Product Lexicon

At Socket Mobile, we employ specific keywords in our product descriptions that are helpful to be familiar with as you interact with our website. You'll find language used to describe different types of readers, methods of handling them in a work environment, and other common data capture terms. We hope this information assists you along your data capture journey and helps you find the ideal solution for your needs.


Attachable: Scanning module that attaches to the back of a mobile device.

Barcode Scanner: Handheld or stationary device that is designed to scan, read, and interpret data that is stored within barcode symbologies.

Companion: Singular handheld hardware scanning devices used as a companion to a host tablet, smartphone, or PC.

Contactless: Sits on any surface for easy and accessible scanning/reading.

Data Reader: Generic term used to describe both barcode scanners and NFC readers/writers.

Dedicated: Reader is dedicated for a certain type of scanning/reading technology (for example: NFC reading ONLY, 1D barcode reading ONLY)

Healthcare: Reader is manufactured with medical-grade plastic to withstand repeated sanitizing and other harsh chemicals.

NFC Reader/Writer: Reader that uses Near Field Communication technology, which enables communication between two devices when they are in close proximity.

Sled: A case for your existing mobile device with built-in scanning technology.

BYOD: “Bring Your Own Device”. Accessories attach to a user's personal mobile device to help facilitate barcode scanning.

Hands-Free: Reader can be set to read barcodes without being manually triggered.

Single-Handed: The phone and reader are enclosed as an all-in-one solution.

Stationary: Reader sits on a fixed stand or surface and is not used for mobile purposes.

Two-Handed: Reader is held in one hand and the phone/tablet in the other.

Wearable: Reader is enclosed in a wearable accessory.

Asset Tracking: The process of tracking and managing physical assets, such as equipment, vehicles, or inventory.

Digital IDs: Digital versions of common identification cards, including driver's licenses and passports. Usually stored on one's mobile device within a mobile wallet application.

Event Management: The management/tracking of guests/attendees at a social event (concerts, seminars, corporate events).

Inventory Management: The process of tracking and managing inventory levels.

Logistics: Management of the transportation and distribution of goods.

Loyalty: Used to describe programs that reward customers who repeatedly interact with a brand or retailer.

Mobile Driver's License (MDL): A digital form of one's driver's license that is stored on one's mobile phone or device.

POS (Point of Sale) System: A system used to process transactions at a retail location.

Supply Chain Management: The process of managing the flow of goods and services from the manufacturer to the consumer.

Warehouse Management: The process of managing inventory and operations within a warehouse.

API (Application Programming Interface): A set of protocols and tools used to build software applications.

Authentication: The process of verifying the identity of a user or device.

Barcode: A machine-readable code that contains information about a product, such as the manufacturer, product type, and price.

CaptureSDK: Socket Mobile's specific set of app development tools that enable applications to efficiently capture data in the physical world and utilize it in-app to maximize efficiency and productivity.

Contactless payment: A payment method that uses NFC technology to enable customers to pay for goods and services without physically swiping a credit card.

Data Capture: Process of capturing information in the physical world and converting it into usable data for an application.

Data Matrix: A two-dimensional barcode that can encode large amounts of data in a small space.

Ergonomic: Used to describe data readers that are designed for efficiency and comfort in the working environment.

Mobile App: A software application designed to run on a mobile device.

Mobile Payment: A payment method that enables customers to pay for goods and services using a smartphone or other mobile device.

QR Code: A two-dimensional barcode that can be read by a smartphone or other mobile device.

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification): A technology that uses radio waves to identify and track objects.

SDK (Software Development Kit): A set of tools for developers to use in producing applications using a particular framework or platform.

Security: The measures taken to protect data and devices from unauthorized access or use.

Smart Card: A plastic card with an embedded microchip that can store and process data.

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