LXE has recently introduced the 8650 wearable Bluetooth ring scanner, enabling mobile workers to work more efficiently and accurately in a hands-free environment. The scanner itself rests on the finger and is operated via thumb pressure on the trigger. It’s lightweight—only 4.8 ounces—so it’s easy to wear all-day and does not interfere with the users’ ability to pick things up. The Bluetooth module is worn on the back of the hand or wrist via a Velcro strap and can transmit data from up to 30 ft. away. The LXE 8650 is ideal for warehouse, stockroom, POS and delivery applications, but could also be used for any application that would be better as a hands-free technology. The 8650 is available in two different scanning options; standard laser and 1D or 2D imager. The 2D imager is recommended for pharmaceutical applications.
As far as durability is concerned, the 8650 is sturdily constructed with magnesium housing with extra thick cable. In addition to the tough exterior, the interior contains specialized electronics that are designed to withstand even the harshest of operating conditions. The 8650 meets IP54 standards and can withstand drops to concrete of up to 4 ft.
Scanbuy’s popular “ScanLife” technology enables companies to connect customers with online content via the users’ cell phone cameras and barcodes. It offers an easy platform for advertisers to extend more information to their customers in a compact amount of space. Businesses can easily place 1D or 2D barcodes on their ads or packaging and users whom have a ScanLife enabled camera phone will be able to scan the barcode, which will take them to more information on the product. By simply taking a picture, or “scanning,” the barcode, users can view a website, launch a video and even see the company’s social networking sites.
For businesses, ScanLife has a Code Management Platform that enables the tracking and analysis tools, such as scan quantities and locations, giving businesses higher visibility into consumer behavior and thus enabling them to develop more targeted, strategic marketing strategies.
Motorola Ventures believes that mobile barcodes are a powerful tool for both consumers, businesses and even wireless providers.
With Motorola Ventures investing in Scanbuy’s ScanLife, I believe that this is a great leap in the right direction as far as spreading QR codes to America, who is still behind in mobile barcode technology compared to Japan and parts of Europe.
The Facing Identification Mark, or FIM, is used by the United States Postal Service (USPS) for the automation of mail processing. Basically, the FIM is a set of vertical bars that are printed on the upper edge of an envelop or postcard, slightly to the left of the stamp. It’s a nine digit barcode that consists of vertical bars and zeros, which are represented by the blank spaces.
The FIM’s primary function is to ensure that all mail is facing the proper way, to identify how the postage was paid (business reply, etc.) and whether or not the business reply mail has a POSTNET barcode. Should there be a POSTNET barcode, the mail can then be sent directly to the barcode sorter.
There are four different types of FIM barcodes, A, B, C and D.
While we’ve seen a lot of decorative 1D barcodes in the past, they were simply for aesthetic and did not function. Designers began to edit 2D barcodes, to make them both functional and beautiful, but 1D barcodes were still untouched… until recently.
In order to scan properly, barcodes must meet very specific guidelines, which was always challenging for decorative barcodes. Now, there’s a company called Vanity Barcode that make custom, visually appealing barcodes that scan as well as a regular barcode.
For companies looking to spruce up their package designs, Vanity Barcode is able to offer that extra touch to add another layer of valuable branding. In addition to a library of stock barcode designs, companies are able to request custom designs. Designer Yael Miller started off designing packages for retail products, but realizes the importance of subtle brand references and is “…excited to work with companies who want to integrate a custom “ownable” barcode design into their brand messaging.”
For more information on Vanity Barcode, check out their website here.
In a struggling economy, companies are constantly looking for a way to cut costs, particularly in the realm of operational expenses. Because of this, more and more companies are discovering that mobile printing solutions are the investment that they have been waiting for.
While some may be trying to extend the life of their struggling legacy printers, forward thinking companies are investing in mobile printing since they cost effectively complement other automation and mobility processes.
Over a long period of time, inefficient print processes cost businesses time and money, which could all be avoided by using mobile printing. Since saving steps saves time, and saving time saves money, the value of mobile printing relies upon the distance between a stationary printer and its users, the average hourly labor costs, and the importance of keeping operations on schedule.
Today’s mobile printers reliable and rugged and comply with enterprise IT requirements. Mobile printers provide value by helping to raise productivity and lower costs, while creating a flexible workflow.
This post is based off the Intermec White Paper Time is Money. Download the full version here.
LXE has recently introduced the 8650 wearable Bluetooth ring scanner, enabling mobile workers to work more efficiently and accurately in a hands-free environment. The scanner itself rests on the finger and is operated via thumb pressure on the trigger. It’s lightweight—only 4.8 ounces—so it’s easy to wear all-day and does not interfere with the users’ ability to pick things up. The Bluetooth module is worn on the back of the hand or wrist via a Velcro strap and can transmit data from up to 30 ft. away. The LXE 8650 is ideal for warehouse, stockroom, POS and delivery applications, but could also be used for any application that would be better as a hands-free technology. The 8650 is available in two different scanning options; standard laser and 1D or 2D imager. The 2D imager is recommended for pharmaceutical applications. 
