Barcode scanners are handheld devices that are used to read barcodes on products, and they require a power source to function. Barcode scanner batteries come in different types and sizes, and each has its own set of characteristics.
Nickel-cadmium (NiCad) batteries are one of the most common types of batteries used in barcode scanners. They are relatively inexpensive, have a long shelf life, and can be recharged many times. However, they have a “memory effect,” which means that if you don’t fully discharge the battery before recharging it, the battery will only charge to the point it was last discharged, and the battery’s capacity will gradually decrease.
Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries are another popular choice for barcode scanners. They have a higher energy density than NiCad batteries, which means they can store more energy in a smaller package. They also don’t have the memory effect, but they are more expensive than NiCad batteries.
Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are the most recent development in barcode scanner batteries. They have the highest energy density of all types of batteries, so they are very lightweight and small. They also have a very low self-discharge rate, which means they can hold their charge for a very long time. However, they are the most expensive type of battery.
When choosing a battery for your barcode scanner, it is important to consider the specific needs of your application. NiCad batteries are the most affordable, and NiMH batteries are the most efficient, but Li-ion batteries are the best choice for high-performance applications because they have the longest life, are the most lightweight, and have the lowest self-discharge rate.
It’s also important to ensure that the battery is compatible with the device and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and maintaining the battery to ensure the best performance and longest life. It is also recommended to have extra batteries to swap out when the power runs low during the workday.
In addition, many barcode scanner manufacturers also offer battery management systems that allow you to monitor the battery status, track usage, and schedule maintenance. This ensures that you always have fully charged batteries ready to go when you need them.
There are several major manufacturers of barcode scanners, including:
- Honeywell: Honeywell is a US-based company that designs and manufactures a wide range of barcode scanners for various industries such as retail, healthcare, and logistics. They offer both handheld and fixed barcode scanners.
- Datalogic: Datalogic is an Italian company that designs and manufactures a wide range of barcode scanners for various industries such as retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. They offer both handheld and fixed barcode scanners.
- Motorola Solutions: Motorola Solutions is a US-based company that designs and manufactures a wide range of barcode scanners for various industries such as retail, healthcare, and logistics. They offer both handheld and fixed barcode scanners.
- Zebra Technologies: Zebra Technologies is a US-based company that designs and manufactures a wide range of barcode scanners for various industries such as retail, healthcare, and logistics. They offer both handheld and fixed barcode scanners.
- Symbol Technologies: Symbol Technologies is a US-based company that designs and manufactures a wide range of barcode scanners for various industries such as retail, healthcare, and logistics. They offer both handheld and fixed barcode scanners.
- CipherLab: CipherLab is a Taiwan-based company that designs and manufactures a wide range of barcode scanners for various industries such as retail, healthcare, and logistics. They offer both handheld and fixed barcode scanners.
These are just a few examples of the many manufacturers of barcode scanners. Other notable manufacturers include Unitech, Opticon, and Honeywell Intermec.
