typically, a handheld barcode scanner is integrated into a rugged mobile device, with one example being a Zebra MC3300.

Barcode Scanner Applications

Just a few of the many common barcode uses include:

• Inventory management – use barcode scanners in concert with your warehouse management or inventory software to improve accuracy
• Inventory receiving and putaway – ensure that the right goods find their way to the right warehouse position with barcoded inventory and shelf positions
• Picking and shipping – reduce pick and ship errors by validating that the right product has been selected
• Tool crib and asset tracking – keep track of who tracks out key items
• Job or time tracking on the manufacturing floor – improve accuracy in time tracking and ensure that work orders are correctly routed with barcoded job travelers
• Access control – improve site security with employee badges and tags
• Retail shelf stocking and check-out – ensure your view of inventory is accurate, and reduce pricing errors
• Healthcare patient ID wristbands – reduce errors and improve the accuracy of patient records

Barcode Symbology and Types

When selecting a barcode reader, it’s important to keep in mind the types of barcode formats which are used in your operation. Not all scanners accommodate all symbologies.

• 1d barcode – The oldest barcode type, typically read horizontally by a laser scanner with a linear imager. Symbologies include Code 39, Code 128, and UPC codes.
• 2d barcode scanner – requiring a 2D imager, these formats can contain significantly more data than 1D barcode formats. Symbologies include Data Matrix, PDF417, and the QR code often seen in advertising materials. A 2D code is more forgiving of damaged barcodes, and will often be readable in instances where a 1D bar code is not. The 2d scanner is very commonly used today.

For more information, please refer to our overview of common barcode symbologies.

There are pros and cons to each symbology, as well as different common applications. Consult with CSSI for advice on the best format to choose.

Types of Barcode Scanners

	Corded Barcode Scanner	If you don't require a mobile scanner, or you prefer for the device to remain tethered to a workstation or fork truck, you can take advantage of fast scan speeds with units such as the Honeywell Xenon XP corded version. You'll achieve blazing fast scan speeds and extreme durability.
	Cordless Barcode Scanner	Do your workers need to roam? A cordless scanner will enable them to go to where the work is, bringing along a powerful scanner with excellent battery life. Products such as Honeywell's Xenon XP cordless version will keep them scanning for the entire shift.
	Industrial Barcode Scanner	In many tough production environments, an ultra rugged scanner is required. The Honeywell Granit 1981 is one example of a device which can stand up to the day-to-day abuse of an industrial setting.
	Rugged Mobile Computer	Many modern operations require full computing power and connectivity, in addition to fast and accurate bar code scanning. Handheld computers such as the Zebra MC3300x include powerful integrated scanners and 2D imagers as well as onboard cameras, along with a powerful Android OS which can power your WMS applications and more.
	Rugged Tablet PCs	If you need a large screen and computing power, then select a tablet PC with integrated scanner. Zebra's L10 Rugged Tablet fits the bill with a scanner as well as front and rear cameras.
	Wearable scanner	Wearable devices speed up your warehouse workers by freeing their hands. Honeywell's 8680i Smart Wearable Scanner is a bluetooth connected wearable which enables effortless scanning.
	Healthcare barcode scanner	In healthcare application, special attention is paid to device sanitation and ability to stand up to cleaners. Zebra's DS2208 healthcare scanner meets those requirements in healthcare institutions nationwide.
	Fixed mount barcode scanners	Presentation scanners are used in settings such as retail checkout. Zebra's DS2208 fixed mount scanner is one example of this product type.

Selecting barcode label printers

Having selected a barcode format to use in your business, you will next want to select the right barcode label printer. CSSI can guide you to the right direct thermal, thermal transfer, or color inkjet printer for your application. Contact us for help.

Working with CSSI

CSSI possesses years of experience in the introduction of barcode labels in a broad variety of business types. We support all the key technologies involved, such as scanners, mobile computers, label printers, and reliable print media and labels. CSSI will work with you through the specification process, starting with a site assessment and determination of your scanning needs, and as your technology partner, will ensure prior to purchase that you have selected the optimal barcode scanner.

Contact us today to discuss your project.