Frequently Asked Questions -

What do I need besides the KDC barcode scanner?

Everything you need comes with the scanner. In the box, you'll find the KDC100, KDC200 or KDC300, the software CD that contains KTSync, pKTSync (for portable devices), a micro USB cable, protective rubber boot and hand strap. There are no added costs.

Why would I use the KDC instead of a traditional hand-held barcode scanner? Doesn't the KDC scanner cost more?

Ah, we love hard questions that require multi-part answers!

KDC100
If you just need a hand scanner that reads 1-dimensional barcodes and are focused on cost, you can purchase a new hand-held barcode scanner from a reputable manufacturer for around $150. The scanner will have the same performance as our KDC100/200 scan engine. If you were to attach it with a cord, our comparable product would be the KDC100 at an MSRP of nearly twice that price. But the KDC100 barcode scanner is much more capable than an average corded barcode scanner:

We'd love to have you as a customer but recognize that some folks don't want or need a barcode scanner as conveniient and capable as the KDC100. If you're one of those people, give us a call and we can recommend the scanner and supplier that meets your needs.

KDC200
If you want a Bluetooth connected wedge scanner to read 1-dimensional barcodes, the KDC200 competes effectively with any traditional scanner on the market. At $349, its at least $50 cheaper than other scanners that can read the same type of barcodes. And the KDC200 has added features you can't get in a typical hand-held bluetooth barcode scanner:

KDC300
If you want a Bluetooth connected wedge scanner to read 1 and 2 dimensional barcodes, the KDC300 will do the job. But you'll have to live with saving at least $150 over a comparable, hand-held scanner. On top of that, you'll get:

Yes, we're new to the barcode scanner market in the US, but have been suppling our products in Europe and Asia for quite a while. We can provide references to our larger clients so you can get an idea of how we "stack up" to those "other companies".

Because we're new to the market, we bring a fresh perspective to design and performance. We've been told that the KDC line of barcode scanners represents a new class of data collection devices. Frankly, the long-time manufacturers in the market could have made the products we have, but they compete with products that cost hundreds of dollars more doing the same job. They're aren't interested in reducing their profits!

Technically, our scanners use the same scan engines and decoders (the part that reads the barcode) that are in a lot of barcode scanners on the market today - guaranteeing that the performance of your KDC scanners will be comparable to anything else you can buy. And you get more capibility for less money.

How can the KDC scanners be so small and still perform like described in the web site?

KoamTac's founder wondered why, when all other electronics were getting smaller and at the same time adding capabilities, that the barcode scanner was keeping the same form-factor. He and his design engineers challenged themselves to come up with the most feature-packed portable barcode scanner with the smallest possible size. The result was the KDC line of barcode scanners - unarguably the smallest, lightest and most capable barcode scanner / portable data collector on the market!

You barcode scanner can't be as durable as those from the "major" barcode scanner manufacturers - Right?

Umm, wrong.

The KDC100, KDC200 and KDC300 are all are rated for mulltiple 4-foot drops to concrete when you use the rubber boot that's comes with it. We give you a 1-year manufacturer's warranty that compares with most of the major manufacturers offer. You can also purchase a 2-year "comprehensive" Service Contract that covers anything that may go wrong. Most of the damage we've seen occur to scanners comes from falling off a desk, forklift or table. Our scanners are so small and light that you can wear them around your neck or carry them in a shirt pocket.... so typical abuse doesn't happen. Give our scanners a try, and let us delight you.

Here are some interesting facts about hand-held barcode scanners made by "traditional" barcode scanner manufacturers. Check them out for yourself, or call us and well give you the references

Most times, you'll see "rugged" barcode scanners and "light-duty" barcode scanners as part of a manufacturer's product line. The rugged scanner is listed for use in "industrial" and "harsh" environments and often has rubber molded to the sides with a orange or yellow housing. It looks like something you'd want to stick in a warehouse! The rugged scanner sells at a price premium because its indestructable (they let you thiink) Things aren't always the way they look. Here's what they don't tell you:

• If you examine the specifications for both scanners, often you'll find that the "scan engine" - the part of the scanner that does the actual reading and decoding of the barcodes - is the same for both the "rugged" and "light-duty" devices (in the same class). Think about what the manufacturer is saying by putting the same engine in both.... for the "guts" part of the scanner, they're going to have the exact same reliability.
• The drop-specification is the same for the "industrial" and "light-duty" scanners are virtually the same.
• The manufacturer's warranty for the "industrial" and "light-duty" scanners are the same, and in some cases the warranty for the "light-duty" scanner is longer than the one for the "industrial" scanner! That's interesting.
• All the barcode scanners on the market today are made overseas, using the similar contract manufacturer's. Its cheaper that way, and cheaper to replace a scanner than to repair it.

How can I get help if I need it?

KoamTac has partnered with BarcodeGuy.com to provide you the fastest service and technical support available. Just send us an email or call our toll-free number. BarcodeGuy.com employs seasoned industry professionals with oodles of experience - our average employee has over 15 years experience in the barcode and AuotID market.

We'll help you with anything that you need... from setting up your KDC100 / KDC200 or KDC300, teaching you how to use the included "Application Generator" or SDK or to arranging to have KoamTac write a custom program