A barcode reader (or scanner) is a device that captures and decodes printed barcodes into digital data that a computer can process. It’s widely used in retail, logistics, healthcare, and inventory management.
🕰️ 1. History and Inventors
- 1949–1952: The barcode itself was invented and patented by Norman Joseph Woodland and Bernard Silver.
- 1969: The first working barcode reader was developed by David J. Collins at Sylvania, originally for tracking railroad cars.
- 1974: The first retail barcode scanner was installed in a supermarket in Troy, Ohio. The very first item scanned was a pack of Wrigley’s Juicy Fruit gum, marking the start of commercial barcode use.
⚙️ 2. How It Works
- Light source (laser or LED) shines on the barcode.
- Sensor detects the reflected light pattern.
- Decoder translates the pattern into numbers or text.
- Computer system processes the data for sales, tracking, or inventory.
🔮 3. Modern Developments
- Imaging scanners use cameras instead of lasers.
- 2D barcode readers can scan QR codes and Data Matrix codes.
- Mobile scanning with smartphones has become common.
- AI-enhanced scanning improves speed and accuracy in logistics and healthcare.
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