Is this the world's smallest barcode data collector ?

Barcoding.co.uk has launched what it believes to be the world's smallest portable barcode scanner. 

The car key-fob sized device weighs just 28 grams and incorporates a high performance laser scanner, 512KB of flash memory and a USB port.  Manufactured by Japanese firm Opitcon, the 'data-fob' is designed as a single-touch data collector that is small enough to be carried in a shirt pocket.

Simple to use with no special training required, users only simply press a trigger button to operate with a second key to clear an incorrect scan. The USB connection allows easy transfer of data to a PC and also charging of the lithium-ion battery.  The data-fob is highly reliable and it is built for use in industrial environments, with IP-42 water and dust resistance.

Barcoding.co.uk provides end-to-end solutions for data collection and the Opticon data-fob is an appealing addition to the company's extensive range of data collection products.  Opticon has pioneered the development of a new generation of portable devices that combine their advanced scanning technologies with latest electronics and software innovations seen in devices like PDA's.

Traditionally portable barcode scanning devices have been engineered to meet a wide range of data entry and wireless communication requirements and are often over-specified and costly.  The data-fob is a simple solution for many day to day barcode data collection requirements where live data is not required but portability is.  Applications include store and warehouse stock taking, asset checking and shipment tracking.

"The data-fob scanner is another world-first innovation from Opticon and adds to the already popular Bluetooth Zapper device we announced last year. The device is simplest and most cost effective way to extend automated data collection and boost efficiency, reliability and productivity across a wide number of sectors" says Derek Stainton, Managing Director of Barcoding.co.uk.

The data-fob is known by Opticon as the OPN-2001 and is part of an extensive range of barcode scanners, printers and handheld computers available from Barcoding.co.uk. Based in Barnard Castle, County Durham, the business was first established in 1991 and previously known as Castle Auto ID.