🔌 USB QR Reader (Physical Scanner)

For businesses with high transaction volume or those who prefer a fixed and fast solution, you can use a USB QR reader connected directly to your computer. These devices work like a keyboard: when scanning a QR code, they automatically type the content into the active field.

How does it work?

Connect the USB QR reader to your computer (plug & play, no installation required)
Open the Welcome Back web scanner in your browser
Position the cursor in the scan field
When scanning the customer's card, the reader automatically enters the code

USB reader advantages

✅ Speed: Instant scanning, faster than using a camera
✅ Reliability: Doesn't depend on camera permissions or lighting
✅ Durability: Designed for intensive commercial use
✅ Plug & Play: Just connect and use, no configuration needed
✅ Compatibility: Works with any computer (Windows, Mac, Linux)

⚠️ Important: 2D Scanner, not 1D

When buying a QR reader (on Amazon, MercadoLibre, or any store), make sure it's a 2D scanner and not 1D:

Type	Reads QR codes	Reads barcodes	Works with Welcome Back?
1D	❌ No	✅ Yes	❌ NO
2D	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ YES

1D scanners only read traditional barcodes. Welcome Back cards use QR codes, so you need a 2D scanner.

Tip: In the product description, look for "2D", "QR Code", or "bidimensional codes". If it only mentions "barcode" or "bar code", it's probably 1D and won't work.

Recommended setup

Position: Mount the reader on a fixed stand near the register for easy access
Mode: Set the reader to "hands-free" mode if available, so it scans automatically when it detects a code
Suffix: Some readers allow configuring a suffix (like "Enter") after scanning to automatically submit the form

When to use USB reader vs camera?

Situation	Recommendation
High transaction volume	USB Reader
Fixed position (register/counter)	USB Reader
Multiple mobile devices	Device camera
Table service / delivery	Phone camera
Limited budget	Device camera

🔧 Troubleshooting

Computer doesn't recognize the reader

Try another USB port: Connect the reader to a different port, preferably directly on the computer (not through a USB hub)
Restart the computer: Sometimes a simple restart fixes the issue
Check the cable: Make sure the cable is properly connected and not damaged
Test on another computer: If it works on another device, the problem might be your computer's USB port
Check compatibility: Some very old readers may require drivers. Check if the manufacturer offers drivers for your operating system

Reader connects but doesn't scan

Verify it's 2D: If you bought a 1D scanner, it won't read QR codes
Clean the lens: A dirty lens can prevent correct reading
Correct distance: Keep the QR code 5-15 cm from the reader
Lighting: Although USB readers are less sensitive to light, avoid direct reflections on the QR code
Damaged code: Verify that the card's QR code is not scratched or blurry

Browser doesn't receive the scan

Cursor in correct field: Make sure the cursor is active in the Welcome Back scan field before scanning
Test in another program: Open a notepad and scan. If text appears, the reader works and the problem is the browser or webpage
Language/keyboard settings: Some readers have issues with Spanish keyboard settings. Try temporarily switching the keyboard language to English (US)
Update browser: Make sure you have the latest version of Chrome, Edge, or whichever browser you use
Disable extensions: Some browser extensions can interfere. Try in incognito mode

Reader scans incorrect or incomplete characters

Language settings: The reader may be configured for a different keyboard layout (e.g., English vs Spanish). Check the manual to change the configuration
Transmission speed: Some readers allow adjusting the speed. If too fast, the computer may lose characters
Reset configuration: Most readers have a "reset to factory defaults" QR code in the manual. Scan it to return to factory settings

Still not working?

Reader brand and model
Your computer's operating system
Browser you're using
Problem description

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