Keyboard Barcode Scanner – Wedges Between The Keyboard And The Computer!

The four types of barcode scanners are laser barcode scanners, pen type barcode scanners, CCD scanners and camera-based barcode scanners. Wired barcode scanners are available in two different types of output: keyboard wedge or RS-232 output. A keyboard barcode scanner has a keyboard wedge output interface.

A keyboard barcode scanner with keyboard wedge output can directly be plugged into the keyboard cable connected to the computer. The scanner has a connector to get attached to the keyboard cable going into the computer. When a barcode is scanned through these keyboard wedge bar code scanners, the data gets transferred to the computer just like data typed out on the keyboard does. Thus this makes it easy for the barcode reader to get interfaced to any application that can accept keyboard data.

Keyboard bar code scanners have the advantage of being simple. But they have certain disadvantages too. To swipe a bar code, it is required that the cursor should be in the correct application and the correct input field. If this is not so, it would create problems. Also, it is not possible to modify the data before sending to or receiving it from a program. In spite of these limitations, keyboard bar code scanners are used to send barcode data to any suitable application. Some features of the keyboard barcode reader are:

  • They get connected to the computer through the keyboard cable going into the computer.
  • The data sent through these scanners is displayed just like it does as typed out through the keyboard.
  • No changes in the existing software are required.
  • Keyboard barcode scanners can only be used to connect with computers.
Some keyboard bar code scanner models available in the market are as discussed below with their features:

The WDP P22 decoder keyboard barcode scanner:

The WDP P22 decoder has an external box to receive inputs from the barcode scanner. The P22 decoder supports a laser scanner, a CCD scanner, and a slot badge scanner. It also has support for the USB interface. The WDP P22 decoder costs around $245.

The WDP L150-USB Integrated CCD keyboard barcode scanner:

It is a durable, low cost type of scanner with a built-in decoder. They are lower cost alternatives to the laser type barcode readers. Each such integrated scanner can be bought at a price of $254. It also supports the USB interface.

The WDP LZ-410 laser keyboard barcode scanner:

This barcode reader is built for industrial use so that it can manage the harsh industrial conditions such as damp environment and temperature changes. They have a greater range to read barcodes. They come at a unit price of $499.

So, choose the keyboard barcode scanner which best suits your needs from the details of the models given above.

Barcode Readers