Using barcode scanners

Using Barcode Scanners

Barcode scanners let you quickly receive inventory or look up products by scanning their barcode labels instead of typing product codes manually. This speeds up receiving, reduces data-entry errors, and makes inventory tracking more reliable.

Before you start

• Permission required: You must have permission to use barcode input in the module where you are scanning (Inventory receiving, stock adjustment, or medical case operations depending on your product).
• Hardware: You need a barcode scanner (USB, wireless, or mobile app-based). Most scanners present scanned data as text input—no special driver is usually needed.
• Product setup: Products must have barcodes printed or assigned in the system. If a product has no barcode, the scanner cannot find it.
• Barcode labels: Barcodes should be printed clearly and undamaged so the scanner can read them.

Steps

1. Open the receiving or lookup form where you need to scan barcodes.

   • For Inventory: Go to Inventory → Receive or the appropriate receiving screen. Open in Usystems
   • For Medical/Clinical: Use the queue or medical case screen that accepts barcode input. Open in Usystems

2. Point your scanner at the barcode on the product or label.

   • Hold the scanner 3–6 inches (7–15 cm) from the barcode at a slight angle if the scanner is hand-held.
   • For fixed scanners (like at a checkout), place the barcode in the scanner's field of view.

3. Trigger the scan (usually by pressing the button on the scanner or aiming it at the barcode).

   • The scanner reads the barcode and sends the product code to the active input field in Usystems.
   • The product or row is automatically populated if the barcode matches a product in your system.

4. Verify the product is correct before confirming the transaction.

   • Check that the correct product, quantity, and other details appear.
   • If the wrong product appears, the barcode may be damaged or assigned to the wrong product.

5. Complete the transaction (receive, adjust inventory, or proceed with your workflow).

   • Once all items are scanned and verified, submit the form as you normally would.

Tips & common mistakes

• Barcode not found? Make sure the product has a barcode assigned in the system and the label is not damaged or faded. Scan the barcode again or type the product code manually.
• Slow or missed scans? Check that the scanner is powered on, properly connected (USB/wireless), and the barcode is clean and undamaged. Some scanners need a few seconds to process.
• Scanner input goes to the wrong field? Click in the barcode input field first to ensure focus before scanning.
• Batch receiving: You can scan multiple items in sequence on the same receiving form. Each scan adds or updates a line item, making bulk receiving much faster than manual entry.

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