Traceability with fixed-mount code readers
Traceability starts with unique identification.
Fixed-mount code readers capture barcodes and 2D codes automatically at defined points of a production, assembly or packaging line and make the data available to the PLC, MES, a database or higher-level IT systems.
That makes it possible to document which part was at which process step and when.
Discuss your applicationTypical traceability applications
- identifying workpieces at the line entry
- tracking serial numbers
- identifying production carriers
- assigning parts to individual manufacturing steps
- reading DataMatrix codes on electronic components
- capturing DPM codes on metal parts
- reading labels on packaging
- checking codes before dispatch
- documenting product and batch data
- comparing code and OCR results
Which codes have to be read?
Typical codes are:
- Code 128
- Code 39
- EAN
- DataMatrix
- QR code
- PDF417
- further industrial 1D/2D symbologies
In production and automotive in particular, DPM - direct part marking - is also relevant. The code sits directly on the part and may be laser marked, engraved or dot peened. DPM often places higher demands on optics and lighting than a cleanly printed label.
The reading distance alone is not enough
When selecting a fixed-mount code reader we look at, among other things:
- code type
- code size
- minimum module size
- DPM or label
- reading distance
- field of view
- part speed
- code orientation
- surface material
- communication
- ingress protection
A reader that captures a large QR code from a meter away is therefore not automatically suited to a small DataMatrix code on metal.
Communication with the line
Depending on the system, the following can be used:
- Ethernet / TCP-IP
- PROFINET
- EtherNet/IP
- Modbus TCP
- serial interfaces
- OPC UA
- digital inputs and outputs
Which interface is required depends on where the read result has to be transmitted.
Code reader or a complete traceability solution?
The fixed-mount reader is the point of identification. Full traceability then comes from the interplay of code, reader, controller or software and a database or MES.
VISIONTECHNIK supports the selection and specification of the reader and can bring in suitable specialists for the wider integration on larger projects.
This information helps us specify the system
Example values - an image of the code together with these details is usually enough for a shortlist.
- Code type
- DataMatrix, dot peened
- Code size
- 8 × 8 mm
- Module size
- 0.25 mm
- Reading distance
- 150 mm
- Speed
- 0.5 m/s
- Connection
- PROFINET
Suitable product groups
Reading DataMatrix, barcode or DPM codes automatically in your line?
Send us an image of the code, the code size, the reading distance and the approximate speed.
Select a suitable code readerFrequently asked questions
How does a DPM code differ from a printed code?
DPM codes are laser marked, engraved or dot peened directly onto the part. They often have low contrast and reflective surfaces, which places higher demands on optics and lighting.
Which interfaces are common?
Frequently Ethernet/TCP-IP, PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, serial interfaces, OPC UA or digital inputs and outputs. What matters is where the read result has to go.
Is the reading distance enough to make a selection?
No. Besides the distance, the code type, code size, minimum module size, surface and part speed are decisive.
Related applications
- Barcode reading with handheld readersMobile capture of 1D, 2D and DPM codes in production, goods receipt, order picking and dispatch.
- OCR & plain-text recognitionRead batch, serial, date and other plain-text markings automatically and verify that they are correct.
- Industrial quality controlCombine several inspection features - from completeness and dimensional accuracy to surface, code and plain text.