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Anti-Counterfeit Measures Help Defense Industry Supply Chain

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When most people think about counterfeit items, images of handbags, DVDs of popular movies, and paper money typically come to mind. But counterfeiting has a larger impact on many people and industries, including both consumers and manufacturers.

Counterfeit parts cost countries throughout the world billions of dollars. In addition, they jeopardize an item’s functionality, performance and reliability, as well as endanger the safety and well being of the user.

Two industries that are particularly affected by counterfeiting are the defense and aerospace industries. These areas are susceptible to imitation due to long product lifecycles. For example, a jet is designed to last for decades. But when an electronic component needs replaced, the original component manufacturer often cannot support older technologies. The user or their support contractor is then forced to find alternate sources for components or materials. This is where the potential for receiving counterfeit products, products that don’t meet original specifications, or used products represented as new begins.

According to a U.S. Department of Commerce study, many Department of Defense (DoD) organizations and their direct suppliers do not have adequate procedures in place to stop counterfeit parts from entering their supply chain. Not surprisingly, the DoD and U.S. Government Accountability Office have found that anti-counterfeit measures and traceability in the supply chain is necessary.

As global supply chains continue to advance, the need for anti-counterfeiting measures becomes more apparent. Additional understanding and discussion is necessary to develop the most effective anti-counterfeiting measures for all industries, including the defense and aerospace industries.

Proposed anti-counterfeiting actions include increasing awareness of the issue, and working with industry groups to create standards to reduce the introduction of counterfeit materials into the defense supply chain. These standards can be implemented with current defense Item Unique Identification (IUID) requirements. If you are tasked with combating counterfeiting at the item level, Camcode’s team can help with unique IUID products and services. Ask our team for a free consultation.

Throughout the coming months, Camcode will be reporting on this topic as we seek to advocate the advancement of anti-counterfeiting measures. If you’re a member of the defense or aerospace industry and would like to join in the discussion, contact us today to learn more about anti-counterfeit solutions.


Pros and Cons of Different Anti-Counterfeit Marking Methods

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Counterfeit products in the defense and aerospace industries can put people at risk and cost organizations, companies and tax payers billions of dollars each year. As the introduction of counterfeit parts into global supply chains continues to rise, the need for anti-counterfeiting techniques becomes more necessary. This is particularly true where commercial products are integrated into defense and aerospace systems.

New technologies and methods are being developed to help combat counterfeit parts in all industries, including the defense and aerospace industries. It’s important to understand which technique is most appropriate when considering environmental conditions, sector practices, existing or new infrastructure requirements, and marking capability with in those industries.

DNA Marking is one the newest sets of marking and identification solutions that is being considered in anti-counterfeit techniques. DNA Marking is an autonomous method, meaning it can be confirmed without the need for external information traceability. This approach requires a tamper-proof unique mark that is not able to be duplicated. Other types of autonomous marks include Nanocodes™ or Nanotubes, Molybdenum Ionic Film, Taggants, surface mapping, and unique material composition.

Another marking method is reliant on external information to confirm authenticity. This requires a durable and tamper-resistant mark based on an International Standards approach to establishing Unique Identification (ISO 15459) through a Unique Item Identifier (UII). With reliant marks, authenticity of an item is confirmed by relating the UII to supply chain data, which provides a traceable and auditable assurance of authenticity. Reliant marks may include both overt and covert or hidden features to increase item authenticity. Examples of reliant marks include direct part marking, Metalphoto® Labels, and other established marking methods.

Both autonomous and reliant marking are important techniques to the future of anti-counterfeiting in the defense industry. The following is a description of some advantages and disadvantages to both autonomous and reliant approaches to marking, identification and authenticity.

Autonomous

The advantages of autonomous marking include production of real-time results and tamper-resistant qualities that enhance authenticity. In addition, autonomous marking does not require access to outside data sources to confirm authenticity.

However, there are drawbacks to autonomous marking. First is the cost. Application costs are potentially high in both low and high volumes. Infrastructure costs are taken on at each point where identification is authenticated. And since there may be no visual cues to further enhance security, authenticity must be assumed unless the user has the technical data and expertise to locate such marking. The trouble with these approaches is they are not determinable by existing infrastructure and are not accepted as common practice within industry.

Durability is another disadvantage to autonomous marking. Autonomous marks such as DNA, Nanocodes and taggants are all “added” to the item and are not considered “inherent”. It has not been determined how durable a DNA mark can be, and it is likely poor in high temperature, high abrasion settings or when in contact with lubricants, chemical cleaners, etc.

Another disadvantage is the limited availability of both application and “reading” devices for autonomous marking. Furthermore, it will require new work instructions to identify location and training for handling new equipment.

Current mandatory U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) policy requirements do not recognize DNA marking as satisfying the requirement for item level traceability, nor does DNA marking meet the ISO requirements of ISO 15459 for establishing a UII. The DoD’s Unique Identification requirements include DODI 4151.19, “Serialized Item Management”; DODD 8320.03, “Unique Identification”; DODI 8320.04, “Item Unique Identification (IUID)”; and MIL-STD-130, “Identification Marking of U.S. Military Property”. The only data carrier accepted for compliance to these requirements is an ECC 200 Data Matrix symbol encoded in accordance with ISO 15434.

Reliant

Cost efficiencies are one advantage of reliant marking. These systems are built on existing marking infrastructure with time-proven technologies, and use marking approaches that are currently applied to most products that have any traceability requirement, which could include micro electronics and similar items.

Durability is known and proven in reliant marking. Some of these methods can also leverage both visual and covert features throughout the lifecycle.

Reliant marking reduces training requirements and process changes because it relies on proven technologies and lifetime durability. The mandatory DoD policy requirements already exist for items which require item level traceability as stated above, and require reliant marks.

One disadvantage to reliant marking is that it only provides near real-time results with reasonable communications or a local cache option. In addition, it does have a marking signature versus fully covert systems, like those found in Autonomous marking.

Conclusion

The defense industry’s legitimate anti-counterfeiting needs must consider a variety of marking methods. While there are considerable advantages to an autonomous marking approach, it is not a sufficient marking method for defense suppliers to manage providers, nor is it adequate to meet the more broad needs of a diverse supply chain. Yet, Autonomous marking approaches should be considered as additive marks where appropriate to provide an additional level of authenticity. For example, to provide a covert mark for authentication when suspicion of counterfeiting is identified.

Adjustments to existing reliant marking techniques can provide both visual and covert/hidden authenticity cues, while meeting existing industrial marking requirements and supporting mandatory DoD and NATO IUID/UID Requirements. For example, the photographic quality resolution of Metalphoto and the sub-surface image that results from the Metalphoto process is nearly impossible to fully replicate with other marking methods. Thus, a surface-printed counterfeit metal label would be easy to spot. Reliant techniques also limit cost impacts on both application and infrastructure required by leveraging those existing requirements. The knowledge, practices, tools, and software are already in place to accomplish this work.

Additional industry dialogue is needed on a more achievable and inter-operable approach, as well as a comprehensive study of the alternative approaches described above and others that may exist. Camcode is committed to provide more information on this topic as we continue to participate in the advancement of anti-counterfeiting measures.

Cash Me If You Can (Infographic)

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Counterfeiting is big business across the globe. In fact, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the value of counterfeit goods that crossed international borders in 2007 was more than $250 billion. And that’s not just innocuous items like currency, clothes or electronics. Counterfeiters are faking items that can have serious health and safety consequences, from medication, to pesticides, to airplane parts. For example, the FAA estimating some 520,000 counterfeit parts end up on planes each year. Counterfeiters are even targeting the U.S. defense industry, forging everything from body armor to routers, and costing semiconductor companies more than $7.5 billion annually, all while endangering the lives of soldiers and civilians.

We wanted to take a closer look at the counterfeiting shadow economy and the technologies implemented to try and thwart counterfeiters. So we dug in, compiled data and research, and put together this infographic called “Cash Me if You Can.” If you like it, please share it with others on social media. You also can add the infographic on your website using the HTML code below. We ask that you credit us, Camcode the leader in asset ID tags, as the source. Learn more about anti-counterfeiting measures in the aerospace and defense industry.

infographic on counterfeiting and anti-counterfeiting measures

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Full Infographic Text Transcription:

CASH ME IF YOU CAN

Call Outs:

  • By 2015, ICC expects the value of counterfeit goods globally to exceed $1.7 trillion. That’s over 2% of the world’s total current economic output.
  • Estimate that counterfeit goods now worth more than 5 per cent of world trade.

 

1. Types of counterfeits

  • CopyCash

○       Counterfeit money the U.S. government has removed from circulation: $103 million (2008) to $261 million (2011)

○       Investigators estimated that only 10 percent of dollar counterfeiters are arrested in the country.

■            2% of all cash currently in circulation is counterfeit

■            Most U.S.-made counterfeit cash by crystal meth and marijuana dealers

○       Increased cash seized by U.S. government

■            $261 million in fake money from circulation,

■            The United States Secret Service seized $182 Million of counterfeit dollars in 2009, an increase from the $79 Million that was seized in 2008.

○       Counterfeiting made easy:

■            63 percent of the counterfeit money produced using digital printing today (1/13/12), compared with less than 1 percent in 1995

  • Identity Crisis

○       Made in China

■            in 2011, US Customs and Border Protection at O’Hare airport in Chicago seized over 1,700 counterfeit driver’s licenses in just six months.

○        A study in 2009 of American university students found that 17% of freshmen and 32% of seniors owned a false ID.

○       average price of a fake ID is $100 (but can go up to $7,000)

 

  • Its a bird, its a plane, its counterfeit aerospace and defense technology

○       counterfeit parts have been found in helicopters, surveillance and cargo planes

■            1800 cases

■            1 million counterfeit parts

  • 70% from Chinese companies

■            The FAA has estimated that some 520,000 counterfeit parts make their way into planes each year.

○       Aerospace and defense products are generally designed for a long life cycle.

■            Example: B52’s from 1955 have expected lifespan to 2040

■            Replacement parts are limited and manufacturers change

○       increased counterfeit electronics parts for aerospace and defense

■            from 3,369 incidents in 2005 to more than 8,644 incidents in 2008.

○       Effects of Counterfeit Replacement parts

■            industry effects; counterfeiting costs U.S. semiconductor companies over $7.5 billion yearly, and has resulted in the loss of 11,000 jobs

■            Seatbelt clasps

  • Seatbelt parts were made from a grade of aluminum that was inferior to specified DOD requirements. The parts were found to be deficient when the seatbelts were accidentally dropped, and they broke.

■            Routers

  • The Navy, as well as other DoD and government agencies, purchased counterfeit network components — including routers — that had high failure rates and the potential to shut down entire networks.

■            Body armor

  •  The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) procured non-Kevlar material that was misrepresented as Kevlar. The DLA discovered the discrepancy during testing.

 

  • Bad Goods: Top 10 Counterfeit Goods
    • Apparel and accessories accounted for over 50 percent of the counterfeit goods seized by U.S Customs and Border Control.

10    Electronics

a0    Value of counterfeits seized: $39 million

b0    Retail value: $101.2 million

c0     Percentage of total seizures: 22%

d0     Most counterfeited: smart phones, tablet computers and DVD or music players.

20    Shoes

a0    Value of counterfeits seized: $25.3 million

b0    Retail value: $97 million

c0     Percentage of total seizures: 14%

30    Drugs

a0    Value of counterfeits seized: $16.9 million

b0    Retail value: $25.2 million

c0     Percentage of total seizures: 9%

d0    Most- Counterfeited: Viagra

40    CDs and DVDs (move over internet piracy)

a0    Value of counterfeits seized: $15.6 million

b0    Retail value: $35 million

c0     Percentage of total seizures: 9%

50    Clothes

a0    Value of counterfeits seized: $14.8 million

b0    Retail value: $126.3 million

c0     Percentage of total seizures: 8%

 

60    Perfume

a0    Value of counterfeits seized: $9.5 million

b0    Retail value: $51 million

c0     Percentage of total seizures: 5%

70    Watches

a0    Value of counterfeits seized: $8.4 million

b0    Retail value: $112.7 million

c0     Percentage of total seizures: 5%

80    Cigarettes (due to tobacco taxes)

a0    Value of counterfeits seized: $8.2 million

b0    Retail value: $10.9 million

c0     Percentage of total seizures: 5%

90    Computer Hardware

a0    Value of counterfeits seized: $7.8 million

b0    Retail value: $22.6 million

c0     Percentage of total seizures: 4%

100Toys and Games

a0    Value of counterfeits seized: $7.6 million

b0    Retail value: $26.9 million

c0     Percentage of total seizures: 4%

 

 

2. Which countries produce the most/where piracy is most prevalent

 

  • Peru produce the most counterfeit US dollars in the world.

○       Between 09-10, over $30 Million fake dollars were seized by police in Peru

  • In terms of copyright materials being pirated

○       business software $5.69 billion lost(almost half of lost revenue)

○       records and music $2.44 billion lost

○       pirated entertainment software $1.74 billion lost

○       motion pictures $1.64 billion lost

  • 2012 Top suppliers of counterfeit goods in the U.S. include:

(1) China,  (source of 80% of counterfeit goods seized at U.S. borders) Chinese authorities confiscated 38.36 Million counterfeit goods and pirated materials across the country in 2011.

(2) Russia,

(3) India,

(4) Pakistan

(5) Uruguay

(6) Korea and

(7) Philiippines

  • Top consumers of counterfeit goods include:

(1) China

(2) Russia

(3) Latin America (esp. Brazil)

(4) Greece

(5) Italy

 

3. ANTI COUNTERFEITING TECHNOLOGIES

  • Optical Technology

○       Holograms (as seen on driver’s licenses)

  • Smart cards

○       24% increase in sales in SmartCards from ‘11 to ‘12

  • Biotechnology

○       Use of monoclonal antibodies to recognize certain antigens or marker chemicals.

○       The marker chemicals are added in tiny concentrations to products (such as pharmaceuticals or liquor) and are detected by using a test kit containing the specific antibodies

  • Chemical technologies: Inks

○       light-reactive and heat-reactive inks

○       Invisible inks – Inks invisible to the naked eye can be read by bar-code scanners (used in fragrance and pharmaceutical industries)

  • Microscopic tags – constructed from up to ten different colored layers.

○       The sequence of colors denotes the unique code of the tag and the total number of possible codes ranges up to 4.5 billion.

○       The tags can be applied to both product and packaging in a number of ways, including incorporation in clear varnish.

 

4. Economic and social impact of counterfeiting

○       Financial effects for industries:

 

Organization for Economic Cooperation and

Development Category

 

Estimated loss in Billions of Dollars

(2008)

 

Projected loss in Billions of Dollars

(2015)

 

Internationally traded counterfeit and pirated products

 

$285–$360 $770–$960
Domestically produced and consumed counterfeit and pirated products

 

$140–$215 $370–$570
Digitally pirated products $30–$75

 

 $80–$240

 

Subtotal

 

$455–$650 $1,220–$1,770

 

 

Broader economy-wide effects (tax revenue, costs of crime, FDI flows) $125 $125+

 

 

Employment losses (G20 Economies) 2.5 million 2.5 million+

 

 

○       Other downsides to counterfeiting:

■            Public at large because it discourages inventiveness;

■            Cost of enforcement;

■            Job losses;

○       the consumer (inferior quality + health/safety concerns + higher prices)

■            Almost a third of medicines sold in developing countries may be counterfeit, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

■            In comparison, fewer than 1 percent of drugs sold in industrialized countries such as the U.S., Australia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand and the European Union are fake.

■            Fake tuberculosis and malaria drugs alone are estimated to kill 700,000 people a year.

■            21 sub-Saharan African nations discovered that 55 percent of anti-malarial drugs failed chemical testing due to insufficient (or complete lack) of the active ingredients

■            7 southeast Asian nations, the survey says 35 percent failed chemical testing, nearly half were incorrectly packaged, and another 36 percent had no active ingredients at all

■            Law enforcement in Zambia seized fake shampoo containing acid.

■            Body-builders and others buying steroids on the black market in Australia were sold repackaged livestock steroids as human steroids.

