FAQ

The best warehouse barcode scanner depends on scan distance, barcode type, environment and scan volume. High-volume operations typically benefit from rugged scanners built for frequent use, while warehouses scanning pallet or rack labels may need extended-range capabilities.

Not sure which scanner is right for your operation? Contact Taylor Data Systems and our team can help you find the best fit for your workflow and environment.

Choose a barcode scanner based on what you need to scan, how far away the barcode will be, whether you use 1D or 2D barcodes, and the environment where scanning takes place. Connectivity, durability and compatibility with your existing software should also be considered.

1D barcodes store information in a series of vertical lines and include common formats such as UPC and Code 128. 2D barcodes, including QR codes and Data Matrix, can hold more information. Most 2D imagers can also read 1D barcodes, making them a flexible option for businesses using multiple barcode formats.

Barcode scanning problems can be caused by poor print quality, damaged labels, low contrast, glare, incorrect barcode sizing or excessive scanning distance. The scanner may also not support the barcode type being used. If problems happen frequently, the scanner, printer, label material and barcode design should all be evaluated.

Barcode scanning distance can range from a few inches to more than 50 feet, depending on the scanner, barcode size and barcode type. Standard-range scanners work well for items within easy reach, while extended-range scanners are designed to capture barcodes on warehouse racks, pallets and other hard-to-reach locations from a distance.

A rugged mobile computer is a handheld device built for demanding work environments such as warehouses, manufacturing facilities, transportation and field service. Unlike most consumer smartphones, rugged devices are designed to withstand drops, dust, moisture and frequent daily use while providing features such as integrated barcode scanning, enterprise software support and longer product lifecycles.

A barcode scanner primarily captures barcode data and sends it to another device or system. A mobile computer combines barcode scanning with a screen, operating system, wireless connectivity and business applications. This allows employees to scan a barcode, view information and complete tasks such as receiving, inventory updates or order picking from one device.

Rugged mobile computers are usually better for high-volume warehouse operations because they are built for frequent scanning, drops, long shifts and demanding environments. Consumer smartphones may work for occasional or light-duty scanning, but rugged devices typically offer dedicated scan engines, replaceable or extended-life batteries, enterprise device management and longer support lifecycles.

Choose a warehouse mobile computer based on scan distance, barcode types, Wi-Fi connectivity, battery life, durability, screen size and the applications employees need to run. Also consider how the device will be used, such as picking, receiving, inventory or forklift operations, because different workflows may require different scanners, keypads, accessories or mounting options.

Not sure which device fits your operation? Contact Taylor Data Systems for help comparing mobile computers based on your workflow, environment and existing systems.

Rugged mobile computers are designed for longer service lives than most consumer devices and may remain in operation for several years when properly maintained. Actual lifespan depends on usage, environment, battery condition, operating system support and manufacturer support. Enterprise devices also tend to offer longer availability of accessories, replacement parts and security updates, which can reduce the need for frequent device replacement.

Choose a barcode printer based on how many labels you print, label size, print resolution, operating environment and how the printer connects to your systems. Desktop printers are often suitable for lower-volume applications, while industrial printers are designed for higher-volume or demanding environments. Mobile printers are useful when labels need to be printed where the work is happening.

Not sure which printer fits your application? Contact Taylor Data Systems and our team can help you compare options based on your printing needs and environment.

Direct thermal printing uses heat-sensitive labels and does not require a ribbon, making it well suited for shorter-term uses such as shipping labels. Thermal transfer printing uses a ribbon to create a more durable image and is typically better for labels that need to withstand longer use, heat, moisture, chemicals or abrasion.

Desktop barcode printers are generally best for lower to moderate print volumes and controlled environments where space may be limited. Industrial barcode printers are built for higher print volumes, longer operating periods and demanding warehouse or manufacturing environments. Your daily print volume, label size, environment and required uptime can help determine which type is the better fit.

Choose barcode labels based on the surface they will be applied to, how long they need to last and the conditions they will face. Temperature, moisture, chemicals, abrasion and outdoor exposure can affect label performance. The label material, adhesive and ribbon should also be compatible with your printer and application to maintain reliable barcode readability.

Poor barcode print quality can result from incorrect printer settings, a dirty or worn printhead, low-quality media, the wrong label-and-ribbon combination or insufficient print resolution. Labels can also become difficult to scan if they are damaged, faded or poorly sized. Checking both the printer setup and the label materials can help identify the cause.

RFID, or Radio Frequency Identification, uses radio waves to identify and track tagged items. An RFID tag contains a chip and antenna that communicates with an RFID reader. Unlike barcode scanning, RFID does not always require direct line of sight and can often read multiple tagged items at once, making it useful for inventory and asset tracking.

Barcode tracking typically requires each barcode to be visible and scanned individually. RFID uses radio waves, allowing multiple tagged items to be identified without direct line of sight. Barcodes are often simpler and less expensive, while RFID can provide faster, more automated data collection. The best choice depends on the assets, workflow, environment and level of visibility required.

Passive RFID tags do not have their own power source and are activated by an RFID reader, making them a cost-effective option for many inventory and asset tracking applications. Active RFID tags contain a battery, allowing for longer read ranges and making them useful for tracking high-value assets or applications requiring greater location visibility.

RFID asset tracking works by attaching RFID tags to equipment, inventory or other assets. RFID readers capture each tag's unique identification as assets are counted, located or moved, and software connects that information to the asset record. This can reduce manual scanning, speed up inventory counts and provide better visibility into asset location and movement.

RFID may be a good fit if manual inventory counts take too long, assets are frequently difficult to locate, or your operation needs to identify many items quickly without scanning them one at a time. The right solution depends on your assets, environment, workflow and tracking requirements.

Not sure whether RFID or barcode technology is the better fit? Contact Taylor Data Systems and our team can help evaluate your application and recommend the right approach.