2D Barcode Scanning and Cell Phones
By: POSGuys Support - 2/12/2016

Last week I was out travelling for business. The process of travelling is always grueling, but technology promises to make things more efficient.

A lot of companies are starting to release coupons, accept payment, and check-in via smartphones.  It looks simple: you get an email with a square barcode (called a **2D barcode**), load the image onto your phone, and scan it at the register.

Most of the time, this process works well.  However, like happened on my trip, the scanner doesn't scan properly and everyone else is left waiting longer until the user can sort it out. Why does this happen?  There are several possible reasons.

One is that the barcode is a different type than the scanner is programmed to read.  Much like the languages in our world, each barcode type (called **symbology**) is different than the others.  If your scanner is not programmed to read that symbology, the barcode will fail to scan.

***Below are the most common symbologies, some of which may look familiar.***

Almost every scanner will have a user manual that lists all the barcode types it can read, but not all of them are enabled by default.  Usually all that is needed to add one is to scan a code to begin programming, scan the code which will enable that symbology, and then scan another code to stop programming. After that, the codes are readable.

Another issue is glare.  Phones typically have a glass front, which is quite glossy. <a href="http://posguys.com/barcode-reader-scanner_3/#2d-imagers" title="Shop 2D Barcode Scanners On POSGuys.com">2D barcode scanners</a>, called **imagers**, use a red LED light and a high-speed microcamera to take an **image** of the screen.  Then, a microchip scans the image to "see" the barcodes available and read it.  If there is glare, it could break up the image and make the barcode unrecognizable.

Avoiding bright light shining on the glass surface is the best way to prevent this.  Try to avoid scanning in direct sunlight or overhead lights.  Tilting the phone to a different angle can also help, if turning off or blocking lights doesn't work, just makes sure to turn the phone *slowly*.

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By sorting these two simple issues out, your customers will be able to move through the line or get their items faster.  Everyone loves it when things go smoothly!

***Still having issues?  We can help! We support what we sell!***

**POSGuys Technical Support** 
1-800-903-6571 Ext. 302 
Support@posguys.com

2D Barcode Scanning and Cell Phones By: POSGuys Support - 2/12/2016

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2D Barcode Scanning and Cell Phones
By: POSGuys Support - 2/12/2016