How Barcode Scanning System Works? Block Diagram
Barcode scanning system is a very popular and interesting technology that is widely used in various industries, including retail, logistics, healthcare, manufacturing, and inventory management for easy operations, improve accuracy, and data capture. A barcode scanner is also known as a barcode reader. It is a device that is used to capture and read the information encoded in barcodes. It is a handheld or stationary device that uses optical technology to scan and decode barcodes quickly and accurately.
Barcode scanning systems can use different types of scanners, including handheld laser scanners, image-based scanners, or smartphone apps with built-in camera functionality. Each scanner type has its own specific technology and variations in the scanning process, but the fundamental principle of all the same which are using light reflection and decoding method. So, in this article, we are going to learn the fundamental working principle of a Barcode Scanning system with a block diagram. The block diagram will help us to understand very easily how a barcode scanning system works.
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According to the above block diagram of a barcode scanning system, the working principle can be understand by learning the function of each block as below,
Barcode Labels:
These are the physical labels or tags that contain the encoded information in the form of a barcode attached to products, packages, or documents.
Power Supply:
The power supply system provides the necessary electrical power to operate the barcode scanning system.
Barcode Scanner:
It reads and captures the barcode information and converts it into a readable format for the system, such as an electrical signal.
Light Source:
The light source illuminates the barcode for scanning, typically using a laser or LED.
Optical Scanner:
The optical scanner detects the reflected light from the barcode and converts it into an electrical signal.
Signal Converter (Optical to Electrical):
It converts the optical signal from the scanner into an electrical signal that can be processed by the system.
Data Processing Unit:
It may include a microcontroller or a dedicated processor that decodes the barcode, performs error checking, and extracts relevant data. It controls all inputs and outputs of the system.
Connection Interface:
This allows the barcode scanning system to communicate with other devices or systems using wired connections like USB or Ethernet, or wireless connections such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. It enables data exchange with external systems or fetching data associated with the barcode.
Data Storage:
It can be local storage within the system or a remote server accessed via a network connection. This database stores information associated with the barcode, such as product details, pricing, inventory status, or other relevant data.
User Interface:
It allows interaction between the user and the barcode scanning system. It may include a display screen, keypad, or touch panel for user input and feedback.
Output Devices:
This includes visual indicators like LEDs or a display screen to show the scanned barcode and relevant information.
In summary, a barcode scanning system works by using barcode labels attached to products or documents. The barcode scanner reads and captures the barcode information using a light source and optical scanner. The signal is converted into an electrical format and processed by a data processing unit. The system can communicate with other devices, store and retrieve data, and provide a user interface for interaction and feedback.
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How Barcode Scanning System Works? Block Diagram
Reviewed by Author
on
March 01, 2025
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Reviewed by Author
on
March 01, 2025
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