This scanning technology uses CCD type photo detectors similar to those used in electronic cameras and allow a complete image across the barcode to be scanned continuously. The whole barcode is illuminated by a row of LEDs and the CCD sensor will "take a picture" of the code. In general, CCD scanners must be positioned within 1 or 2 cm of the code, but unlike pen scanners, code wear is avoided. They are most commonly used in retail applications where the type and size of code is well defined. In general, codes which are larger than the width of the line of LEDs cannot be read, so care must be taken to select the correct size of scanner. Long Range CCD scanners are available with a greater depth of field typically 10cm. However, since they are more expensive, consider low cost hand held laser scanners as a better general option.

With no moving parts, these types of scanner are extremely reliable and offer rapid read rates. They are an ideal entry level investment.

Scanner cable connections

USB

Our most popular connection method. The majority of PC’s now have at least one USB port.

A USB cable will send data to the PC in the form of emulated keystrokes (as if you were typing on your keyboard) this means data will be displayed on your screen wherever your cursor is.

USB is a simple “plug and play” connection method which rarely requires any configuration and does not need any additional software or drivers.

The cable will draw its power from the USB port meaning unsightly additional power supplies are not required.

Keyboard wedge

A popular connection method – Please ensure that your PC still has a keyboard port as some new PC’s are only supplied with USB.

A Keyboard wedge (otherwise known as PS2) interface sends data to the PC in the form of emulated keystrokes. This means that scanned data is displayed wherever the cursor is on your PC screen. Keyboard wedge (PS2) cables are “Y” cables meaning that they have an extra fly lead which allows you to plug in both the PC keyboard cable and the scanner keyboard wedge cable into the keyboard port at the back of your PC.

The cable will draw its power from the keyboard port meaning unsightly additional power supplies are not required.

Keyboard wedge (PS2) is a simple “plug and play” connection method which rarely requires any configuration and does not need any additional software or drivers.

RS232 (serial)

Most computing devices have an RS232 interface, some are specifically modified for scanning. A standard RS232 interface will not provide a 5v supply typically required to power a hand scanner, so an external power supply will be required.

Customers tend to choose RS232 if they need to have control over what happens to the data once it has been scanned or if they have a specific application which is written to pick up data from the serial port.