The three main types of bar code scanners are: contact light pen, CCD reader (image-type barcode scanner), laser scanner,. In considering what kind of scanner to better meet your needs, you need first hand-held bar code scanner on some of the key features for some of the understanding that 1) light source and image bar code collection devices; 2) decoding device; 3 ) Interface. Impact of hand-held bar code scan engine is a major factor in cost performance scanner and determine its suitability for various uses. Understand the difference between them in the future, you can choose a performance and value are the best hand-held bar code scanner.

1. Working distance (depth) depth of field bar
code scanner must be clearly defined. Operators in the operation is to label the surface of contact with bar code scanner or remain at a certain distance away from it? In general, retail, office, and factory applications using the contact or close range scanning, and storage, distribution and transportation applications, are typical of the use of remote scanning.
2. Label size / label density label or in an empty cell density means the minimum width, measured by the thousandth inch, or "Mill", for the linear and one-dimensional bar code, label size that is considered to be the width of the label. High-density bar code (7 Mill below) in a relatively close range scanning needs, low-density bar codes (15 Mill above) you can scan in the far distance.
3. Image decoding
if the scanner's beam and capture the bar code identification system or in an empty cell, you must convert the information-based computer system to recognize the signs, this process is called decoding. Decoding function module can automatically identify the scanned barcode type, and load the appropriate decoding algorithm, to realize the decoding barcode labels.
   Since the scanner can decode the output of a component to support many types of terminal interfaces, so some of CCD and laser handheld scanner manufacturers standardized generic interface line program, so users do not need large amounts of interface lines, lines with a common interface on can support CCD scanner and laser scanner, while saving time and money.