«
»

Brighter barcode scanning

Original article date: September 1999

Do all fixed barcode readers use the same technology? Apparently not, as Tommy Miller finds out in a chat with Datalogic

Sunlight is usually welcomed by workers, but it can cause headaches if it disrupts the operation of fixed-position barcode readers. This might occur in outdoor applications or even in warehouses at certain times of the day when the sun shines through a window or rooflight. The traditional solutions are to build shrouds, to cover the offending window or rooflight, or to spend a great deal more money on the barcode reader.

But Datalogic, which claims to be Europe’s largest supplier of fixed barcode readers, has incorporated laser diode modulation technology in its DS4600 reader to overcome the problem, and the price of the unit is still comparable with other mid-range units. The company has been able to use this technology, which is claimed to be unique in this category of scanners, because it is already available in its higher-specification devices. This filtering-down of technology also applies to Datalogic’s advanced code reconstruction (ACR) system that allows non-orientated, poorly printed or damaged codes to be read and decoded.

Decoding is achieved within the standalone device using a powerful Risc processor. And the high-speed processing is capable of achieving a maximum resolution of 0.3mm and a scan rate of up to 1400 scans/s.

For lower-resolution barcodes, a long-range version of the DS4600 is available that can operate at a range of 1000mm (the medium-range unit has a range of 530mm). With these performance characteristics, the DS4600 is suitable for a variety of high-speed applications, including automated warehousing (conveyor sorting, label verification or picking systems) and shopfloor applications (parts tracking, packaging and compliance). In addition, OEMs can incorporate the devices in automatic storage or labelling machines.

Despite the tendency for Datalogic to include a higher level of technology in its scanners than some other suppliers, the company is unusual in that it is prepared to supply its products through distributors. In some ways the technology helps; for example, the user-friendly Winhost PC software makes configuration and set-up very easy.

Barcode readers are one of those categories of product that all look similar, and there is even some badge engineering to complicate the issue further. But if you are choosing a unit, take time to find out a little more because features and performance can vary dramatically from one product to the next.

Smaller scanners

As well as the medium-range and high-specification barcode readers, Datalogic also has some ultra compact models. Take the DS2200, for example: it is a combined scanner and decoder and, at 50x40x28mm, is one of the smallest units of its kind. The maximum scanning speed is 500 scans/s and it has a reading range of 50 to 220mm. As with the larger models, this unit is configured with the Winhost software.

September 1999

Added on 11 July 2009 at 1:43 pm | Read more machine building articles