ASAP IT Technology Blog

Audio and visual systems have greatly advanced over the years, and multiple technologies have come about for the transferring of such signals. An A/V device is one that utilizes audio/visual signals that are relayed from electronic equipment capable of generating an A/V output. A/V control panels or terminals can be found on numerous electronic equipment, including televisions, DVD and VHS recorders, and more.
 
When referring to the A/V source of an entertainment system or electronic appliance, one is referencing the various media storage or media creations devices that are being used to relay content to an output device. There are numerous A/V devices that may be considered a source, and common examples include Blu-ray players, digital TV A/V receivers, streaming devices, and much more. Many electronics with the ability to record video and audio with playback functionality can also be considered an A/V source, and these include camcorders, digital cameras, tablets, smart phones, and other such devices. With this general rule of what is considered a source, there are many equipment pieces and electronics that fall under such categorization.
 
In order for A/V signals to be used, one needs an A/V receiver. A/V receivers are devices that retrieve the audio and video signals from a source so that they may be relayed to an output. For instance, the A/V receiver may take audio and video signals from a Blu-ray player and send them to a television and speaker set so that the signals may be displayed or heard as necessary. Some equipment may also take advantage of A/V modulators, those of which may be used to convert an RF input into an A/V signal.
 
While A/V devices have long served home entertainment applications, they can also be highly beneficial for workplaces as well. As workplaces continue their shift towards digitalization, an increased reliance on A/V equipment has come about. Depending on the operations of a workplace and the role of their business, there may be numerous laptops, tablets, smartphones, video communication devices, and other such electronics used. To ensure that all of these devices can properly communicate and transfer A/V signals without frustration, it can be very beneficial to have A/V control panels.
 
With A/V control panels, workplaces can avoid the hassle of having missing or inoperable controls, tangled up cables, poor connection quality, and other issues that can detract from conducting operations. The A/V control panel serves as a central hub for managing systems, acting as the point where all equipment is connected. Additionally, A/V control panels make managing systems simple as one interface can be used for the control of all devices, rather than requiring manual operation of each. As there are professional and consumer-grade A/V control panels available for equipment management, it can be useful to compare the various specifications and capabilities of different models to find what is best for your particular needs.
 
When you are ready to begin sourcing the various A/V modulators, control panels, receivers, and other such equipment that you require for your operations, look no further than ASAP IT Solutions. As a leading online parts distributor, we can help you secure the items on your part list with competitive pricing and rapid lead-times. To ensure that customers only receive the best quality electronic components, we choose to source our items from top global manufacturers we trust, including those such as Steren Electronics, Db Research L.L.P, and Epson. Upon finding parts that you would like to purchase, you may request a quote for your comparisons through the submission of a request for quote form as provided on our website. Once we have reviewed your provided information, a member of our staff will quickly reach out to you with a personalized solution to your needs.

As work from home initiatives continue across the world for the safety of many workers, numerous individuals are facing work transitions that require more hardware in the home than one may be familiar with. From the use of multiple monitors to more robust networking hardware that may enable more productive and permanent solutions for at-home work, the amount of connections, peripherals, and cabling required for a home office may be stressful for someone who is not well versed in IT hardware. To make establishing optimal work from home stations easier, many individuals can take advantage of hardware equipment known as docking stations.
 
While some jobs may only require a notebook and headset to carry out most tasks, other positions may need multiple peripherals, monitors, and other hardware equipment to ensure that all tasks can be carried out efficiently. With each new hardware piece added to a station, more connections and cable management solutions are also needed. At some point, there may be no more ports or connection points provided on the computer itself. Docking stations serve to alleviate this issue and come in the form of a dock or hub that may facilitate the connection and organization of multiple power cords, USB cords, adapters, chargers, converters, and other hardware depending upon the design of the dock.
 
Depending on one’s needs and their position, there are a number of docking station types that one may take advantage of. Port replicators or hubs are a simplistic type that is similar in appearance to a power strip or surge protector, though they may feature a number of connection types outside of power outlets. Coming in numerous configurations, a port replicator may have electrical adaptors, audio jacks, peripheral connection points, display connectors, and more. Based on the number of connections and connection types one may need, such docking stations can range in price from cheap and simplistic hubs to pricier, advanced models.
 
