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If you are small or midsize shop with warehouse management and relatively simple logistics and inventory control and you are considering to reshape your ERP infrastructure, we would like to give you some highlights on barcode for SAP Business One and SB1 general selection, installation and training guidelines

1. SB1 functionality. It is very generic and easily fits to the majority of small and even mid size business models. In the case of the store, you will need to connect your existing POS system to SB1 back end. Several possible integration scenarios: SB1 SDK custom integration (which can allow you real time mode or if you are not in rush, then batch processing is even more simple), workbench, which allow you to deploy Excel templates, or third party integration products (here you need help with option research and comparison). In SB1 you process your orders pretty traditional way

2. Barcoding. This often includes two parts: hardware and uploading software, drivers, connectors. When you are selecting hardware you typically evaluate if you need real time barcoding (in this case barcode scanners are directly connected to you SB1 via cable or wireless connection) or batch processing. Batch processing usually requires more advanced software connectors, which allow you to load transactions batch from the scanner memory to the connector and connector in its turn uploads transactions to SB1 more likely in one-by-one fashion. Here you again need to research which is better fit for you: third party of-the-shelf connector or you own custom connector. Custom connectors are typically created in SAP Business One SDK

3. Barcode lease vs. purchasing. Lease is becoming more popular, as in this case the burden of scanners selection and solution integration is offloaded from your shoulders and you don’t have to worry about scanner obsolescence – you normally receive news scanners set in something like three years

4. Barcoding and ERP. These two components are typically coming separate, however for small implementation you can bundle them together by selecting SB1 integrator, who also provides barcoding services

The establishment of required testing procedures for electrical equipment was a response to the potential for fires and other hazards due to the increased use of these types of devices, especially in workplaces where chemical processing and other types of operations presented a higher degree of risk. Guidelines that were set down in the 1960s by the British government addressed the need for a method of testing, and of reporting, operational safety of electrical devices of all kinds. The invention of barcoding presented yet another option to address workplace safety.

The first testing platform became known as Portable Appliance Testing (PAT), although the correct terminology is In-service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment. The “portable” aspect refers to certain types of devices as well as to the testing equipment itself, which is often portable in nature. Originally, test results would be posted by means of a simple placard that would indicate either a “pass” or “fail” result. This method has evolved over the years to include a more thorough means of testing and reporting due to the increased sophistication in circuitry as electrical machines and components became more advanced in design.

Eventually, PAT test labels developed into a variety of possible types that would be used according to the device as well as to the required intervals needed to maintain safe operation of the particular device. Certain electrical appliances would only require an intermittent schedule for testing with a simple pass or fail message. Others would require a more frequent and intensive testing schedule due to its use in either a more active mode or in a more hazardous environment. A PAT test label with barcode was introduced later to take advantage of the ability to store information through a barcode.

The barcode medium allows for a wealth of information and functions when applied in a testing capacity. Generally, information about the history of a certain electrical component or tool before barcoding would be kept in a log or journal, which would be hand-written or typed. Additionally, the test label affixed to the device would carry only the current information regarding test results and safety status. A PAT test label with barcode is able to store not only the past record of inspections and repairs for a device, but the specifications of the particular device that aid in its testing.

The advent of barcoding is especially advantageous in those environments where a great number of electrical instruments or tools need to be tested frequently, such as in a manufacturing plant or hospital. The use of a sensing device that reads a PAT test label with barcode, such as a hand-held wand, can save a great deal of time. Additionally, a barcode system allows for reading of a PAT test label with barcode that may need to be affixed to a device or a cable that is out of easy reach for the inspector. The label can be scanned easily and past and current information can be entered into a memory device.

What is the difference between barcode labels and asset tags?

Barcode labels are a broad category which encompasses many ubiquitous products. They belong to the heavyweight class and pack a wallop based on sheer market presence.

The asset tag is a specialized application which overlaps into the barcode labels category.

Barcode labels feature a bar code and are affixed some object. Bar codes are a fast, machine-readable, mostly error-free method of communicating data. The bar code symbol translates into an alphanumeric data set or references content in a database. The label is just the substrate between the data and the subject.

