Barcode Reader & Production Tracking

You Don't Need a PC at Every Barcode Station

Using a dedicated computer simply to receive barcode data and forward it to a central application can create unnecessary hardware, operating system and maintenance overhead.

With NetRelay, a compatible serial barcode reader can be connected directly to the field device. Scanned barcode data can then be transmitted over the network using TCP Socket or an MQTT-based architecture, leaving all subsequent business logic to your own software.

Barcode Reader → NetRelay → Your Server

Serial barcode data can be received by NetRelay and delivered in real time to a production tracking or application server using its TCP Socket Client capabilities.

The barcode reader generates the data, NetRelay transports it and your application decides what happens next.

Operate Without a Dedicated Computer

Traditional barcode stations often require a PC running continuously between the barcode reader and central software. NetRelay can remove this dedicated workstation requirement in suitable serial-reader applications by connecting the reader directly to the network.

Real-Time Data with TCP Socket

Scanned barcode information can be transmitted to a server running on the configured IP address and port. The receiving application can be implemented with Node.js, Python, C#, Java, Delphi, Go or any technology capable of handling TCP Socket connections.

Distributed Barcode Architecture with MQTT

Projects with multiple barcode stations can use an MQTT-based architecture. Individual devices can represent different production stations or locations and publish barcode events through a central broker for processing by backend applications.

What Happens Next Is Up to the Developer

NetRelay's role is to move barcode information from the physical field point into the software layer. Your application decides what the scanned code means and what workflow should follow.

A scan can create a production record, complete an operation, update inventory, validate a shipment, generate an error or initiate another physical action.

Hardware transports the barcode. You write the business logic.

Production Tracking Scenario

An operator scans the barcode of each completed product. NetRelay receives the serial data and sends it to the production tracking server through TCP Socket.

The backend validates the code against the active work order, increments production quantity and records that the product passed through the station.

Station-Based Production Tracking

Using separate NetRelay devices and barcode readers at different production stations allows each scan to be associated with a specific stage such as assembly, testing, quality control, packaging or shipping.

ERP and MES Integration

Barcode information received through Socket or MQTT can be processed by middleware and associated with work orders, product records, serial numbers and production operations in ERP or MES platforms.

WMS and Warehouse Applications

Barcode events can be transmitted to centralized WMS software for receiving, put-away, picking, packing and shipping verification without requiring a complete workstation at every scanning point.

Quality Control Stations

Scanning a product can automatically load required test parameters, associate test results with the serial number and create a complete quality history.

Packaging and Shipping Verification

Product and carton barcodes can be compared during packing to ensure the correct items are assigned to each shipment. A final scan can record the physical departure of goods from the facility.

Turn a Barcode into a Physical Action

Barcode processing does not need to end with a database update. Once the backend evaluates a scan, it can send a command back to NetRelay to control a physical output.

A valid scan can activate a green beacon, open a door or allow a conveyor to continue. An invalid scan can trigger a red warning light or audible alarm.

Example Workflow

1. The operator scans the product barcode.

2. The reader sends serial data to NetRelay.

3. NetRelay transfers the barcode to the central server using TCP Socket or MQTT.

4. The backend matches the barcode with the product, work order or serial number.

5. The transaction is stored in the database.

6. If necessary, a command is sent back to NetRelay to control a relay or another physical output.

Build the Backend with Your Preferred Technology

• Node.js for real-time production services
• Python for data processing and automation
• C# / .NET for ERP and desktop integration
• Delphi for existing enterprise applications
• Java or Go for backend services
• PostgreSQL or SQL Server for centralized storage
• MQTT for managing multiple stations

No Client Software at Every Station

Instead of maintaining software installations on multiple workstation PCs, business logic can remain centralized on the server while field stations focus on collecting and transporting barcode data.

A Simpler Field Architecture

In suitable applications, a barcode station can consist of a serial barcode reader, NetRelay and network connectivity instead of a monitor, keyboard and dedicated computer.

Barcode-Based Reports

• Scan count by station
• Hourly and shift production quantities
• Product and serial-number history
• First and last scan timestamps
• Time between production stations
• Production cycle time
• Invalid or duplicate scans
• Quality-control results
• Packaging and shipping records
• Operation-based production history

Connect Multiple Stations to One Backend

Barcode points across a facility can connect to the same central Socket Server or MQTT broker, allowing dozens of field stations to feed a single production platform.

Turn a Serial Barcode Reader into a Network Device

Do not think of a serial barcode reader only as a PC peripheral. With NetRelay, it can become a network-connected field data source that communicates directly with your central software.

Scan the barcode and let NetRelay deliver the data wherever you need it through TCP Socket or MQTT. From that point on, the workflow belongs to your code and your platform.