Wand Barcode Reader
Wand barcode readers are keyboard wedge devices. The shape of the device is like a huge pen. The tip of this device is dragged over the bar code on the book jacket. They connect between the keyboard and the computer. Software installation is not needed. Many wedge devices are used for IBM PCs only. However there are some for Mac PCs as well. As the keyboard wedge devices are connected to the keyboard port of the computer, they may not be used with some laptops. Wand barcode readers are less expensive and there is an efficiency of work. However, they are not as easy to use as the CCD reader. Also some time is required to get accustomed to the reader. The user has to practice to determine the correct angle to hold the wand and the velocity to move it across the bar code. The disadvantage is that the physical contact of the wand with the book jacket may result in scoring of the jacket after prolonged use.
Specifications
The weight of this device is approximately 0.4 lbs. The minimum bar width is 6 mil. The wavelength of the light source is 660 nm. The scan speed is 100 scan / sec. The connectivity technology is wired. The OK notification is by a beeper. The minimum operating temperature is 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The maximum operating temperature is 122 degrees Fahrenheit.
CueCat Arguably, the best known wand barcode reader is the CueCat. The original and unmodified CueCat wand barcode readers can be used with all Readerware products on all platforms. Maximum users wish to use the USB version. This version can be used on PCs with a USB port and USB support in the OS. The operating system must be Windows 98 or higher, Mac OS X or Linux. It is mandatory for the Mac OS X users to select the USB version. PS/2 CueCats can be used with all IBM compatible desktop PCs that have a PS/2 keyboard. It is immaterial that which operating system is installed on the machine. Nowadays, as majority of the machines have a USB support; it is logical to select the USB CueCat. If the machine is an old one and does not have USB support, it becomes necessary to select the PS/2 CueCat.
Barcode Reader
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