A Barcode scanner is a system that reads and converts barcodes from pictures into alphanumeric letters. Data on the barcode is compared to information in the database by the scanner. Generally, the barcode printed on products carries data such as the manufacturing date, batch number, expiry date, and product price.
What Is Barcode Scanning Software System?
Barcode scanner software aids in the management of inventory for businesses. Conventional barcode scanners scan 1D linear barcodes, which appear as a pattern of parallel lines and gaps (known as quiet zones). A silent zone is employed to prevent the scanner from taking up information that isn’t required in the barcode scan.
Barcode Types
Despite being restricted to 20-25 characters, 1D barcodes have been used to record data for decades and continue to do so. But today, several barcode types are employed globally. But how exactly do barcodes function? It’s better to think of them as a sophisticated way of conveying sequences of alphanumeric characters. For example, these characters may be compared to an automobile’s license plate number, which can be used to get more information on the vehicle and its owner.
Various barcode types have diverse volumes and dimensions, which makes them helpful for specialized sectors in various businesses. Barcode technology is continually developing. Today, barcodes may be read without having a barcode scanning apparatus. With a barcode scanner app, your smartphone can scan most current barcodes. Below are various types of barcodes used today.
Code 39
The healthcare, electronics, and government sectors often use Code 39, one of the original barcode types. It is a form of 1D alphanumeric code that may include all 128 ASCII characters and can be of any size or length.
Code 128
It is adapted from the 128 ASCII character set and is mostly used in the shipping and packing sectors. It is followed by a parameter that allows users to customize the barcode’s length.
Universal Product Codes (UPC)
Universal Product Codes are the most popular of all barcodes around the world. In practically every product, they were intended to speed up the process of inventory management and receipt generation for grocery retailers.
International/European Article Number (IAN/EAN)
Like UPC, EAN is used in the academic sector to monitor books, particularly by libraries, bookstores, and educational institutions. EAN codes are generated using International Standard Book Numbers (ISBN).
PDF417
Due to its capabilities, such as encoding many data sources in a single code, this linear 2D barcode is found in documents like ID cards and driver’s licenses. However, this may be extended, unlike 2D barcodes like QR Codes and Data Matrix.
Data Matrix
It is one of the common 2D barcode types today since its square-shaped codes can store vast quantities of data in a small area. As a result, Data Matrix codes are highly popular in sectors like healthcare and electronics.
Quick Response (QR) Codes
QR Codes are the most fashionable barcodes today and are getting more popular. On smartphones, QR codes read internet-based information such as offers and online payments. One can swiftly scan practically all types of QR codes with a barcode scanning app. Data Matrix is smaller than Data Matrix, but QR Codes are widely used in product marketing and stores.
Barcode Scanner Apps Features & Benefits
Due to their mass of features and benefits, consumers are adopting barcode scanning apps. Barcode scanners have a variety of features, including.
Usability
One of the advantages of barcode scanner apps is their convenience. To make and read barcodes in the age of smartphones, all that is required is a proper barcode scanning app.
Installation
Barcode scanner apps are straightforward to install and set up and are compatible with all major operating systems. In addition, some top apps are accessible in online marketplaces like the Apple Store and Google Play Store.
Creation Of Barcodes
Several common barcode scanning apps enable users to create barcodes and QR codes for their products in addition to reading barcodes.
Best 10 Barcode Scanner App For Mobile & Desktop
These are some of the best barcoding apps on the market.
1. Zbar Barcode Scanner
The Zbar Barcode Scanner app is a free and open-source barcode reading solution. It is tremendously efficient in reading multiple barcode types and can scan barcode formats from diverse sources such as movies, photos, data, and raw intensity sensors. Zbar Scanner is compatible with barcodes of many types, including QR codes, EAN, Code 39, and Interleaved 2 of 5. One of Zbar Barcode Scanner’s best aspects is its simple user interface designed for personal and professional usage.
2. BarCloud
The BarCloud App is a complete, cloud-based app for business asset and inventory management. It is designed to be compatible with all iOS and Android devices and desktop internet browsers. It offers auto backup and backup scheduling features, data security, and remote access. From inventory management to job management, including maintaining a record of batches & serial numbers, BarCloud delivers complete features. In addition, with its newest check-in and check-out capability, inventory may be easily managed and recovered as required. Users from all the platforms have supplied favorable comments for this inventory management and product scanner app.