Barcode labels are often employed to —

track parcels, envelopes, pallets and containers organize rack, shelf and floor inventory in warehouses systematize files and folders in an office expedite sale of retail and commercial products

Asset tags are generally limited to valuable property which must be secured or tracked through an asset management system.

Commonly tracked assets include —

fixed machinery and infrastructure medical equipment, computers and electronics vehicles and construction machinery office furniture tools

Companies use asset tags to access a wealth of information about the property. Data related to an asset might include the name and a description, its location and condition, purchased date, warranty and service records, annual depreciation figures, and whom the asset is assigned to. An asset tag may or may not feature a bar code. Often a number is sufficient.

While labels are usually pressed flush to an object, tags can dangle loose as illustrated by luggage tags and dog tags. However, asset tags are usually pressed firmly to a surface as flush as the sturdy substrate allows. Asset tags are a form of label and are also called asset labels.

Economy and efficiency dictate that most barcode labels be lightweight and inexpensive. Labels attached to documents and folders around the office are commonly printed on adhesive paper. They’re not intended to outlast their host. Barcode labels on shipments have a limited lifespan and need only survive transit.

Since asset tags are often permanently attached to property they must be durable and resistant to environmental conditions. While a computer may sit in an air conditioned office, the tag attached to an earth mover may experience brutal outdoor conditions for many years and still provide optimal bar code read rates.

Barcode labels can be created with software as simple as a word processing program using the widely available Code 39 font. More sophisticated applications output Code 128 and Data Matrix bar codes. Blank label sheets can be found at most office supply stores.

Asset tags are usually pre-printed on a rugged substrate like polyester and aluminum for maximum longevity. In high-quality tags the image is often photographic and embedded below the surface. The bar code is determined by a pre-defined or specified numeric sequence. Ordering asset tags is usually very simple. Some suppliers even allow you design your own asset tag quickly!

Wireless barcode scanners are a clear example of the best just having got better. Much like Alexander Graham Bell’s wired telephone that got eclipsed by the cordless phone which became a craze across millions of households, wireless bar code scanners have become a mega-hit with an ever-increasing number of business entrepreneurs making the upward shift to realize greater productivity day in day out. To put it simply, wireless barcode scanners offer you all the benefits of your regular barcode scanner or barcode reader and then, some more!

But hold on just yet, while wireless barcode readers and scanners are blitzing the market, you still need to which type of the device you need to best suit your business needs before going ahead and making a purchase. You need to very clearly articulate the reason for wanting to move into the wireless barcode scanner space and the plausible reasons for wanting to go wireless could be any of the following:-

* You need the freedom of mobility to be able to capture information away from your computer because of the spatial location of your tagged products

* You might want to collect the data away from your computer but be able to sync it or upload it once you get back to the origin i.e. the computer

* You might not only want to collect data away from the computer but also be able to log on via wireless networks to a database and post the captured information

Thus simply put, do you need a simple barcode scanner with a really long cord or do you have a genuine need for a wireless barcode scanner? And once you do a cost comparison on the various types of the barcode readers and barcode scanners, both wired as well as cordless, you will know exactly how much you are paying for what, and how much you are likely to benefit from the application of the device. Accurate information capture, ease of the information capture, speed at which different materials can be barcode registered and tagged, exquisite levels of data control are just some of the innumerous benefits that this technology promises for the user!

Finally a key thing that you need to keep in mind is that implementation of a new technology by itself does not guarantee success. You need to handle the change from one level to the next very well and proactively too, as in the case of wireless barcode scanners too. People management as part of change management is crucial to the success of your business and this should be given core focus. New technology is useless unless its espoused as a unifying cause by all in the work force. Once you have mastered the change in people, you have truly put yourself on the road to progress. Experience the wonders of wireless barcode scanners and be awestruck!

All That You Wanted To Know About Intelligent Mail Barcode

Intelligent Mail barcode attempts to bring a revolutionary change in the postal system. It is an initiative by the US Postal department to enable them and the users, much more competency in handling mail. It aims to increase a mailer’s capacity of tracking individual pieces of mail and also provides better visibility in the mail stream.

