• Product recognition program by barcode. The best applications for reading barcodes

    In particular, for conducting inventories, creating barcodes, and so on. Also, most of these applications have the functions of sending reports by e-mail or notification of shortages of goods in warehouses. We've collected the best barcode scanning apps for iOS and Android.

    TOP applications for scanning barcodes.

    This is a simple application with uncomplicated functionality. But sometimes this is exactly what users need. The app recognizes barcodes and stores them in a central database, putting exactly what you're looking for into a spreadsheet.

    OS: iOS, Android

    Program features:

    • date and time stamps;
    • custom fields for data entry;
    • supports one large database.

    Price:

    • Android - $0.99;
    • iTunes - $2.99.

    With QuickMark you can not only scan, but also create barcodes and QR codes. The cross-platform scanner reads multiple barcode formats, making it one of the most versatile barcode apps around. You can quickly and easily save URLs, item names, locations, and more. In general, users are satisfied with the work of the utility, although some note inaccurate scanning of codes.

    OS: Android, iOS, Windows.

    Program features:

    • quickly scans multiple QR codes and barcodes;
    • Fully compatible with multiple devices;
    • attaching images to posts;
    • accurate and simple.

    Cost: free.

    ScanLife, a barcode scanner app, allows you to scan QR codes and barcodes on any product and extract information such as manufacturer details and ingredients, prices and nearby places where you can purchase such products in real time. The ScanLife app is part of a larger platform for companies that want to reach more mobile users by incorporating QR codes into their marketing strategy.

    OS: iOS, Android.

    Program features:

    Cost: from $0 to $85 per month.

    BarCloud

    BarCloud is a remote asset or inventory management program accessible from any iOS devices or Android, as well as from any Internet browser. Thanks to automatic backup and custom planning capabilities backup copies your data is always safe and accessible from any device. Supports simple inventory counting for complex systems, such as batch and serial inventory, so assets with the BarCloud registration system you will never lose control of shared data.

    OS: iOS, Android

    Program features:

    • enter data manually or scan an image;
    • suppliers, customers, products, locations and other data;
    • search and view files;
    • filters;
    • export data to PDF or Excel;
    • visual analytics tools;
    • expired goods, expiring dates, low stock.

    Eat free version. Premium costs range from $25 to $125 per month.

    NeoReader got a lot positive feedback iTunes users and Google Play. The latest one is much better than the previous ones. Most users claim that the software scans almost any code, unlike conventional scanner applications, which may show an error when trying to scan.

    OS: Android, iOS, Blackberry, Windows, Ovi.

    Program features:

    Cost: free.

    I-nigma is free to download, but the company uses advertising to offset some of the costs of development and ongoing fixes. Therefore, advertisements may be displayed on the control panel, although this does not affect the functionality of the utility in any way. The software decrypts vCards and MeCards, instantly saving contact information in your phone's contact list, opens cards using Geo-codes and adds events to the calendar. Of course, the utility scans standard QR, DataMatrix and UPC/EAN.

    OS: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Windows.

    Peculiarities:

    Cost: free.

    Lynkee is a barcode scanning application for Android, iPhone and Windows, aimed more at the consumer than inventory or asset management. It is capable of scanning a variety of 1D and 2D barcodes including DataMatrix, vCards and MECARDs for storage contact information, price comparison, scan history search, etc. The utility is fast and accurate.

    OS: Android, iOS, Windows.

    Peculiarities:

    Cost: free.

    Product barcode verification application that supports 2D, Bidi and 1D barcodes (DataMatrix/QR/Ean 8 and 13). Users can create their own optical barcodes for free and scan any supported format for quick access to content such as music, images, videos, files, websites, etc. Built-in functions sharing allow you to share scanned content. Available on Android and iPhone.

    OS: iOS, Android, Lumia and Windows.

    Peculiarities:

    • quickly scans 2D, Bidi, 1D;
    • supports DataMatrix, QR, Ean 8 and 13 1D;
    • create your own optical barcodes;
    • access music, videos, websites and other content.

    Cost: free.

