Considerations for integrating barcode scanners with POS systems
I. Selection Phase: First, confirm "3 compatibility criteria"
1. Interface Protocol:
USB-HID (keyboard emulation) is the most universal; simply plug it in to input codes.
USB-VCP (virtual serial port) requires driver installation and is suitable for Linux/embedded POS systems.
Bluetooth BLE has low power consumption but only supports newer systems.
SPP mode is compatible with older Android systems but requires manual pairing.
2. System and Whitelist
3. Barcode Type:
For catering and retail businesses accepting WeChat Pay and e-coupons, a 2D (QR) engine must be selected; devices that only support 1D will fail to scan phone screens.
II. Deployment Phase: 4 On-Site Pitfalls
1. Keyboard Mapping and Input Method: The barcode scanner defaults to outputting a "US keyboard." If the cash register uses a Chinese input method, the scanned letters will include symbols. Before going live, uniformly lock the system input method to English, or load a "localized key table" into the scanner.
2. Enter/Tab Suffix: Some POS systems require automatic enter after the barcode for checkout, while others require a tab to jump to the quantity field. Make sure the "suffix control code" scanned matches the software requirements using the instruction manual; otherwise, manual enter will be required, reducing efficiency.
3. Bluetooth Concurrent Range: The 2.4 GHz band may compete with in-store Wi-Fi and wireless speakers. During testing, turn on your mobile hotspot and speakers to ensure uninterrupted connectivity within 5 meters. In complex environments, prioritize using 433 MHz or dual-mode (Bluetooth + wired) models.
4. Power supply and charging station: The wireless charging gun is best equipped with a "magnetic charging + charging dock" so that employees can easily pick it up and put it down during peak hours; do not choose a cheap model with only a Type-C port, otherwise it will delay the cashier if the power goes out and you have to find a cable.