Automatic Data Capture

Automatic Data Capture (ADC) can be broadly defined as automatically collecting data, usually without human intervention. That information is then forwarded to a computer system to perform business processes or analysis of the data.

Typical technologies associated with ADC include, but not limited to, the following:

Barcodes: Barcodes are the most recognized and widely-used method of collecting product data. Barcodes can be read as they pass a fixed scanner or read using a handheld scanner or computer.

RFID: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) uses radio frequency to transfer data from tags or labels to RFID readers. RFID tags and labels can be read as they pass a fixed RFID reader or using a handheld reader.

Biometrics: Biometrics are a system of uniquely identifying humans based on physical or behavioral traits. Biometric technologies include fingerprints, facial recognition, iris recognition, voice recognition, palm imaging, and more. A person interfaces with a biometric recognition device to verify that person is who they claim to be.

Magnetic Stripe Readers: Magnetic Stripe Readers (MSR) are most commonly associated with reading and verifying of credit cards. MSR technology is also utilized while sliding a magnetic striped card or document through a reader to collect and verify data encoded into the magnetic media.

Optical Character Recognition (OCR): OCR is comprised of scanned images of handwritten, typed or printed text that are translated into encoded text computers can interpret and utilize. 

Voice Recognition: Voice recognition is sometimes referred to as speech recognition. Spoken words are converted to text, and text can be converted into audio.

Since ADC is such a diverse field, system integrators who specialize in one or two of these technologies could migrate, in most cases, to other ADC technologies without extensive effect. Embracing multiple ADC technologies will allow any system integrator to expand their technology portfolio offerings and expand their business.