It has been designed so as to upgrade the existing four-state customer barcode, and uses a 65-bar USPS barcode for sorting and tracking letters and flats. The Intelligent Mail barcode allows mailers to use more digits, thus enabling distinctive identification of a billion mail pieces for every mailing. Users can include up to 31-digits worth of information. Apart from it, there are also some additional features like ACS services and enhanced tracking.

Mailers have two options to choose from. They can either go for basic service or for full service. In case of a basic service option, just essentials of IMB i.e. service code; delivery point code and mailer ID are required, whereas in case of full service, you require all the essential elements of basic service, in addition to a unique identity on every mail piece.

There are some features of Intelligent Mail bar-coding system that make it truly unique and invaluable. It can combine multiple services such as OneCode ACS (Address Change Service), OneCode Confirm Service Type ID, postNET barcode and OneCode Confirm Service Type ID in a single barcode. It also helps in simplifying the look of the mail piece. Apart from it, IMB can free up valuable real estate area in the address block by combining what used to be four-five lines of the address block into just a single one.

This new system of IMB has many advantages. It will definitely improve readability and more under adverse conditions. There are features like advanced error correction that will help in hiding portions of the barcode. All information can be recovered during the read. It will also reduce Return Mail. Mailers can update their records when they receive their free notices containing information about customer move.

It will be easy for customers to track their inbound and outbound mail pieces via the Intelligent Mail Barcode. It insures that every mail piece remains uniquely traceable through the Intelligent Mail Barcode’s ID capacity. This will definitely improve performance.

IBM Manager is an excellent USPS IMB solution from the software companies. It is extremely easy to use and is compatible with both Basic and Full service options. It allows the users to generate Intelligent Mail Barcodes for files created by different types of presort or by Mail.dat product. The users can also manage their Intelligent Mail Serial Numbers within a single mail ID or else across multiple mail lists. It also creates a database for tracking the 45-day expiration dates for Unique Serial Numbers. IBM Manager can create all 3 types of Intelligent Mail Serial Numbers.

Thus this latest software is revolutionizing the age old postal system and modernizing the way we handle our mail.

Barcoding for Microsoft Dynamics GP often requires unique business logic addition.  This means that out-of-the-shelf barcode add-ons for GP might not do what you need and you have to take so-called custom solution way.  In this small publication we are offering Barcode highlights, and how this solution could be implemented and customized.

1.       Printing Barcodes.  Barcode printing can be performed from the Purchase Receipt Entry window, when the purchase receipt transaction is entered, or on demand, for any inventory item, from the Item Card window.  The format of the barcode label can be changed easily because it is a Crystal Report. We typically recommend using a simple barcoding standard, such as 3 of 9. It is important to decide if your client wants to simply barcode item numbers or if they also want to barcode serial numbers/lot numbers.

2.       Inventory Transfers.  We offer two options: transfers via a regular GP client (on a workstation) or via a handheld wireless scanner. The inventory transfer via the regular GP client is done through a modified Inventory Transfer window, where the user simply determines the FROM and TO sites and then the user can scan all barcodes representing the items to be transferred.

3.       The solution in the handheld wireless scanner requires a few additional hardware and software components (such as wireless routers, the scanner itself, and Wavelink, a wireless application manager). These components significantly add costs to the project and are only applicable if the warehouse users need the mobility offered by such solution. The functionality is similar to the one offered by the desktop version.

Barcode scanners are light emitting devices that are used to read barcodes. Usually attached to a computer or laptop via PS2 or RS-232, the data collected is stored on a computer for processing or storage. It is now used in many different industries such as retail or production.

They have been on the market for many years now with new versions of barcode scanners available every year. The prices can vary from as low as $50.00 to as high as several thousand dollars. So how do you pick a good barcode scanner?

To answer that question, it is important you know there are 2 major classes of barcode scanners, image-based and laser-based. Image-based barcode scanners use a camera usually embedded in a barcode scanner. The camera will capture the images and then processed by complex image techniques to decode the barcodes. Laser-based barcode scanners uses mirrors and lenses to read the barcodes.

