When each verifier leaves Axicon it has been checked and tested at several stages to ensure that it conforms to the international standards for barcode verifiers, and that it is able to be calibrated by the user with a traceable calibration card.
The regular calibration ensures that the verifier is measuring reflectance correctly, as its performance is affected by each computer it is connected to, its temperature and the ambient light. This calibration does not maintain the verifier in perfect condition, as its performance will change over time – the LEDs will not necessarily all be as consistently bright as they were when new, dust can settle on some of the optical components, and the buttons and cables may be wearing out through use.
This is why we recommend that every verifier should be returned to us every year for a verifier conformance and alignment service or VCAS. During this process we examine, clean and reset the verifier, changing any components that may be wearing out, and ensure that it works as well as it did when it was first manufactured. We also supply a new calibration card as its values will slightly change over time.
