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VSys can use barcode and magnetic stripe readers to speed up the volunteer sign-in process. Like touchscreen displays, both of these devices emulate (pretend to be) a simpler device, in this case a keyboard. What is scanned using these readers is effectively typed into VSys at high speed.
There are three primary kinds of barcode readers.
Technology |
Pros |
Cons |
Pen readers These look like a writing device. To read a barcode, swipe the tip of the pen along the barcode. |
Very inexpensive |
Much slower to use Requires manual dexterity on volunteer's part |
Laser scanners Just like the readers at the grocery store, these can be mounted anywhere and read barcodes placed within a few inches of the reader |
Fast reading Does not require barcode to be placed up against scanner |
More expensive ($250+) |
CCD readers Handheld or mounted, these have wide heads and are placed up against the barcode to read it |
Inexpensive ($75+) |
Requires being placed up against the barcode to read (or vice-versa) |
Magnetic stripe readers
These look much like credit card processing machines, and either plug into your keyboard port (with the keyboard) or into a USB port. (In our internal testing, we've been very pleased with the ID Tech MiniMag Swipe Reader, about US$45.)
RFID card readers
While VSys has no direct support for cards like this, those that emulate a keyboard, like the magnetic stripe and barcode readers do, should work fine.