A breakout dock is another variation of docking stations that replicates existing ports already present on the computer as well as may supply additional ports. In order for hardware to optimally function while connected to the breakout dock, many modern computers will provide a special connector that consolidates concealed trace signals so that more ports than present on the computer may be established. As laptops are often limited in the amount of ports that one may take advantage of, breakout ports are very beneficial.
 
OEM or proprietary docking stations are similar to breakout devices, and such equipment may utilize converters to provide multiple connections from one port. As such devices are often proprietary, they may be permanently installed to equipment and are often self-powered so that they can benefit notebooks. On the other hand, OEM docks regularly provide users with dual displays, a wired internet connection point, and various USB and audio connections.
 
For more diverse solutions, one may also turn to universal or third party dock equipment which may come in numerous configurations and types. Many non-OEM docks will be USB-C or Thunderbolt-3 based and will contain various converters for the facilitation of USB connections, audio devices, modems, memory cards, and more. If one has multiple devices that range in manufacturer, application, and/or connection type, universal docks are a popular choice to avoid complications in setting up a workstation.
 
Having a functional and well organized workstation is important for efficiency, and docking stations are a perfect solution for those needing more ports or connections. At ASAP IT Technology, we provide customers access to top quality docking stations and related components that have been sourced from manufacturers such as Viewsonic, Getac Technology, Kensington, and others. Peruse our expansive part catalogs and find top part numbers such as WA995UT ABA, USB3SDOCKHD, and 40A20170US all readily available for purchase through our website. To receive a competitive quote for your comparisons, fill out and submit an Instant RFQ form on our website and a dedicated account manager will reach out to you in 15 minutes or less, 24/7x365.

Saitek is a company that designs and manufactures consumer electronics. It was founded in 1979 by Eric Winkler, a Swiss technology expert. The company is best known for its PC gaming controllers, mice, keyboards, and analog flight controllers such as joysticks, throttles, and rudder pedals. The company is now owned and operated by Logitech, with the majority of Saitek products having been rebranded as Logitech G. In this blog, we will look at the respective histories of Saitek & Logitech, their merging, and their products.
 
Saitek was initially formed as a manufacturer of electronic chess games. However, by the 1990s, the company had distribution and design offices in the United States, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, in addition to a factory in China. In 1994, the company acquired the Mephisto line of chess computers by Hegner & Glaser. The company eventually diversified into PC peripherals, focusing primarily on game controllers for flight simulation, driving, and first-person gaming. They have also expanded into peripherals with emphasis on input, connectivity, and multimedia. The company launched a high fidelity audio product line for PC & iPod. In 2007, the company was acquired by Mad Catz. Nine years later, the Saitek brand and its assets were acquired by Logitech.
 
Logitech, sometimes called simply Logi, is a Swiss-American manufacturer of computer peripherals and software. The company has headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland and Newark, California, in addition to offices throughout other parts of Europe, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. The company is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of input and interface devices for personal computers and other digital products, in addition to developing and marketing personal peripherals for PC navigations, video communication, collaboration, music, and smart homes.
 
The company was founded in 1981 in Palo Alto, California and saw immediate success, particularly at the turn of the 21st century. In 2001, Logitech acquired Labtec for $150 million dollars, expanding its range of computer peripheral products. The company continued to grow and expand throughout these years and eventually acquired Saitek in 2016, following a purchase from Mad Catz for $13 million.
 
Logitech, under both the Saitek and Logitech G brand names, produces a wide range of flight simulation equipment. For example, they produce pro flight controllers such as the Pro Flight Yoke System, Pro Flight Throttle Quadrant, and TPM System, as well as Pro Flight Panels including backlit information panels, multi panels, radio panels, switch panels, and instrument panels.  Additionally, the company designs and manufacturers a wide range of flight sticks. This includes the X-56 H.O.T.A.S. System, X-55 Rhino, and X-65F Flight Combat Control System. Other flight sticks include the Aviator and Cyborg F.L.Y. 9 for the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 consoles, as well as PC-exclusive products such as the Cyborg F.L.Y. 5, Cyborg 2000, Cyborg Evo, and ST290 Flight Stick. The company also provides rudder pedals, Pro Flight headsets, and simulation controllers based on real Cessna products.
 
