Definition of scan entry

method of entering data to a computer via an optical character recognition machine commonly referred to as a scanner. Scan entry is a much faster and more accurate type of data entry than key entry. Usually, the fewer the number of characters to be read, the more accurate the scan entry is and the fewer rejects there are. Scan entry makes it possible to enter orders, payments, and some types of customer complaints at a rate of 12,000 to 18,000 documents per hour. Scan entry is also used to record product and price information at store checkout counters. Coupon clearing houses use bar code scanners to tabulate coupon redemption rates. The U.S. Postal Service uses barcode and ZlP code scanners to sort mail.