    The free Bee Tagg barcode reader app is quite sophisticated in terms of its scanning functionality, but it doesn't offer any comprehensive built-in database capabilities. However, you can copy and paste the information and codes for later use.

    OS: iOS, Blackberry, Android, Windows, Samsung, Ovi.

    Program features:

    • goes beyond easy opening browser windows;
    • contextual actions;
    • gets more information than most scanner apps;
    • 2D codes, including QR codes, Bee Tagg and DataMatrix codes;
    • 1D, including EAN-13 and UPC-A;
    • create your own code to exchange information;
    • supports various content types including vCard, MeCard, Text, SMS, eMail, Geo, Event.

    Cost: free.

    Kaywa

    Kaywa claims to be the best barcode detection app, and users seem to agree for the most part. This app has received a lot of positive reviews on both iTunes and Google Play. In this case, the data is stored in internal memory your phone. This means that the software can affect the speed of the device. But this is compensated by ease of use and speed. The utility is available for Android and iPhone.

    OS: Android, iOS.

    Program features:

    • free QR code generator;
    • scanning all types of barcodes;
    • automatically detects the code type;
    • scanning history with text and geolocation data.

    Cost: free.

    Accusoft Barcode Scanner was created to demonstrate the functionality of Barcode Xpress for Mobile, Accusoft's barcode SDK for Android. It is designed for businesses and developers who want to create a barcode application for Android devices, integrating powerful decoding capabilities into a custom application designed specifically for your company's requirements. For instant decoding, position the barcode in the middle of the screen. Depending on the data stored in it, you can be redirected to a website, view product information, etc. Recognizes a variety of 1D and 2D codes.

    Peculiarities:

    Cost: free.

    ixMAT uses software Java-based to turn your device into a barcode scanner. This free application designed for Android, Blackberry, Windows Mobile and Java ME, but not available for iPhone or iPad. Supports a variety of 1D and 2D codes, automatic analysis, no need to enter the barcode type.

    Program features:

    • ability to scan inverted DataMatrix codes and barcodes;
    • quick search;
    • scan history;
    • mass mode;
    • send small ones text files by email
    • Not compatible with iOS devices.

    Cost: free.

    Stock Control

    The barcode scanning app developed by Kiwi Objects is designed to improve productivity by giving you control over your inventory. Scan objects, organize your database by category, type or function (any hierarchy is available).

    Program features:

    • advanced data management;
    • organization by categories – you can create logical hierarchies;
    • warnings about shortages of goods;
    • import and export;
    • PDF catalogs, printing and sending by e-mail.

    Cost: free.

    Scandit is an SDK that allows businesses to use barcode scanning in their mobile applications. The SDK is similar to a developer API in that it allows companies to create mobile applications for iOS or Android. Not quite a traditional ready-made mobile application, Scandit is a shell for integrating the functionality of barcode scanners on mobile gadgets. Suitable for enterprises introducing their own mobile applications. Available for both Android and iPhone.

    OS: iOS, Android, Symbian.

    Program features:

    • turning smartphones and tablets into barcode scanners;
    • fast and accurate barcode scanning;
    • wide range of supported characters;
    • does not require autofocus;
    • scanning from any angle;
    • size does not affect accuracy.

    There is a free version. A premium subscription costs $399 per month.

    Visiting supermarkets with such applications will be much more fun. At the same time, they can be used in your own business - to create barcodes or conduct inventory. Of course, you will have to pay for premium features, but most often it is a small amount that will quickly pay for itself.

    An important element of the system automatic control a store, warehouse or other enterprise uses a barcode scanner for a computer. This device turns the information written on the product label using strokes into a record with the name of the product.

    Types of barcode readers

    Before purchasing and installing this device, it will be useful for you to know what types of barcode scanners there are. In the specialized literature, such models of devices with LED and laser illumination are distinguished.

    Pen Barcode Reader

    A Wand barcode scanner for a computer, or as it is also called a pen scanner, is an inexpensive and reliable device. When working, you need to press it well against the surface on which the code is applied and run it along the entire package. To read information, it uses a low-power light source, the beam of which must cross the code from beginning to end.

