Metrologic Barcode Scanner
A review of the Metrologic Barcode Scanner
The Metrologic Barcode Scanner is synonymous with quality and reliability. There are plenty of brands and manufacturers of barcode readers and scanners. One of the main reasons why the Metrologic brand of barcode scanners and readers are on top of the list is the abundance of selections that fit any function. Whether it’s a small time business or a high-end enterprise, Metrologic scanners offer an abundance of selections –ranging from portable handheld scanners to industrial mount-type barcode readers for better efficiency.
Barcode scanners have become essential devices in our modern industrial world. They are used in a wide variety of workplace settings, including retail outlets, post offices, hospitals and distribution centers. One of the most prominent brands of bar code scanner is Metrologic, a pioneer in the technology. Metrologic unveiled the world’s first hand-held bar code scanner in 1975. At present, there are 40 varieties of Metrologic barcode scanner for industrial and general-purpose uses. The company has over 20 sales and manufacturing sites all over the world, including Australia, North America, Europe and Asia.
About Metrologic Instruments Inc.
Metrologic Instruments, Honeywell Scanning and Mobility Inc, have joined forces to formed one of the most prominent and trusted barcode scanning manufacturers in the world. Metrologic designs, produces and markets global barcode scanning and quick automatic data confine arrangements solutions with laser, vision based and holographic technologies. Known for its state-of-the-art barcode scanners, Metrologic barcode scanners are widely used in the retail sector and trusted for its quality, innovation and durability.
The Metrologic barcode scanner range of products includes hand-held, in-counter and hands-free scanners. Hand-held scanners include laser scanners as well as area scanners that scan the barcode in whatever orientation it is in as long as it is within the scanning area. Many of these models also offer a wireless Bluetooth connectivity option that allows workers to scan items even when they are some distance away from the cradle.
Recommended Models
- Metrologic MS1633 FocusBT – This type of scanner is recommended for retail shops or for the healthcare industry. This is a wireless scanner that uses Bluetooth technology that scans and stores barcodes even if it is outside the communication range, and sends the decoded image into the host computer when it is back within its range.
- Metrologic MS1690 Focus – If you’re looking for a more affordable, less expensive barcode reader for inventory or to be hooked up to your POS then you might want to try the MS1690 Focus model. This omni-directional scanner can read the standard barcode codes easily — from IDs to Postal codes.
- Metrologic MS3780 Fusion – Now this high-end scanner offers the flexibility that many businesses and organizations will need in a Metrologic barcode scanner. Its functionality can be switched from automated 20-line scanning to manual single-line reader for menu scanning.
In-counter scanners are ideal for retail settings such as hardware stores and groceries, as they allow for ultra-fast scanning through the use of the 360-degree scanning feature that also minimizes the operators’ stress and fatigue. They also come with scales that have a capacity of as much as 30 lb. These scanners are ruggedly-made in order to stand up to the rigors of rough daily use.
Hands-free scanners are fixed-unit area imagers that can be held in the palm of the users’ hand or mounted on a
counter and can scan barcodes no matter what orientation they are in. Some models increase efficiency further by simultaneously deactivating electronic area surveillance (EAS) tags while scanning bar codes, eliminating the need for a second swipe. While they are mainly used in retail outlets, some units can be used in workplace settings as they have the capability of scanning ID cards as well as capturing small images.
Features of the Metrologic Barcode Scanner
Here are some of the superior scanning features you can expect to get with a Metrologic barcode scanner. Metrologic is constantly improving the features and performance of their scanners.
- Their units are rugged enough to stand up through constant use.
- Lightweight and durable
- Wireless technology
- Omni directional scanning abilities meaning the barcode can be read from all angles.
- Swiftcode barcode scanning software supports the rapid data transfer rate between the Metrologic barcode scanner and the computer. With rates such as 1650 scans per second and automatic scanning, efficiency is seamlessly integrated with speed in one compact barcode scanning device.
- Connect to a host computer via USB for seamless integration with existing hardware.
- Bluetooth Technology to store, transmit and receive data conveniently, allowing for added functionality of the unit.
- No special training is required with the user-friendly interface of the Metrologic barcode scanner.
- A brand-new Metrologic barcode scanner retails for as little as under $100 and comes with a 2 year warranty against all defects.
- Newer models like the Metrologic MS9540 Voyager Codegate Barcode Scanner come equipped with Metrologic’s exclusive CodeGate data transmission technology. This allows the user to activate the laser beam by holding down a trigger, putting the control back in the hands of the user since the laser beam activates only when the trigger is pushed.
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Understanding The Barcode
A barcode, or universal product code (UPC), is a label for an item which a barcode scanner can read. These UPC barcodes were invented to help grocery stores keep track of their stock and speed up the checkout process but, soon after, many other uses for barcode scanners were discovered.
UPCs are registered with the Uniform Code Council (UCC) and a new manufacturer can apply to the UCC for permission to use UPC. This will cost the manufacturer an annual fee and he will get a six digit manufacturer identification number. Every twelve digit UPC code contains the manufacturer identification number as part of the code.
A UPC symbol will contain both a machine-readable barcode and a human-readable twelve digit UPC number. The manufacturer number is the first six digits, then you have the item number and then the check digit. This digit is attained by performing a calculation on the first digits. When using barcode scanners, if the check digit is incorrect, this means the scanner has not scanned the barcode successfully and must rescan it.
The metrologic barcode scanner is compatible with most standard barcode around the world such as 1D, RSS, PDF417, MicroPDF, EAN/UCC Composite, Matrix and Postal Codes
2 Classes of Barcode Scanners
- Image based barcode scanner uses a camera which is embedded within the barcode scanner. The camera captures the images then processes them using complex image techniques to decipher the barcodes.
- Advantage: does not have moving parts making it more resistant if dropped or knocked over. Laser barcode scanners tend to wear out sooner because of the lenses.
- Laser based barcode scanner uses mirrors and lenses that read the individual barcodes. Laser barcode scanners are the most expensive with image based being cheaper.
- Advantage: A laser barcode scanner has a far scanning distance of around 24 inches as compared to an image based barcode scanner’s 4-10 inches.
How To Choose A Metrologic Barcode Scanner?
Here are some 2 key questions to make the decision-making process easier.
- Your purpose/usage – Where will the barcode scanner be used (indoors, outdoors, warehouses, retail)? Small-time businesses might want to stick with the hand-held portable scanners if they are to be used mainly for POS, inventory, and menu scanning. The SP5700 Metrologic barcode scanner in particular, is lightweight and will stand up to exposure to water, dust, extreme temperatures, and is impact resistant, making it highly suitable for the job.
- Exact scanning distance required for your purpose. Will the barcode scanner be hand held or used hands free? What is the price range that best suits your budget? Using for long range scanning? A laser barcode scanner is going to be more suitable. But for short range scanning, an mage based barcode scanner, like a CCD barcode scanner, will suffice.
- Location – Where you will be using the barcode scanner is an important factor to consider. If the barcode scanner is going to be used in say, the production line and outside in the open air or undertaking tasks where it is at risk of being dropped or knocked over then an image based barcode scanner makes a better choice. Laser barcode scanners are more suited for retail stores.
If you are looking for high-performance barcode reading with uncompromising speed, accuracy and integrity, the Metrologic barcode scanner is a perfect choice for menu scanning, point-of-sale, document processing and inventory control.



