Optical recognition devices use a light source to read characters and barcodes. They convert these characters into digital data.
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- Optical character recognition - These devices are scanners that read typed text (sometimes even handwritten text). First, a scanner produces a digital image of the text. Then the character recognition software matches this image to the shapes of individual characters. Characters are stored using ASCII codes and can be used in word processing programs.
- Barcode readers - These devices are used extensively in retail industries to input product identification at point of sale. Supermarkets use a laser to read barcodes and many firms use hand-held barcode readers. Product information (description, price and code) is held on a central computer linked to the point of sale computer. Items passing the barcode reader are entered quickly and accurately. The description and price of the item is displayed on the cash register and printed on the receipt.
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