Fixed mount barcode scanners are used in retail shops, industrial warehouses, libraries, assembly lines and many other applications. Fixed mount scanners can reliably read passing barcodes while unattended, as opposed to handheld scanners, which require an operator to aim the scanner at the barcode.

Compare various fixed mount barcode scanners, information and pricing before buying. The type of technology used to read the codes, mounting abilities, size and angle width varies by model. Industrial fixed mount barcode scanners have the ability to read hundreds or even thousands of barcodes a minute, while scanners for point-of-sale applications need to read far fewer codes. When purchasing a fixed mount barcode scanner, consider the following:

1. Find different types of technology in laser and CCD fixed mount barcode scanners.

2. Mount compact fixed mount barcode scanners when space is limited.

3. Use POS barcode scanners when a worker operates the scanner.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find fixed mount barcode scanners with lasers

Fixed mount barcode scanners that use laser technology bounce a laser beam off a rotating mirror or prism to read the code. Laser barcode scanners use either a single laser or omnidirectional lasers to read the barcode. Omnidirectional lasers accurately scan the code even if it's presented at an angle or upside down.

I recommend: Order an industrial fixed mount barcode scanner from Motorola. This small, durable model is ideal for applications that require dependable unattended scanning, such as conveyor belts, manufacturing, warehouse and shipping, and assembly lines. Barcodes offers a laser scanner with wide-scan angle of 70 degrees. The scanner has flexible mounting, allowing it to be placed nearly anywhere.

Use fixed mount bar code scanners with CCD technology

Charge coupled device, or CCD, technology is the same technology used by cameras and video recorders. A CCD fixed mount barcode scanner uses at least one LED light to illuminate the barcode. Once the barcode is flooded with light, the barcode scanner takes an image of the code and sends the image to photo detectors for interpretation.

I recommend: Order barcode scanners that use CCD technology from Cornerstone Automation Systems. This fixed mount barcode scanners provider offers area CCD readers ideal for industrial applications that use barcodes, 2-D, stacked and postal codes. Find a CCD fixed mount barcode scanner that can read codes as small as 0.17 millimeters at SICK.

Save space with compact fixed mount barcode scanners

Compact fixed mount barcode scanners are typically a couple of inches long. Their small design allows the scanners to be installed where space is limited. Compact fixed mount barcode scanners use wide-angle technology so a large scanning area isn't sacrificed.

I recommend: Browse Automatic Identification Systems' fixed mount barcode scanners list of compact models. These scanners are intended to function reliably without an operator's supervision. Tysso manufactures compact, durable fixed mount barcode scanners that use CCD technology. These scanners can also be embedded into applications like automated teller machines.

Purchase a fixed mount barcode scanner for point-of-sale applications

Barcode scanners for point-of-sale, or POS, applications read the barcodes on items as an operator runs the item in front of the scanner. Fixed mount POS barcode scanners can be embedded into a counter under a piece of plastic or glass. This type of fixed mount scanner is called a horizontal barcode scanner. Vertical barcode scanners sit on top of the counter.

I recommend: Find a versatile fixed mount barcode scanner at System ID. This scanner adapts easily for most point-of-sale applications, takes up little counter space and is available is a variety of colors. Wasp Barcode Technologies manufactures fixed mount barcode scanners that are ideal for high-volume point-of-sale applications. The scanner's laser technology can read barcodes without requiring the operator to scan the codes in a consistent manner.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Fixed mount barcode scanners that use CCD technology have a smaller depth of field than laser barcode scanners.