Answering the needs of many of our clients, ARGUS has a Barcode Module to speed the time-consuming work of managing collection inventory and controlling circulation. The Barcode Module gives users the power to update ARGUS data using barcoding hardware and printed barcodes. This module, along with a well-organized barcoding system can increase data accuracy and decrease data entry time.

Managing Collection Inventory
Both on-line and off-line barcode scanners are supported for inventory management. Pre-printed barcode labels can be used.

Off-line or portable barcode scanners offer great utility. They can perform a variety of functions while disconnected from the workstation:

Capture Inventory/Location data
Assign Object barcodes
Assign Location barcodes
Assign Object and Location barcodes while capturing Inventory/Location data.

After capturing this information the barcode scanner is connected to the workstation and uploads the previously captured data to the ARGUS database. Some models can accept a download of all the barcodes currently known to the system prior to use so that they can validate barcode entries in storage or exhibition areas to ensure error-free data.

Inventory/Location Data
When capturing inventory/location data the following fields are recorded:

Object ID and/or Object barcode
Location Code and/or Location barcode Type (inventory, location change, etc.)
Date/Time
User initials or User barcode
Circulation

Using the Barcode Module in the on-line mode, collections that contain circulating items can expedite the checking-out and checking-in process.

General
Questor has designed our Bar Code Module so that it will work with most standard barcoding equipment. This allows our clients to choose their own hardware that can be used with their current system rather than be forced to purchase proprietary equipment. We do offer specifications that can be used to guide your choice of equipment. The amount of data that a scanner is able to record and transmit to the database is dependent on its power and capacity. Please ask us for specifications and list of functions supported before choosing your supplier of barcoding equipment.