■            Diseased pig meat was used in counterfeit cans of pork luncheon meat in China.

■            In India, counterfeits of drugs were used to fight antibodies in Rh-D negative mothers.

○       Governments lose out on unpaid taxes and incur large costs in enforcing rights

○       Increasing concern that counterfeiting is related to other criminal activity

■            18 of the Sept. 11th hijackers had over 30 counterfeited, valid licenses and state issued IDs.

■            two men allegedly behind a bus attack in Bulgaria had counterfeit Michigan driver’s licenses. The bombing killed five Israeli tourists and a Bulgarian guide.

Bring on the Drones (Infographic)

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Drones! They’re everywhere. Drones are invading our skies, they’re in the news, and if some retailers get their way, they’ll soon be on our front steps.

As Americans, we have a fascination with these futuristic, unmanned planes, and why not. Drone technology can help save lives, track and protect wildlife, and (from a logistics standpoint) drones may revolutionize the delivery services industry.

But the picture isn’t 100% rosy for drones. There are some real drawbacks to drone-filled skies, including civil liberties violations.

We wanted to take a closer look at this drone phenomenon, so we’ve put together this infographic called “Bring on the Drones.” If you like it, please share it with others on social media. You can add the infographic on your website using the HTML code below as well. We only ask that you credit Camcode, the leader in durable asset tags, as the source.

drones infographic

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Solutions from Camcode:

 

Full Infographic Text Transcription:

Title: Bring on the Drones

Drones are invading our skies.  They’re the future of several things like conservation, warfare, and package delivery.  Should we be excited or scared?

Military: A mixed bag

  • Pros of Drones
    • Saves Lives
      • greatly reduce putting military personnel in harm’s way
    • Low Cost
      • significantly cheaper to purchase, fuel, and maintain than regular airplanes.
    • Accuracy
      • Drones have pinpoint accuracy from greater distances
        • reduces collateral damage
  • Cons of Drones
    • Limited Abilities:
      • cannot communicate with civilians for more detailed intelligence.
      • Drones cannot capture surrendering military personnel, abandoned hardware, or military bases.
    • Civilian Losses:
      • Drone warfare often causes collateral damages in civilian lives and property
    • Too Easy
      • The disconnected feeling can diminish ethical decisions

Conservation:

  • Protecting wildlife
    • track endangered wildlife
      • flown over rough terrain in Malaysia where GPS-collared elephants are difficult to monitor from the ground
      • Used to count orangutan nests to survey orangutan populations
    • spot poachers
      • 946 rhinos were poached in South Africa in 2013
      • Using a Google grant, WWF launched a three-year project using drones to
        • track animal movements
        • track poachers
        • to generate a strategic deployment of rangers
          • to form a shield between animals and poachers.
    • chart forest loss
      • real-time images showing where forests are being cleared and set ablaze

Cons:

  • Disruption of legal hunting and fishing activities
  • In April, 2013, PETA announced plans to monitor farmers and hunters using aerial drones
    • they are intended to monitor illegal activity
    • the general public sides with hunters
      • they don’t want to be spied on for any reason
    • IL passed a bill to stop PETA from using unmanned aerial surveillance to disrupt hunters
      • violators will be charged with a misdemeanor
    • PETA says the law would not stop its activities
      • drones would be flown over public, non-residential land

The Private Sector:

Amazon:

  • Drone delivery
    • Deliver packages into customers’ hands in 30 minutes or less
    • Pros
      • the basic technology is there
      • could be better for the environment
        • A single, battery-powered drone traveling to bring your order versus a large emissions-spewing delivery truck is a vast improvement
        • The drone also wins out when comparing it to you driving your car to the store for the same items.
      • Overconsumption is more likely in store than when shopping online
    • Cons
      • Senator Rand Paul thinks that government drone surveillance is a big issue
        • “The domestic use of drones to spy on Americans clearly violates the Fourth Amendment and limits our rights to personal privacy. I do not want a drone hovering over my house, taking photos of whether I separate my recyclables from my garbage.”
      • Drones are becoming much cheaper
        • Anyone who can afford one can now watch your every move
      • Privacy
        • The drone will use GPS to find your house and will likely use a camera in order to safely land
          • Protecting this information will have to be paramount
      • Logistics – Drones would revolutionize delivery services
        • Delivering to different types of addresses
          • homes
          • apartment buildings
          • commercial properties
          • In different types of conditions
            • Rural areas
              • flooded/impassable roads
              • Developing countries
                • Places without roads
                  • This could minimize need to build new roads
                  • Dense areas
                    • high traffic congestion
      • FAA developing regulations for the testing and licensing of commercial drones by 2015.
      • This could do for physical transportation what the Internet did for the flow of information

Other big players in the field

  • UPS and FedEx Researching Delivery Drones
  • Could be useful for delivery
  • Other options:
    • help move packages around their own warehouses
    • bring packages quickly and cheaply from a major airport or city to pick-up centers

Drones may soon rule the skies.  Camcode offers logistics management solutions to help you stay ahead of the game.

Sources

Camcode is Now ISO 9001:2008 Certified

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Camcode has always been dedicated to achieving the highest levels of quality and customer satisfaction. In 2014, we took that dedication one step further. To ensure we continually increase our business efficiency and customer satisfaction, we’re proud to announce that Camcode is ISO 9001:2008 certified. Our new certification applies to the data management, manufacture, packaging and shipment of bar code labels and other automatic identification products to customer specifications.PJR-UKAS-BW_150wANABSeal_150w

Through ISO 9000’s process-based approach, we adapted our internal programs to increase productivity, reduce unnecessary costs, and ensure the quality of our processes and products. With our ISO certification, you can be confident that our durable bar code labels and asset tags will continue to be produced as efficient as possible, using the highest quality materials. Contact us today for more information or to receive a quote.

Top 30 Barcode Scanner Apps

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Handheld scanners are designed for use in industrial settings, warehouses, and other applications where durability is required. But they can be heavy and bulky, and, let’s face it: They’re not always convenient. If you have staff working with products in the field or employees who have the occasional need to scan a bar code, but the frequency doesn’t necessitate carrying around a handheld scanner all day, a barcode scanner app can be just the ticket to maintain functionality without adding complexity to otherwise simple processes.

The great thing about barcode scanner apps is that they’re often compatible with your existing software, and many are available with cross-device compatibility. That means your team could be using their personal smartphones to scan barcodes on the job, with a minimal additional cost to your organization, provided security can be adequately mitigated with a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy.

The following 30 apps are among the most functional and popular applications available for scanning barcodes. While they’re not rated or ranked in any particular order, we’ve provided all the information you need to decide which app is best for your unique needs.

Table of Contents

Cross-Platform Compatible Apps

  1. BarCloud

Image via iTunes

The ASAP BarCloud App is actually a complete, cloud-based asset management or inventory program, accessible from any iOS or Android device, as well as from any Internet browser. With automatic backup and the ability to schedule your own custom backups, your data is always secure and readily accessible. Simple inventory counting to complex systems, such as batch-lot and serialized inventory, are supported, and you’ll never lose track of shared assets with BarCloud’s check-in and check-out system. There aren’t an abundance of user reviews available, but the mobile apps earn four stars or better on both iTunes and Google Play.

OS: iOS, Android

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/app/barcloud/id566263486?mt=8

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.asap_systems.barcloud&feature=search_result%23?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5hc2FwX3N5c3RlbXMuYmFyY2xvdWQiXQ

iTunes Rating: 4+

Google Play Rating: 4/5 stars

Key Features:

  • Manually enter data or scan
  • Vendors, customers, models, locations, and other data
  • Search and view files for stock items
  • Filter options
  • Export data as PDF or Excel
  • Visual analytics tools
  • Overdue items, expiring items, low inventory

Cost: Mobile app – FREE

Asset Management Plans & Pricing:

  • Lite – $25/user/month
  • Standard – $75/user/month
  • Professional – $125/user/month

Inventory Plans & Pricing:

  • Lite – $25/user/month
  • Standard – $75/user/month
  • Professional – $125/user/month

 

  1. Scandit

Image via Scandit.com

Scandit is an SDK that enables enterprises to incorporate barcode scanning functionality in a mobile app. An SDK is similar to an API for developers, as it enables companies to build mobile apps for iOS or Android. Not quite the traditional ready-to-go mobile app, Scandit is an option for developers who are building apps that would benefit from scanning capabilities, as well as enterprises commissioning proprietary mobile apps where this capability would be a value-added component and alleviate the need to download a third-party application.

OS: iOS, Android, and Symbian, Phonegap plugin

Download: Get Trial or Full Downloads here.

iTunes Rating: N/A

Google Play Rating: N/A

Key Features:

  • Transform smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices into barcode scanners
  • Lightning-fast, accurate barcode scanning
  • Wide range of symbologies supported
  • Doesn’t require autofocus
  • Scans at any angle
  • Size does not impact accuracy

Cost:

  • Community – FREE (or 8% of your paid app price)
  • Enterprise Basic – $199/month
  • Enterprise Premium – $399/month

 

  1. Scan to Spreadsheet

Image via iTunes

Scan to Spreadsheet is a simple app with simple functionality. But sometimes, that’s exactly what users need; a basic app that scans barcodes and stores data in a central database, Scan to Spreadsheet is precisely what you’re looking for. A few reviewers criticize its lack of flexibility and customization tools, but others like its basic features.

OS: iOS, Android

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scan-to-spreadsheet/id478631675?mt=8

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.berrywing.scantospreadsheet

iTunes Rating: 4+

Google Play Rating: 3.4/5 stars

Key Features:

  • Date and time stamp
  • Custom fields for data entry
  • Maintains one large database with information

Cost:

  • Android – $0.99
  • iTunes – $2.99

 

  1. QuickMarkQuickmark

Images via Google Play

With QuickMark, you can not only scan, but create barcodes and QR codes. The cross-platform scanner reads multiple types of barcodes and multiple barcode formats, making it one of the most versatile barcode scanner apps available. With less manual data entry, you can quickly and easily record URLs, item names, locations, and much more. Overall, owners seem to be pleased with the QuckMark app, although a few users complain that it doesn’t scan much.

OS: Android, iOS, Windows

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=tw.com.quickmark

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/qr-code-reader-quickmark-barcode/id384883554?mt=8

Other Download Options: http://www.quickmark.com.tw/En/basic/downloadmain.asp

Google Play Rating: 4/5 (21,327)

iTunes Rating: 4+

Key Features:

  • Quickly scans multiple QR code and barcode formats
  • Not fully cross-device compatible
  • Attach images to records for more transferability
  • Accurate and simple; email and transfer data

Cost: FREE

 

  1. ScanLifeScanlife

Images via Google Play

ScanLife is a barcode scanner app that allows consumers to scan QR codes and barcodes on any product and pull up information such as nutritional facts and ingredients, prices, and nearby locations where products can be purchased in real time. The ScanLife app is part of a larger platform for businesses who want to better engage mobile users, by incorporating QR codes into marketing strategies. With nearly 48,000 user reviews on Google Play alone, ScanLife gets positive feedback overall.

OS: iOS, Android

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scanlife-barcode-scanner-qr/id285324287?mt=8

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ScanLife

iTunes Rating: 4+, user rating 3.5 (6,200+ ratings)

Google Play Rating: 4/5 stars (46,700+ ratings)

Key Features:

  • Complete history of everything you’ve scanned, even offline
  • Send an email to yourself as a reminder for later
  • Nutritional information and ingredients for food products
  • Find products and prices at online and brick-and-mortar retailers
  • Built-in Facebook and Twitter sharing options
  • Business platform enables better consumer mobile engagement

Cost:

  • Basic – $25/month
  • Basic Plus – $85/month
  • Enterprise – Contact for a quote (free trial)

 

  1. NeoReader QR & Barcode ScannerNeoreader

Images via Google Play

NeoReader gets tons of user feedback at the iTunes and Google Play Stores, but it seems the most current version fares much better than previous editions of this app. At iTunes, the current version earns an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5, in just over 30 user reviews. The overall rating, however, is just two stars, based on more than 5,200 user reviews. Most users say it scans practically any code, in contrast to typical barcode scanner apps, which can be limited on the scope of their scanning capabilities.

OS: Android, iOS, Blackberry, Windows, Ovi

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=de.gavitec.android&hl=en

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/neoreader-qr-reader-barcode/id284973754?mt=8

iTunes Rating: 4+, user rating 2/5 stars (5,200+ ratings)

Google Play Rating: 4/5 stars (18,600+ ratings)

Key Features:

  • Scans the broadest set of 1D and 2D barcodes, including: QR, Data Matrix, Aztec, EAN, UPC, Code 39, Code 128, PDF 417, and more
  • Automatically detects code type
  • Create your own QR codes for free
  • Omni-directional, live-stream scanning
  • Full scanning history
  • Scans vCard, meCard, WiFi, phone number and email codes
  • Built-in sharing for email, SMS, Facebook or Twitter

Cost: FREE

 

  1. i-nigma Reader inigma

Images via Google Play

i-nigma is free to download, but the company uses advertising to offset some of the development and ongoing maintenance costs. This causes some users to gripe about small ads on the dashboard, but most don’t seem to mind and say they have no problems scanning just about any barcode using this app. It scans vCards and MECARDs to act as a streamlined Rolodex, instantly storing contact information in your phone’s contact list, opens maps with Geo codes, and adds events to your phone’s calendar with calendar barcodes, all in addition to scanning QR, DataMatrix and UPC/EAN codes for a fully-functional barcode scanner app.

OS: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Windows

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/app/i-nigma-4-qr-datamatrix-barcode/id388923203?mt=8

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.threegvision.products.inigma.Android

Main Download: http://www.i-nigma.mobi/

iTunes Rating: 4+, user rating 4/5 stars (260+ ratings)

Google Play Rating: 4.4 stars (6,600+ ratings)

Key Features:

  • Scans QR, DataMatrix and UPC/EAN codes
  • SDK provides additional code compatibility
  • Scan typically difficult codes, such as colored, creative, or reversed codes
  • No need to pre-set barcode types
  • Share scanned codes through social media, SMS, email
  • Create your own QR codes
  • Scan vCards or MECARDs to easily store contacts
  • Geo barcodes to open maps
  • Calendar barcodes add events to your calendar

Cost: FREE

 

  1. Lynkee ReaderLynkee

Images via Google Play

Lynkee is a barcode scanner app geared more towards the consumer than the inventory control or asset manager, but it is a simple and handy app with the ability to scan a variety of 1D and 2D barcodes, including DataMatrix barcodes. Scan vCards and MECARDs to store contact info, compare prices, search your scanning history and more. Users say this barcode scanner application is quick and accurate, but there are a few complaints from users who just can’t seem to get it to open or scan properly.

OS: Android, iOS, Windows

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/fr/app/lynkee-2-lecteur-qr-code-barres/id416446101?mt=8

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=lynkee.Reader

iTunes Rating: 4+, user rating 4/5 stars (120+ ratings)

Google Play Rating: 4/5 stars (520+ ratings)

Key Features:

  • QR code generator
  • Read barcodes from camera, file or webpage
  • Reads a variety of 1D and 2D barcodes, including vCards, Geolocation, URL, DataMatrix, Flashcode and more
  • Add and share product reviews
  • Create a Lynkee profile

Cost: FREE

 

  1. UpCode

Image via iTunes

A free optical barcode scanner app that supports 2D, Bidi and 1D (Datamatrix / QR /Ean 8 & 13) barcodes, UpCode is designed to be simple and straightforward to use. Users can create their own optical barcodes for free, and scan any supported barcode to quickly access content like music, images, videos, files, websites, and more. Built-in sharing features enable you to share the content you discover with your contacts, as well. This barcode app gets just two stars at iTunes, but no written reviews are available, so it’s difficult to tell why users give it a low rating. Google Play users generally like it, but some think it’s just standard technology and nothing special.

