Gds scanner

Types of GDS scanners

A GDS scanner (Goods Distribution System scanner) belongs to a family of handheld mobile data terminals or barcode scanners. It finds use in inventory management, logistics, and retail to track and manage the movement of goods within the supply chain. To fulfill different customer needs, GDS scanners come in different types depending on their connectivity type, scanning technology, form factor, and industry application.

• Connectivity type

  Wireless GDS scanners use wireless technologies like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to connect to host systems. They offer freedom of movement for operators because they can work without tethered connections. GDS handsfree scanners are fixed-position scanners that employees working in warehouses and retail stores point or pass items to be scanned in front of the scanner. These handsfree scanners enjoy wide application in industries with high-volume scanning tasks.

• Scanning technology

  GDS scanners use laser or imaging scanning technology. The popular and widely used laser scanners decode barcodes using a laser beam. They are ideal for scanning barcodes in a straight line. On the other hand, 2D image scanners (also referred to as CCD scanners, an abbreviation for charged coupled device) capture and analyze the barcode's image using a series of LEDs and sensors. This technology can scan barcodes in various orientations. Therefore, it is widely used in environments with poor lighting conditions because of its ability to scan barcodes hands-on in different lighting situations.

• Form factor

  GDS scanners come in two main forms: pistol grip and pen-shaped. The pistol grip scanners feature an ergonomic handle that resembles the shape of a gun. They are comfortable to hold and ideal for extended scanning tasks. On the contrary, the pen-shaped scanners look like a typical writing pen. They are portable and lightweight.

• Industry applications

  The versatility of GDS scanners makes them applicable in various industries, including logistics and warehousing, retail, manufacturing, healthcare, and field services. Logistic and warehousing facilities employ GDS scanners in tasks like inventory management, order picking and packing, and shelf replenishment. In retail, GDS scanners facilitate efficient checkout processes, inventory management, and stocktaking. Various manufacturing industries use GDS scanners to track raw material, monitor production lines, and ensure quality control. Field service companies use GDS scanners to validate service completion, track equipment, and carry out asset audits.

Function and Features of GDS Scanners

Global Data Synchronization (GDS) scanners serve fundamental functions in supply chain management and data integrity:

• Data Verification: They ensure that the product data being synchronized across different trading partners is accurate and consistent. This is crucial for maintaining data quality in the supply chain.
• Data Synchronization: GDS scanners help synchronize product information, including attributes like barcode GDSC codes, across various platforms and trading partners, ensuring everyone has the same up-to-date information.
• Compliance Checking: These scanners check that the data provided adheres to industry standards and regulations, which is essential for preventing fines and maintaining compliance.
• Data Quality Improvement: By identifying and rectifying errors, GDS scanners contribute to the overall quality of the data, which is important for making informed business decisions.
• Integration with Other Systems: GDS scanners can often be integrated with other supply chain management systems to facilitate seamless data flow and improve operational efficiency.

Feature of GDS scanners include;

• Barcode Scanning Capability: This allows the scanner to read various types of barcodes, including GS1 barcodes, accurately and quickly.
• Wireless Connectivity: This enables data transmission, often through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
• Durability: Many handheld scanners are built to withstand drops and rough handling commonly encountered in warehouse environments.
• Long Battery Life: Essential for prolonged usage, ensuring that the scanner can be used throughout a shift without needing a recharge.
• GD Scan Code Generation: Some scanners not only scan but also generate GDSC codes, which is useful for creating codes for new products or items that need them.
• User-Friendly Interface: A simple and intuitive interface makes the scanner easier to use and reduces training time for new users.
• Data Synchronization: GDS scanners ensure that product data is synchronized across various platforms and trading partners.
• Compliance Checking: They check that the data adheres to industry standards and regulations.
• Integration with Other Systems: GDS scanners can often be integrated with other supply chain management systems to facilitate seamless data flow and improve operational efficiency.

Uses of GDS Scanner

Global data synchronisation (GDS) scanners have various uses besides verifying product barcodes for better supply chain management. Here are some of the key applications:

• Data Quality Management

  Users apply GDS scanners for data quality management. They ensure data accuracy and consistency in global data synchronization by screening and validating product barcodes. The scanners also help identify and rectify errors or discrepancies in product data, enabling retailers and suppliers to maintain high-quality standards.

