Tracking Products through Packaging

Barcodes used to track packaged produce through the supply chain contain important product information that must be verified at multiple points during packaging. Read on to learn how an ABR 3000 barcode reader ensures the barcode on each package is present and correct.

ABR 3000 inspects low-quality codes image

Application: Barcode Reading on a Food Packaging Line

A regional packing house for fresh produce packages cherries and other fresh berries for retail sale in plastic clamshell containers. Each clamshell container is wrapped in a glossy, paperboard sleeve with product information and a barcode printed on it. To help identify the products throughout the supply chain, the barcodes are embedded with information specific to each product and production run.

As part of their track and trace program, the packing house verifies product barcodes at multiple points during packaging, creating a record that will allow the company to quickly identify and isolate any product with quality issues in the event of a recall.

Solution: A Compact, Easy-to-Use Barcode Reader

The ABR 3000 is a powerful imager-based barcode reader capable of decoding the widest range of 1D and 2D barcodes. The ultracompact, IP65-rated housing fits easily in very small spaces and the laser alignment tool enables rapid deployment. An intuitive software programming environment simplifies device setup and management and the Smart Teach push button allows users to teach codes directly on the device.

Deployed along the packaging line, the ABR 3000 verifies that the barcode printed on each package is present, readable, and correct for each production run. A green "good-read" LED and an integrated beeper provide local indication of each inspection. The information contained in the barcodes is sent via an Ethernet connection to the company’s production management system which records the data.

The ABR 3000 features a bank of integrated white LEDs that illuminate the inspection area, optimizing the contrast levels between the barcode and the surrounding packaging. A polarizing front window eliminates glare reflected back to the barcode reader from the glossy packaging and image filters improve the readability of low-quality codes. Barcode quality can be evaluated using the Code Grading feature included with Barcode Manager software, making it easy to identify and resolve code issues early.

Benefits of ABR 3000 Barcode Readers

Superior Decoding Capabilities

ABR 3000 barcode readers utilize advanced algorithms to decode a full library of 1D and 2D barcodes. They are available in models with a WVGA (752 x 480 pixels) imager or a high-resolution 1.2 MP (1280 x 960 pixels) imager for applications with small, complex, and challenging barcodes. Image filters are available to improve the readability of low-quality codes.

Intuitive Software with Advanced Capabilities

Connect, configure, and monitor multiple ABR Series devices using Barcode Manager. This free and easy-to-use software features flowchart programming and a wide range of configuration options, including a one-step process for automatic setup and an advanced option that provides full access to change and configure device settings.

Easy to Install in Any Application

The ABR 3000 barcode reader has an all-in-one design that combines imager, lens, and lighting in one easy-to-deploy device. It has an ultracompact, IP65-rated housing that fits easily in the smallest spaces and protects the device against hazards common to industrial environments. Device setup is easy using Barcode Manager software or the on-board Smart Teach interface.