OS: iOS, Android, Lumia and Windows

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/fi/app/upcode/id297104013?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D4

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fi.upcode.upcode

Main Download: http://www.upcode.fi/mobile/pc_download.asp?language=1

iTunes Rating: 4+, user rating 2/5 stars (130+ ratings)

Google Play Rating: 3.9/5 stars (315+ ratings)

Key Features:

  • Quickly scans 2D, Bidi, 1D barcodes
  • Supports DataMatrix, QR, Ean 8 & 13 1D barcodes
  • Create your own optical barcodes
  • Access music, videos, websites, and other content

Cost: FREE

 

  1. BeeTaggBeetagg

Images via Google Play

BeeTagg has a set of apps: a mobile barcode scanner app, a QR code generator app, an app for contacts management and generating your own personal QR-code business card, a PriceCheck app and now even a mobile app to make fancy, designer QR codes. A free barcode scanner app, BeeTagg is pretty sophisticated in terms of its scanning functionality, but it doesn’t offer any comprehensive built-in database capabilities. That said, you can copy and paste information and codes for later documentation. Users generally say it works okay, but there are some difficulties reported with 1D codes and certain phone models.

OS: iOS, Blackberry, Android, Windows, Samsung, Ovi

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/beetagg-qr-reader/id313157282?mt=8

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.connvision.mobileaccessor.android

Main Download: http://get.beetagg.com/en/qr-reader/download

iTunes Rating: 4+, user rating 2.5/5 stars (450+ ratings)

Google Play Rating: 3.4 stars (880+ ratings)

Key Features:

  • Goes beyond merely opening a browser window
  • Contextual actions
  • Obtains more info from a single code than most barcode scanner apps
  • 2D codes including QR Codes, BeeTagg Codes and Datamatrix
  • 1D codes including EAN-13 and UPC-A
  • Create your own contact code to exchange information
  • Supports a variety of content types, including vCard, MeCard, Text, SMS, eMail, Geo, Event.

Cost: FREE

 

  1. Kaywa Kaywa

Images via Google Play

Kaywa claims to be the best mobile barcode scanning app around, and users seem to agree for the most part. This app gets solid reviews on both iTunes and Google Play, with users saying they love that the scan images are held in memory for later reference. That said, data for this QR barcode scanner app is stored in your phone’s internal memory. That means it may eventually slow down other apps, and it can’t be easily removed and transferred to another device if you switch. Otherwise, it lives up to its claim of speed, accuracy, and simplicity.

OS: Android, iOS

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/kaywa-qr-code-reader-scan/id520776783?mt=8

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kaywa.barcode

iTunes Rating: 4+, user rating 4/5 stars (40+ ratings)

Google Play Rating: 4.1/5 stars (460+ ratings)

Key Features:

  • Free QR code generator
  • Scans all types of barcodes
  • Automatically detects code type
  • History with scan image, text and geolocation data
  • Contact cards with landscape mode

Cost: FREE

 

  1. EZ Office Inventory

EZ Office

Image via Google Play

EZ Office Inventory is a complete office inventory management platform that comes with a free barcode scanner app to streamline the process of tracking and maintaining accurate inventory counts. When combined with the full-featured program, you can take advantage of features such as data backup, chart-based actions, bundles, and more. Users say it’s easy to set up, super functional, and is ideal for a variety of applications.

OS: iOS, Android, Windows

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/office-inventory-tracking/id516935177?mt=8

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ezofficeinventory.mobile2

iTunes Rating: 4+, user rating 3.5 stars (11 ratings)

Google Play Rating: 4.4./5 stars (25 ratings)

Key Features:

  • Supports custom barcoding
  • Mass scanning
  • Member ID card scanning
  • Real-time asset locations, assignments and alerts
  • Delegated model allows custodians to be active participants

Cost:

  • App – FREE
  • EZ Office Inventory Plans & Pricing:
    • Silver – $29.99/month
    • Gold – $49.99/month
    • Platinum – $95/month
    • Corporate – Contact for a quote

 

  1. Scout Mobile Inventory

Image via iTunes

Scout is a product of topShelf, a web-based and fully mobile-enabled inventory management system that can be used either as a standalone software platform for managing inventory and asset control, or can be configured as an adjunct to an existing application, such as accounting software or CRM. Available for most modern devices, Scout earns middling scores from users who say it works, but it seems slow and sluggish.

OS: iOS, Android, Blackberry

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scout-mobile-inventory/id380138845?mt=8

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.scoutsft.mobileInventory&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5zY291dHNmdC5tb2JpbGVJbnZlbnRvcnkiXQ..

iTunes Rating: 4+ (not enough customer ratings)

Google Play Rating: 3/5 stars (21 ratings)

Key Features:

  • Scan barcodes
  • Create transactions
  • Ship and pack products
  • Print barcodes to any barcode-enabled printer
  • Reporting functions
  • Generate lot and serial numbers
  • Manage returns and tasks

Cost:

  • Mobile App Pricing:
    • FREE (Android)
    • $0.99 (iTunes)
  • Platform Pricing:
    • TopShelf Plus+ – $50/user/month
    • TopShelf Advanced – $69/user/month
    • TopShelf Enterprise – $120/user/month
    • TopShelf Unleashed – $150/user/month

 

  1. OnHand BT

Image via Google Play

OnHand BT is a product of Steven’s Creek Software, designed to streamline inventory management by turning an existing mobile device into a barcode scanner. It captures all one-dimensional barcodes, and it has a built-in calculator for entering data or changing quantities. With a number of features designed to make the inventory process simpler, such as a restocking mode, it’s a useful platform for any business dealing with inventory. It is one of the more expensive barcode apps available, though, at about $30 on iTunes and Google Play. There aren’t an abundance of user reviews, but the few available reviews indicate that developer support is excellent and features and functions are adequate for a variety of settings.

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.stevenscreek.onhand&hl=en

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/on-hand/id365920832?mt=8

iTunes Rating: 4+ (Not yet enough reviews to determine an average rating for the current version.)

Google Play Rating: 5.0 (2 reviews)

Key Features:

  • Built-in calculator to change counts for large amounts
  • Quantity, barcode, name, note, named location, date/time created, date/time last modified
  • User-configurable input and output
  • Multiple modes including: restocking mode, multi-location mode, ‘Pick and Pack’ mode for shipping applications, and more
  • Input and output with UTF-8 encoded text to support special characters and non-Latin alphabets

Cost:

  • $29.99 (iTunes)
  • $29.95 (Google Play)

 

  1. CLZ BarryCLZ Barry

Images via Google Play

Users say CLZ Barry is quick, accurate and efficient, although a few complain that it doesn’t have a feature for entering ISBN book codes. It’s really geared to the collector audience, for those who collect things like comic books, DVDs and the like. Because it can be configured to export data to Excel and other programs, it’s useful for a variety of applications, and users say it’s a huge time-saver. This barcode scanning application requires Android 2.1 or higher, so it may not work on all devices.

Download for iOS: http://www.itunes.com/apps/clzbarrywirelessbarcodescanner (NOTE: link only works for iOS users with an iTunes account or iPhone)

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.collectorz.clzbarry

iTunes Rating: 3.5 stars (8 ratings)

Google Play Rating: 4/5 stars (165+ ratings)

Key Features:

  • Supports UPC, EAN, ISBN, UPC+5 barcodes and QR codes
  • Transmit scanned data to your PC or MAC
  • Integrate data collection with any program or text document on your desktop
  • Offline scanning
  • Send scans in batch
  • Targeted to the collector audience
  • Automatic title and image look-up

Cost: $7.99

iOS-Only Apps

  1. Inventory Scanner

Image via Act Smartware

Inventory Scanner is packed with useful features for inventory managers. Ideal for data input, this app allows you to scan and register products, and record related product data. It’s all stored in an integrated database for at-your-fingertips access to product details, prices, inventory counts, and more. With a logical category and sub-category structure, it’s easy to organize diverse inventories without sacrificing accessibility. It gets some mixed feedback from users, however. Some users complain that it lacks an importing feature to easily add data from other sources, and others say it won’t scan some barcodes. Overall, it earns an average rating of three stars out of five in about 285 reviews.

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/inventory-scanner/id365563373?mt=8

iTunes Rating: 4+ (Not enough info for average rating, 284 ratings)

Key Features:

  • Register products and data, such as location, item numbers, quantity, etc.
  • Track inventory
  • Streamline automatic document processing
  • Saves all data in integrated database for further processing and analysis
  • User-configurable data
  • Export via email or integrated Wi-Fi export server

Cost: FREE

 

  1. AssetTrack

Image via AmiTracks.com

AssetTrack is a simple-to-use scanner app designed for iOS devices. Apps like AssetTrack make it possible for enterprises to capitalize on the growing BYOD trend, although in this case, all employees or users would require an iOS (Apple) device. With options for pre-configuring certain form-field options and data entry information, scanning both expected and rogue inventory is simple with AssetTrack.

OS: iOS

Download for iOS: http://amitracks.com/assettrack-for-ios/

iTunes Rating: N/A

Key Features:

  • Supports Socket Bluetooth scanner
  • Instant identification of rogue vs. expected inventory
  • Easily input model and serial numbers for rogue items
  • Assign item location from pre-configured location options

Cost: Contact for a quote

 

  1. Business Inventory

Image via iTunes

Business Inventory is an iOS barcode app available from the iTunes store for just 99 cents. It gets some mixed feedback from users, however, with complaints of bugs and crashes. One user gripes that you can’t mark an item as sold by using the scanner function. It does have touchscreen options for doing so, along with filters to generate custom reports, inventory reporting options, exporting capabilities, and more.

OS: iOS

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/app/business-inventory/id535888410?mt=8

iTunes Rating:  4+, user rating 2/5 stars (19 ratings)

Key Features:

  • Summary reports
  • Filtered lists
  • Mark as sold, buy new, or cancel touchscreen options
  • Works on the iPhone or iPad
  • Summarize your inventory
  • Export inventory reports

Cost: $0.99

 

  1. Stock Control

Image via iTunes

Stock Control is a barcode scanner app developed by Kiwi Objects, designed to improve your productivity by giving you better control over your inventory counts. Users are generally positive about this app, and it’s pretty straightforward to use. Simply scan your items, organize your database by category, type, personal vs. work, or whatever hierarchy works for your purposes. You can manage two sets of stock completely independently. For precise control, Stock Control enables refined management of quantities in different locations, such as storage, as well as shortage alerts so you’ll never find yourself out of supplies again.

OS: iOS

Download for iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/stock-control-easily-manage/id492472375?mt=8

iTunes Rating: 4+, user rating 4/5 stars (100+ ratings)

Key Features:

  • Refined management of quantities
  • Organize by category; create logical hierarchies
  • Shortage alerts
  • Importing and exporting
  • Create PDF catalogs and print or email lists of products

Cost:

  • FREE (limited to 15 items)
  • Unlock additional items with in-app purchase

Android-Only Apps

  1. Barcode Scanner App

Image via Google Play

 The Barcode Scanner App was built to demonstrate the functionality of Barcode Xpress for Mobile, Accusoft’s barcode SDK for Android. It’s designed for enterprises and developers who want to build a barcode-aware application for Android devices, integrating powerful decoding capabilities into a custom application designed specifically for your company’s requirements. Simply position a barcode in the middle of the scanning screen for instant decoding. Depending on the data stored in the scanned barcode, actions may include redirecting to a website, displaying product data, or other results. The Barcode Scanner App recognizes a variety of 1D and 2D barcodes. This demo app gets positive feedback from users, earning an average rating of four stars out of five in more than 165 reviews. Accusoft also offers a Barcode Xpress for iOS SDK if you’re building a custom application requiring barcode-scanning capabilities for an iPhone or other iOS device.

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.accusoft.barcodescanner.client

Google Play Rating: 4/5 stars (160+ ratings)

Key Features:

  • 2D scanning capabilities, including Aztec, DataMatrix, PDF417, QR
  • 1D scanning capabilities, including UPC, EAN, Matrix, Patch Code, and many more
  • Built with Barcode Xpress for Mobile, Accusoft’s barcode SDK
  • Accusoft’s barcode SDK can be used for custom barcode scanner app development
  • Share decoded text by email or SMS
  • Search for books with ISBN
  • Automatically scans; no need to input type manually

Cost: FREE

 

  1. xMATixMAT

Images via Google Play

ixMAT relies on Java-based software to turn your device into a barcode scanner. This free barcode scan app works for Android, Blackberry, Windows Mobile and JavaME devices, but it’s not available for the iPhone or iPad. It supports a variety of 1D and 2D codes, analyzing automatically without the need to input the barcode type. Those who want to share contact information via a 2D code may be initially put off by the idea that this requires constant access permission, but the company assures users that their personal privacy settings are honored. Users, however, say this barcode scanner app asks for a slew of permissions.

OS: Android, Blackberry, Windows Mobile, JavaME

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ixellence.ixmat.android.community

Google Play Rating: 3.8/5 stars (2,700+ ratings)

Key Features:

  • Capable of scanning rotated DataMatrix codes and barcodes
  • Instant search
  • Scan history
  • Bulk mode
  • Send small text files via email
  • Not compatible with iOS devices

Cost: FREE

 

  1. GetBlue Bluetooth Reader (Demo) Get Blue

Images via Google Play

Another barcode scanning app exclusively for Android devices, Hi Tec’s GetBlue Bluetooth Reader offers a variety of data collection methods and exporting options, including files, spreadsheets, third-party applications and more. GetBlue gathers data from any supported data source and forwards it to any supported Bluetooth SPP and Bluetooth RFCOMM. Any Bluetooth that supports the Serial Port Profile, such as SPP or RFCOMM barcode scanners, can be used.

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tecit.datareader.android.getblue.demo

Google Play Rating: 3.9/5 stars (450+ ratings)

Key Features:

  • Collects data from Bluetooth SPP, serial USB, TCP/IP, HTTP and camera scanners automatically
  • Exports via files, spreadsheets, etc.
  • Bi-directional device communication support is provided
  • Manual data input; device commands may be entered manually
  • Functions as a keyboard wedge

Cost: Demo version: FREE

 

  1. Wireless Barcode ScannerWireless Barcode Scanner

Images via Google Play

The Wireless Barcode Scanner is another product by Tec-It, but unlike its sister products, this barcode scanner app doesn’t yet have any user feedback. With adjustable 1D and 2D barcode scanning support, adjustable character sets, and compatibility with some standard software tools, the Wireless Barcode Scanner offers usability and functionality for a variety of uses and applications. This mobile barcode app only works with Android devices.

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tecit.android.bluescanner.full

Google Play Rating: 0 (no ratings available)

Key Features:

  • Adjustable 1D/2D barcode support
  • Adjustable character set
  • All scanned barcodes are stored for later access
  • Supports adjustable barcode prefixes, suffixes, and various decoding character sets
  • Can be read with standard software tools from virtual serial port
  • Single shot or batch scanning

Cost: $12.99

 

  1. Inventory Droidinventory droid

Image via Google Play

Inventory Droid, as its name suggests, is available only for the Android operating system. A similar barcode app is available for web-based reporting and inventory tracking that’s compatible with iOS devices, but this app does not support barcode scanning. Inventory Droid gets positive feedback overall, with a few quirks noted. For instance, one reviewer says she’d prefer that the inventory search evaluates her inventory only, not that of Amazon and other online retailers.

OS: Android

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.app.inventorydroid&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5hcHAuaW52ZW50b3J5ZHJvaWQiXQ..

Google Play Rating: 4/5 stars (298 reviews)

Key Features:

  • Custom fields, field units, and scanable fields
  • Multiple accounts and categories for streamlined management
  • CSV import/export
  • Account backup and restore
  • Built-in shopping features
  • Loan reminders
  • Store photos and receipts in SD folders

Cost: $4.99

 

  1. Barcodescanner Keyboard, Demo

Image via Google Play

Other than some compatibility issues with specific devices, users say the Barcodescanner Keyboard works well. With multiple keyboard layouts to support a variety of languages, this barcode scanner application is both versatile and functional.

