10 Advantages and Disadvantages of Barcode Reader | Merits and Drawbacks of Barcode Reader

Let us learn 10 Advantages and Disadvantages of Barcode Reader | Merits and Drawbacks of Barcode Reader with types, definition, meaning, examples and images.
The barcode readers are input devices.

The barcode is a square-shaped box that consists of white and black parallel lines which are of different widths.

This image is scanned with the help of a barcode reader or barcode scanner which is used in retrieving the data and information present in the sticker instantly.

The barcode is usually applied to products for quick identification of the details of the product.

What is Barcode Reader with Examples?

A barcode reader is usually used in scanning the sticker attached to the product where all the details related to the product prices, a manufacturing company, manufacturing date, country name, and expiry date,

What is Barcode Reader in Computer System
What is Barcode Reader in Computer System

Whenever we purchase products from the malls and bazaar, at the time of paying the bills at the billing counter where there is a barcode machine, which reads the details of the product by scanning its barcode.

They print our bills using the information provided by the barcode.

The barcode reader is a device that scans the barcode and reads the data from the barcode, which displays on your computer, and it is known as a point of the scale.

Light sources, lenses, and light sensors are used in scanners to convert optical impulses into electrical ones, analyzing the data provided by the sensors and sending that data to the computer.

It consists of some thin and little thick lines in a series; these lines are called bars, and the coding of those lines is dependent on the thick lines of the barcode.

Whereas the distance between those lines is called a one-dimensional barcode.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Barcode Reader | Merits and Drawbacks of Barcode Reader With Image

Advantages and Disadvantages of Barcode Reader
Advantages and Disadvantages of Barcode Reader

Benefits and Advantages of Barcode Reader in Points

  • The barcode is used in the majority of the business where goods and products are sold. These are accepted worldwide due to their efficiency and reliability.
  • Human errors are minimized and eliminated while using barcode scanners, therefore they are utilized and used in the majority of the business globally.
  • The barcode readers are very accurate while collecting the data from stickers and labels therefore the chances of making errors are neutralized.
  • The data administration and management are done with speed and accuracy therefore it requires less manpower which overall increases the business.
  • The data and information from the sticker can be retrieved very quickly, which makes them a very handful device used in modern business.
  • Multiple items and products can be scanned simultaneously, which saves time and money.
  • With the help of barcode readers, the entire process of scanning stickers is made comparatively less which increases productivity.
  • The barcode reader helps in maintaining inventory for any organization.
  • The inventories done with a barcode reader are more accurate and precise compared with human interventions.
  • They can provide inventory status about individual products and their overall inventory.

Drawbacks and Disadvantages of Barcode Reader

  • The barcode reader is an expensive technology. It is not affordable to small businesses.
  • This is considered one of the major disadvantages of barcode readers. The barcode reader has some limitations that it should be kept approx. 15 to 20 feet from the barcode sticker or label. If the label is more than the recommended distance it will face problems in scanning, therefore it is highly recommended to stick to the mentioned distance.
  • The barcode readers are prone to physical damage similar to other devices.
  • The repair cost of the barcode reader is huge therefore it is quite relevant to change or replaces the barcode reader to avoid further inconvenience.
  • The barcode sticker can be mistreated and can be damaged easily.
  • They are easily damaged and cause problems while scanning.
  • Barcode readers have limitations. One such is they can scan a limited amount of data and information.
  • They can be hacked easily and therefore cannot be 100% sure while using them.
  • Malicious attacks are on the cards as they are connected to the USB which is vulnerable sometimes.
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Types of Barcode Readers or Barcode Scanners

  • Pen Type or Wand Type Readers.
  • Laser Barcode Scanners.
  • CCD Barcode Scanner
  • Camera-Based Scanner
  • 2D Scanner
  • Bluetooth Barcode Scanner
  • Wi-Fi Scanner

Features of Barcode Readers

The barcode reader is an input device of the computer system. They can be easily connected to the system via USB {Universal Serial Bus}.

The barcode reader is scanned with the beam of light conductor that reads the barcode image. This image then is coded by an inbuilt decoder circuit.

This encode is sent to the computer enabling a user to interpret and read the data.

How Does Barcode Reader work?

The barcode reader or barcode scanner reads or scans the black and white lines available on the label or sticker with the help of red light and later converted to the data which is readable to the computer system.

The scanner is capable of converting light energy into electrical energy which is further decoded and later presented to the computer system for further processing and handling.

Most scanners are used to read one-dimensional barcodes: pen wands, slot scanners, charge-coupled devices, image scanners, and laser scanners.

Who Invented Barcode Reader?

George Laurer has developed the barcode and changed the world of retail; he developed a scanner that could read the code digitally. 

He also had the idea to use strips to read the barcode.

Uses of Barcode Reader

  • The barcode reader and scanner are used in shopping malls, shops, and libraries.
  • The barcode readers are fast and efficient while collecting data from labels and presenting it to the computer system for further process.
  • Most small and big businesses have started taking advantage of barcode readers.
  • The barcode helps stops misusing and manipulating details of the products.
  • Barcode reader plays a vital role in library management.

Is Barcode Reader an Input or Output Device?

The barcode reader or barcode scanner is an input device.
Is Barcode Reader an Input or Output Device
Is Barcode Reader an Input or Output Device

The barcode reader is used in accepting data and information from outside the world in raw form and later submitting this data to the computer system for further processing.

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