• Spectris Technologies Private Limited

Image Lock Technology for Barcode Imagers

Microscan, a global technology leader in barcode, machine vision and lighting solutions, has introduced Image Lock technology on its latest handheld barcode readers, the HS-41X and HS-51X. Image Lock is the only commercially available feature in image-based barcode reading that ensures photos taken by a reader’ camera are never accessible by users or software, protecting sensitive information. Developed in the 1990s, barcode imaging technology has grown rapidly in popularity for its ability to read a variety of code types (or symbologies) in a wide range of environments. Barcode imagers use rows of CCD or CMOS sensors arranged in a two-dimensional array to generate an image of a symbol.

This method of image processing allows the reader to decode in both 1D (linear) and 2D symbols. 2D symbols, such as Microscan’s own patented Data Matrix, have been adopted in industries like electronics and automotive manufacturing because they allow large amounts of data to be encoded with in a small physical area. Data-dense 2D symbols are also ideal for marking small items that must be tracked throughout a product’s lifecycle – a process known as direct part marking or DPM. Not only can barcode imagers decode DPM symbols, but Microscan’s aggressive imaging algorithms allow even damaged, distorted, or low-contrast symbols to be read consistently on any substrate. From laboratories to electronics manufacturing environments, aerospace facilities, and automotive plants, companies are realizing the benefits of imaging for simple, accurate, and efficient part identification and traceability in their operations.