Download for Android:

Demo: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tecit.android.barcodekbd.demo

Full: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tecit.android.barcodekbd.full

Google Play Rating: 4.2/5 stars (60+ ratings) – full version

Key Features:

  • Multiple keyboard layouts available for language support
  • Automatically fills fields with scanned barcode information
  • Can be configured with target application control keys
  • Does not require Internet or SMS control permissions
  • Secured data is protected from keylogging
  • Scans in landscape or portrait mode

Cost:

  • Free Demo
  • Full paid version: $3.99

 

  1. ScanPet Scanpet

Images via Google Play

ScanPet is a barcode app for Android devices, and it’s compatible with the Kindle Fire. This barcode app garners feedback from more than 1,500 users on Google Play, where it earns an average rating of 4.1 stars out of 5.  ScanPet uses Excel as an item database, enabling the app to function as a complete inventory management application – all managed by your smartphone, which doubles as a scanner. It’s being used for everything from personal CD collections to business inventory. With exporting options and a slew of other features, it’s easy to get the essential inventory data you need to other applications and programs. There’s a basic, free version and a more sophisticated, paid version available.

OS: Android

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.maiko.scanpet&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5tYWlrby5zY2FucGV0Il0.

Premium/Paid Version Download: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.maiko.xscanpet

Google Play Rating: 4.1/5 stars (1,500+ ratings)

Key Features:

  • Customization wizard
  • Add as many custom fields as you require
  • Compatible with a variety of data types: string,number,lists of values,date,time,photo, latitude,longitude, etc.
  • Functions as a WiFi scanner for direct-to-PC data transmission
  • Sales and shipment tracking
  • Reads most barcode formats and symbologies
  • Also functions as an attendance tracker or roster

Cost:

  • FREE
  • Premium paid version – $2.10

 

  1. Inventory X ProInventory X Pro

Image via Google Play

The ultimate inventory, asset management and collection app, Inventory X Pro has a built-in barcode scanner and the other tools and capabilities to turn your smartphone into a total inventory control system. It’s only available for the Android operating system, and it doesn’t have many reviews. Those that are available are positive, however, with users praising developer support and overall functionality and usability.

OS: Android

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.acj0.inventoryxproa

Google Play Rating: 4.4/5 stars (7 ratings)

Key Features:

  • Multi-level categories
  • Tags for easy searching
  • UPC, EAN, ISBN, ASIN codes
  • Attach photos and receipts to items
  • Scan custom barcodes, UPC, EAN codes
  • Check-in and check-out transactions
  • Multi-level locations with time stamps
  • Generate inventory reports
  • Quantity balance updates
  • Customization options
  • Importing and exporting

Cost: $2.99

 

  1. Rapid Inventory App for Android

Image via Google Play

The Rapid Inventory App for Android can solve your most pressing inventory concerns by turning your smartphone or other mobile device into a barcode scanner. Easy importing and exporting options make it possible to transfer data to other applications for accounting and other purposes. With customization options, such as custom fields, you can categorize and filter your products in a variety of ways to suit your needs. With simple, intuitive operation and three different price levels, including a free version, sers say this smartphone barcode scanner is exactly what they needed.

Download for Android: http://www.tec-it.com/en/download/android/rapid-inventory/Download.aspx

Google Play Rating:

  • Free – 3.8 (270 ratings)
  • Business – 4.5 (2 ratings)
  • Unlimited – 4.0 (3 ratings)

Key Features:

  • Maintain item stock lists, part lists, serial and item numbers, and other characteristics
  • Track fixed or moveable assets
  • Tag items with labels for easy sorting and searching
  • Import and export reports and data (CSV, Excel, Google Drive)
  • Custom fields; custom sort order

Cost:

  • Pay-as-You-Go
    • Free
    • Business – $13.99
    • Unlimited – $39.99
  • Volume Pricing
  • Free Demo available

 

  1. My Inventory My Inventory

Images via Google Play

My Inventory enables you to create several inventory databases, sort and categorize products based on a variety of characteristics, construct reports, export product lists, full inventory, check-in and check-out entries, and more via CSV or XML. Bulk-scanning products is possible once you’ve created your inventories. Users say it’s stable and easy to use, but the help page could be more robust and the exporting feature could be a bit simpler to use. Otherwise, users seem to think this is an excellent barcode app to scan and manage inventory.

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.appdevandroid.framework.inventories

Free: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.appdevandroid.framework.inventoriesfree

Paid: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.appdevandroid.framework.inventories

Google Play Rating: 3.7/5 stars (30 ratings)

Key Features:

  • Export inventory in a CSV or Excel file by products, inventories, check in-out entries
  • Create multiple inventories; sort products by inventory
  • Input includes name, type, location, price, quantity, purchase date, inventory
  • Sort and filter using the above tags
  • Form auto-fill saves time

Cost:

  • FREE
  • Paid version: $1.95

 

  1. Inventory Barcode Scanner (Action-Plus) Action Plus

Images via Google Play

Inventory Barcode Scanner is a pretty simple and straightforward app that does exactly what you’d expect a barcode scanning tool to do. You can enter product and inventory data, and the app automatically adjusts your stock counts when additional barcodes are scanned. You can manually enter data or rely on the scanner, and export your data as a .csv file to integrate your inventory data with another application. It gets middling scores from users, earning an average rating of 3.3 stars out of five, but the written reviews provided are generally positive. One user describes the Inventory Barcode Scanner as “Great for quick and dirty inventory,” and most agree that it’s fast and accurate.

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actionplus.CCC_BQ

Google Play Rating: 3.3 (75+ reviews)

Key Features:

  • Make your Android function just like a barcode scanner
  • Scan or type in data for information fields
  • Auto-save
  • Export to .csv file for Excel

Cost: FREE

The good news is inventory and asset management doesn’t have to be a long, tedious process, thanks to apps like these. Many of the best barcode scanner apps are free, and most others are low-cost, even if you opt to subscribe to the full asset management platform.

Logistics for Kids: Students’ Guide to Career Exploration in Logistics

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Do you love fast cars, huge trucks and powerful trains? Or, perhaps you’re detailed-oriented with a passion for planning? You may just have a penchant for management or customer service or analysis or international business or manufacturing or driving or… well, you get the drift.

You probably also believe that one of the keys to happiness is earning a good living doing something you love. And if that’s the case, then it’s time look into a career in logistics. So check out our guide where you’ll find information from more than 80 trusted resources on everything kids want and need to know about the exciting field of logistics.

Table of Contents


So Just What is Logistics?


Image via Sealand Logistics Solutions

Logistics is all about getting things from point A to point B – safely, securely and on time. This field is about being innovative and brainstorming solutions – finding answers to questions like, “what’s the fastest, least expensive way to bring together all the parts needed to manufacture a PlayStation or Xbox?” or, “how can we combine parts and pieces from hundreds of different manufactures from dozens of countries to build one Olympic stadium?”

Logistics professionals are known as logisticians. To fulfill their goal of safe, efficient and on-time deliveries, logisticians use every kind of transport known to man. (And if it’s not yet known to man, logisticians will dream it up for engineers to invent!) That means trucks, planes, trains, and boats – and a few rockets, submarines and buggies thrown in for good measure.

Additional Resources:


Logistics and Your Life

So now you know what logistics is all about: getting things from point A to point B. But that makes logistics sound boring, when in reality, it’s is anything but. And in fact, logistics is so important, it affects your everyday life. No, seriously: almost every aspect of modern-day life relies on the world’s talented logisticians.


An infographic providing 3 tips for companies to reduce carbon in their supply chains.

Image via The Guardian

Here’s another way to think of logistics: for every link in the supply chain – that’s anything you use or consume, and that you don’t make or grow for yourself – logistics plays a key role. Let’s take just one example: your cell phone. Your cell phone started out as just a few raw materials; logisticians helped get those raw materials to the plants that melted the metal and made the plastic, which logistician then arranged to transport to other factories that turned that metal and plastic into hundreds of component parts. Logisticians then organized transport of those parts to the factory that put your cell phone together, and finally, logisticians arranged to have your phone sent to a local cell phone store, where you or your parents purchased it. Whew. That’s a lot of logistifying! (Yeah, we totally made that word up.)

And logistics didn’t just put a smartphone in your hand. Here are just a few of the other things that logistics makes possible:

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: From fresh fruits to your favorite cereal or brand of pasta, logistics moves these items from their country of origin to your grocery store shelves.
  • Electronics: Your favorite video game console, your noise-cancelling headphones, your laptop – all electronics are made up of small parts produced in factories around the globe. Logistics gets each microchip, memory card, and console part from its site of production to the factory where it all gets put together. And then, logistic moves the final product to your local electronics store.
  • Healthcare: Without logistics, there’d be no way to get medicine, vaccines and other life-saving goods where they need to go, on time and in proper condition. In very real ways, logistics makes the world a better place.
  • Sports: For every World Cup, Superbowl or Olympic Games, there are millions of logistical details to handle. Without logistics, there would be no soccer balls at the World Cup, no rings for Superbowl champions, and no hurdles at the Olympic track.
  • Mail (the old-fashioned kind): Every time you order a video game, smartphone accessory, or book, logistics bridges the gap from finding your purchase in the warehouse, to getting it packaged and shipped, and finally delivering it to your front doorstep.
  • Entertainment: From building concert stages to filming TV shows and music videos, the entertainment industry relies on the logistics of transportation, supply and delivery.
  • Sustainability: Believe it or not, logistics plays a huge role in protecting the environment. Logisticians are charged with developing better, more efficient and more sustainable ways of doing business, so that we can enjoy the world economy with the lowest possible environmental impact.

Let’s put it this way: without logisticians (and modern technology, of course), we’d be living in the Dark Ages – literally. Instead of spending your days at school, you’d be working the farm or in the fields to put food on the table. There’d be no iPhone, no skate park, no weekend concert and no TV: you’d be restricted to only the entertainment you could make for yourself, like derby cars you carved by hand and plays featuring hand-sewn puppets crafted from linen you wove yourself. Clearly, logistics plays a prominent part in every aspect of modern life.

Additional Resources:


The Long, the Tall, and the Big of It: Monster Transport in Logistics

Hands down, one of the coolest aspects of logistics is the transport: the planes, trains, boats and rockets (yes, rockets!) of getting things from point A to point B.

Just imagine working with one of these monster machines:

Road Trains (a.k.a. the longest trucks in the world)

Road trains are multiple loaded trailers – essentially, truck trailers connected together like train cars. You’ve probably seen small road trains on the highway – one cab connected to two or more trailers – but these haulers get much longer than that. The world’s longest-ever road train rode on February 18, 2006 in Australia: the impressive monster pulled 113 trailers, for a total truck length of almost a mile!

Union Pacific’s Monster Train

Image via Popular Mechanics

Logistics isn’t about setting records for records’ sake: it’s about making life better and transportation faster. In 2010, Union Pacific ran a record-setting freight train – a 3.5 mile-long behemoth capable of carrying 15,500 tons (31,000,000 pounds) – to test configurations to test power configurations that would make “monster” train transport possible and more efficient than current methods.

Big Boats: The Titanic

The Titanic is not just a Hollywood love story. At the time of its launch in 1911, the famed (though ill-fated) ocean liner was the largest object ever moved by man. And it wasn’t an easy feat: getting The Titanic out of dry dock required 22 tons (that’s 44,000 pounds!) of soap and tallow to create a 1-inch thick slick, slippery coating on the hull to easy the massive ship’s entrance into the River Lagan.

Saturn V Rocket Transport Truck

Yes, even NASA needs logisticians! In the mid-1960s and early 1970s, NASA used Saturn V (pronounced “Saturn Five”) rockets for their man-on-the-moon program. The immense rockets – even today, they remain the heaviest, tallest and most powerful rockets ever launched – weighed in at 3,100 tons and were taller than the Empire State Building. NASA needed something to move that huge payload, and that’s where logisticians stepped in with equally massive transportation: a 131-foot long crawler-transporter that weighed 2,750 tons and designed to be capable of transporting three Saturn V’s at one time.

Jumbo Jet: the Antonov An-225


Image via Wikipedia Commons

Big things need big transport, and there’s none in the air that’s bigger than Russia’s Antonov An-225. This jumbo jet is so big, it could swallow a 737 – and still have room to spare. The extraordinary machine, which measures longer than a football field from wingtip to wingtip, is like an airborne tractor trailer: it can ship an airliner, a space shuttle, and even massive concert states for Snoop Dogg, Beyonce & Jay-Z.

Additional Resources:


10 Reasons to Pursue a Career in Logistics

  1. You’ll Have Lots of Opportunity: One of the best things you can do for yourself is choose a career with limitless potential. Logistics is one of those careers. In fact, careers in logistics are projected to grow 26% between 2010 and 2020 – faster than average growth for any profession. What that means for you is lots of opportunity to do what you want, and to have success doing it.
  2. Your Job Will be Stable: Stability might sound like a gymnastics skill, but it’s really important to your future career. Logistics isn’t going anywhere – the U.S. alone spent $1.331 trillion on logistics in 2012! – which means you’ll have a job until you’re ready to retire.
  3. You Can Succeed at Any Education Level: The great thing about logistics is that there’s opportunity (there’s that word again!) for high school graduates, college graduates, and grad school grads. Ex-military also do well in logistics: four years of service is often enough experience to snag a mid-level position in a civilian organization. Bottom line: if you’re good with people and possess soft skills – confidence, perseverance, and a friendly attitude – companies will want to hire you.
  4. You’ll Make Bank: You should never make career decisions based only on your earnings potential, but if you can find a job you love that also pays well, you’ll have it made. So here’s the good news: logistics pays well – really well. In fact, the median annual salary for logisticians was $72,780 in May 2012. That’s double the average wage ($34,750) across all occupations.
  5. You’ll Get to Travel: How many people are lucky enough to travel the world – and get paid doing it?! Logisticians, for one. The growing world economy means companies will expand more and more, and that means logistics experts will be tapped to visit far-flung, often exotic places to do business.
  6. You’ll Meet Awesome People: When you travel, you meet new people. Awesome people – people who have backpacked through Asia and windsurfed in the Caribbean and run with the bulls in Pamplona. In other words, world travelers like you.
  7. You’ll Learn New Languages: If you like foreign languages, you’ll be even more valuable as a logistician. In logistics, you often have to talk with people who don’t speak English: drivers, customs agents, and others around the world. Stretch those language skills
  8. You Can Live Anywhere: Do you have dreams of moving to the Big City? Or maybe even living abroad? No problem. The world’s logistics companies have offices throughout their headquarter countries and around the globe, so find the right position and you can live almost anywhere. (Deserted island not included.)
  9. You’ll Be an Innovator: If you love to innovate and think big, logistics will allow you to test your theories and prove your instincts correct. If you can think of new ways to improve transportation, use technology, or promote sustainability, there’s a logistics company willing to pay you for your ideas.
  10. Every Day Will Be a New Adventure: Logistics is a dynamic, ever-changing world. You can work with teeny tiny startups (where you’ll have major responsibilities) or huge, multinational corporations. And everyday, you’ll do something different: today, you’ll figure out how to get a monster machine from Mexico to Canada; tomorrow, you’ll be shipping supplies to the site of the upcoming Olympics.

Additional Resources:


The Best Job in the World: Careers in Logistics

If logistics sounds like it might be a cool career path, you’re probably wondering what kind of job title you could have. After all, you don’t often see “Logisticians Wanted” in the local classifieds.


