Configuration - Ordering Barcode Scanners, Receipt Printers, and Other "Peripheral" Devices
About
This article addresses the frequently-asked-question of which "peripheral" devices - barcode scanners, receipt printers, spine label printers, etc. - MSC libraries should purchase to use with the Symphony WorkFlows ILS.
System Requirements
WorkFlows and its app equivalent,
MobileStaff, rely on your device's
operating system to run a scanner, printer, etc. First and foremost, you'll want to make sure the peripheral device you're considering is compatible with the
Windows or
Mac OS of your computer, laptop, tablet, smartphone, and so on.
Whichever brand or model you choose - mainstream or generic - it's best to check reviews and see what kind of support/documentation the vendor provides.
Mainstream brands some MSC libraries have used for receipt printers are Star, Epson, Zebra, and Dymo. Your system admin team rarely hears about peripheral devices until they need to be replaced, so don't be afraid to
reach out to your colleagues across the MSC for recommendations!
SirsiDynix does
not maintain a list of specific recommended brands or models; however, they have a list of vendors that sell barcodes, scanners, printers, etc., compatible with their software. These vendors are part of their Certified Partner/Alliance program. To avoid sharing outdated information, these vendors are not listed here in this article.
If you would like a copy of this list, please
open a ticket.
Bluetooth / Codabar
WorkFlows
When purchasing a
scanner for your workstation, you'll need one that is compatible with your
operating system (Windows or Mac OS) and reads C
odabar mod 10 barcodes. This type of scanner will most likely connect via USB and have a linear imager scan element.
MobileStaff
When purchasing a
scanner or printer for a tablet/smartphone to be used with MobileStaff, they'll need to have
Bluetooth functionality. The
Bluetooth scanner will also need to read
Codabar.
If you're using the
browser version of MobileStaff, e.g. on a laptop:
- You can use a regular scanner as you would with WorkFlows (instead of a Bluetooth scanner).
- You won't be able to print receipts.
Configuration Instructions
| Peripheral Device |
Instructions
|
|
Barcode Scanner/Receipt Printer for MobileStaff App
|
|
|
Barcode Scanner for WorkFlows
|
WorkFlows - Barcode Scanner Setup |
| Receipt Printer for WorkFlows | |
| Other, e.g. RFID, etc. |
Please
open a ticket.
|
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