Guide to Barcode Scanner Programming

Understanding Barcode Scanner Programming

What is barcode scanner programming? It means controlling its behavior via software commands, protocols, or logic rules. It's more than just turning the device on or off. It includes:

● Switching between scan modes (e.g., manual trigger vs. auto-sensing)
● Formatting scan outputs (e.g., adding a prefix like “SKU-” or inserting line breaks)
● Recognizing multiple codes in sequence and interpreting them with logic—for example, verifying that a patient's wristband matches a medication label in a hospital workflow

This isn’t just basic setup. While config barcodes or tools can handle simple, one-time changes—like turning on certain barcode types or adding line breaks—programming takes it further. It lets scanners respond to systems in real time, with deeper logic and control.

In practice, scanner programming usually happens on three levels: hardware, software, and custom-built applications.

1. Hardware-Level Programming for Barcode Scanners

Some mid-to-high-end scanners support basic programmability through configuration barcodes, control commands, or firmware updates. Though this doesn’t involve coding, it’s a foundational way to control device behavior.

Common examples are:

●Enabling/disabling specific barcode types (e.g., scan only Code 128, ignore QR codes)
●Switching scan modes (manual, auto-sensing, continuous scan)
●Formatting output data (adding prefixes/suffixes, inserting line breaks)
●Changing communication interfaces (USB HID, Serial, Bluetooth, etc.)

A person scanning a shipping label on a box.

For instance, some iDPRT handheld scanners support quick setup via barcode commands to restrict scanning to 1D barcodes—ideal for e-commerce sorting and logistics label reading.

Some brands also allow real-time parameter control via serial commands, enabling external systems to interact with the scanner directly. This is especially useful for factory testing, bulk deployment, or embedded integrations.

2. Barcode Scanner Programming with SDKs and APIs

When deeper system integration or complex logic is required, developers can program scanners using vendor-provided SDKs.

Most barcode scanners connect to hosts via USB, Bluetooth, or serial ports and support:

●Starting/stopping scans (manually, timed, or triggered by software)
●Listening to scan events in real time and parsing raw data
●Triggering system actions based on scan results (e.g., navigating interfaces, sending data, calling APIs)
●Integrating with front-end interfaces like Android apps or industrial terminals

For instance, on Android, developers might hook into the scanner’s API to capture and verify order numbers, then push the data to the cloud—turning the whole scan-to-inventory process into a hands-off workflow.

Scanners can also serve as front-end data collectors for ERP, WMS, or MES platforms, helping businesses automate routine tasks and keep operations running smoothly.

3. Custom Application Development

In more complex workflows, barcode scanning is more than just a trigger—it becomes part of the operational backbone. In such cases, simple API calls aren’t enough. Businesses often develop custom apps to embed scanning directly into their processes, such as:

●In smart warehouses, a scan can trigger sorting, locating, or inventory updates
●In quality control, scanned data may activate sensors or machines to check for defects

Custom apps can support advanced features like:

●Conditional scanning (e.g., launching a camera app upon scan)
●Real-time backend synchronization for inventory, shipping, and tracking
●Data parsing and validation to trigger alerts or workflows
●Integration with PLCs, sensors, or robotic arms—building intelligent edge devices

This level of programmability is typically handled by software engineers in conjunction with SDKs and hardware specifications. It’s a key step toward intelligent automation using barcode technology.

Benefits and Use Cases of Programmable Barcode Scanners

With programmable scanners, you can do much more than read a code. You can define rules, connect systems, and automate workflows.

Compared to basic models that only read and pass data, programmable barcode scanners offer:

Custom logic control and flexible configuration
Seamless integration with enterprise systems like ERP, WMS, MES
Faster, more accurate, and more reliable automation

They’re ideal for industries like e-commerce logistics, retail, healthcare, and manufacturing—where accuracy, speed, and integration are critical.

Industry	Use Case Example
E-Commerce & Logistics	Auto-upload scanned waybills; trigger sorting equipment
Retail POS	Custom prefix scans to recognize promo or membership codes
Healthcare	Link test tubes to patient records; sync data to LIS in real time
Manufacturing	Scan serial numbers at the end of production lines; upload to traceability systems
Self-Service Kiosks	Unified scan workflows for check-in, payments, access, and ID verification

No matter if you’re integrating systems, managing procurement, or writing the code yourself—knowing how to program a scanner is essential for building smarter, faster, and more automated solutions.

iDPRT offers a wide range of barcode scanners—including fixed, handheld, and wireless models. We provide dedicated SDKs for Android, Windows, and iOS, enabling seamless system integration and custom development.

Visit our barcode scanner product page or contact us for expert technical support.

Understanding Barcode Scanner Programming

1. Hardware-Level Programming for Barcode Scanners

2. Barcode Scanner Programming with SDKs and APIs

3. Custom Application Development

Benefits and Use Cases of Programmable Barcode Scanners

Programmable Barcode Scanners, Ready for Your Workflow