An infographic depicting the general annual product life cycle, through the perspective of logistics and the supply chain.
Image via MD Logistics

The short answer is, there are many, many careers involved in the field of logistics. It takes a small army to organize, plan, mobilize, transport and deliver the world’s goods! Here’s a sampling of the ways you could get involved in the exciting world of logistics:

  • Accountant: Logistics accountants manage a company’s financial information to maximize efficiency and, ultimately, profitability.
  • Branch Manager: This is a very diverse job with a lot of responsibility. You’ll help customers with moving (home or office), set sales goals, provide customer service, and more. Innovation is highly prized, as new solutions and ideas are always needed.
  • Commercial Driver: For anyone who’s ever wanted to take the wheel of a big rig, all you need is a commercial driver’s license, a good soundtrack (you’ll be driving for long shifts), and the desire to see the country by road.
  • Courier: If you want to jump into logistics right now, considering getting a part-time or summer job as a bike courier. (For added cool factor, label yourself a Dispatch Driver.)
  • Distribution Manager: If you’re tech-savvy, you’ll love figuring out how to use fancy telecommunications to move materials and goods from point A to point B.
  • Freight Forwarder: For anyone who’s ever wanted to work with big machines, a career as a freight forwarder lets you organize the most efficient and best-priced product transport via plane, train, boat or truck.
  • Importer/Exporter: If you’re itching to dip into international business, hop aboard the import/export train. You’ll manage the details of bringing foreign goods into the country, or taking national goods abroad.
  • Packing Operative: Help pack products efficiently and safely, so goods arrive in perfect condition to stores and consumers around the globe.
  • Port Operator: As a port operator, you’re always guaranteed a home by the ocean! You could help load and unload ship cargo, repair and improve cargo ships, or help move passengers through a port.
  • Purchasing Manager: As the company’s buyer, it’s your job to purchase goods and services for the best possible price.
  • Road Transport Manager: If you’re good with details, sign up to coordinate complicated schedules and plan delivery routes for your company’s truck fleet.
  • Supply Chain Manager: This exciting position makes you responsible for managing all steps throughout the supply chain, like getting raw materials to factories and delivering finished products to store shelves.
  • Traction and Rolling Stock Engineer: Work with trains and locomotives to coordinate thousands of deliveries around the country.
  • Warehouse Manager: Here’s another position for the detail-oriented: organize efficient warehouse operations, to ensure smooth deliveries, appropriate storage, and sufficient stock levels.

If you’ve never heard of these jobs, don’t worry; they’re more familiar than you think! Let’s put them into perspective with some of the world’s most popular and recognizable logistics companies:

  • UPS (Kuehne + Nagel), FedEx and DHL: These three logistics companies are some of the world’s most popular for organizing international and national shipments. And though you may not know it, all three are also working to expand into container and less-than container load shipments.
  • The Postal Company: The USPS, the Royal Mail, and any other national postal service is a logistics company, organizing the shipment and transportation of goods from one place to another.
  • DB Schenker: Headquartered in England and Germany, DB Schenker manages rail, air and land freight around the world.
  • Nippon Express: This international transportation company has headquarters in Japan, but does business in more than 80 countries around the globe.

Of course, not all logistics companies are big names, and not all deal directly with shipping. For example, Woodward Governor Company designs and manufactures energy control solutions for aircraft engines; Echo Global Logistics focuses on technology-enabled transportation; and Camcode makes make warehouse labels and signage to keep track of inventory in warehouses. What interests you?

Additional Resources:


Career-Minded: Tips for Getting a Job in Logistics

If you’re interested in logistics, there are things you can do today, tomorrow and in the future to prepare for a career:


Image via Dorothy Dalton

  1. Sharpen Your Soft Skills: As mentioned above, soft skills – your attitude, your work ethic, you motivation – can make you an attractive job candidate, no matter your education or work experience.
  2. Practice a Second (Third, Fourth, Fifth) Language: Second-language skills are very important in logistics, where you’ll be communication with international suppliers and clients. Give yourself a leg up by learning a second language.
  3. Narrow Your Goals: You now know that there are a lot of options in the logistics industry. Start researching. If your school does job shadowing, visit a local logistics company and try to sample several positions. Figure out what you might like or, at the very least, rule out the logistics jobs you don’t see for yourself.
  4. Look for Internships/Apprenticeships: Many logistics companies offer summer internships or apprenticeships. When you meet the minimum age requirements, apply. (And make your application shine!)
  5. Get Tech-Savvy: It goes almost without saying, but international business now relies heavily on computer systems and other technologies. If you love computers, get comfortable with common programs like Excel, Lotus, Word, PowerPoint and MS Project. You can also familiarize yourself with the growing selection of web-based programs – likely the logistics solution of the future (if not the now) – like EVOS SmartTools™ or Appian DirectRoute.
  6. Read up on Industry News: The best way to learn about logistics is to read about the industry. Start with industry newsletters and publications, like those from the American Society of Transportation and Logistics, 3PL Wire, the Journal of Commerce: Logistics Newsletter, Logistics Management, Logistics Quarterly and the Warehousing Education and Research Council.
  7. Look into Degree Programs: Depending on your career goals, you may want to get a college degree in a related field, like human resources, operations management, supply chain management, and more.

Additional Resources:

Trimble Juno 5 Handheld Scanner Review

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The Trimble Juno 5 is a powerful handheld scanner that packs the necessary scanning capabilities with the rugged durability the field requires, all with a smartphone-inspired, familiar form factor. The Juno 5’s claim to fame is its exceptional durability combined with impressive functionality, offering the functionality of multiple devices in a single, compact, and intuitive smartphone-like package. For this reason, the Trimble Juno 5 is a popular handheld barcode scanner for field applications, such as GIS inspection, utilities, and forest and park management.

Trimble Juno 5 Handheld Scanner Review

Applications and Typical Uses

The Trimble Juno 5’s rugged design and wide range of functionality make it suitable for a variety of applications, particularly field operations requiring asset management in less-than-ideal environmental conditions. The Trimble Juno 5’s typical uses and applications span local government, environmental management, and utilities applications.

  • Local government: GIS data collection, road and road asset management, parks and urban forest maintenance and management
  • Environmental management: Forest and park service management, fisheries management, general environmental management
  • Utilities: Asset management for several utilities industries, including water, wastewater, gas, and electric

Scanning Capabilities

All that rugged durability means little if the device lacks the functional scanning capabilities required for an enterprise’s range of applications. The Trimble Juno 5 doesn’t fall short in this area, either, with a wide range of 1D and 2D scanning capabilities. Note that you must choose the Juno 5 Barcode handheld model for this built-in functionality. The Trimble Juno 5 Barcode handheld also includes Trimble’s Scan Agent software, which allows you to customize scanning capabilities to meet your specifications.

The Juno 5 scanner include's Trimble’s Scan Agent software

Operating Systems and Software

The Motorola Juno 5 features a Windows Embedded Handheld operating system, complete with the Microsoft Office Mobile standard software package. An 8 megapixel camera with geotagging and dual LED flash adds functional use for applications in which photos of surrounding context are useful to communicate circumstances in the field that may be impacting service availability, identifying possible areas for expansion and a variety of other purposes.

Microsoft Task Manager and Notes keeps field technicians on-task and organized. Juno 5 devices have a microSD card slot for expanding memory capacity for out-of-range jobs that require significant documentation. Otherwise, this Bluetooth-enabled device offers Wi-Fi compatibility for seamless data syncing with other applications.

Durability

Ideal for field use for applications such as GIS and asset management, the Juno 5 can operate in temperatures ranging from more than 20 degrees below zero to more than 140 degrees Fahrenheit. It can operate in 90 percent relative humidity, withstand driving rain, water spray, and dust. In fact, its IP65 rating meets military specs.

Trimble Juno 5 Handheld Scanner in action

Additional Features and Functionality

The Juno 5D model adds data, text and voice capabilities, resulting in a truly multi-functional device that’s well suited for the varied needs of field service technicians in many industries.

Overall, the Trimble Juno 5 weighs less than one pound (0.84 pounds), including the battery. Because this handheld barcode scanner offers multi-device functionality, the Juno 5 dramatically cuts down on the equipment load for field technicians. That means your field team can stay focused on the task at hand, rather than keeping tabs on several devices and worrying about damage in less-than-ideal conditions.

We found little feedback on problems with the Trimble Juno 5 series; overall, user opinions appear positive. We did read some feedback on the ArcGIS Forum regarding some battery life issues, and one user notes some compatibility issues when syncing from the Juno 5’s WEHH operating system to other devices using Windows 8. The Android operating system isn’t Google-certified, the user says, so there’s no access to features such as Google Play and Google Docs.

However, the same user says the hardware is “outstanding,” and that Trimble is working to get its Android-based devices certified by Google. Users say that if you’ll need to use the Juno 5 for more than one day without access to a power source, plan to take extra batteries.

Key Features:

  • Intuitive smartphone form-factor
  • Large, multi-touch, 4.3-inch WVGA sunlight-readable Gorilla® glass display
  • Juno 5D offers cellular compatibility for field communications
  • Weighs less than one pound, including battery
  • Wide range of 1D and 2D barcode scanning capabilities
  • 8 megapixel camera with geotagging and dual LED flash GPS for visual documentation
  • Choice of operating systems

Scanning Capabilities: 1D and 2D, depending on model and specifications

Operating System: Windows Embedded Handheld (WEHH) 6.5 or Android 4.1 “JellyBean”  Juno 5 Barcode Scanner

Built-In Software:

  • Microsoft Office Mobile 2010
  • Trimble SatViewer
  • Trimble CellStart
  • Microsoft My Phone with SMS text messaging (Juno 5D only)
  • Calculator
  • Calendar
  • Windows Media Player
  • Windows Live Messenger
  • Adobe Reader LE 2.5
  • Microsoft Task Manager & Notes
  • Other software: camera control app, flashlight mode control, Microsoft pictures and videos

Software Compatibility: Depends on the OS – get details here

Included Accessories:

  • International AC charging kit
  • USB cable
  • 2-pack, ultra-clear screen protectors
  • Wrist strap
  • Quick-start guide

Optional Accessories:

  • 9-pin serial adapter
  • USB Host adapter
  • Capacitive stylus with tether
  • Capacitive touch screen gloves
  • Trimble headset
  • External battery pack
  • Vehicle charging kit
  • Screen protectors
  • External GPS antenna

Cost: *Est. $2,500

Images courtesy Trimble


Motorola Symbol DS6708-DL Handheld Imager Scanner Review

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Motorola’s Enterprise Mobility Division, formerly Symbol Technologies, Inc., is one of the foremost manufacturers of high-quality, rugged data collection solutions for warehousing, distribution, retail, healthcare and other applications. Handheld barcode scanners formerly offered by Symbol Technologies, Inc. now bear the Motorola name with a Symbol designation, including the Motorola Symbol DS6708-DL Handheld Imager Scanner.

Symbol DS6708

Image via MotorolaSolutions.com

Applications and Typical Uses

The Motorola-Symbol DS6708-DL is designed for use in applications such as retail and warehousing, and it’s well-suited for applications like education, office settings, healthcare, and industrial applications thanks to its range of 1D, 2D, PDF and other scanning capabilities. It’s not a long-range scanner, but it can still be used in settings such as warehousing or industrial environments for applications that don’t require long-range scanning functionality.

The Motorola-Symbol DS6708-DL can even be used for CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems). When combined with CMMS asset tags that include date/time stamps and other measurement activities, the Motorola-Symbol DS6708-DL becomes a powerful tool for monitoring and tracking inspection and maintenance activities, initiating work orders, and streamlining data collection for your organization.

The multi-use functionality of the Motorola-Symbol DS6708-DL makes it an ideal handheld scanner for applications in which a centralized management system is ideal, yet the scanning requirements vary across departments. For example, the Motorola-Symbol DS6708-DL can be used in the office for scanning documents and postal codes, and also in the warehouse, industrial facility, classroom, or other setting for inventory control, maintenance, and other data collection needs. Instead of maintaining and managing multiple handheld scanner models, your IT department is only tasked with deploying, managing, and upgrading one handheld scanner model: the Motorola-Symbol DS6708-DL, which meets all your organization’s scanning requirements.

Scanning Capabilities

With omnidirectional 1D and 2D barcode scanning and an embedded parsing agent that enables decoding of PDF-417 barcodes (typically found on drivers’ licenses), the Motorola Symbol DS6708-DL offers an impressive range of functionality for a variety of use applications. Because the parsing is done in the scanner and the output is controlled by the user, data from PDF-417 and other barcodes can be used in a multitude of applications, such as those described above.

This functionality is valuable for maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations, avoiding manual keying errors and increasing efficiency. And, because driver’s license formats and other barcode technologies may vary from state to state and are subject to change, yearly updates ensure continuous compatibility and compliance.

Operating Systems and Software

There’s no additional software or licensing fees to worry about, so the Motorola DS6708-DL can be instantly deployed out of the box with minimal training required. It also supports RS-232 and USB interfaces, with Synapse connectivity enabling connectivity to non-standard interfaces, keyboard wedge and IBM for broad functionality.

Durability

This handheld barcode scanner operates in temperatures ranging from 32 degrees to 122 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s not the ideal scanner for asset management in environments where exposure to sub-freezing temperatures is possible, such as frozen foods warehousing. It’s rugged and durable, however, capable of withstanding multiple six-foot drops to concrete without compromising performance.

Additional Features and Functionality

The Motorola Symbol DS6708-DL has a 1.3-megapixel camera for capturing images, barcodes, and documents, and it supports all standard 1D, 2D, PDF and Postal barcode technologies. An omnidirectional scanner, the DS6708-DL saves valuable time by eliminating the need to center the barcode or object in the imager for accurate scanning.

This broad range of scanning capabilities eliminates the need for organizations to purchase and maintain multiple scanners for varying needs. That means simplified and streamlined data capture, without ongoing IT demands and hassles. Central, remote management enables you to track, deploy, and upgrade all Motorola Symbol DS6708-DL scanners from a single, central location, making this handheld scanner especially appealing to organizations without centralized IT services.

With a scanning range of 0.5 inches to 15.2 inches, the Motorola Symbol DS6708-DL isn’t a long-range scanner, but it offers an adequate range for typical-use scenarios such as retail settings. It weighs just 6.4 ounces, and has an optional hands-free intellistand for presentation scanning and the ability to seamlessly switch from hands-free to handheld mode.

The Motorola Symbol DS6708-DL offers a five-year warranty from the date of shipment.

Key Features: 

motorolads6708-2

Image via BarcodeScannersDiscount.com

  • Omnidirectional scanning
  • 1.3-megapixel camera
  • Embedded parsing agent with user-controlled output
  • Two parsing options in one device
  • Remote scanner management – track, deploy, and upgrade devices centrally
  • No need to align item and scanner
  • Works with multiple interfaces, operating systems, and host configurations
  • Yearly updates ensure compatibility with changing driver’s license formats
  • Accurately scans damaged or poorly printed barcodes

Scanning Capabilities: All standard 1D, 2D, PDF, and Postal technologies

Operating System: N/A

Built-In Software: N/A

Software Compatibility: Any

Included Accessories: None

Optional Accessories:

  • Intellistand and various other stands and mounts
  • 4-slot Ethernet cradle
  • Power supplies

Cost: *Est. $280

Intermec SR61 Rugged HD/DPM Handheld Scanner Review

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The Intermec SR61 Rugged HD/DPM is a cutting-edge handheld bar code scanner with impressive motion tolerance for effectively scanning 1D and 2D bar codes.

The Intermec SR61 Rugged HD/DPM is designed for direct part marking (DPM), with the ability to scan DPM labels that are dot peened, etched or cast on a variety of substrates. It can a 6.5-foot drop, extreme cold and hot temperatures, constant forklift vibration and even windblown dust and rain. That means it’s useful in warehouse applications as well as some standard outdoor usage.

Intermec SR61 Barcode Scanner

Image via Intermec.com

 

Applications and Typical Uses

The Intermec SR61 Rugged HD/DPM is specifically designed for use with DPM practices, although it does offer durability to conditions such as blown wind and rain, extreme heat and cold, and constant forklift vibration. Therefore, it’s well-adapted for use in the warehouse setting and could also be used in applications requiring some outdoor exposure.

The Intermec SR61 has the ability to scan high-density bar codes and DPMs, and therefore is recommended for use in the defense, aerospace, automotive, pharmaceutical, and telecommunications industries. While there are specialized devices built intentionally to meet the need of decoding DPM, the Intermec S61 does so efficiently, accurately and with ease, providing a more cost-effective solution for scanning direct part marks. It’s also well-suited for manufacturing environments, such as work-in-progress and quality checks, for inventory management, asset management and maintenance and repair of equipment across multiple industries.

Scanning Capabilities

In addition to its unmatched motion tolerance and 1D/2D scanning capabilities, the Intermec SR61 also supports image and real-time video capture. It can also read difficult-to-read DPM marks, including those that are dot preened, etched or cast on a variety of less-common substrates. Additionally, small, reflective and low-contrast marks are decipherable by the Intermec SR61.