Since Saitek and Logitech merged, they have proven to be a leader in flight simulation technologies. For a wide range of Saitek and Logitech items and much more, look no further than ASAP IT Technology. Owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we can help you find all types of parts for the aerospace, civil aviation, defense, electronics, industrial, and IT hardware markets. Our account managers are always available and ready to help you find all the parts and equipment you need, 24/7-365. For a quick and competitive quote, email us at sales@asap-ittechnology.com or call us at 1-714-705-4780. Let us show you why we consider ourselves the future of purchasing.

Cache memory is a high-performance, temporary server memory that offers faster and more efficient access to data than server RAM (random access memory). Cache memory is a critical part of every server, and therefore important to understand in order to ensure your system is well supported. In this blog, we will discuss cache memory and answer four common questions surrounding it: what is cache memory/what does it do, how does cache memory work, what are the types of cache memory, and how can you upgrade cache memory?
 
What is cache memory and what does it do?
 
Cache memory is essentially a smaller and faster version of RAM that contributes to the overall performance of your central processing unit (CPU). It is very small, in close proximity to the CPU, and is able to keep up with the high speeds of the CPU. Cache memory improves the efficiency of your CPU and prevents bottlenecks in your system by keeping the CPU busy to avoid wasted computation.
 
How does cache memory work?
 
Cache memory temporarily stores information, data, and programs that are frequently used by the CPU. When data is needed, the CPU automatically looks to the cache memory for faster data access. It turns to cache memory first because server RAM is both slower and further away from the CPU. When the CPU locates data in the cache memory, it is known as a cache hit. Cache hits enable the processor to quickly access data, improving the overall efficiency of the system. Because cache memory is smaller than RAM, the data is only stored temporarily and may not be there when the processor needs it. When the cache does not have the processor’s required data, it is known as a cache miss. In these cases, the CPU moves to the hard drive to access RAM.
 
What are the types of cache memory?
 
There are three main types of cache memory. They are known as levels and all have slightly different functions. Level 1 (L1) is the fastest type of cache memory as it is the smallest and closest to the processor. Level 2 (L2) has a higher capacity but a slower speed. L2 is located on the processor chip. Finally, Level 3 (L3) has the largest capacity and is located on the computer that uses the L2 cache. Because cache memory is so small and large quantities of memory are often needed, different levels of cache are necessary to ensure that the cache memory can handle the demand of data processing.
 
How can you upgrade cache memory?
 
It is not possible to upgrade your cache memory without first upgrading your CPU. There are two main brands of CPUs: AMD and Intel Corporation. Both offer different benefits and should not be considered interchangeable. The choice ultimately comes down to preference, similar to the choice between an Apple or Android smartphone. That said, AMD chips are usually cheaper, though Intel CPUs tend to offer more impressive graphics performance.
 
Whatever type of memory products you are in need of, be sure you are getting them from a trusted source. At ASAP IT Technology, owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we can help you find all types of parts for the aerospace, defense, civil aviation, industrial, electronics, and IT hardware markets. We have cache memory product part numbers such as NVCPEMWR001G110, AA0004001, 372538B21, and more, from top manufacturers including Nortel Networks, HP, and others. We’re always available and ready to help you find all the parts and equipment you need, 24/7-365. For a quick and competitive quote, email us at sales@asap-ittechnology.com or call us at 1-714-705-4780.

While a majority of businesses have now shifted many of their operations to digital platforms, there may still be a variety of documents that are still used or filed away on average. Furthermore, shifting to digital platforms can leave large amounts of sensitive documents that need to be disposed of securely. Unlike the old shredders that many are familiar with, newer models have advanced considerably in their ability to efficiently shred paper while ensuring any confidential information is properly destroyed and is unable to be pierced back together easily.
 
