A barcode verifier is a fairly technical and expensive device but the reason you need one is straightforward: you need to manage your barcode-related risk; you’ve got customer relationships, your reputation and future business on the line. How do you make sure the verifier you’re thinking about buying is the right tool for your needs and your situation?

Here are the ten things to ask before you authorize that Purchase Order.

1. What barcode types or symbologies does the verifier test? Don’t settle for an imprecise answer, like “all types” or “1D and 2D” barcodes. One manufacturer offers a verifier for “1D and 2D symbols” that tests PDF417 but not Datamatrix. Hmm.

2. What protocol does the barcode verifier use to assess the symbologies it tests? And what protocol do you need? Most of the time, the ISO specification is acceptable but sometimes your customers might require you to test to AIM specifications. They are not substantially different, but if your verification test isn’t specifically compliant to the AIM protocol, your customer may not be satisfied that you are a vendor they trust.

3. Is the barcode verifier itself compliant? This is not the same thing as the verification report. Most barcode verifiers use the ISO specification as the format of their test reports, but not all verifiers are themselves compliant to the ISO specification that describes how the machine itself performs. If the verifier is not ISO compliant, the report is meaningless.

Beware of a barcode verifier that is  partial ANSI or ISO compliant

Watch out for asterisks in the verifier description. This usually means a barcode verifier that is compliant only in certain configurations. This usually means that optional, extra-cost equipment is necessary

4. How long is the warranty and what does it include? Beware of manufacturers who don’t clearly state their equipment warranty on the data sheets. Why aren’t they proud of their product and its factory warranty?

Beware of complicated or hard-to-find barcode verifier warranties

Beware of complicated product warranties. This is not a legal document (well actually it is)—it’s also a promise and a statement of good faith.

5. Does the barcode verifier require periodic re-calibration? Is the re-calibration card included in the quoted price for the verifier or is it an extra-cost option? Is periodic factory re-calibration required? Is the cost of this included in the cost? Is there an optional extended warranty available that includes re-calibration and (perhaps) a loaner device while your unit is back at the factory?

Beware of a barcode verifier that claims to never need re-calibration

Never needs re-calibration. Really? How would you trust it over the long haul, considering what’s on the line and why you’re spending thousands of dollars to begin with?

6. What is the reseller’s return policy? Even when the reseller is very helpful and works hard to make sure you’re buying the right piece of equipment, sometimes you discover that it just wasn’t the exact device you need. Are returns allowed? Are there restocking fees? What’s the time limit?

7. Does the manufacturer provide software updates? Do they require returning the unit to the factory or are they field-installable by end users? Is there an additional cost?

8. How does the barcode verifier report grade the tested symbols? The globally-preferred method is ISO numerical grading, but many Americans prefer ANSI letter grades.

9. What is the verifier form factor? If the device is portable, how do you get the test data into your PC (or Mac) for viewing, archiving, printing or emailing? Is an extra-cost optional interface necessary? What’s the interface? Serial? USB? Can the computer-tethered device be converted to a portable with an optional battery-powered display?

10. Does the manufacturer or reseller have demo equipment available? Sometimes you just want a test drive. If a manufacturer won’t be helpful at this stage, how helpful will they be after they have your money?

 

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3db Barcode Testimonial

Our company (an advanced software company) recently worked with Barcode Test to source a barcode verifier.  Not long ago, we were awarded a contract requiring products to be marked with IUIDs in accordance with MIL-STD-130.  For that standard, marking labels must pass a verification test that evaluates many variables (contrast, size, clarity, syntax, modularity, and more).  After a thorough search, we reduced our options to a select few.

In our search for a verifier, the Axicon line caught our attention.  Barcode Test is our regional reseller for this product.   From the beginning, they were very prompt with their responses.  We ended up having a quick call with John Nachtrieb to go over our needs.  John was extremely easy to work with and provided a lot of great information.  He was very knowledgeable on the matter and was quick to offer up a demo unit (free of charge).

Upon receiving the demo verifier and testing it, a few questions arose.  John joined a call with us and answered all our questions.  Ultimately, the Axicon verifier wasn’t the best fit for us, so we shipped the demo back.  John was completely understanding.  A few weeks later, Barcode Test reached back out with another possible verifier for us to try.  While they didn’t sell that brand, they just wanted to help us find the best option that met our needs. They even offered to send us the unit that they have in-house to see if it worked to our liking. 

Barcode Test is truly a great company to work with.  Their service and willingness to help the customer are far beyond what you typically get from other companies.  They are experts in barcode quality assurance and seem willing to help in any way they can (even if that means not getting a sale and recommending another option that better fits the customer’s needs).  If anyone is in the market for barcode verification/scanning services or products, I would highly recommend giving Barcode Test a call.

Regards,

Production Manager