This superior DPM performance doesn’t detract from the Intermec SR61’s ability to read standard bar code labels.

Operating Systems and Software

The Intermec SR61 comes equipped with Blackfin software for 2D scanning as well as some additional basic computing applications for reading data. With a USB 2.0 full-speed interface, data and scanned codes and images can be instantly delivered to applications with minimal configuring by the operator.

Durability

It can withstand drops from approximately 6.5 feet, some vibration and some non-extreme weather conditions, indicating that it could be used in outdoor environments in ideal weather conditions, but would likely not stand up to repeated driving rain, submersion in liquid, or other conditions.

The SR61 does offer a high impact housing and solid design that actually exceeds industrial and military standards. The Intermec SR61 can be expected to perform adequately in environments where dust, moisture or extreme temperatures create a less-than-ideal environment.

Additional Features and Functionality

The Intermec SR61 features a highly-visible aimer for greater scanning accuracy in less time, along with omni-directional reading to reduce re-positioning needs. With a USB 2.0 full-speed interface, users can instantly transfer scanned bar codes to the host application to avoid data loss. It’s quick to read and offers superior motion tolerance, so it’s well-suited for rapid scanning requirements, such as in warehouse applications.

The Intermec SR61’s 2D scanner is capable of reading linear, stacked, composite and matrix bar codes, and the unit itself can withstand 26 drops from 6.5 feet – adding durability for common-use applications. Onboard illumination in the XR allows it to rapidly adjust to variable lighting conditions to maintain the speed and accuracy the TR61 is known for.

Intermec SR61 Handheld Scanner

Image via Staples.com

Key Features:

  • Lithium-ion battery lasts 10+ hours on a full charge
  • VGA+ resolution image capture
  • USB 2.0 full speed interface
  • Reads linear, stacked, composite and matrix barcodes
  • XR model adjusts to variable lighting conditions
  • Highly-visible aimer and omni-directional scanning

Scanning Capabilities:

  • 1D (most common symbologies)
  • 2D (most common symbologies)
  • Postal (most common symbologies)
  • Real-time video

Operating System: N/A

Built-In Software: Blackfin for 2D

Software Compatibility:

  • SmartWedge Lite
  • Easyset
  • And more (via a variety of communications interfaces)

Optional Accessories:

  • Hands-free stand
  • Desktop stand
  • Belt holster
  • Dangle suspension
  • Desktop or wall charger
  • USB cables
  • Wireless Bluetooth adapters

Cost: *Est. $415 to $845, depending on configuration

See more here: http://www.intermec.com/products/scansr61bdpm/

Motorola MT2000 Series Mobile Terminal Review

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The Motorola MT2000 is the perfect tool for employees who need to do more than just scan, such as viewing and keying in data. Combining “the simplicity of a scanner with the intelligence of a mobile computer,” the Motorola MT2000 can decode both 1D and 2D bar codes, and it offers multiple connectivity options, providing the versatility required to meet a range of potential applications. Packaged in a rugged, yet ergonomic design, the MT2000 is useful for warehouse environments, education, government and healthcare, and asset management applications.

Motorola MT2000 Series Handheld Mobile Terminal Review

Image via Motorola.com

Applications and Typical Uses

The Motorola MT2000’s durable and rugged construction enables it to stand up to more than the typical office environment, although it’s not quite durable enough for use in harsh outdoor conditions. Still, its ergonomic design makes it useful for applications in which scanning frequency is high, such as warehousing and asset management. The MT2000 also finds use in government applications and healthcare settings, as well as education applications. The ability to view and key in data makes this handheld scanner particularly useful for the warehouse setting, enabling workers to key in new product data directly from the floor or manually update inventory counts to account for waste or damaged products.

Scanning Capabilities

The Motorola MT2000 can decode both 1D and 2D bar codes, using omnidirectional image scanning and image capture technology. But the MT2000 takes it a step further with the ability to capture signatures, photos and videos – lending to a number of additional potential uses outside the typical handheld barcode scanner. It can capture damaged or poor-quality 1D bar codes, ranging from 1 in/2.54 cm to as far as 192 in/486.68 cm, with its superior laser scanning technology. The omnidirectional 1D and 2D scanning capability eliminates the need to line up bar codes precisely for a successful scan. You can even deactivate EAS tags with the Motorola MT2000.

Operating Systems and Software

The Motorola MT2000 uses the Microsoft .NET development environment, enabling the easy development of new applications, but most importantly, the ability to port existing applications with ease. A ready-to-use inventory application comes pre-loaded on your Motorola MT2000, but you can easily port batch and real-time applications to the MT2000 using the pre-loaded MCL client. Whether you choose to use the internal inventory application or port a preferred, third-party software application, integration is simple with the Motorola MT2000.

Durability

A handheld barcode scanner that’s built to withstand harsh conditions is one thing, but if your hands and wrists become easily fatigued, that exceptional durability won’t offer much benefit. The Motorola MT2000 offers an ergonomic design aiming to reduce fatigue and support all-day scanning without negative side effects. The scanner itself is pretty durable, too. Not only can it withstand being dropped on the hard concrete floor of a warehouse, but it also withstands exposure to dusty environments, exposure to liquids and wide temperature ranges.

Additional Features and Functionality

A high-resolution high contrast color QVGA display makes it easy to read the display in any lighting – including both sunny outdoor conditions and dim indoor warehouse lighting. A rugged, durable package with an ergonomic design that supports all-day scanning without leading to pain or fatigue, coupled with a high-capacity, smart battery that will last an entire shift, the Motorola MT2000 truly supports persistent use.

review of the Motorola MT2000 Mobile  Computer

Image via Motorola.com

Key Features:

  • 21-key enhanced keypad
  • High-contrast, high-resolution QVGA display
  • Beeper mode, pager mode and LEDs
  • Microsoft .NET development environment
  • Deactivate EAS tags
  • Wireless, cordless, corded and batch connectivity options
  • High-capacity, smart battery
  • Pre-loaded inventory application

Scanning Capabilities:

  • 1D/2D
  • Signatures
  • Images
  • Videos

Operating System: N/A Built-In Software:

  • Inventory management application
  • Built on .NET framework

Software Compatibility:

Included Accessories: None Optional Accessories:

  • Intellistand
  • Battery charger
  • Multiple AC cables
  • Belt holster
  • Wrist lanyard
  • Power supply options
  • Variety of cradles

Cost: *Est. $790

See More Here: http://www.motorolasolutions.com/US-EN/

Datalogic Gryphon I GD4400 2D Handheld Scanner Review

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Designed for general-purpose applications, the Gryphon 4000 series is the premier level of data collection devices in the Datalogic family. Combining 2D scanning capabilities with motion sensing technology, the Datalogic Gryphon I GD4400 is a user-friendly device for non-harsh environments.

Datalogic’s Motionix™ motion-sensing technology detects the natural actions of the user, automatically setting the scanner to the correct scanning mode. This reduces human error and eliminates repeat scanning for performance issues due to improper mode.

It works both with and without a stand, providing a broader range of possible applications in both handheld and presentation mode, and programming configurations for both the aimer and scanner to suit specific preferences and requirements. Review of the Datalogic Gryphon I GD4400 2D Scanner

Applications and Typical Uses

The Datalogic Gryphon I GD4400 is capable of handling fast-moving codes and offers comprehensive scanning capabilities for use with a wide range of symbologies and barcodes, making it a useful handheld scanning device for high-volume operations such as warehousing. However, the Gryphon I is not equipped with any outstanding durability components, such as an especially rugged housing, so it does not meet military-grade dust and water protection specifications like IP-65, a component of the MIL-STD-810F military specification classifying mobile computing devices for dust and water resistance.

It is ideal for general-purpose applications, such as education and office-based environments, as well as industrial applications in which the scanner will not be exposed to harsh conditions or extreme temperatures. It does withstand repeated drops to a concrete surface from just under six feet, so use in the warehousing setting is feasible provided there are no extenuating circumstances that may compromise the device.

Scanning Capabilities

The Datalogic Gryphon I GD4400 is compatible with all common 1D and 2D codes as well as postal, stacked and composite codes, including the oft-utilized PDF417. If your requirements include reading smaller, condensed codes, Datalogic also offers High Density (HD) models.

The Gryphon I also offers motion-sensing technology to enable rapid and accurate scanning of fast-moving barcodes, such as in production settings or warehouse operations.

Operating Systems and Software

Choose from a multitude of interface options for the Datalogic Gryphon I GD4400, including RS-232, IBM 46XX, USB or RS-232, USB, Keyboard Wedge and Wand.

Durability

The Gryphon I is designed for general use, but is not especially rugged or durable for use in outdoor conditions or harsh environments. The Gryphon I has not been tested to military specifications and therefore cannot be used in contexts in which IP-65 or other certifications are required for regulatory compliance.

The Gryphon I does withstand repeated drops to a concrete surface from a height of 5.9 feet, so it can be used in situations in which users may stand on ladders or stools to scan barcodes on upper shelves.

Additional Features and Functionality

Datalogic offers an HD model of the Gryphon I for applications requiring the scanning of small and/or extremely dense codes. Additionally, the Datalogic Gryphon I GD4400 comes with Datalogic’s Motionix™ motion-sensing technology, a feature which automatically selects the appropriate scanning mode based on the operator’s actions to improve efficiency and accuracy, ultimately reducing operating costs and reducing the likelihood of human error.

Key Features

  • Motionix™ motion-sensing technology
  • Omnidirectional reading
  • High-visibility, 4-dot aimer with center cross
  • Image capture and document scanning capabilities
  • Advanced motion tolerance optics
  • Multi-interface options
  • Patented ‘Green Dot’ provides good-read feedback
  • Reads 1D, 2D and postal codes plus stacked and composite codes
  • 5-year factory warranty

Scanning Capabilities

The Datalogic Gryphon I GD4400 offers a range of scanning capabilities, including all common 1D and 2D symbologies, as well as composite and stacked barcodes and postal codes. With image-capture scanning technology capturing BMP, JPEG, TIFF formats and more, and document scanning capabilities, the Gryphon I is a versatile handheld scanner capable of meeting a myriad of scanning requirements in general-purpose environments. While the typical depth-of-field varies based on the symbol, the Gryphon I can read some types of barcodes from a distance greater than 15 inches.

1D Supported Symbologies:  Autodiscriminates all standard 1D codes, including GS1 DataBar™ linear codes

2D Supported Symbologies: Aztec Code; China Han Xin Code; Data Matrix; MaxiCode; Micro QR gryphon handheld scanners by DatalogicCode; QR Code

Operating System: Datalogic Aladdin configuration program (available for download at no charge)

Built-In Software: JavaPOS Utilities, OPOS Utilities (available for download at no charge)

Software Compatibility: Multi-interface capable for connection with additional devices and data transmission

Included Accessories:

  • Varies based on kit purchased
  • Some kits include bases and cables

Optional Accessories:

  • Mounts
  • Stands
  • Cables
  • Holsters
  • Power adapter
  • Additional power cords and supplies

Cost: *Est. $295

See more here: http://www.datalogic.com/eng/products/automatic-data-capture/general-purpose-handhelds/gryphon-i-gd4400-2d-pd-174.html

Images via Datalogic and Barcode Giant

Arms Trade Treaty: What Is It and Why Does It Matter? (Infographic)

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The right to bear arms in the United States has been and continues to be one of the most hotly debated pieces of legislation in our modern era. But the reality is that gun laws and arms regulation is not simply a human rights issue and it certainly does not only affect the U.S. Arms regulation also impacts national security, economic interests, global commerce and foreign policy.

The latest political solution to help improve international arms regulation is the ATT, or the Arms Trade Treaty. Among a number of potential benefits of the ATT, this treaty would require governments to report all arms sales, thus preventing the sale and transfer of weapons likely to be used in violation of human rights all around the world.

We wanted to take a closer look at this important piece of legislation, so we’ve put together this infographic called “Arms Trade Treaty”, which answers what it is, who is involved, and why we need it.

If you like it, please share it with others on social media. You can add the infographic on your website using the HTML code below as well. We only ask that you credit Camcode, the leader in durable asset tags, as the source.

camcode---att2

Add This Infographic to Your Site

 

Arms Trade Treaty

What is it and why does it matter?

 

What is it?

  • the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT)
    • Adopted by the UN on April 2, 2013
    • Created to regulated international arms trade for conventional weapons
    • Signed by the U.S. on September 25, 2013
    • Being adopted by consensus from UN affiliates
      • consensus will enable holding everyone to the standards of the ATT
    • Will be enforced following ratification by 50 states

 

 

What’s it got to do with U.S.?

  • The U.S. is working to secure the global treaty while upholding legal arms trade
    • Arms trade is a high concern for national security
    • U.S. arms control is considered the “gold standard”
    • The ATT enables establishment of the “gold standard” globally
    • The U.S. has called for a “strong and robust treaty”
      • to prevent illegal trade of conventional weapons
      • to strongly enforce legal weapons trade, globally

 

Why do we need the ATT?

  • Uncontrolled international arms trade allows for too much violence
    • regional controls of arms trade aren’t cutting it
  • $20 billion is lost annually due to corruption in the defense industry
    • accounts for 50% of all corrupt, global transactions
  • Unregulated arms slows economic growth
    • Africa loses $18 billion a year due to violence
      • about the same amount as received in annual developmental aid
    • African countries lose 15% of economic growth due to violence
    • Violence and instability discourage global commerce
  • A working ATT would stop the sale and transfer of weapons likely to be used in violation of human rights laws
  • There are currently no international rules for arms trade
  • Enforcing the ATT would require governments to report all arms sales

 

Weapons included in the ATT

  • all advanced conventional weapons
    • tanks & armored vehicles
    • artillery systems
    • military aircraft and helicopters
    • naval vessels
    • missiles and missile launchers
    • small arms and light weapons
    • combat support equipment
  • parts, components and technology to modify, manufacture or repair included items

 

What are the concerns? Are we losing our 2nd Amendment rights?

  • June 29, 2012: a letter was sent from the House to President Obama and Secretary Clinton
    • signed by 130 Republican House members
    • states that the treaty impedes the “fundamental, individual right to keep and bear arms”
    • indicates the actions of the UN regarding the ATT are a serious threat toward
      • national security, economic interests, foreign policy and constitutional rights
    • October 15, 2013:
      • two different letters were released from the Senate and the House
      • each letter contained signatures of senators and representatives who oppose the ATT
        • Senate letter – 50 signatures
        • House letter – 181 signatures
      • a bipartisan majority (53 senators) opposes the ATT
    • Can we talk about Iran?
      • Iran was chosen for a top position for ATT counsel
      • Iran is one of the world’s worst human rights violators
      • Iran supplies arms to many aggressive enemies of the US
      • They were appointed shortly after being guilty of sending guns and bombs to Bashar Assad of Syria
        • Bashar Assad is currently slaughtering multitudes of -its own citizens
      • It’s a step toward restraint and domestic gun-control
        • Former UN ambassador, John Bolton (D) warns that the treaty is a guise
        • According to Bolton, the UN “is trying to act as though this is really just a treaty about international arms trade between nation states, but there is no doubt that the real agenda here is domestic firearms control.”
      • the ATT won’t be effective in stopping illegal arms trade
      • As a senator of Illinois, Barack Obama took a strong stand for gun control expansion
        • he voted against legislations allowing gun owners to defend themselves against home invaders
        • he was a board member for the Joyce Foundation in Chicago
          • aggressively anti-gun
          • gave grants to anti-2nd Amendment organizations

 

CTA

 

Sources:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/larrybell/2012/07/10/the-u-n-arms-trade-treaty-are-our-2nd-amendment-rights-part-of-the-deal/

http://www.state.gov/t/isn/armstradetreaty/

http://www.oxfam.org/en/campaigns/conflict/controlarms/why-we-need-global-arms-trade-treaty

http://www.heritage.org/research/reports/2014/01/dangers-of-un-arms-trade-treaty-begin-to-surface

http://www.forbes.com/sites/larrybell/2012/07/10/the-u-n-arms-trade-treaty-are-our-2nd-amendment-rights-part-of-the-deal/

Syscan GM800 2D Barcode Scanner Review

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The Syscan GM800 was designed with handheld scanning in mind, with an ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to hold with functional scanning angles in applications in which scanning is a frequent activity. It’s useful for a variety of applications spanning logistics, storage or warehousing, retail and library settings, among others. Review of Syscan GM800 2D Barcode Scanner

This handheld scanner is both durable, withstanding drops of up to 1.5 meters, with a comfortable rubber handle that’s less likely to slip out of grip. It’s also extremely easy to use, with a plug-and-go functionality requiring no onboarding or training. Capable of reading both 1D and 2D barcodes, the Syscan GM800 is a strong contender for everyday scanning.

