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Keywedge vs Other Scanner Types

xAssets Keywedge Barcode Scanner Guide
Keywedge vs Other Scanner Types

Keywedge vs Other Scanner Types

This page compares keyboard wedge scanners with dedicated barcode terminals (intelligent scanners) and driver-based scanners, helping you choose the right scanner type for your environment.

Comparison Table

Feature Keywedge Scanner Intelligent Scanner
Cost Low ($30-$200) Higher ($500-$2,000+)
Setup Plug in and use -- no software required Requires TracerPlus or similar software
Offline use No -- requires live connection to xAssets Yes -- collects data offline, imports later
Additional data Barcode only Can collect photos, signatures, quantities, conditions
On-device feedback None -- relies on xAssets screen Built-in screen shows asset details during scanning
Audit capability Real-time scanning via xAssets Full offline audit with batch import
Best for Quick lookups, check-out/check-in, small audits Large location audits, warehouse inventory, field work

Advantages of Keywedge Scanners

  • Lower cost -- typically cheaper than dedicated barcode terminals or scanners that require proprietary software.
  • Simple setup -- plug in via USB (or pair via Bluetooth) and the scanner is ready to use. No drivers or middleware required.
  • No special application support needed -- because the scanner emulates keyboard input, it works with any application that accepts text, including xAssets.
  • Device flexibility -- works with computers, laptops, tablets, and some mobile devices.
  • Real-time results -- scanned data appears immediately in xAssets, with instant feedback on matches.

Disadvantages of Keywedge Scanners

  • Requires a host device -- the scanner has no screen or processing capability of its own, so it must be connected to a computer or mobile device running xAssets in a browser.
  • Potential for data errors -- because the scanner feeds characters through the keyboard buffer, typing on the keyboard during a scan (or a slow buffer) can cause missed or extra characters.
  • Focus-dependent -- the correct field must have focus before scanning. If focus is elsewhere, the barcode data will be entered into the wrong field or lost.
  • No offline capability -- cannot collect data without a live connection to xAssets.

Which Scanner Type Should You Choose?

Scenario Recommended Type
Desk-based asset lookup and check-out/check-in Keywedge -- simple, fast, inexpensive
Small office audit (under 50 assets) Keywedge -- real-time feedback, no import needed
Large warehouse or multi-building audit Intelligent -- offline collection, batch import
Field work without reliable network Intelligent -- works without xAssets connection
Budget is limited Keywedge -- lowest cost option
Need to collect photos or condition data Intelligent -- supports additional data types

Tip: Many organizations use both types. Keywedge scanners for everyday lookups and check-out/check-in at the IT help desk, and intelligent scanners for quarterly or annual location audits.

For details on intelligent scanner setup and TracerPlus integration, see the xAssets Barcoding Guide.