Wired vs. Wireless Hand Scanners
Whether you run a store, a warehouse, or work in logistics, a reliable hand scanner is an essential tool for ensuring efficiency and precision in your daily operations.
Whether you run a store, a warehouse, or work in logistics, a reliable hand scanner is an essential tool for ensuring efficiency and precision in your daily operations. At Delfi Technologies, we have been providing quality solutions since 1988 and offer a wide range of barcode scanners to cover all needs – from flexible wireless hand scanners to stable wired models.
With our many years of experience, we understand what it takes to optimize workflows and minimize errors. We only offer products from recognized manufacturers and provide you with professional advice, so you always find the right solution for your business.
In this article, we will help you choose between a wireless hand scanner and a wired model, so you can make the best choice based on your specific needs and work environment.
What is a Wireless Hand Scanner?
A wireless hand scanner gives you the freedom to move around while scanning goods or products.
Wireless hand scanners offer greater freedom of movement, as they are not restricted by cables. This makes them ideal for large warehouses or retail environments where mobility is crucial. With long battery life and lightweight design, employees can easily move around and scan goods without interruptions. It typically connects via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and can reach up to several meters from the base station or your device.
Advantages of Wireless Hand Scanners:
- Flexibility and mobility: Perfect for large warehouses or stores where you need to scan products that are not always within reach of a computer.
- Easy connection: Most wireless scanners are Plug & Play and connect quickly via Bluetooth to computers, tablets, or handheld terminals.
- Fewer restrictions: No cables means you can work more efficiently without having to worry about wires.
Consider:
- Battery life: Make sure the scanner has sufficient battery life for an entire working day.
- Range: Check that the wireless range covers your workspace.
What is a Wired Hand Scanner?
A wired hand scanner connects directly to your computer or POS system via a USB cable. It is ideal for workstations where mobility is not necessary.
Wireless Hand Scanners
Wireless hand scanners offer greater freedom of movement, as they are not restricted by cables. This makes them ideal for large warehouses or retail environments where mobility is crucial. With long battery life and lightweight design, employees can easily move around and scan goods without interruptions.
Advantages of Wired Hand Scanners:
- Stable and reliable connection: No risk of signal interruption or interference.
- No battery problems: You don’t have to worry about charging or battery life.
- Plug & Play connection: Connect the scanner, and you are ready to work immediately.
Consider:
- Battery life: Make sure the scanner has sufficient battery life for an entire working day.
- Range: Check that the wireless range covers your workspace.
Explore our range of wireless barcode scanners: Wireless Barcode Scanners
Which Hand Scanner Should You Choose?
The choice between a wireless and a wired hand scanner depends on your work environment and your specific needs:
- Choose a wireless hand scanner if:
- You work in a warehouse or store where mobility is important.
- You need to scan goods from different positions and distances.
- You want flexibility without restriction from cables.
- Choose a wired hand scanner if:
- You work at a fixed workstation, such as a POS system.
- You want a stable and constant connection.
- Battery life and charging should not be a concern.
For further advice and a wide selection of hand scanners, visit our main category for barcode scanners.
1D vs. 2D scanning
When choosing a hand scanner, it is important to consider whether you need to scan 1D or 2D barcodes.
1D barcodes are the traditional, linear barcodes, which typically contain 8-15 characters. These codes are common on products in retail and warehouse management.
2D barcodes, such as QR codes, can contain up to 2000 characters and store data both horizontally and vertically. This enables them to contain more complex information, including images, web addresses, and other binary data. To scan 2D barcodes, a 2D barcode scanner is required, while 1D scanners can only read 1D codes.
Advantages of 2D barcodes:
- Greater data capacity: Can contain significantly more information than 1D codes.
- Compact size: Can be printed in smaller dimensions without losing readability.
- Error correction: Many 2D codes have built-in error correction, making them readable even if they are partially damaged.
Recommended scanners:
- DelfiScan M81: A wireless scanner that can read both 1D and 2D barcodes, ideal for various industries such as warehouse, retail, and healthcare.
- DelfiScan C91: A wired scanner with advanced setup options and ergonomic design that effectively reads both 1D and 2D codes.
For a deeper understanding of the differences between 1D and 2D barcodes, as well as guidance in choosing the right scanner, you can visit our barcode guide.
Find Your Wireless Hand Scanner at Delfi Today
A wireless hand scanner can make a world of difference to your company’s efficiency. Whether you work in a warehouse, in a store, or in logistics, a wireless solution gives you the freedom to work quickly and flexibly without cumbersome cables. If your needs are more stationary, a wired hand scanner can still be a stable and reliable solution.
At Delfi Technologies you will find a wide range of hand scanners that match your needs. We are ready with expertise and advice to help you choose the right solution.
Contact us today via our contact form and find the perfect wireless hand scanner for your business!