    CCD devices

    The handheld CCD barcode scanner for computer uses information reading technology based on the same principle as fax machines. There are two types of CCD scanners: contact and non-contact. When using a contact model, the operator needs to attach the scanner to the label with the code and press the button. The main disadvantage of such scanners is that they do not work well on uneven surfaces. Non-contact CCD scanners also use sensitive photo sensors, which allows them to read images at a distance of 6 to 30 centimeters.

    An image scanner, or photo scanner as they are also called, uses the same CCD matrix as cameras or video cameras. This code scanner reads all information completely and does not need to be specifically oriented relative to the packaging.

    Laser reading devices

    The handheld laser barcode scanner for computer is convenient and easy to use. Its working area can reach 20-110 centimeters, and for some up to 10 meters.

    Multibeam laser scanners

    A stationary multibeam projection laser scanner forms a working area that consists of several beams. In order for it to read information, it is enough that at least one of the many rays crosses all the strokes. There are two types of such devices: built-in, which are installed in the cash register counter, and projection.

    A combined multibeam scanner is designed in the same way as a stationary one; its main difference is that it can be picked up. The working area in which barcodes (bar codes) are recognized for such devices is reduced compared to stationary ones.

    The bioptic scanner creates two working zones containing multiple laser beams. There are models of such scanners equipped with scales.

    How to install a scanner to read a barcode?

    Before using the scanner, you need to connect it to your computer and install the necessary software. There are three types of devices according to the method of connecting it to the computer:

    1. “Into the keyboard gap.”

    2. Using (as it is also called RS232).

    3. Using a USB port that emulates the RS232 interface.

    Let's take a closer look at all three connection methods.

    Connecting a barcode reader “into the keyboard gap”

    The keyboard port is called PS/2 and is used to connect both a keyboard and a mouse to the computer. Now many motherboards have only one such connector, and modern netbooks and laptops do not have it.

    To connect a keyboard reader, you must first turn off the computer, remove the keyboard from the connector and insert the scanner in its place. After this, you need to connect the keyboard to the scanner. Once you have connected everything, you can turn on the scanner and computer to the electrical network.

    Once a barcode is scanned by a device equipped with this interface, the code is inserted where the cursor was located, just as if you had typed it on a keyboard. Thus, if the scanner cannot read the code or is out of order, you can enter the code directly using the keyboard.

    Those who scan barcodes with a device with a similar interface should pay attention to the keyboard layout when recognizing serial numbers, which contain letters. For example, when the Russian keyboard layout is enabled, instead of the code a/n123215654QWE, f/t123215654YTSU is considered.

    This connection method saves one or USB, which can be useful when connecting multiple devices to a computer. various devices, for example, a printer, a printing device, scales and other devices necessary for the cashier’s work. Also, a barcode scanner with a “in-keyboard” connection is used when using a barcode program that can only work with such devices.

    Installing a barcode reader via COM interface

    COM or RS-232 port are two different designations one interface through which personal computer You can connect a variety of devices. This connector is made in the form of a rectangle, which consists of two rows of pins (one row has 5, the other has 4). Information from various external devices, when using this transmission method, arrives sequentially through two wires. The Rx wire sends information to the computer, and the Tx wire sends control signals to the device. Sometimes for correct operation programs use additional RTS and CTS lines. Now you can still find motherboards with one RS-232 connector, but all modern netbooks and laptops do not have it.

    To install the scanner, it must first be connected to COM port computer, after which any operating system will find it and ask you to install it necessary drivers. They can be found either on the disk that comes with the device, or downloaded on the Internet. Some scanner manufacturers provide special programs that can be used to control the signal volume or set service characters.

    The barcode scanner can be connected to a computer using a special adapter from USB to COM interface, which must be inserted into USB and the driver installed ( special program barcode scanner). If the device is installed correctly, a virtual interface of the RS-232 standard will be detected in the system, the use of which should not differ much from working with a regular serial connection.

