Barcoding News
Data tracking news, product updates, tips, and more
The Datamax-O’Neil RL4 Excels in Rugged Testing and Certification
Datamax-O’Neil announced that its RL4 portable printer has achieved standard IEC 60068-2-31, a free-fall drop test comprised of 2,000 repeated drops from 500 mm. The testing was conducted by Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services, a world-leading concept-to-consumer quality assurance and compliance services provider to manufacturers, distributors and retailers.
The printer sustained minor physical damage, but continued to operate successfully following completion of the testing. The RL4 is the only 4-inch portable label printer to comply with the IEC 60068-2-31 standard. “The RL4’s ability to operate after 2,000 free-fall drops is confirmation that our efforts to design a portable printer that meets the most demanding mobile application requirements was successful and demonstrates our commitment to offer the industry’s most rugged and reliable printers,†said John Murphy, senior product manager for Datamax-O’Neil.
On the heels of passing the drop test, the RL4 also received positive comments in a comprehensive product review with two competitive printers. The review, conducted by Business Solutions magazine paired with VAR Paragon Print Systems, compared the Datamax-O’Neil RL4 with both the Toshiba TEC and  Zebra portable printers. The review, which appeared in the May issue of Business Solutions, compared the printers in five categories: setup and configuration, paper loading, battery life, LCD display and build quality. The following are comments the RL4 received in each of those categories:
Evaluating Barcode Reading Technologies: Laser vs. Imager
Choosing the right barcode reading technology is fundamental to achieving optimal performance from a data collection solution. As new symbologies and technologies are developed, the choices are more varied than ever. There has been much debate on the merits of laser-based and camera-based barcode readers, and in fact, some have asserted that only image-based readers should be considered for new automation applications.
Should laser barcode scanners be considered “obsolete†technology and are imagers (camera-based readers) the only viable technology for today’s applications? While imagers have seen increased use due to the growing adoption of 2D symbols such as Data Matrix, laser scanners still set the standard for accurate, high speed barcode reading in many applications. The optimal barcode reading solution will be dictated by the specific requirements of an application.
Top Motorola Scanners – Infographic
Motorola is a leading manufacturer of scanners, mobile computers, RFID readers, and wireless infrastructure in the Auto-ID industry. It would be hard to imagine what the world of barcoding would be like without the range of products and development Motorola has provided.
With a wide selection of products it can be a challenge to sort out the differences between them all. This infographic is a great overview of the Motorola handheld scanner line and covers general use, healthcare, and industrial application models. For additional assistance finding the right Motorola scanner for your application, contact us at Barcodes Inc,
How to Print from an iPad to a Star iOS Receipt Printer
Star has been a leader in the receipt printer industry due to their efficient designs and ability to keep up with current technology trends all the while making products that are easy to use.
The POSÂ world has seen a big shift towards using iPads and other tablets instead of a traditional desktop and with this comes the challenge of printing receipts easily. Lucky for us, Star is well prepared to support iOS and Android devices with any of their Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or mobile printers. Â This video is a great step-by-step explanation of how to pair and print with your iPad to any Star printer
The Zebra 105SL Comes to an End
Zebra has announced the discontinuance of their 105SL stationary printer line. The 105SL was one of the most reliable models for industrial applications with its rugged design and ability to handle heavier print volumes. Luckily for us, Zebra has an equally capable replacement with the new 105SLPlus printers.
The 105SLÂ will continue to be available through Zebra’s distributors until June 28, 2013, or possibly longer, subject to distributor’s available inventory.
Service, parts and support will continue to be available on the 105SLÂ until September 30, 2018.
For assistance finding the right replacement for your 105SL, contact us at Barcodes Inc.
Star Launches its First Desktop Bluetooth Receipt Printer with the TSP650II BTi
Star’s new TSP650II BTi Desktop Bluetooth printer compatible with Apple iOS devices.
Star Micronics expands its “i†Series of printers with the launch of its first desktop Bluetooth printer. Apple MFi certified, the TSP650II BTi receipt printer is approved for use with the iPod Touch, iPhone and iPad. With operating system support for iOS, Android and Windows, the TSP650II BTi features the best of both worlds by coupling the comfort of legacy products with the speed and connection options demanded today in fast-paced point of sales environments.
The TSP650II BTi’s “JustWorks†SSP profile makes the pairing process very simple to use. It allows for a quick connection without the hassle of a passkey or having to choose between iOS and Android modes. Quick and ready to use, no user interaction is needed to pair the TSP650II BTi.
Square Register Now Supports Bluetooth Barcode Scanners
Square has become a leading provider in mobile payment from the convenience of your iPhone or iPad. What started as a simple payment processing app is now a full functioning mobile POS software with Square Register.
The recent update to version 3.0 opens up a range a new features including support for barcode scanners that communicate via Bluetooth. With the right scanner paired to your iOS device, you can quickly and accurately scan product codes into Square for an even better customer experience.
Currently, the supported bluetooth scanner that works with Square is from the Socket CHS series:
For assistance finding the right scanner for your mobile application, contact us at Barcodes Inc.
New Spring Colors for the Socket 7Ci Apple Certified Barcode Scanner
Socket Mobile has announced the upcoming availability of a spring color collection of the Socket Bluetooth Cordless Hand Scanner (CHS) 7Ci, a small and sleek wireless barcode scanner for the Apple iPad , iPad mini, iPhone and iPod touch. The vibrant  new barcode scanners — available in red, yellow and blue — enable businesses to enhance corporate branding in retail point-of-sale (POS), field sales and service, and other customer facing applications.
Chosen by global POS leaders and independent developers alike for their mobile POS solutions, the Socket CHS 7Ci is Socket Mobile’s most popular and lowest-cost barcode scanner. Besides enhancing retail branding, the new colors make the scanners easy to find in store aisles or other busy work environments, enable developers to bundle a cohesive hardware and software solution, and allow personalization of devices among users. The scanners also support Android, BlackBerry and Windows devices.
Barcode Hair?
While barcodes are a crucial tool for trade and commerce, they have also sneaked their way into cultural norms as well. From being used as props in sci-fi films to barcode tattoos, the humble barcode has become such a commonplace item that it is only natural it has become an object of popular culture.
Probably one of the funniest uses of the term barcode comes from Japan. “Barcode hair” is a commonly used term to describe a balding gentleman that comes over his hair. As you  can see in the image, barcode is the first thing to come to mind. Not the most endearing term but definitely descriptive.
I wonder if a 2D imager could read this?
The Quickscan I Scanner Streamlines the Blood Donation Process in Russia
The National Blood Service in Russia assures the supply of high quality blood to medical institutions. This public entity coordinates blood centers all over Russia, making sure the blood donation process, including transportation and storage, is performed correctly. In addition, it assures the proper use of blood components and preparations.
The Challenge
One important part of the blood donation process is collecting data about the donor. The medical assistant must enter pertinent information about the donor and the quantity and quality of the blood collected in an electronic database. In the past, each region of Russia handled its territory’s database separately from the others. However, to assure quality control throughout the country, the National Blood Service determined that these records should be available to all regions. An automated system needed to be created in order to allow the entire work cycle to be kept under control.
