Important part of POS system are bar code readers. Their basic role is decoding a picture (bar code) into a line of numbers, which can be analyzed as data in applied software. In retail markets they work as fast data searchers, what speeds up serving buyers, shorter standing at the cash register and increases sales.

Beside producer technologies (Wand, CCD, laser) bar code readers can be divided, by purpose into:

Generally, handy bar code readers can be used when there's no need for frequent use (warehouses, retail markets etc.) because of their construction (one line reading, movable parts-cable, falls etc.).

Fixed bar code scanners are used in retail markets with large number of buyers (supermarkets, mega markets etc.).

Wireless bar code readers have wide range of use in industry, outdoor work, especially in hard conditions like rain, reading bar codes from distance or resistance to mechanical hits.