Generally speaking, shredders are often classified by the method in which they cut and dispose of paper. Strip-shred cutters are fairly common, and they slice paper into long strips that may be disposed of. While they are quick in their operation, they are not efficient for removing confidential information as strips are thick enough to put together if someone collects all parts. With cross-shredder types, more security can be achieved as strips are cut into thinner lengths that are shorter as well. As one of the best types for security, the micro-cut shredder hashes paper into small bits that would be extremely difficult to reassemble for most individuals. As such, the micro-cut shredder serves very well for those that have heightened security concerns and need proper disposal of documentation.
 
When researching shredders, it can be useful to be aware of the internationally accepted DIN 66399 standard which dictates the size of shredded bits. Typically, security can range from P-1 to P-7 designation, with the former being insecure and the latter being best for high-confidentiality documentation. For the standard business office, a shredder that is P-4 will usually be fine, though higher values would only increase the security of disposal.
 
Beyond the security aspect of the shredder, it can also be highly beneficial to consider the amount of documentation that needs to be removed on average. With some shredders, thicker bundles of paper may be shreddable to increase the speed of disposal. Furthermore, many shredders can extend their services to more than paper, as their blades may be capable of cutting through credit cards, staples, CDs, and much more. As such, the choice of shredder may be dictated by the feeder capacity and speed at which documents are drawn in and disposed. Last, but not least, there may be a run time of shredders which is the amount of time that it can be fed before needing to cool down.
 
With all things considered, the choice of which shredder is best for a given application can be decided based on security, capacity, speed, and run-time requirements. When procuring a shredder for home use, small and simple models can serve well for one individual to remove a low amount of documents as needed. For larger corporations with many documents, however, a more robust system can be the difference in efficiency. Nevertheless, all shredders can improve security and safety through the ability to remove and destroy sensitive documentation and information.
 
At ASAP IT Technology, we can help you find the right shredder for your needs at competitive pricing. With systems and components sourced from top manufacturers such as Avteq, Video Furniture International Inc., Amplivox Sound Systems, Ergotron Inc., and Royal Sovereign International, we are sure to fulfill all of your operational requirements with ease. To ensure that our customers only receive the best possible items, everything is subject to rigorous quality assurance testing, inspection, and cross-referencing before shipment. Furthermore, we also ship items alongside their qualifying certifications or manufacturing trace documents for your benefit. Get started on the purchasing process today and experience how ASAP IT Technology is revolutionizing the part procurement process for the benefit of our customers.

Load balancing is a technique implemented to prevent a server from being overloaded with traffic. When load balancing measures are in place, workloads and traffic requests are distributed across the range of server resources to provide higher resilience and availability. The need for load balancing became evident in the early days of the internet when single servers were unable to handle high-traffic situations. Regardless of how powerful it was, simultaneous service requests from large volumes of traffic easily overpowered a single server. Load balancing has proven to be a major help to this problem.
 
In a typical load balancing sequence, the first part is the arrival of traffic to your website, wherein visitors to the site send requests to the server via the internet. Second, the traffic is distributed across server resources. Here, the load balancing hardware or software cuts off each request and sends it to the appropriate server node. Thirdly, the node receives the request and can efficiently accept and respond to it due to not being overloaded with requests. In the fourth and final step, the server returns the request. The above steps can only be carried out if there are multiple resources such as a server, network, or virtual resources, that have been established. Otherwise, the workloads are distributed to the same place regardless.
 
There are many benefits of load balancing. For one, in preventing a server from becoming overloaded, it also allows every server node to operate more efficiently. Recently, load balancing has become a larger part of a broad class of technology known as Application Delivery Controllers. ADCs provide multiple advanced load balancing features to aid in workload balancing and bolster the overall quality of application delivery. Beyond this, load balancing also benefits security and productivity. ADCs are commonly used to help protect against threats such as Denial of Service (DOS) attacks. As for productivity, load balancing involves the duplication of content and application workloads, allowing for more than one copy of a resource to be accessed at a time.
 
