How Does a Handheld Scanner Work?
While having access to a full-size scanner or similar device may be desirable, it is not always practical. A handheld or portable scanner is a device that provides the functionality of a full scanner, but is much smaller and does not need to be plugged into a computer or terminal to work.
Other People Are Reading
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Document Scanner
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A document scanner is a handheld scanner used for scanning documents and images. With this type of scanner, you typically lay the document on a flat surface and hold the scanner over it, moving the scanner if necessary to capture the full text or graphic. The scanner captures the image and saves it on a storage device. The image can then be sent to a computer.
Fingerprint Scanners
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Another type of handheld scanner -- fingerprint scanners -- is commonly used in law enforcement to identify individuals. This type of scanner uses light emitting diodes (LED) to light up the ridges in the fingerprint. A camera in the device takes a picture of the fingerprint and checks it against a database, matching that image to a known set in the database if one is available.
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Barcode Scanners
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The barcode scanner is a type of handheld scanner commonly used in business. Barcode scanners work in conjunction with universal product codes (UPC). The barcode scanner emits a red light, and uses a sensor to read the reflection from the red light on the UPC. This reflection generates an analog signal, which is converted into a digital signal used to determine what product is being scanned.
Other Uses
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Handheld scanners fulfill a number of other functions, depending on the device. For example, some scanners interpret written text and translate it into a computerized document, or translate text into other languages. Handheld scanners are often used to read aloud words written or printed on paper. This has the potential to help those with visual impairments who could otherwise not read on their own.
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