3. EZ Office Inventory
EZ Office Inventory is a complete company barcode scanning and inventory management software on the list. It gives a free barcode scanning app for managing, monitoring, and preserving correct inventory data. In addition, users may customize its features, such as data storage, analytical tools, and so on, for a cohesive experience when purchased as a whole package with additional tools. One of EZ Office Inventory’s best aspects is that it is simple to install and can be integrated with a wide range of business apps.
4. Scandit
A software development kit (SDK) allows businesses to incorporate barcode scanning into their systems using the Scandit Barcode Scanner app. Scandit Barcode Scanner SDK converts devices such as smartphones and computers to effective tools for barcode scanning. Consequently, this smartphone barcode scanner may be used by both customers and businesses. An SDK is an app development interface (API) for programmers and developers to construct iOS and Android apps. Scandit is not a traditional ready-to-use mobile app, but it does give all of the tools necessary to customize and construct barcode scanning apps with the features of your choosing. It also allows businesses that commission mobile apps for specialized purposes such as inventory management and stock monitoring.
5. QuickMark
QuickMark is a barcode scanner app enabling users to scan and produce QR barcodes. This scanner is compatible with all the top platforms and can read several different layers of barcode and formats. Because of its flexibility, it is one of the most diversified and well-equipped barcode apps available. Users may quickly record data such as prices, dates, product names, batch numbers, manufacturing details, and so on by eliminating the need to input data like serial numbers and inventory information manually. Overall, users are pleased with the app’s usability and features.
6. CodeREADr
Designed specifically for SMBs and startups, CodeREADr is an all-encompassing barcode scanning software. It offers end-to-end scanning and inventory management solutions and is intended for businesses to manage their goods efficiently. This barcode scanning system offers additional features on a single platform, including inventory management, serial number tracking, and barcode generation. It is accessible over the web and is compatible with Windows, Android, and iOS.
7. ScanLife
The Barcode scanner and inventory management app ScanLife is consumer-focused. To get user data, it allows users to scan barcodes and QR codes on various products. You may manage all data types, including ingredients, nutritional details, manufacturing, and expiry dates. For businesses that want to educate and engage customers by using QR codes in their marketing strategy, the ScanLife scanner app can be integrated with bigger platforms. Its features and tools are well-received by users across platforms.
8. UpCode
UpCode is a user-friendly barcode scanner and barcoding app. It accepts 1D (Data Matrix/QR/Ean 8 & 13), 2D, and barcodes. It also allows users to produce their optical barcodes without any added expense. With this software, users may scan all contemporary barcode formats for instant access to varied data such as images, audio, movies, files, websites, etc. It also has a sharing tool allowing users to share their content. UpCode is more popular on Google Play, and its multitude of features and free features make it one of the most popular apps in the market.
9. Lynkee Reader
It is a barcode scanner, and the barcoding app focuses more on the consumer than on product managers or inventory supervisors. It is a simple app that scans 1D and 2D barcodes like Data Matrix barcodes. Using Lynkee Reader, you can quickly scan a wide range of codes, including vCards, which store contact information and track previously scanned barcodes. Consumers’ feedback indicates that the Lynkee barcode reader app is quick and accurate. Unfortunately, some customer feedback indicates that there are times when the app needs to open or scan more effectively.
10. BeeTagg
BeeTagg offers its users a variety of apps, including a mobile barcode and QR scanner app, a contact management app, a QR code generator app, an app for checking prices and codes, and most recently, an app to create customized and elegant QR codes. One of the great features of BeeTagg is that it is free despite the features that it offers. The multifunctional barcode solution is stylish and effective if we speak about functionality. Nevertheless, its sole disadvantage is that it doesn’t come with any comprehensive inherent database features. That said, it allows you to copy and paste data and barcodes into a document.
The Bottom Line:
The best bar code scanning apps described above may give both small and big businesses vital tools for their scanning and inventory recording needs. They enable easy access wherever and whenever required and make barcode scanning simple. These barcode scanning apps will undoubtedly assist manufacturing, wholesale, and retail businesses, as well as customers, in reading, recording, and storing the required data of products. Adopting any of these apps may easily aid in managing and effectively optimizing an organization’s inventory operations.
Barcode scanners read and convert barcodes from pictures into alphanumeric letters. Then, the scanner compares the data on the barcode to the matching information in the database. Generally, the barcode printed on products carries data such as the manufacturing date, batch number, expiry date, and product price.
