14
When codes cannot be scanned successfully
Cause
Measure
Specular
reflection
When the light is focused on the
printed surface of the code from
directly above, the scanner may
not read the code due to specular
reflection.
Adjust an angle between the code printed
surface and the scanner, and try again.
Distance from
code
Scanning may be unsuccessful if
it is too close to or too far from
the reading window of the
scanner, even when the code is
within the read area.
Move the scanner slowly toward or away
from the code and try again.
Code surface
curvature
Scanning may be unsuccessful if
the code surface is curved.
Scan the barcode at the center of the
barcode reading window.
Code surface
dirt
Scanning may be unsuccessful if
its surface is dirty.
Wipe the dirt from the code and try again.
Code reading
window dirt
Scanning may be unsuccessful if
the code reading window is dirty.
Blow any dust away with an airbrush, and
then gently wipe the reading window with a
cotton swab or similar soft object.
Direct
sunlight,
ambient light
Code scanning may be adversely
affected by direct sunlight or the
brightness of the surrounding
light.
Perform code scanning away from direct
sunlight. Try adjusting the brightness of the
surrounding light when scanning indoors.
