There are many reasons barcodes might not scan and most of them can be boiled down to one of three things—your equipment isn't suited to your barcodes, your scanner isn't being operated properly or your barcode labels aren't suited to your application or environment.

How do I get my barcode scanner to work?

It's simple to use a bar code scanner once you have set it up. First, check the scanner to assure the reader light is active. Next, place the scanner light at the center of the barcode and wait for the scanner to pick up the data. You may have to move the scanner light up and down the bar code to get a reading.

How do I know if my barcode scanner is working?

Print your barcode and take it to a retail store. Ask if you can scan your barcode at the register. (Bribe the cashier with snacks.) The scanner should pick up your barcode and beep, confirming that the barcode is readable.