Market leading companies around the world are starting to take advantage of barcode technology which is helping to protect their workers and enabling them to become more efficient. ecom have taken barcode scanning technology to the next level by developing a new multi range scanning module that allows barcode technology to be reliably used in the most extreme and hazardous environments in the world.
The Rise of Barcode Technology
The use of barcode technology has lead to a significant step forward for companies who need to identify pallets, containers and other storage related items due to enhanced speed and accuracy. Workers are now able to scan containers with the click of a button, enabling them to quickly identify it and get information relating to its destination or origin. This significantly increases the speed in which workers are able to collect information and send it on to colleagues or a control centre.
There are also significant advantages through the enhanced accuracy barcode scanning technology provides workers. In the past, identification of the containers would be left to a worker meaning they would have to read a number and then input that correctly into their system, or accurately communicate the number with a co-worker. Using barcode technology when scanning a storage container or pallet, a worker can immediately identify that container, completely removing the risk of confusion or errors.
Challenges of Barcode Scanning
The rise of barcode technology has undeniably led to improved accuracy and efficiency; however there can still be complications while they are in use, especially in hazardous areas.
Common problems include:
- Damaged barcodes
- Hard to reach barcodes
- Barcodes printed on reflective materials
- Barcodes indented in metal
When using barcodes in hazardous areas there can be further complications involving the safety of workers around radioactive sources or explosives. Using a traditional barcode scanner, the worker would be required to get close to the item to scan it, therefore significantly increasing their exposure and personal risk.
The Next Step - The EX25
The i.roc® Ci70-Ex has become an essential tool for many hazardous area workers and with the newly launched EX25 barcode scanning head module, ecom have solved many of the issues that traditionally arise from using barcode technology in hazardous areas.
The EX25 is a multi range barcode scanning head module that can be used to quickly and accurately scan a wide range of 1D and 2D barcodes. With this head module, a worker can scan and read barcodes from a much wider range of distances and angles, meaning they don’t have to get as physically close to the barcode, increasing their comfort and safety - especially when scanning in hazardous areas. The EX25 gives workers the ability to scan barcodes in areas where there is poor light or extreme sunlight as well as giving the user the ability to scan damaged barcodes and barcodes that are intended in metal.
By using the i.roc® Ci70-Ex and the EX25 head module, you are giving workers the best possible user experience and highest levels of safety when scanning 1D and 2D barcodes in ATEX Zone 1/21 hazardous areas.