SMS Barcode Solutions

An Introduction to Barcoding

Barcodes are a fast, easy and accurate data entry method used in the process known as automatic data collection. Barcoding enables products to be tracked efficiently and accurately at speeds not possible using manual data entry systems. The primary benefit of this process is that it is truly automatic, occurring instantaneously as a transaction or process takes place, commonly referred to as real-time data capture and exchange within the industry. Improved accuracy is yet another benefit. Studies show that the entry and read error rates when using automatic data collection and bar code technology is approximately 1 error in 1 million characters versus 1 error for every 300 characters in manual key entry.

Barcode Solutions for Sapphire

Sapphire Manufacturing has selected nine barcode products from the very best manufacturers in the business, namely Symbol and Zebra, to add tried-and-tested hardware reliability to the warehousing system. Selecting just a limited number of products allows us to become experts in the operation of these devices. As well as offering recommendations on the suitability of various barcoding solutions, Sapphire Manufacturing also have the complete range of skills to implement these solutions to the customer's specifications.

Barcode Label Printers

The range of products includes three Zebra thermal label printers. The models range from the economical Zebra Stripe 400 to the state-of-the-art, heavy gauge steel construction of the Zebra Z4M and Z6M models. As we have been dealing with the integration of these printers and the software for a number of years we have built up a number of predefined labels over different sizes to suit any application. These printers allow text, barcodes and even graphics such as company logos to be displayed on labels at any position and in any orientation using a powerful vector based scripting language.

Keyboard Wedge Barcode Scanners

Keyboard Wedge Scanners are a versatile and cost effective method of accurate data entry. This type of scanner as the name suggests plugs into the keyboard port of the PC and allows data entry to be performed by means of scanning a barcode as opposed to manually typing in the requested information. The Symbol Cobra LS1902 laser scanner is one of these keyboard type wedge scanners offered by SMS. It is sleek, lightweight and perfectly balanced to minimise operator strain, and is available in both triggered and triggerless configurations. Other scanners in the recommended range include the Symbol LS4008i scanner, which was used in the implementation of the Crystalware Gatekeeper project. This particular scanner was chosen for this project because if its long scanning range and its ability to be stand mounted which was necessary for the project.

Batch Capture Barcode Scanners

A batch capture scanner is required for any operation which needs to be performed independently of a terminal. The principle behind batch scanning is that large quantities of data can be captured remotely of any terminal attached to the network, in a location such as the shop floor, warehouse or storeroom, then updated onto the system at a later date. Administrative overheads within the warehouse can be greatly minimised by the use of these hand scanners as most of the data processing operations will be at the point that they actually occurred, rather than as an administration activity to be completed later. The range includes the Symbol P360 hand scanner, and related equipment. The Symbol P360 Industrial Memory Scanner breaks new ground in industrial barcode scanning. Equipped with 1MB memory, keypad, display and an award-winning ergonomic design, this hand-held scanner switches seamlessly from data entry to data managent. Ideal for extreme environments such as warehouse stores, builders’ yards, receiving and cross-dock applications, the economical P360 plays many roles. The price of this barcode scanner includes on-board software programmed by SMS to integrate with the already well established Sapphire Shop Floor Data Capture module.