Tht total addressable market for hardware products is projected to rise from $3.1 billion in 2006 to $4.6 billion in 2011, according to VDC Research.

The number of applications for capturing barcodes and images is growing, forcing multiple industries to face the same challenge - how to cost-effectively enable the wide variety of applications that require the capture of different types of data. Today, these organizations are looking for solutions that scan both 1D and 2D codes and capture images and scan paperwork to create an electronic version of a form for electronic filing and regulatory requirements. Laser and image-based scanners are two competing, and sometimes complimentary, data capture technologies. Rather than generalize the superior reliability of one technology over the other, resellers must carefully analyze each of their customers' individual data capture requirements and then determine which technology best suits their needs.

Laser Scanning vs. Digital Imaging Technology

Laser scanning technology is best suited for one-dimensional barcode scanning in high-throughput areas where coded objects are moving and scanning ranges may vary. Digital imagers use a lens to project an image onto a 2D array where light is converted to an electrical signal to construct the digital image. Digital imagers present complimentary benefits to laser scanners as they can read 2D barcodes and PDF417 codes such as those on the back of U.S.-issued IDs. They can also take digital images, which enables signature capture digital document storage.

Laser vs. Image Applications

RETAIL: Laser scanners are the technology of choice for high-volume, rapid scanning activities, such as in supermarkets where clerks rapidly scan and check items on checkout lanes. On the other hand, image scanners can have multiple uses, such as to:

• Take pictures of customers for IDs
• Read 2D barcodes such as drivers' licenses, department store credit card applications or customer loyalty cards
• Quickly scan personal IDs to capture the names and addresses of customers returning products to recognize customers who frequently return items or those that fraudulently pick up items and return them without initially paying for them

  HEALTHCARE: Digital image-based scanners are becoming the all-in-one device behind pharmacy counters. These handheld devices are used to scan drug containers to ensure the right medication is going to the right customer. The imagers also capture a small picture file of the patient's prescription to store with the patient's electronic file.

  GOVERNMENT: Digital imaging enables the quick screening of government-issued passports to help improve safety at borders and speed long security lines.

  WAREHOUSE MANAGEMENT: Laser scanners are ideal for employees on the warehouse floor where workers try to aim scanners at awkward angles, across long distances or into hard-to-reach areas. When selling to this type of customer, resellers should also consider scanners outfitted with:

  • Fuzzy technology to reach worn and torn barcodes
  • Both short and long-distance scanning capabilities to allow employees to scan products in their hands or perched far away on a high shelf

  Resellers can add value to sales of both laser and image scanning solutions by knowing how these devices can best be integrated and managed using Remote Scanner Management. This technology seeks out, provisions and upgrades scanner fleets from a central remote location, dramatically reducing the time needed to manage each individual device.

  Knowing the unique characteristics of each scanning technology and how it will solve customers' pain points can mean the difference between a successful reseller sales pitch and a failed attempt.