Scanners provide you with a quick and efficient way of inputting the product code and the price into your point of sale (POS) system. By simply swiping the barcode in front of the scanner, all pertinent information are immediately transmitted to the system, and there are lesser chances of erroneous entries, as may be wont when plugging in information through a keyboard.

Basically, there are three kinds of scanners from which you can choose from. Your decision should be based, not only on the appearance of the scanner, nor on your financial capability, but primarily on the size and scope of your business and customer base.

If you have several customers but seldom have a long queue at checkout, you can purchase a charged-couple device (CCD) scanner. In this kind of scanner, the bar code must be held close to the reader (about 3 inches away). Another option for your POS is to use entry-level laser scanners which can read information at a longer distance.

For larger businesses which experience a larger and more constant flow of clients, a CCD scanner may not be sufficient thus, more sensitive laser scanners loosely termed as “autosensing laser scanners” are recommended. When a coded item is placed in front of these scanners, these machines automatically turn themselves on and scan the code. After the data has been transmitted, the scanner then automatically turns itself off.

Businesses that have a high volume and constant influx of customers, such as popular supermarkets need a scanner that is more powerful. For this type of enterprise, omni-directional scanners and embedded scanners are highly recommended. With omni-directional scanners, several lasers (15 to 20) are emitted at a single time thus enabling the machine to scan bar codes from different angles, and at slightly farther distances. Some manufacturers have combined the best features of omni-directional and embedded scanners. Products such as these can be seen at top of the line supermarkets where the omni-directional scanners are embedded or installed just beneath the check out counter.

When choosing a point of sale scanner, you need to base your decision on the present amount of traffic your business generates, as well as a realistic projection for the future. If you expect your business to grow significantly in the next few years, then you might as well invest in a scanner model that is slightly more advanced than the standard CCD or laser scanner (an autosensing scanner). Try to avoid, however, making too large a projection and purchase omni-directional and embedded scanners. These devices, as well as the system it runs do not come cheap and spending unnecessarily on these may prove to be detrimental to your financial situation.

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