Metrologic offers barcode-scanning platforms

APRIL 10--Metrologic Instruments Inc. (Blackwood, NJ;www.metrologic.com), a manufacturer of imaging systems, automated data-capture systems, and barcode scanners, has unveiled two camera-based scanners. The iQ160 and iQ170 camera-based scanners target high-speed, high-volume conveyor scanning applications. These cameras can scan and decode virtually every type of 1- and 2-D barcodes and can capture and transmit optical-character-recognition-ready images. They also can handle high-density barcodes, as well as the emerging Reduced Space Symbology family of barcodes that will typically be used on medication packaging. These cameras contain built in coplanar laser illumination technology.

A recent FDA initiative calls for drug manufacturers to label each individual medication dose with its National Drug Code number embedded in a barcode as part of the drug label. The use of a barcoding system on medication is projected to improve patient care and safety, as well as to provide the FDA with a better safety report methodology. Upon the FDA's final ruling, drug manufacturers will have three years to fully implement such a system. Several large companies have already taken steps toward compliance. Hospitals, pharmacies, and other health-care facilities will support the regulations and implement barcode scanners and network systems to support them.

Mark Schmidt, Metrologic's vice president of marketing, comments that drug-manufacturing companies are demonstrating the advanced capabilities and benefits of the iQ Series cameras in conveyor scanning applications.