How to install a fixed-mount barcode scanner

Updated August 07, 2026 08:41

SUMMARY

Use this guide to install the Factbird fixed-mount barcode scanner solution. The scanner automatically reads barcodes as products pass the scan point, allowing production events such as batch start and stop to be triggered without manual scanning

WHEN TO USE THIS

Use this guide if:

You are installing a new fixed-mount barcode scanner.
You want to automate barcode scanning on a production line.
You are using the Factbird Barcode Solution.

PREREQUISITES

Before starting:

The Factbird barcode scanner kit is available.
The preconfigured Teltonika router is available.
A Factbird device has already been installed.
A suitable mounting location has been identified.
The barcode types that will be scanned have been shared with Factbird.

Important

Inform Factbird which barcode symbologies will be used before installation. This reduces the risk of the scanner detecting unintended barcodes.

STEPS

1. Verify the hardware

Confirm you have the following components:

Fixed-mount barcode scanner
Preconfigured Teltonika RUTX11 router
Power supply for the scanner
Power supply for the router
Ethernet cable
Scanner cable harness
Trigger sensor

2. Set up the router

Attach the Wi-Fi antennas to the WiFi connectors.
Attach the mobile antennas to the Mobile MAIN and Mobile AUX connectors.
Connect the router power supply.
Allow the router to boot completely.

When using the supplied SIM card, verify that the 3G or 4G indicator shows a solid green light, confirming network connectivity.

3. Connect the barcode scanner

Connect the barcode scanner to one of the router's LAN ports using the supplied Ethernet cable.
Connect the cable harness to the barcode scanner.
Connect the trigger sensor to the cable harness.
Connect the scanner power supply to the cable harness.
Plug the scanner power supply into an electrical outlet.

The scanner and trigger sensor should now be powered.

4. Mount the scanner

Install the barcode scanner above or beside the conveyor so it has a clear view of the barcode.

When positioning the scanner:

Ensure every barcode passes completely through the scanner's field of view.
Avoid reflections from glossy labels.
Position the scanner so labels are presented consistently.
Secure all cables to prevent movement or accidental damage.

5. Position the trigger sensor

Install the trigger sensor so it detects each product immediately before it reaches the barcode scanner.

This ensures:

The scanner activates only when a product is present.
Unwanted barcode reads are minimized.
Each product is scanned once as it passes the scan point.

6. Verify the installation

Test the installation by passing several products through the scanner.

Verify that:

The trigger sensor detects each product.
The scanner successfully reads each barcode.
Barcode data is transmitted to the Factbird system.

EXPECTED RESULT

After completing these steps:

The barcode scanner is installed.
The router is connected to the network.
The trigger sensor activates barcode scanning automatically.
Barcode data is transmitted to Factbird and is ready for use by configured workflows.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Issue: The router does not connect to the network.

Try: Verify all antennas are connected correctly.
Try: Check the router power supply.
Try: Confirm the SIM card is installed if using mobile connectivity.
Try: Verify the Ethernet connection if using a wired network.

Issue: The scanner does not detect barcodes.

Try: Verify the trigger sensor is connected correctly.
Try: Check that products pass completely through the scan area.
Try: Confirm the barcode type has been configured with Factbird.
Try: Clean the scanner lens if necessary.

Issue: Some products are not scanned.

Try: Reposition the trigger sensor.
Try: Adjust the scanner mounting angle.
Try: Verify that labels are not damaged or obstructed.
Try: Ensure products are not moving too quickly through the scan area.

STILL NEED HELP?

Contact Support and include:

The barcode scanner model.
The router serial number.
Photos of the installation.
Photos showing the scanner position relative to the conveyor.
A description of the issue.