
Barcode Scanners, RFID or Image-Based Code Readers: Choosing Identification Technology
1D codes, 2D serialization or contactless RFID? How to choose the right identification technology for traceability and sortation.
Journal
Read buying guides, product notes, material stories, and field updates from the team.

1D codes, 2D serialization or contactless RFID? How to choose the right identification technology for traceability and sortation.

Absolute or incremental, hollow shaft or solid, magnetic or optical? A practical guide to choosing encoders for drives and machine axes.

Resolution, protective field height and safety levels explained - how to select light curtains, scanners and evaluation units for machine safety.
Metal or non-metal target? How inductive, capacitive and magnetic cylinder sensors differ, and how to pick the right proximity principle.
Laser, ultrasonic, LiDAR or radar? How target material, environment and range decide the right distance measurement technology.
Through-beam, retro-reflective, diffuse or background suppression? A practical selection guide for photoelectric sensors with a quick checklist.
Recommended products
Popular pieces selected to support the routines, repairs, and ideas featured in our journal.

SICK GSE6-N1112 through-beam photoelectric sensor, NPN, part 1052453. Detects any material including transparent objects with the highest optical margin.

SICK IME12-08NPSZW2K inductive proximity sensor, part 1040781. M12 barrel, 8 mm range, connector wiring for fast sensor replacement.

SICK PL20A compact reflector plate, part 1012719. 20 mm class reflector for short-range retro-reflective sensing in tight spaces.