    A barcode scanner with a COM port can be connected to cash register or other equipment that is equipped with an RS-232 interface. For such a connection, adapters are used from the connector that is used in the device that reads barcodes to the RJ-45 (or 11) connector. After this, you need to configure the connection parameters in the scanning device.

    Also this type connection is used if the code specifically listens to the port and, when a code is detected, inserts it into right place. It doesn’t matter where in at the moment the cursor is located.

    How to connect a computer barcode scanner with a USB interface?

    Any modern computer, netbook, laptop is equipped with a USB port. In this standard, data is transmitted sequentially over two wires, and two more wires serve to supply voltage to devices that connect to the PC.

    The main advantage of these devices for reading computer barcodes is their high data exchange speed and the ability to connect to a running computer. Small hand scanners bar codes consume a small amount of electricity, so they are powered by USB port A. Multiplane readers are more powerful and therefore have a separate power supply.

    Installing a scanner should not be difficult, because all modern operating systems recognize the code reader as a regular keyboard, so they do not require any drivers to operate. After the barcode is scanned, the program inserts it where the cursor is located.

    Many barcode scanners that connect to a USB port can be made to work in a mode in which it will emulate an RS-232 port. Most often, this requires reading a special barcode that is given in the instructions and installing a virtual port driver. After switching the device to COM interface emulation mode, its use will be the same as for a conventional scanner working with the RS-232 standard.

    Many readers have the ability to set the characters that will be transmitted before and after the barcode. Thus, before reading the code, many users would find it convenient if the scanner passed one of the characters such as Insert, F1 or F9. Thanks to this feature, the number of times the operator presses the keyboard is reduced and his work is made easier.

    Checking the correct connection and operation of the scanner

    After the installation of the barcode scanner is completed, you need to check the operation of the device.

    In order to make sure that a scanner connected “to the keyboard gap” or via a USB connector works correctly, you need to run any text editor, such as Notepad, and try to scan the code. If the symbols appear on the screen, the device is configured correctly.

    If your barcode reader is connected to RS-232 or operates via USB in COM interface mode, then you first need to launch any terminal program and configure it to the desired port. After this, you can read the code from the packaging. At correct setting Readable characters should appear on the screen.

    QR codes are now used everywhere. They are found on product packaging, business cards, and even on Internet sites. Read this code without using special application- it won’t work. In this regard, it is important to have a scanner for codes on your Android device. The three best QR scanners, as well as their features, advantages and disadvantages, will be discussed further in the text.

    [Hide]

    Ad Free)QR Scanner for Android

    One of the best of its kind, a completely free application for reading QR and barcodes. The program takes up less than 2 MB of device memory, practically does not load RAM and is well optimized for most smartphones.

    Description

    If you don't know how to read the code, then Ad Free)QR Scanner for Android will become optimal choice. The program is as easy as possible to use and has a pleasant user interface with just three buttons on the main menu. You don't need an internet connection to scan a QR or barcode. The scanner algorithms are well developed and allow you to almost instantly recognize all standard types of codes. You can view the scanning history in a folder in the device memory previously created by the application.

    Pros and cons

    • ability to read QR and barcodes;
    • ease of use;
    • work offline;
    • support flash on phone;
    • saving scan history.

    The disadvantages of the utility include the lack of Russian language in the menu.

    QR & Barcode Scanner

    The utility for reading and recognizing QR and barcodes, with the same name, has more than 100 million downloads from the company store. To install it you will need at least 3.6 MB free space in the device memory and the Android OS version is not lower than 2.2.3.

    Description

    If you don’t know how to use this application, then simply point your smartphone camera at the code, having first turned on the QR & Barcode Scanner. The entire scanning process occurs automatically, and it does not matter what surface the image is on. Interface this application It is simple and contains only a few functional buttons. Having scanned desired image, you get not just a link to the site, but open browser with the specified page.

    Pros and cons

    The program includes best opportunities other similar utilities. Its advantages include the following points:

    • Scan barcode on any surface.
    • Compatible with older phone models.
    • The most fast program, scanning all standard types of codes.

    The disadvantage is still the same - there is no Russian language. And all the few bugs during scanning are associated not with problems with the utility, but with the low resolution of the phone’s camera itself.