Applications and Typical Uses

The Syscan GM800 isn’t a military-grade handheld scanner, so it’s not necessarily designed for outdoor use in harsh conditions. That’s not to say that it can’t withstand some hostility in the environment, however. Its dust-proof design and ability to withstand drops from 1.5 meters makes it a viable option for use in healthcare, retail, inventory control, document tracking, light industrial, office automation and similar environments.

This handheld scanner is applicable for barcode reading from paper, but is also capable of decoding from smartphone or computer LCD. It’s capable of reading barcodes up to 10 mil in density for QR, PDF417 and Data Matrix barcodes, and a density of 6.67 mil for Grid Matrix barcodes. A full 360-degree reading direction means no shuffling and repositioning to read most barcodes with the Syscan GM800. For PDF417 barcodes, it offers a 180-degree reading direction.

Durability

The Syscan GM800’s rubber handle means it’s less likely to slip from the user’s hand, and it also absorbs some shock if the scanner is dropped on a hard surface and lands on the handle. The Syscan GM800 can withstand drops from up to 1.5 meters high on concrete, so it’s useful for applications such as warehousing in which users may be elevated by ladders or on forklifts.

The Syscan GM800 isn’t a military-grade handheld scanner, but it can withstand exposure to common conditions such as temperatures between 32 degrees and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, with humidity ranging between 20% and 80% RH.

Additional Features and Functionality

The Syscan GM800 takes the guesswork out of scanning. Not only does it offer omni-directional scanning capabilities, but it offers a confirmation beep on decode that’s audible even in generally loud working environments like logistics.

It’s a rapid scanner, decoding in about one second. Coupled with its omni-directional capabilities, the Syscan GM800 is a functional handheld scanner that cuts staff time and reduces the frustrations associated with repeat scanning in some environments, such as warehousing. Syscan Handheld Barcode Scanner

Key Features:

  • Ergonomic rubber handle
  • USB-COM or RS232 interface
  • Supports both 1D and 2D symbologies
  • Buzz/beep confirmation on decode
  • Dust-resistant
  • Decodes from paper or LCD (mobile device or computer)
  • Decodes in one second
  • No onboarding required; easy to use

Scanning Capabilities

The Syscan GM800 supports a variety of 1D and 2D barcodes with omni-directional scanning capabilities. It also supports image capture and offers a wide working range, ranging between 4 cm and 26 cm.

1D Supported Technologies: Code39,Code128,Coda bar,EAN-8,EAN-13,ITF

2D Supported Technologies: DM(Data Matrix),QR,PDF417,GM(Grid Matrix)

Software Compatibility: Connects using USB-COM or RS232 interfaces

Cost: Contact for a quote

See more here: http://www.syscantech.com/en/Product/2D_barcode_scanner_GM800.asp

Images via Syscan.com

Wasp WWS450 2D Barcode Scanner Review

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The Wasp WWS450 is a 2D barcode scanner offering both 1D and 2D scanning capabilities with the freedom of a wireless connection for ease of use. Compatible with iOS, iPhone and Android devices, the Wasp WWS450 can transmit decoded data to smartphones, tablets, laptops and computers, and a batch memory mode facilitates continuous use without the loss of data outside of wireless range. Review of Wasp WWS450 Barcode Scanner

With good general durability, the Wasp WWS450 can be used in a variety of settings, including those which are scan-intensive. It comes with a wall-mountable or desktop communications base which can support up to seven scanners wirelessly, so it’s perfect for team use and streamlining data collection from multiple devices. It’s backed by a two-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Applications and Typical Uses

Designed for use in scan-intensive, high-volume environments, this fast and efficient handheld scanner is durable enough to withstand daily intensive use and drops from up to 4 feet on concrete. It’s useful for applications such as warehousing and inventory management, shipping and receiving, healthcare, government, education, retail, point-of-sale and similar environments where scanning is an everyday, throughout-the-day occurrence.

Durability

The Wasp WWS450 can withstand repeated drops to concrete from a height of up to four feet, so it can be used in applications such as warehousing where employees are working on concrete floors and scanning from ladders and equipment. It’s not designed for use in highly caustic environments or severe weather, such as rain or sleet, but it is rugged enough to withstand everyday wear and tear in healthcare and light industrial settings.

It offers a two-year warranty against material defects. An optional WaspProtect warranty available is an extended service plan to upgrade for coverage for things like accidental breakage.

Additional Features and Functionality

The Wasp WWS450 offers a number of features that make it a highly functional, efficient option for handheld scanning in a variety of environments. It’s extremely fast, with an image reader capable of capturing 100 scans per minute, and it can store up to 256 scans in buffer memory even if it’s outside its typical 30-foot or 160-foot range, depending on whether it’s connected to a mobile device or its communication base.

Designed for heavy use, the Wasp WWS450 weighs just 6.5 ounces and has an ergonomic design, so it won’t cause strain and discomfort with extended use. Wasp WWS450 2D Handheld Barcode Scanner Base

Key Features:

  • Wireless connectivity
  • Network up to 7 scanners with a single base
  • 16-hour average battery life per full charge
  • Read 1D barcodes up to 20”
  • Read 2D barcodes up to 12” away
  • Android and iOS compatible
  • High-speed, low-power consumption reduces re-scanning

Scanning Capabilities

With the ability to transmit data to its desktop- or wall-mounted communication base from up to 160 feet away, or to a smartphone (iOS, Android) in the field from a distance of up to 30 feet, the Wasp WWS450 enables the real-time data collection that many companies demand today. Even outside of wireless range, the Wasp WWS450 offers batch capabilities for storing up to 256 scanned codes at a time.

The Wasp WWS450 can read 1D barcodes from a distance of up to 20 feet and 2D barcodes from a distance of 12 feet, as well as barcodes generated by smartphones or tablets. It has a digital imager capable of capturing 100 scans per minute for rapid scanning. At a rate of one scan every five seconds, the Wasp WWS450 lasts about 16 hours on a single charge.

1D Scanning Capabilities: Codabar, Code 39, Code 93, Code 128, GS1 DataBar (RSS), Industrial 2 of 5, Interleave 2 of 5, ISBT-128, Italian, Matrix 2 of 5, MSI, UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, EAN-13, GS1-128 (EAN-128)

2D Scanning Capabilities: PDF417, MicroPDF417, Composite, RSS, TLC-39, Datamatrix, QR code, Micro QR code, Aztec, MaxiCode

Postal Code Reading Capabilities:US PostNet, US Planet, UK Postal, Australian Postal, Japan Postal, Dutch Postal (KIX)

Software Compatibility

The Wasp WWS450 is compatible with PCs, as well as mobile devices and tablets with an iOS or Android operating system. For PC connectivity, the Wasp WWS450 requires a 32- or 64-bit version of Windows 2000 or newer, or Windows Server 2003 or newer. From a distance of 30 feet from a mobile device or 160 feet from a PC, the Wasp WWS450 instantly adds scanned data to spreadsheets, documents or databases on connected devices.

Cost: *Est. $695

See more here: http://www.waspbarcode.com/barcode-scanners/wws450-2d-barcode-scanner

Images via WaspBarcode.com


Motorola DS3500-ER Series Scanners Review

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The Motorola DS3500-ER Series is a series of full-range scanners with Motorola’s maximum rugged specifications, making these handheld scanners the toughest and most-durable handheld scanners from the Motorola lineup.

The Motorola DS3500-ER Series includes two models: the DS3508-ER corded and DS3578-ER cordless Bluetooth® Class II, Version 2.1. The primary difference between the two is the corded vs. cordless functionality, a primary consideration when choosing a handheld scanner for indoor or outdoor applications. Both models offer a wide range of bar code scanning capabilities, with the ability to scan bar codes from near-contact to distances of up to 30 feet. Motorola DS3500-ER Series

Applications and Typical Uses

This series is quite versatile, given the array of scanning capabilities and its 30-foot maximum scanning distance. Combined with the fact that both corded and cordless models are available, not to mention the impressive rugged specifications, the Motorola DS3500-ER Series can be used in a multitude of applications.

The Motorola DS3500-ER Series is commonly used in warehouse applications, but thanks to its rugged durability, the cordless model is also suitable for outdoor applications, such as outdoor lumber yards and scanning LDAR tags at pipelines, and other indoor settings such as manufacturing plants, warehouse-style retail stores, and other industrial settings.

Scanning Capabilities

For indoor applications, corded models are sometimes better-suited, negating the need to worry about charging batteries. That said, a cord limits the range in which the user can work, so cordless models are better-suited not only for outdoor applications, but those which require the user to navigate freely around a facility or work site.

Customers opting for the Motorola DS3500-ER Series benefit from a single handheld scanner that can handle all the bar codes in use in their applications today, combined with the compatibility and flexibility to adapt to emerging technologies and symbologies in the future.

One of the Motorola DS3500-ER Series’ main claims to fame, however, is its continuous scanning feature, which allows the user to hold down the trigger for repeated, rapid scanning. Additionally, it functions equally as well for scanning in outdoor and indoor lighting, bright sunlight, and dim settings.

Durability

The Motorola DS3500-ER Series certainly doesn’t skimp on durability, with the most rugged specifications available within the Motorola handheld scanner family of products. It survives drops on concrete, being covered in dust or grease, exposure to spray from high pressure jets, and extreme temperatures without sacrificing functionality.

In testing, the Motorola DS3500-ER survived drops to concrete from 6.5 feet, as well as 2,000 revolutions in Motorola’s tumble drum. It also features a dual frictionless fixed sensor design to ensure the integrity of scanning functionality in adverse conditions.

Additional Features and Functionality

The Motorola DS3500-ER cordless Bluetooth® Class II, Version 2.1 offers 2.402 to 2.480 GHz adaptive frequency hopping and co-existence with 802.11 wireless networks for ease of communication, with a radio range of up to 300 feet with direct line of sight in open air, and a typical indoor range of 100 feet. The DS3500-ER Series models operate in 5% to 95% relative humidity.

The DS3500-ER Series has a motion tolerance of up to 60 inches per second, although actual motion tolerance may vary depending on the code type, distance, and print quality. For the cordless model, the DS3578, the 2200 mAh Lithium Ion battery charges fully in about 4.5 hours. The unit itself weighs about 12.8 ounces and is 7.34 inches long, 4.82 inches wide and 2.9 inches deep, making it a lightweight, easy to transport handheld scanner suitable for a variety of applications. This handheld scanner can read bar codes positioned behind several layers of shrink wrap, and dirty, damaged, and scratched bar codes are also no match for the DS3500-ER.

Key Features Motorola DS3500-ER Barcode Scanners

  • Supports USB, RS-232, RS-485 (IBM 46xx Protocols), Keyboard Wedge interfaces
  • 3-year warranty against manufacturer’s defects
  • 720 Kbps data rate
  • Motion tolerance up to 60 in./sec.
  • Wide range of 1D and 2D supported symbologies
  • Corded and cordless models available
  • Can read through several layers of shrink wrap
  • Reads in darkness and bright sunlight
  • Omni-directional scanning
  • Continuous scanning
  • Scans from near-contact to distances of up to 30 feet

Scanning Capabilities

The Motorola DS3500-ER Series supports a wide range of 1D and 2D symbologies, including the commonly used PDF417 and microPDF417 codes.

1D Supported Symbologies:  UPC/EAN (UPCA/UPCE/UPCE1/EAN-8/EAN-13/ JAN-8/JAN-13 plus supplementals, ISBN (Bookland), ISSN, Coupon Code), Code 39 (Standard, Full ASCII , Trioptic), Code 128 (Standard, Full ASCII, UCC/EAN-128, ISBT-128 Concatenated), Code 93, Codabar/NW7, Code 11 (Standard, Matrix 2 of 5), MSI Plessey, I 2 of 5 (Interleaved 2 of 5 / IT F, Discrete 2 of 5, IATA, Chinese 2 of 5), GS1 DataBar (Omni-directional, Truncated, Stacked, Stacked Omni-directional, Limited, Expanded, Expanded Stacked, Inverse), Base 32 (Italian Pharmacode)

2D Supported Symbologies: PDF417 (Standard, Macro), microPDF417 (Standard, Macro), Composite Codes (CC-A, CC-B, CC-C)

Cost: *Est. $680 – $750

See more here: http://www.motorolasolutions.com/US-EN/Business+Product+and+Services/Bar+Code+Scanning/Rugged+Scanners/DS3500-ER

Images via MotorolaSolutions.com

Honeywell Xenon 1902 Wireless Area-Imaging Scanner Review

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The Honeywell Xenon 1902 Wireless Area-Imaging Scanner brings the convenience of Bluetooth technology together with industry-leading scanning capabilities, including versatile area-imaging technology. With a small form factor and ergonomic design, this lightweight, handheld scanner is convenient for extended use without fatigue. Honeywell Xenon 1902 Wireless Area-Imaging Barcode Scanner

This handheld scanner is powered by Adaptus Imaging technology 6.0, along with a sophisticated decoding architecture that combines Adaptus Imaging technology 5.5, Omniplanar’s SwiftDecoder software, and a custom sensor for an extended depth of field, rapid scanning and decoding, and exceptional scanning performance on poor-quality or compromised bar codes.

Applications and Typical Uses

With three focal options (high density, standard range and extended range) for application-specific scanning, the Honeywell Xenon 1902 is a versatile handheld scanner with good durability for many applications.

Its Bluetooth connectivity enables a wide range of motion spanning 33 feet of unrestricted movement from the base. And with up to 14 hours of battery life, this handheld scanner easily supports a full shift without the need to recharge or switch devices to continue scanning.

These features and more make the Honeywell Xenon 1902 Wireless Area-Imaging Scanner suitable for a variety of applications. From warehousing to healthcare, education, retail, and even some industrial and utility applications, the Xenon 1902 offers exceptional scanning capabilities well-suited for applications requiring advanced scanning and sophisticated editing functionality. With an optional, disinfectant-ready housing that resists damage from harsh chemicals, the Xenon 1902 can even be used in chemical processing and similar applications in certain configurations, such as LDAR data collection.

Scanning Capabilities

“From high density linear to 2D bar codes found directly on the screen of a mobile device, Xenon 1902 decodes virtually all bar codes with ease,” according to the manufacturer’s specification sheet for this versatile handheld scanning device.

What really makes the Xenon 1902 stand out, however, is its advanced editing capabilities for its area-imaging function. Cropping, brightening, rotating, sharpening, and more all make it possible to produce high-quality digital images.

The Xenon 1902 operates from 2.4 to 2.5 GHz (ISM Band) adaptive frequency, but its flexible power management options enable users to limit the radio power output to minimize the likelihood of interference with other devices.

Operating Systems and Software

The Honeywell Xenon 1902 is built with TotalFreedom™ 2.0 and Remote MasterMind™ Scanner Management Software. Combined with Bluetooh 2.1 connectivity, this grouping of functional software and utilities provides the Xenon 1902 with exceptional usability.

What’s more, host system modifications are typically not necessary, thanks to the ability to link multiple applications for streamlined processing, decoding, and data formatting. And for IT administrators who prefer managing all scanners within their networks from a single, remote location, the Xenon 1902 is the perfect solution. Up to seven handheld scanning devices may be configured to operate with a single base.

