The Unique Identification (UID) program is an extensive series of regulations developed by the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) for the purpose of standardizing the tagging and tracking of government assets. Many suppliers to the aerospace and defense industries have modified their approach to asset management in order to comply with these guidelines. One of the major requirements is the use of 2D barcode technology on UID labels.
The government standard MIL-STD-130 defines which label formats are acceptable for use in UID applications. When assessing UID barcode label options and scanning hardware it is important to verify that your system is compatible with these unique symbologies. We’ve compiled this list of the top 25 barcode scanners that are suitable for UID tagging and tracking purposes. You will find a good mix of options to choose from including specialized offerings for niche applications. The list is shown in alphabetical order and is not ranked in any special way.
The NuScan 2800U is an omnidirectional 2D barcode scanner that is designed for hands-free operation on a desktop. It can be used in retail applications or any situation where high-volume scanning must be performed, including the use of UID barcodes. The unit has a fast 120 FPS scan rate allowing it to easily scan barcodes of different sizes and orientations.
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Cost: $179.99
The Argox AS-9600 is a general-duty 2D barcode scanner with advanced decoding capabilities. With a silver-white LED light source, this handheld scanner can detect barcodes even in situations that are not ideal such as reduced lighting conditions. The AS-9600 can read most common 1D and 2D barcode formats from printed materials or from the screen of any device.
Key Features:
Cost: Contact for a quote
3. Brady CR2700
The Brady CR2700 handled barcode scanner uses ultra-fast sensor technology that makes it easy to perform scans in many different locations. Connecting the CR2700 to your computer system can be done with a USB cable or a Bluetooth5 low-energy wireless connection. Several of the buttons on this scanner can be customized giving you the ultimate flexibility for implementing this hardware into your workflows.
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Cost: $1,049.99
The 2500 Series of handheld scanners from CipherLab are an excellent choice for light industrial applications. These scanners can withstand harsh environments and have the capability of reading high-density 1D and 1D barcodes. For sensitive applications that utilize UID tags, the hardware is also designed with enhanced electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection for maximum environmental compatibility.
Key Features:
Cost: Contact for a quote
The Dataman 8700 series of scanners, from Cognex, is a high-performance lineup of handheld scanning hardware. This scanner is designed for use even in very demanding environments that are common in the aerospace and automotive industries. The unit also comes with a built-in display for easy setup and immediate feedback after each scan.
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Cost: Contact for a quote
6. Datalogic Gryphon 4500 Series
The Datalogic Gryphon 4500 2D scanner series is a premium offering that features a high-performance image sensor and impressive battery life. With chemical-resistant housing, these scanners are well suited for use in retail, healthcare, and manufacturing settings. The case is IP52 drop-rated and Datalogic offers a 5-year warranty for corded scanners and 3-years for wireless units.
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Cost: Contact for a quote
The Granit 1980i, from Honeywell, is a full-range industrial scanner with a rugged design and the ability to scan 1D or 2D barcodes. This scanner is IP65 rated and can scan low density (100 mil) codes at a distance of up to 52 feet. As a wired solution, this unit comes with a durable industrial cable that is perfect for busy warehouse environments.
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Cost: Contact for a quote
The ID Tech 2DScan handheld scanner can be used to read barcodes present on labels, surfaces, or LCD displays. With the ability to read common global 1D/2D barcode formats, this is a suitable choice for UID applications and related asset management needs. The scanner comes with a durable cable that can be plugged into the USB port of an appropriate device.
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Cost: $295.40
The Inateck BCST-52 2D scanner is a completely wireless scanning solution that comes with a matching smart base for charging and storage. This scanner can read mainstream 1D and 2D barcodes including those utilized for UID procedures. The smart base can be connected to a computer with a USB cable and will automatically capture and transmit all scanning results.
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Cost: $119.99
10. Intermec SR61-HP
The Intermec SR61-HP is a high-performance handheld scanner designed for demanding industrial applications. Intermec, now part of Honeywell, has designed this device to be ergonomic and widely compatible with computer systems using the included USB attachment or wireless Bluetooth connection. This model is also durable and can withstand extreme temperatures and contamination from common environmental factors such as dust.
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Cost: Contact for a quote
The Keyence HR-100 series of handheld scanners are integrated with a responsive sensor for rapid barcode reading. These scanners can also read barcodes within a wide area of view and at a depth of up to nearly 15 inches. The HR-100 series is also drop-impact resistant and can handle repeated accidental drops from a height of roughly 1.8 meters.
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Cost: Contact for a quote
12. Koamtac KDC270
The Koamtac KDC270 scanner is a completely mobile solution for reading and collecting information from 1D and 2D barcodes. This is a highly specialized piece of hardware for auto-identification applications that require rapid assessment. The pocket-sized unit also includes an inbuilt display and a housing that is dust and water-resistant.