    Download


    QR Droid Code Scanner

    Intuitive and multifunctional utility for scanning barcodes. To install QR Droid Code Scanner, you will need Android OS version 2.0 or higher and at least 18 MB of device memory.

    Description

    What sets QR Droid apart from others is, first of all, its pleasant and accessible interface. As in previous cases, to scan you just need to activate the application and point the camera at the desired image. If it contains a link to a web page, the browser on your smartphone will automatically launch. If necessary, you can disable this feature or change the default browser. A unique feature of the utility is the ability to create your own QR code with the necessary information, without the need to download additional extensions and programs.

    Pros and cons

    Having familiarized yourself with the capabilities of the application, you can highlight the following advantages:

    • high reading speed;
    • the ability to create your own code images;
    • Russian interface.

    Download

    Results

    We looked at the features of the 3 best Android applications for scanning QR and barcodes on labels, websites, etc. They can help you save on purchasing goods or find out necessary information where this cannot be done by conventional means. Which barcode scanner to download to your device is up to the users to decide, because all the utilities have proven themselves worthy. But if you need to create your own QR codes with information, then you should definitely choose QR Droid Code Scanner.

    Sorry, there are no surveys available at this time.

    Video “QR Droid Android Demo on Qmobile A8”

    In this video you will see how you can use the scanner application.

    In this tutorial we will learn how to create an application for reading barcodes and QR codes using the standard Mobile Vision API library.

    Back with the release of Google Play services version 7.8, developers added Mobile Vision interfaces that provide an API for barcode detection. They read and decode many various types barcodes, quickly, easily and locally.

    Classes for barcode detection and analysis are available in the com.google.android.gms.vision.barcode namespace. The main workhorse is the BarcodeDetector class. It handles Frame objects and returns a SparseArray of barcodes .

    The Barcode type represents a single, universally recognized barcode and its meaning. In the case of 1D barcodes, such as UPC codes, this will simply be a number that is encoded into the barcode. Its value is available in the rawValue field, while the barcode type (that is, its encoding) can be found in the format field.

    For 2D barcodes that contain structured data, such as QR codes, the valueFormat field is set to a specific value type corresponding to the data field. So, for example, if the type URL is detected, then the valueFormat field will return the URL constant, and the Barcode.UrlBookmark object will contain the value of the URL. Besides URLs, there are many different types of data that a QR code can store. For example, postal address, calendar event date and time, calendar event, contact information, phone number, map location and other data, full list which are given in the documentation. Links to documentation.

    Use in Mobile application Vision API allows you to read barcodes in any position.

    It's important to note that all barcode parsing is done locally, so you don't need to use a server connection to read data from the code. For example, when reading a linear PDF-417 barcode, which can hold up to 1 KB of text, you can immediately get all the information encoded in it.

    So, to develop the application we will need:

    • Development environment Android Studio
    • Smartphone running Android 4.2.2 or later
    • Last Android version SDK, including the SDK tools component. You can get it using Android SDK Manager in Android Studio.
    • Google Play Services SDK. You can also get it from Android SDK Manager in Android Studio.

    Create a new project in Android Studio. When creating, select the Empty Activity template.

    The next step is to ensure that your app can use Google Play Services, which includes the Mobile Vision API. To do this, you need to update your project's build.gradle file.

    There should be lines like this in the dependencies section. Update Gradle if necessary.

    Compile "com.android.support:appcompat-v7:25.0.0" compile "com.google.android.gms:play-services:9.8.0"

    Google Play Services is updated frequently, and to get latest version, in Android Studio, select Tools > Android > SDK Manager.

    Then find the line for Google Play services and make sure you have version 26 or higher installed. If not, install the component.

    Now let's create the user interface.

    In Android Studio, select the "res" folder and open its subfolder "layout". Here you will see "activity_main.xml". Open it in the layout editor.

    You can see that your layout contains a text field . You need to change the layout as shown below. Now, in addition to the text field, there will also be a button and an image. We write identifiers for all screen components so that we can then access them in code.