Almost any barcode scanner will work with 5-Star Students in some capacity. Look for the "plug and play" models that don't require any special software installation to use the device.
Here are some other tips if looking to purchase your own scanner:
- The most common barcode symbologies used for student IDs include Code 39, Code 128, Codabar and QR Code. Virtually every scanner can handle the traditional barcodes, but some scanners may not be able to read QR codes (see more below)
- 1D laser barcode scanners will NOT scan from electronic displays as they struggle with screen reflections (i.e. digital IDs, etc). If you're planning to scan digital barcodes, look for scanners with CCD or CMOS imaging technology and make sure the scanner will support the specific 1D or 2D barcodes you need to read
- 2D barcode scanners are required for scanning QR codes. If you need to read QR codes, don't purchase a 1D scanner.
- We typically recommend wireless barcode scanners, as they provide more freedom to move around. Many of these scanners include a base for charging and bluetooth connectivity or a wireless dongle for connecting to your device. Wired barcode scanners also work great and provide a very simple setup process.
- Batch scanners allow you to scan barcodes "off-line" and then upload later to 5-Star Students. This method supports scanning scenarios that don't require immediate feedback from the program, such as a "dress up day". Here, you scan students that are participating and the IDs are safely stored on the device for later upload to the system. We sell several batch scanner models that are specifically integrated with our software, however other models can work by "dumping" the data into a separate file (i.e. text or Excel) before uploading.
- Avoid buying the cheapest barcode scanners you see online. They are likely to be fragile and unreliable for daily use.