Datalinx Blog

Barcode scanners come in all shapes, sizes and types including wireless. The advantages of wireless scanners have provided numerous industries with multiple efficiencies.

Freedom

This is essential in a warehouse where scanners and staff need to roam and are required to pick orders, book goods in and out, stock take and more as they stay connected to through RFID wireless, WiFi networks and even Bluetooth. This allows the scanning of items without the health and safety risk of cords causing danger around ladders and other machinery.  We have found that this results in greater productivity and efficiency, which may also help to reduce labour costs.

Range

By using a wireless scanner, you can Save time and money by scanning heavy / bulky items without having logistical challenge of getting the item to the tethered scanner! Or even worse finding the barcode is too high up for the scanners range. For example the Zebra Ultra rugged DS3678 A&E 1D/2D has a scanning range of 70 yards, which makes it great for high racking or bulk bins! 

Rugged

Wireless scanners have been developed for environments where data needs to be done on the move; therefore, there is a risk of them being dropped multiple times onto concrete floors often from a height.  To protect them wireless scanners are much more durable than either tethered counterparts. 

Battery power & safety

Due to the device being battery powered in the event of a power cut or outage wireless barcode scanners will still be operational and work will be able to proceed. This is vital in storage areas where having mains power may not be possible. The lack of cable is also much safer in busy warehouses where they can increase the risks of accidents.

However….

For stationary counters such as point of sale or pack benches where the barcode scanner needs to stay in the same place a wired scanner does prevent it being misplaced. Both can be used in the same business to complement different tasks and suit each environment.

Cost

There is a significant price difference between the two types; wireless scanners cost in the region of £1000 whereas tethered scanners start from £80. So although this can be a significant factor in choosing a barcode scanner, it has been listed last so you can consider your businesses requirements to find the best fit for purpose.

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Before we get into the way in which Datalinx have incorporated GS1 into our warehouse management applications, it is worth taking a moment to look at what GS1 is about and what it means to the businesses in the supply chain.

Embracing the power and capabilities of the GS1 Standard

GS1 is both an organisation and today a synonym for a barcode standard. GS1 as an organisation has, in the UK a community of over 28,000 members and is one of 111 independent, not-for-profit GS1 organisations operating across 150 countries.

GS1 help everyone involved in making, moving and trading goods to automate and standardise their supply chain processes using the common language of GS1 Global Standards and  GS1 are now bringing these same standards to the healthcare supply chain....

Warehouse Abbreviations

I don’t know about you, but when I first started in a warehouse the lingo was a bit confusing! Especially with all the abbreviations, so I have come up with a glossary of the most common warehousing and inventory terms.