Depending on the features that are most important to you, there are several types of load balancing setups to choose from. These include server load balancing, network, global server load balancing, container load balancing, and cloud load balancing. In server load balancing, the goal is to distribute workloads across the server’s range of resources. In network load balancing, traffic flow is distributed across IP addresses, switches, and routers to maximize availability. These configurations are made at the transport layer. Global server load balancing, or GSLB, involves an operator handling the workload balancing across a globally distributed load. This configuration also features ADC assets at the global and local levels.
 
Container load balancing offers virtual, isolated instances of applications and is also enabled via load balancing clusters. Perhaps the most popular approach is the Kubernetes container orchestration system, which is capable of distributing loads across container pods to help balance availability. Lastly, cloud load balancing operates within a cloud infrastructure where there are often multiple options for load balancing. This type of load balancing can also include both network and application balancing.
 
For load balancing components and much more, look no further than ASAP IT Technology, a trusted supplier of parts for a wide range of industries. Owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we are an online distributor of aircraft parts as well as parts pertaining to the aerospace, civil aviation, defense, electronics, and IT hardware markets. We’re always available and ready to help you find all the parts and equipment you need, 24/7-365. For a quick and competitive quote, call us at 1-714-705-4780 or email us at sales@asap-ittechnology.com.

Random Access Memory, or RAM, is a type of memory in which the information it stores is lost as soon as the power supply to the PC, laptop, or other type of device is switched off. RAM is widely known and is considered the main type of memory, temporary memory, cache memory, or volatile memory of a computer system or similar device. This blog will explain the types of RAM, their differences, and their uses.
 
RAM is considered part of a computer's internal/main/primary memory. There are many types of RAM, the two most common being Static RAM (SRAM) and Dynamic RAM (DRAM). SRAM is a type of ram in which data is stored using the state of a six transistor memory cell. It is primarily used as cache memory for the processor. Dynamic RAM, on the other hand, allows users to store each bit of data in a separate capacitor within a given integrated circuit. Dynamic RAM is the standard computer memory used in most modern desktop computers. It is an example of volatile memory, meaning it needs to be refreshed with voltage regularly or it will lose whatever information is stored on it. Apart from these, here are the main differences between SRAM and DRAM:

1. SRAM has a low access time, while DRAM has a high access time. Therefore, SRAM is faster than DRAM.

2. SRAM is the more expensive of the two.

3. SRAM requires a constant power supply, meaning this type of memory uses more power. DRAM offers reduced power consumption because the information is stored in the capacitor.

4. SRAM features a complex internal circuitry and offers less storage capacity when compared to a DRAM chip of the same physical size. DRAM comprises a small internal circuitry in its one-bit memory. This allows for a larger storage capacity.

5. SRAM has a low packaging density, while DRAM’s is high.

Beyond SRAM and DRAM, there are many other important, albeit less common, types of RAM. These are: FPM DRAM, SDR RAM, RD RAM, VRAM, and Flash Memory. FPM DRAM, or Fast Page Mode DRAM, is a type of DRAM that waits for the entire process of locating a bit of data by column and row and reading the bit before moving to the next one. SDR RAM, synchronous dynamic access memory, stores data using integrated circuits. One of its sides features a termination which can be inserted directly into the motherboard.
 
VRAM is a type of RAM optimized for video adapters. VRAM chips have two ports allowing video data to be written to chips while the video adapter simultaneously reads the memory to refresh the monitor's display. RD RAM, or Rambus Dynamic RAM, is a type of RAM that works in parallel to each other, allowing users to secure a data rate of 1,600 Mbps. Because they operate at high speeds, they generate a great deal of heat. Finally, flash memory is an electrically erasable and programmable type of permanent memory. Flash drives utilize the memory of one transistor to store a bit. These offer low power consumptions and are very affordable.