Durability

The Honeywell Xenon 1902 isn’t designed for heavy-duty use in hostile environments, but it does offer ample durability for its target applications. It operates in temperatures ranging from 32°F to 122°F, with ideal storage temperatures between -40°F and 158°F. It functions at its best in 0 to 95% relative humidity, non-condensing, and in tests survives 50 6-foot drops to concrete. There is an optional disinfectant-ready housing designed to better-resist harsh chemicals, making it suitable for chemical processing and similar applications.

It offers a motion tolerance of up to 240 inches per second, dependent on the quality of the bar code, lighting, and other external influencing factors.  Its 1800 mAh Li-ion minimum charges fully in about 4.5 hours and will last up to 14 hours of standard use, with the ability to take up to 50,000 scans on a single charge.

Key Features review of the Honeywell Xenon 1902 Wireless Barcode Scanner

  • Lithium-ion battery
  • Bluetooth 2.1 interface
  • 10-ft. USB cable
  • 0 – 95% (non-condensing) humidity operating range
  • 32 °F to 122 °F operating temperature range
  • 3-year factory warranty

Supported Symbologies:  Supports standard 1D, PDF, 2D, Postal and OCR symbologies, including Code 39 , Data Matrix , PDF417 , QR code , UPC

Primary Software/Operating System: Adaptus Imaging technology 6.0

Built-In Software:

  • Adaptus Imaging technology 5.5
  • Omniplanar’s SwiftDecoder software
  • Custom sensor
  • MasterMind
  • TotalFreedom 2.0

Cost: *Est. $590 – $870

See more here: https://www.honeywellaidc.com/en-US/Pages/Product.aspx?category=wireless-barcode-scanner&cat=HSM&pid=1902

Images via HoneywellAIDC.com

 

 

Motorola DS6707-DP Handheld DPM Digital Imager Scanner Review

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Today’s businesses and industries want to capture as much data as they can. Data is being used to drive decision-making and improve the delivery of goods and services. It’s not uncommon, therefore, for a business to have a variety of data capture needs. The Motorola DS6707-DS enables enterprises to invest in a single handheld scanning device capable of meeting all data-capture demands. Symbol DS6707-HD from Motorola

The alternative is investing in a multitude of devices, which can complicate the workflow by requiring employees to learn which devices scan which types of barcode images and frequently switch between scanning devices in the course of a single shift. That’s not practical in the modern environment that thrives on productivity.

Capable of scanning virtually every type of 1D and 2D barcode images, as well as DPM (direct part marks), the Motorola DS6707-DP is one of the most versatile handheld scanning devices on the market. For this reason, it’s commonly used in industries such as healthcare, aerospace, and automotive, which typically have a broad set of data capture requirements.

Applications and Typical Uses

The Motorola DS6707-DP is a general-purpose scanner with maximum data capture flexibility. That means it can capture practically all 1D and 2D barcode images, as well as direct part marks (DPM). One standout feature is the DS607-DP’s ability to capture the most challenging DPM: dot peen.

If your application requires the capture of a variety of images and data types, the Motorola DS6707-DP offers the versatility you need. Healthcare, aerospace, and automotive are just a few examples of applications for which the DS6707-DP is well-suited.

Other industries, such as government, defense, oil and gas, utility, manufacturing, and others, can also take advantage of the versatile scanning capabilities of the Motorola DS607-DP. For many organizations, it just makes sense to invest in a scanner with broad capabilities from the start, so you’re prepared to meet changing demands as they arise.

Scanning Capabilities

Direct part mark scanning, at one time, required the use of sophisticated, complex, and expensive systems that, often, didn’t meet acceptable scanning performance standards anyway. The Motorola DS6707-DP is one of a few handheld scanners available today that completely streamline the process of capturing DPM data in a much more cost-effective, higher-quality manner.

The combination of DPM data capture with 1D, 2D, postal, and PDF417 scanning capabilities means a single handheld scanning device can now meet all of your enterprise data capture demands. The DS6707-DP offers an omnidirectional scanning pattern, viewfinder, and aiming bulls-eye, all in a simple-to-use design that requires virtually no training.

The Motorola DS6707-DP reads 1D barcodes down to a density of 3 mil, and 2D barcodes down to a density of 4 mils and 2mm x 2mm in size. It’s capable of scanning the challenging dot peen DPM, as well as laser etch, ink mark, chemical etch, inkjet mold, cast and thermal spray.

Irregular, reflective, curved, and shiny surfaces are no match for the Motorola DS6707-DP. This handheld scanner can tackle virtually any scanning demand, with a set of integrated features that effectively diffuse light and add direct light when needed to capture low-contrast barcodes, even on polished surfaces.

Durability

A general-purpose handheld scanner, the Motorola DS6707-DP isn’t designed to withstand extended exposure to harsh chemicals or extreme weather, but it does offer sound durability features that make it a durable option for its intended use.

For example, the Motorola DS6707-DP isn’t affected by lighting conditions; it’s immune to both artificial lighting and direct sunlight, saving users from frustrating scanning difficulties in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. In testing, the DS6707-DP withstands repeated drops to concrete from a height of six feet, and it has a wide storage temperature range of -40° to 158° F. It can operate in temperatures ranging from 32° to 122° F.

Additional Features and Functionality

Not only can the Motorola DS6707-DP scan quickly and accurately – on the first scan – in all types of lighting, but it offers some beneficial image transfer capabilities, too. Images can be exported in several different formats, including Bitmap, Jpeg, and Tiff, ensuring compatibility with your other systems and software applications.

It also offers text enhancement technology, which ensures legibility of text in any scanned documents, which eliminates the need to make multiple scanning attempts to obtain a legible document. Image transfer speed is rapid with both USB and RS232 interfaces, at up to 12 Megabits per second via USB and up to 115 kb baud rate via RS232.

All in all, the Motorola DS6707-DP’s features and capabilities are designed to make the data capture process smooth and efficient for modern enterprises with a variety of scanning requirements. With this versatile scanner, you need to invest in just a single device for your data capture demands, and with speed and accuracy guaranteed, data capture is a streamlined process rather than a frustrating, time-consuming task that damages staff productivity.

Key Features: Review od the Motorola DS6707-DP Handheld Scanner

  • Single scanning device for all your data capture needs
  • 1.3-megapixel imaging (1280 x 1024)-high resolution image sensor
  • Supports all major 1D, PDF, postal, 2D and DPM symbologies
  • Integrated advanced illumination system
  • Multiple lighting modes
  • Integrated diffuser for capturing images from reflective and shiny surfaces
  • Captures direct part marks even on reflective, irregular and curved surfaces
  • Low and high contrast mark capture
  • RSM (Remote Scanner Management) ready
  • Five-year warranty from date of shipment

Scanning Capabilities:

1D Supported Symbologies: UPC/EAN and with supplementals, Code 39, Code 39 Full ASCII, Tri-optic Code 39, GS1DataBar (formerly RSS), Code 128, Code 128 Full ASCII, GS1-128 (formerly UCC/EAN-128), Code 93, Codabar (NW1), Interleaved 2 of 5, Discrete 2 of 5, MSI, Codell, IATA, Bookland EAN, Code 32

2D Supported Symbologies: MaxiCode, DataMatrix (ECC 200), QR Code, microQR, Aztec

PDF417 (and Variants): PDF417 and microPDF417

DPM: Data matrix marks applied by dot peening; laser etch, ink marks, chemical etch, inkjet mold, cast and thermal spray

Optional Accessories:

  • Intellistand for hands-free mode
  • Desktop and wall-mount stands are also available

Cost: *Est. $1,500 – $1,650

See more here: http://www.motorolasolutions.com/US-EN/Business+Product+and+Services/Bar+Code+Scanning/General+Purpose+Scanners/Handheld-Scanners/DS6707-HD_US-EN

Motorola DS4208 General Purpose Handheld 2D Imager Review

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The Motorola DS4208 is a 1D and 2D general purpose handheld scanner and imager with scanning speed so lightning fast it’s comparable to laser scanners. That means capturing 2D barcodes with ease, without the risk of sacrificing quality. Motorola DS4208

With no need to pause between scans or taking time to align the barcode with the scanner, productivity is never compromised. You can also capture bar codes printed on paper or displayed on the screen of a mobile device. What’s more, true point-and-shoot functionality enables the Motorola DS4208 to scan poor-quality and damaged barcodes, ensuring speed and accuracy in a variety of applications.

Applications and Typical Uses

The Motorola DS4208’s scanning versatility that accommodates barcodes printed on paper and on mobile device screens makes this scanner useful for retail environments, but it’s also useful for a variety of other applications, such as education, government, and warehousing.

A similar model, the Motorola DS4208-HC, is designed specifically for use in healthcare applications, with the ability to capture both 1D and 2D barcodes on patient wristbands, blood bags, suppositories, syringes, and even specimens to ensure accurate tracking without delaying patient care delivery. The DS4208-HC also offers IP43 (International Protection Marking, IEC standard 60529, also called Ingress Protection Marking, which classifies the level of protection against outside contaminants) sealing and a specially designed plastic housing, meaning you can sanitize and wipe down this scanner after every use without compromising the device’s integrity.

Scanning Capabilities 

With retailers and manufacturers moving to 2D barcodes as a means to streamline the supply chain, organizations are faced with implementing more-capable 2D scanners. The Motorola DS4208 is designed to provide the same level of speed and accuracy obtainable with 1D barcodes, comparable to that offered by laser scanners, but in a more cost-effective and efficient package that doesn’t sacrifice image quality.

The Motorola DS4208 is compatible with virtually all 1D and 2D symbologies, making it possible to utilize a single scanning device for data capture. Additionally, there’s no need to carefully align barcodes with the scanner or pause between scanning, ensuring a streamlined, continuous workflow that doesn’t negatively impact productivity.

DurabilityReview of the Motorola DS4208 General Purpose Handheld 2D Scanner

The Motorola DS4208 withstands 2,000 consecutive drops to concrete from a height of six feet. The DS4208 is a general-use handheld scanner that can be used in most typical applications and offers excellent durability against concerns such as exposure to heat, cold, dust, and spilled liquids (beverages). Its IP43-rated casing means it’s protected against exposure to harsh chemicals for the purposes of cleaning and sanitation.

The Motorola DS4208 can be stored in a wide range of temperatures, ranging from -40° F to 158° F. It can be used in temperatures ranging from 32° F to 104° F.

Additional Features and Functionality

The Motorola DS4208 is capable of scanning barcodes on a variety of surfaces, including mobile device display screens and paper, so this handheld scanner is a good choice for applications that rely on mobile device communications either in customer-facing scenarios or as part of the typical workflow.

Hotels, for example, can utilize the Motorola DS4208 handheld scanner to scan mobile customer loyalty cards, while retailers can easily accommodate mobile discount offers and coupons for customers. An LED aimer produces omnidirectional lighting, which means the scanner can accurately scan barcodes from multiple angles.

Key Features: Motorola Symbol DS4208-2 imager review

  • Excellent durability against dust, spilled beverages, extreme heat and cold
  • Omnidirectional scanning capabilities
  • Supports USB and RS232 interfaces
  • Swipe speed of 100 inches per second at full illumination
  • Lightweight at 6.1 ounces
  • Immune to indoor lighting and sunlight
  • Works in 5% to 95%, non-condensing
  • Five-year warranty

Scanning Capabilities:

1D Supported Symbologies: UPC/EAN, UPC/EAN with supplementals, Bookland EAN, ISSN, UCC Coupon Extended Code, Code 128, GS1-128, ISBT 128, Code 39, Code 39 Full ASCII, Trioptic Code 39, Code 32, Code 93, Code 11, Matrix 2 of 5, Interleaved 2 of 5, Discrete 2 of 5, Codabar, MSI, Chinese 2 of 5, GS1 DataBar variants

2D Supported Symbologies: PDF417, MicroPDF417, Composite Codes, TLC-39, Data Matrix, Maxicode, QR Code, MicroQR, Aztec

Postal Supported Symbologies: Australian Post, US PLANET, Royal Mail 4 State Customer, US POSTNET, KIX Code (Dutch), UK Postal, Japan Post, UPU 4 State Postal FICS (Post US4), USPS 4 State Postal (Post US3)

Optional Accessories:

  • Intellistand for hands-free use
  • Gooseneck stand
  • Additional cables

Cost: *Est. $210 – $260

See more here: http://www.motorolasolutions.com/XP-EN/Business+Product+and+Services/Bar+Code+Scanning/Bar+Code+Scanners/General+Purpose+Scanners/DS4208

Images via Motorola 

Adesso NuScan 5000 2D CCD Handheld Barcode Scanner Review

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A versatile, powerful handheld scanner, the Adesso NuScan 5000 interprets and inputs data from 2D barcodes, including QR codes and PDF417, DataMatrix, and Aztec Code, among others. With the ability to scan 1D and 2D barcodes at a rate of 60 images per second without sacrificing accuracy or reliability, the Adesso NuScan 5000 is an ideal solution for businesses requiring fast-paced, continuous scanning to streamline business processes. Adesso NuScan handheld scanner review

Applications and Typical Uses 

Both lightweight and rugged, the Adesso NuScan 5000 is suitable for a variety of applications, including busy industrial settings. Other common applications and uses for the Adesso NuScan 5000 include warehouse settings, library, marketing, retail, and medical applications, in addition to practically any general-use asset tracking needs.

Scanning Capabilities

A built-in CCD light source and 752 x 480 CMOS sensor enable the Adesso NuScan 5000 to perform rapid, continuous scanning, with a rate of up to 60 images per second. This lightweight, yet powerful handheld scanner is capable of both reading and inputting 12 different 1D symbologies and multiple 2D symbologies, with the ability to scan multiple types of barcodes simultaneously.

Operating Systems and Software

The Adesso NuScan 5000 is simple to use. Users simply plug the device into a compatible computer, and the software installs automatically. This handheld scanner uses a USB interface to connect and is compatible with computers running Windows 8, 7, Vista, XP, 2000 or Mac OS X operating systems.

Durability

With an ergonomic design for ease of use and rapid, continuous scanning capabilities, businesses benefit from increased productivity and efficiency with the Adesso NuScan 5000. In addition to its powerful functionality, the NuScan 5000 is a durable handheld scanner able to perform in industrial settings requiring rugged scanning devices. Review of the Adesso NuScan 5000 2D CCD Barcode Scanner

It operates in temperatures between 23 and 113 degrees Fahrenheit, and functions in humidity up to 95 degrees without condensation. The Adesso NuScan 5000 can withstand repeated drops to concrete from a height of five feet without damage, so the occasional accidental drop won’t require you to replace your scanning devices.

Additional Features and Functionality

The Adesso NuScan is incredibly lightweight at under four ounces, so it won’t contribute to fatigue or pain that can impact productivity for continuous and repetitive scanning tasks. And at 3.5 inches wide, 2.4 inches deep, and 6.3 inches tall, it’s also a compact device that’s comfortable to hold.

This handheld scanner is capable of reading at angles up to 36 degrees, and features a 622 ~ 628 nm Visible red LED provides excellent visibility for users, speeding up the scanning process by easily identifying the precise area the scanner is focused on for rapid positioning.

Key Features: Adesso NuScan scanner review, features and benefits

  • 1 year warranty
  • 2D scanning capabilities
  • Scan rate up to 60 scans per second
  • 622-628nm visible red LED
  • CCD and CMOS sensors
  • USB interface
  • Simply plug in for automatic software installation
  • Compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems

Scanning Capabilities:

1D Supported Symbologies: Codabar, Code 11, Code 128, Code 39, Code 93, EAN-13, EAN-8, Industrial 2 of 5, Interleaved 2 of 5, ISBN, MSI/ Plessy, UPC-A, UPC-E

2D Supported Symbologies: Aztec Code, PDF417, DataMatrix, QR Code

Built-In Software: Simply plug the device into a compatible computer, and the built-in software installs automatically.

Software Compatibility:

Compatible with computers using the following operating systems:

  • Windows 7
  • Windows 8
  • Windows XP
  • Windows Vista
  • Windows 2000
  • Mac OS X

Optional Accessories: NuScan 5HB barcode scanner holder (hands-free stand)

Cost: *Est. $200 – $220

See more here: http://www.adesso.com/products/product-detail-150.html

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