• Inventory Management

  GDS scanners simplify inventory management as they automate stocktaking processes. They enable businesses to perform accurate and efficient inventory checks by scanning and validating barcodes. This promotes regular inventory audits that ensure businesses maintain optimal stock levels, which helps prevent stockouts or overstocking.

• Compliance and Regulatory

  Users can apply GDS scanners to comply with industry standards and regulatory requirements. The barcodes conform to specific standards and regulations. The verification process of GDS scanners ensures compliance with product identification and labelling regulations, promoting product safety and preventing legal issues.

• Enhanced Customer Experience

  GDS scanners can enhance customer experience. Accurate and consistent product data provides customers with reliable information when making purchase decisions. Users can improve customer satisfaction by validating barcodes and maintaining data quality. The scanners also prevent potential issues such as product returns and mismatches that may negatively affect customer loyalty.

• Reducing Manual Workload

  Verification of product data is a time-consuming process that requires human input. GDS scanners, however, automate the validation process, reducing the manual workload involved in data verification. This allows employees to focus on more strategic tasks that improve productivity and efficiency in the workplace.

• Enhanced Operational Efficiencies

  The accuracy and consistency of product data is crucial to efficient business operations. Validated barcodes minimise errors in areas like order fulfilment, inventory management and pricing. This leads to streamlined operations and reduced costs associated with rectifying mistakes.

How to choose a GDS scanner

When purchasing a GDS scanner, one needs to look at certain features to satisfy the requirements of their business. Now, global data synchronization is the process of ensuring that product information is consistent across various platforms. For this to happen, the scanner needs to have capabilities that can meet information accuracy. Another important aspect to consider is the interface. The scanner has to be user-friendly, which will minimize training costs and maximize productivity.

Moreover, flexibility is a must, as the GSD scanner is needed to work with different kinds of barcodes and product metadata. Connectivity is another vital aspect to see before purchasing. The scanner needs to have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities. This will support real-time data transfer. Performance and reliability are crucial, as they need to withstand daily use and provide accurate scanning. The scanner has to be durable, too, because it will be used in different industries. People need to pay careful attention to those manufacturers that make the scanner, as it needs to come with warranties and after-sales support. Cost-effectiveness is also essential.

When choosing a GDS scanner, one must consider the design. Handheld scanners are the most common, as they are portable and easy to use. Fixed scanners are also available, as they can be mounted in one place. A pen-style scanner can work well, as it is designed to scan product information manually. Choosing the right scanner design is essential because it will affect efficiency and workflow. A full scan happens using a 1D scanner, which will read linear barcodes. A laser barcode scanner will use a laser beam and a CCD sensor to decode the barcode. A 2D scanner can read both 1D and 2D barcodes, and a smartphone scanner uses a camera to capture barcode data.

GDS scanner Q & A

Q1: What is the global standards distribution (GDS) and what do GDS scanners have to do with it?

A1: The global distribution standard (GDS) is a global benchmark for product packaging and labeling standards. It includes the GDS barcode. GDS scanners can read the GDS barcodes, so they are important for accurate data capture and compliance with GDS standards.

Q2: How do GDS scanners work?

A2: GDS scanners work by using a laser or an image sensor to capture the barcode and decode the data encoded in it. It usually consists of a trigger button to capture the barcode, a display screen to show the information decoded from the barcode, and data transmission technologies such as USB, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi to transfer the data to another device.

Q3: What should users look out for when choosing a GDS scanner?

A3: Users need to consider factors like scanning speed, scan-to-data transfer efficiency, accuracy, and user-friendliness. They must also consider the barcodes the scanner can read and other features such as the connectivity options, portable design, and built-in screen.

Q4: Besides the retail industry, what other industries use GDS scanners?

A4: Industries like healthcare, logistics, transportation, and manufacturing also use GDS scanners.

Q5: How important is barcode quality to GDS scanners?

A5: Barcode quality is very important for GDS scanners. If the barcodes are damaged or poorly printed, the scanners may have difficulty scanning them, which can affect productivity and operations. This is why GDS scans have quality requirements for barcodes printed on product packaging.