RAM has many important uses in computers, where it can serve as a scratchpad, buffer, or main memory. It offers a fast operating speed, low power dissipation, and is highly compatible with a wide range of systems. For RAM and many other cache memory components, look no further than ASAP IT Technology, a trusted supplier of microelectronics, IT hardware, and more. Owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we have access to an inventory of more than two billion new and obsolete parts and components. We’re always available and ready to help you find all the parts and equipment you need, 24/7-365. For a quick and competitive quote, call us at 1-714-705-4780 or email us at sales@asap-ittechnology.com.

A point of sale is often referred to as a POS. A point of sale system works as a terminal hardwired system that can process forms of payments in online and physical retail or in other terms of business. The way that it works is that the software can process magnetic strips of credit and debit cards that are inserted into the hardware. To understand the POS system, it is best to learn how it came to be. The main retail framework was initially created by the National Cash Register (NCR)— the organization liable for a larger part of sales registers on the planet today. The organization coordinated new innovation, for instance such things as standardized tags and scanners created during the 1980s, to change over manual sales registers into portable deal frameworks. Its frameworks interface straightforwardly with the installment card organizations, lifting the weight of keeping up consistency with rules and guidelines of the installment business off the shoulders of dealers. Business investigation in the organization's POS frameworks is additionally another appealing element. If you need to familiarize yourself with a modern point of sale system and other things that it can do, read the article below for more details.
 
Anytime that a form of payment like a credit card or a debit card is utilized to purchase an item, there is a conventional point-of-sale (POS) terminal that must first process the magnetic strip to inspect if there is sufficient funds to give to the seller, before then enabling the transfer. The sale transaction is then documented via the POS system and then a confirmation of the sale or a receipt is printed or sent to the buyer via email or text. Merchants can either buy or lease a POS terminal, depending on how they prefer to manage cash flows. Buying a system involves higher upfront costs while leasing levels out monthly payments, though total lease payments may end up being more than a one-time purchase over the useful life of the system.
 
The most recent trends in terms of a point of sale system gears away from customary exclusive equipment and toward programming based frameworks that can be stacked into a tablet or other cell phone. To remain current and on top of things, POS terminal producers are presenting their own renditions of convenient and portable POS gadgets. Such gadgets can be seen at occupied retail locations and eateries where proprietors are perceptive of the way that clients for the most part don't care for looking out to pay for an item or supper. Value, capacity, and ease of use are significant models for POS framework buyers. Critical in the becoming interconnected world is the security of the frameworks. Some prominent hacks of client information have happened through POS terminals that didn't have refreshed working frameworks. There are many types of POS systems but if you need to research or purchase one in particular, reach out to the folks at ASAP IT Technology,
 
At ASAP IT Technology, owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we can help you find all the unique parts for the aerospace, civil aviation, and defense industries. We’re always available and ready to help you find all the parts and equipment you need, 24/7-365. For a quick and competitive quote, email us at sales@asap-ittechnology.com or give us a call today.

Digital signage refers to signage posted on a digital front or medium. This can entail the digital bulletin boards in front of a school or theater, digital billboards, and even the digital boards that make New York City’s Times Square so famous. Digital signage has for the most part replaced physical signs yet you will still see the use of physical signage in front of most small businesses. For more information on digital signage, what types exist out there and what they can be used for, read the article below.
 
For the most part, digital signage can and is frequently used to display content that can include an inventory of audio, video, image, graphics, text, and more, as well as hardware such as physical, tangible components like screens, mounts, payment devices, printers, cameras. Lastly there is software which is what we will discuss more in the next paragraph. Software can include a display and analysis of content on a piece of hardware.
 
Some forms of digital signage include multi touch screens that can allow one or more touch of the fringer to manage the buttons displayed on a digital screen. These fingers could belong to more than one person, resulting in multiple, independent interactions occurring in parallel. In addition to multi touch screens, there is also capacitive touch technology which can signal anything that is conductive. The sensor on this is inserted into the glass and can detect the location of the flow of current which is then registered as a touch event. The most popular form is known as projected capacitive, and it can be found in all mobile phones and tablets. These types of displays are known for being the most accurate touch technology and thus the market standard for most touch screen digital signage.
 
