Mobile Computers with Integrated Linear and 2D Bar Code Scanners
Mobile computers with built-in barcode scanners are typically best used for applications where a fairly large amount of data must be collected quickly. They are also used where data may have to examined and possibly modified before it is stored or transmitted to a host computer. The integrated scanners can be laser based for reading linear (1D) barcodes only, or they can be imager based and read all types, including True 2D bar codes.
A popular application for mobile computers is the taking of retail inventory, both in shipping/receiving and in the store. Each item's UPC product bar code is scanned, and the stock count is entered via the mobile computer keypad.
Another application is patient and drug identification in the healthcare industry. These applications include scanning the barcodes on patient wristbands or on the labels containing the type and dosage of medication provided to patients, either in the hospital or from a retail pharmacy.
Data communication technologies available are Batch, Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN), and Bluetooth, also known as Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN). Available mobile computer models include multiple communication technologies, to optimize flexibility and maximize productivity, both inside the corporation and/or out in the field.
