Scanner Packages
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Wands and guns aren't the only designs that barcode scanners are available in.  See below for illustrations of different scanner packages and brief descriptions of their general uses.

Links to information on this page: Hand-held, Countertop, In-counter, Above-Belt, Fixed mount

Hand-held

Designed to be picked up and pointed by an operator.

 

 

 

 

 

Countertop

These scanners sit on a desk or countertop and are generally designed to detect the presence of nearby objects, turn on automatically, and capture the barcode. These scanners often produce an interlocking laser pattern so that precise aim is not required. They are often designed to be picked up so that the operator can reach around an object to scan the barcode. Some hand-held scanners can also be mounted in a small stand and used in a hands-off mode; they will detect objects automatically, but generally produce a single-line scan pattern.

In-counter

This is the type of high-volume scanner often used in grocery stores. The scanner is mounted below the surface of the counter and aims an interlocking laser beam pattern up through a glass faceplate which is even with the counter surface. This type of scanner may also incorporate a digital scale so that grocery items can be weighed.

 

 

 

Above-Belt

These scanners look down from above a conveyor belt and read barcodes on moving containers. Often used for high-speed package sortation.

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed mount

These scanners are intended for industrial applications to read barcodes on machinery, parts, or containers. They are generally built into very tough housings and are solidly mounted.