Supercaps: Energy meets efficiency
It all depends on the application: Individual scans or continuous operation
It all depends on the application: Individual scans or continuous operation
It all depends on the application: Individual scans or continuous operation
Hand-held scanners are used in different scenarios, which each place different requirements on the devices’ power supply. For individual scans, which are often required in storage areas or during inventory taking, the hand-held scanner only requires high peak performance for a short time. The devices are often parked in charging stations and need to be fully operational again after a few seconds. Here it is particularly important that the energy storage system charges quickly so that it is immediately available when needed. A hand-held scanner that is to be operated over a long period of time has different requirements.
In shift operation in warehouses or production environments, where the device works continuously for several hours, operating time is the decisive factor. The hand-held scanner must last the entire working day on a single charge without needing to be recharged regularly. In these scenarios, the energy storage system’s energy density plays a greater role because a constant power supply is required over longer periods of time.
The energy storage technology is crucial in both cases: It not only impacts the device’s performance, but also its operating time and energy efficiency. Depending on the application, a supercap or a battery in the form of a rechargeable battery may offer the best possible solution.
Lightweight solution, charged in a flash
Multi-purpose hand-held scanners for bar code detection are designed for short but performance-intensive applications. Supercap technology provides the scanners with sufficient energy for several seconds to a few minutes. The devices are recharged very quickly. Hand-held scanners with supercap technology are therefore particularly suitable for applications requiring regular individual scans. Leuze makes the most of the technology with its IT 1960 series’ wireless supercap devices. Because no battery is required, the devices are very light: For example, a supercap hand-held scanner from the IT 1960 series weighs just 220 grams. This is a noticeable ergonomic advantage and makes handling easier in daily use. If, on the other hand, many scans are required in a short time, devices with a battery or cable are recommended. Leuze also has suitable models for this in its portfolio with the IT 1960 series.