Laser barcode scanners are usually more expensive than image-based scanners. They have their own pros and cons. An image-based barcode scanner do not have internal movable parts therefore are more resistant to drops or knocks than laser barcode scanners. Also, image-based barcode scanners have a shorter scanning distance (4 to 10 inches) compared to laser barcode scanners. On the other hand, laser scanners are more prone to wear and tear due to their lenses. They not only have a longer scanning distance (up to 24 inches) but also are able to scan from a wider angle from the barcode.

Be aware that the scanning distance for both image-based and laser barcode scanners have already improved dramatically over the years and I wouldn’t be surprised if a barcode manufacturer claims an image-based scanner has a scanning distance of 24 inches.

Here are some questions you need to ask yourself before getting a barcode scanner. The size of scanner required? Type of environment the barcode scanner will be using (outdoors, shop, warehouse)? The scanning distance required? Are they to be used hands free or hand-held? Your budget?

So my suggestion is if you need a barcode scanner for long range scanning, get a laser barcode scanner. For short range scanning, use an image-based barcode scanner such as a CCD barcode scanner. The environment as I asked earlier also plays an important part. If the barcode scanner is being used outdoors or in rugged environments where it is expected to take a drop or knock or two, then it is best to get an image-based barcode scanner. If it were for example being used in a retail shop, then a laser barcode scanner would be the best choice.

There are such a wide variety of barcode scanners available that I just can’t explain completely in this article. If you are in doubt, consult the barcode manufacturers such as symbol or metrologic who have sales consultants who are able to do an analysis of the type of barcode scanners needed by your business.

Barcode’s usage has rapidly expanded among businesses and sectors ranging from simple retail POS to heavy industries including diverse areas such as healthcare, document management, laboratories, tracking parcels and mail, libraries, issuing tickets  etc. This has lead to the emergence of different kinds of barcode scanners that can read a variety of data depending on your requirements. As barcode scanners are vital in the barcode automation system, you should clearly know which type you need to make a smart purchasing decision.

Choosing A Suitable Barcode Scanner For Your Needs: -

There is a wide range of barcode scanners designed to support various requirements. You can identify the suitable one by the technology used for scanning, the amount of user intervention required while operating it and other features. The major types of bar code scanners are summarized below.

Laser Barcode Scanners:

Laser barcode scanners are very popular as they offer great preciseness and visibility as it can read a barcode at any angle. It has the advanced technology that reads the barcode from long distance, even in bright light. A laser barcode scanner is suitable for you, if you need to deal with special applications such as high density or long range scanning in retail and healthcare industries.

2D Barcode Scanners:

2D barcode scanners are the latest type of barcode scanners available today. They scan more information that is arranged in small area using 2D barcodes that has squares, dots or other symbols. Besides, 2D Barcode Scanners can also read 1D barcodes or linear barcodes. As a result they are gaining popularity and treated as an investment because of their versatility and the future-proof technology.

Retail Barcode Scanners:

Retail barcode scanners can be used throughout the retail supply chain process from factories to retail outlets. There are two types of retail barcode scanners – In-counter and On-counter barcode scanners. In-counter barcode scanners are used in retail outlets with high sales volume and on-counter scanners are used in stores that have limited space on the counter.

Fixed Mount Barcode Scanners:

Fixed mount barcode scanner is fixed at a predetermined position where it scans the items when they are moved from its focus area. They are ideal for high speed scanning along conveyors, as they get scanned automatically without user’s intervention. This enables large number of barcode scanning in less time.

Linear Imager Barcode Scanners:

Linear imager barcode scanners are also called as CCD scanners, CCD long-range scanners or full array imagers. These scanners are durable and require less maintenance as they have no moving parts. They can read damaged or poorly printed barcodes including the barcodes under plastic film or covering. Their compact size and lightweight makes them ideal for office use.

Considering the above types and your requirements carefully while selecting the barcode scanner will help you make a smart decision.