Another type of technology that is similar to the capacitive touch technology is the infrared technology that sends out a grid of invisible infrared light across the face of an LED or a LCD display. Whenever an item connects or comes into contact with the screen, there is a disruption of the infrared light, which causes identification of the touch location. Similar to project capacitive displays, they differ because they require conductive material to indicate a touch, while infrared displays can be managed with almost any other material.
 
In addition to the aforementioned divides, there are also beacon points tech that are low-energy gadgets broadcasting either a one of a kind identifier or a URL. By allocating a signal to singular things or by sending reference point warnings, content suppliers can make a logical scaffold among shows and the genuine item or a cell phone. Model use incorporates nearness showcasing and computerized local area expertise. Meanwhile RFID scanners can catch remarkable IDs that can be utilized to recognize pertinent data.
 
ASAP IT Technology offers digital signage systems, as well as other different digital accessories, infrared lights, RFID readers, and much more. If you are in need of sourcing any such type of touch technology or digital signage systems, you can source and trust the folks at ASAP IT Technology to fulfill your need. Feel free to give us a call, email us, or simply submit an Instant RFQ if you have a question about the parts and products that we sell.

Whether you are purchasing groceries at the supermarket or construction tools at a home improvement retailer, you have most likely noticed that almost everything has a barcode that can be scanned and read. These barcodes, known as UPC (Universal Product Codes), are a part of a widely utilized system that has greatly increased the efficiency of tracking parts, maintaining inventory, and speed of sales across many industries and retail stores. The UPC of an item allows one to identify an item and find its brand name, size, color, and other information almost immediately upon scan. To scan these codes and harness their many capabilities, technologies such as barcode scanners and readers are used.
 
A barcode scanner is a type of optical scanner, capable of reading and translating the data of a barcode. This data is then sent to a computer to be used for various operations depending on the need, such as cataloguing, point of sale, and more. To decode the data that is stored within barcodes, barcode scanners have decoder circuitry which analyses image data obtained by the secor and then sends it to an output port. To view the barcode for translation, light sources, lens, and light sensors are used. There are also many available types of barcode reader and barcode scanner equipment, including those such as pen-type readers, laser scanners, CCD readers, camera-based readers, omnidirectional barcode scanners, and more.
 
While barcodes were originally designed and patented in the 1950’s by Bernard Silver and Norman Joseph Woodland, they did not fully become recognizable until the later half of the century as they were improved upon and began being implemented within supermarket checkout systems to improve automation. With the later developed Uniform Grocery Product Code Council, new and improved barcodes bagan to be used and spread to many other applications and industries. Nowadays, barcodes may be used for almost any product or item that is not fresh produce.
 
Even beyond bought and sold products, barcodes have found extended use in other sectors, such as medical fields. Within healthcare and hospitals, barcodes have been used to identify patients, allowing servicers to access a patient’s medical history, allergies, and other patient data. They may also help in the organization of documents, tracking species for biology, and much more. Even in rental services, barcodes may be implemented for the tracking of cars, airline luggage, registered mail, nuclear waste, express mail, and parcels.
 
With scanners, personnel dealing with all of these types of barcodes and items can easily conduct their work, ensuring the flow of service with high speeds and efficiency. As technology continues to develop, barcode scanners and barcode readers are also improving, allowing for workers to scan items wirelessly, sending data through wireless or bluetooth means. Even modern smartphones have now begun to feature barcode decoding in their built-in cameras, allowing for the scanning of barcodes for many uses.
 
When it comes time to begin sourcing the barcode scanner and reader components that you need for your operations, ASAP IT Technology has you covered with everything you are searching for. ASAP IT Technology is owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, and we can help you find the aviation, NSN, and electronic parts that you are searching for, new or obsolete. As a premier supplier of parts for the aerospace, civil aviation, and defense industries, we're always available and ready to help you find all the parts and equipment you need, 24/7x365. ASAP Semiconductor is an FAA 0056B, AS9120B, and ISO 9001:2015 certified enterprise. For a quick and competitive quote, email us at sales@asap-ittechnology.com or call us at +1 (714) 705-4780.