How does a barcode scanner communicate with a computer?

@rubie 

A barcode scanner communicates with a computer through various methods, including wired connections and wireless technologies. Here are some common ways barcode scanners communicate with computers:

1. USB (Universal Serial Bus): Most barcode scanners use USB connectivity to communicate with computers. The scanner is connected to the computer via a USB cable, and the scanned barcode data is transmitted as input to the computer like a keyboard.
2. Bluetooth: Some barcode scanners are equipped with Bluetooth technology, allowing wireless communication with a computer or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. The scanner is paired with the computer, and the scanned barcode data is transmitted wirelessly.
3. Wireless Networking: Barcode scanners can also connect to the computer through wireless networks, such as Wi-Fi. They utilize the wireless network infrastructure to transmit the scanned barcode data to the computer over the network.
4. Serial Ports: Older barcode scanners may use a serial port (RS-232) to communicate with the computer. The scanner is connected to the computer's serial port using a serial cable, and the barcode data is sent directly through the serial communication.
5. Keyboard Wedge: In the case of a keyboard wedge connection, the barcode scanner is plugged directly between the keyboard and the computer. The barcode data is captured by the scanner and sent to the computer as keyboard input.

In all these communication methods, the barcode scanner converts the scanned barcode information into a digital signal that can be interpreted by the computer. This allows the computer to receive and process the barcode data for various purposes, such as inventory management, sales transactions, or product tracking.

@rubie 

A barcode scanner communicates with a computer through a variety of methods, the most common being USB, Bluetooth, and wireless connections. Here's a brief explanation of each method:

1. USB: The barcode scanner has a USB cable that plugs directly into the computer's USB port. The scanner sends the scanned barcode data in the form of keyboard inputs, simulating the entry of characters as if they were typed on a keyboard.
2. Bluetooth: Certain barcode scanners support Bluetooth connectivity. The scanner pairs with the computer over Bluetooth, and the scanned barcode data is transmitted wirelessly to the computer. The computer receives the data through the Bluetooth receiver and utilizes it accordingly.
3. Wireless: Some barcode scanners come with a wireless receiver that connects to the computer's USB port. The scanner communicates with the receiver via radio frequency (RF) or infrared (IR) technology. The receiver acts as a bridge between the scanner and the computer, relaying the scanned barcode data to the computer.

In all these methods, the computer typically recognizes the barcode scanner as an input device and treats the scanned data as if it were typed using a keyboard. This allows applications and software on the computer to process the barcode information for various purposes like inventory management, sales tracking, or data entry.