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Cost: $299 – $499
13. Opticon L-51X
The Opticon L-51X handheld scanner has an upgraded 2D imager versus the earlier version of the device (L-50X). These devices can be custom branded with a corporate logo upon purchase, and the unit also comes with a holder for hands-free scanning. The L-51X also has a 100fps scanning speed and will provide visual and non-visual indicators after a scan is completed.
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Cost: Contact for a quote
14. Panmobil SCANNDY
The Panmobil SCANNDY is a combination barcode scanner and RFID reader that has wide compatibility with industrial and retail applications. There are two device options available, the SCANNDYbasic and the SCANNDYgun. The major difference between the two is the form factor with the SCANNDYgun adding an ergonomic grip for demanding industrial needs.
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Cost: Contact for a quote
The ScanSKU M-Series of scanners can read 1D and 2D barcodes even in harsh industrial environments. This platform also supports integrations with many popular asset management and WMS solutions providing maximum flexibility for each deployment. This hardware can scan 1D and 2D barcodes from a variety of mediums including digital screens.
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Cost: $635
16. Socket Mobile DuraScan D760
The DuraScan D760, from Socket Mobile, is a completely mobile Bluetooth scanner that is IP54 compliant and suitable for indoor or outdoor applications. An optional charging dock or station can be used to store the unit and also enable hands-free scanning. The battery included with the Durascan D760 can last up to 16 hours and handle even the most demanding use cases.
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Cost: $569
17. Trimble TDC150
The Trimble TDC150 is a GNSS handheld scanner that is designed for specialized GIS applications. The integrated GNSS satellite technology can track and monitor multiple systems such as SBAS and GPS to provide reliable location data. This scanner can also read 1D and 2D barcodes and comes with 2GB or RAM and 16GB of internal storage.
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Cost: Contact for a quote
The Unitech MS852B+ HC is a unique wireless handheld scanner that has antimicrobial properties. This scanner is capable of recognizing 1D and 2D symbologies and also has a lightweight and ergonomic design. The housing design is resistant to microbial contamination and holds numerous medical certifications for cleanliness that make it particularly effective for biomedical and healthcare applications.
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Cost: Contact for a quote
19. Unitech PA692
The Unitech PA692 is a ruggedized Windows-based handheld computer with built-in scanning technology. This versatile product has a large 3.7-inch display and fully functional keyboard allowing users to access many features within a compact design. The scanner also supports common 1D and 1D barcode formats and can also detect RFID tags.
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Cost: Contact for a quote
20. Wasp WWS750
Wasp has a full lineup of barcode scanners for industrial and retail applications and the WWS750 Wireless 2D scanner is a great choice for UID applications. This unit is ruggedized (IP65 rating) and has been proven to maintain functionality even after multiple drops onto concrete from a height of 6 feet. The handheld scanner comes with a base unit for recharging and can read popular 1D and 2D barcode symbologies.
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Cost: $695
21. Webscan TruCheck 401 Series
The Webscan TruCheck 401, from Cognex, is a GS1 certified barcode verification scanner. As a standalone unit, the TruCheck can be installed at any location to perform the necessary checks and will instantly generate a report for each barcode. The scanner is used to guarantee true ANSI/ISO readings for 1D and 2D barcodes and is an excellent choice for UID label error-checking.
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Cost: Contact for a quote
22. Wenglor CSMH010
The Wenglor CSMH010 1D/2D barcode scanner is intended for mobile use with the ability to scan printed or etched barcodes. This unit can be configured to provide a clear indication of a completed scan using vibration or an acoustic signal. The scanner is for sale in select countries in Europe and can read all major 1D and 2D barcode formats.
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Cost: Contact for a quote
The Worth Data 530-2D USB barcode scanner can connect to any Windows, Mac, or Linux system for a simple and affordable scanning solution. As a handheld device, this scanner is compatible with common 1D and 2D barcode formats that are utilized for UID purposes. The hardware comes with a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty and supports omnidirectional scanning.
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Cost: $299
Zebex has released the Z3392BT Plus as a wireless handheld scanner with a gun-type form factor and support for 2D barcodes. With wireless technology that enables a 100-meter working range, this scanner can be used in a multitude of locations without the hindrance of cords and cables. This scanner also has integrated smart-charging capabilities that help to extend battery life.
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Cost: Contact for a quote
25. Zebra TC8000
The TC 8000 touch mobile computer, from Zebra Technologies, is a fully functional remote device that can improve worker productivity. An excellent choice for warehouse operations, this handheld scanner is ruggedized and meets the demanding drop specifications of MIL-STD-810G. The hardware also has an ergonomic design that reduces the amount of wrist motion and tilt needed to scan.
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Cost: Contact for a quote
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