U18
The U18 is the slim 2D imager of the U series — the narrow-profile family unit that product-line inspectors carry into OEM assembly, reading the small DataMatrix on PCBs and the rack Code 128 on fixtures.
Key specifications
| Function | Slim-profile 2D capture for line inspection and small-part marking |
|---|---|
| Imaging engine | CMOS imager, 0.5–0.75 MP class (family standard) |
| Symbologies | All 1D plus QR, DataMatrix, PDF417, Aztec, China Post codes |
| Precision | 4 mil minimum element width class |
| Read range | 0–80 cm class (family-class value) |
| Host interfaces | USB HID / CDC, RS232 |
| Profile | Slim body footprint — dimensions in datasheet, fits toolkits and check carts |
| Target applications | Inspection stations, component traceability, sample verification |
Full specification
| Parameter | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Product family | EMS Biometric U-series handheld 2D | Slim variant |
| Imaging sensor | CMOS, 0.5–0.75 MP class | Family-standard pixel count |
| Resolution | 4 mil class | Per-model in datasheet |
| Symbologies | EAN/UPC, Code 39/93/128, GS1-128, ITF-14, Codabar, QR, DataMatrix, PDF417, Aztec, China Post codes | Full 2D set |
| Read range | 0–80 cm class | Family-class; per-model curve on request |
| Host interfaces | USB + RS232 | Both standard |
| Wireless | Wired unit | See V-series for cordless |
| Operating temperature | Indoor commercial class | See W-series for industrial range |
| Supply terms | MOQ 1 pc · sample 1–3 days · production 10–25 days (under 5,000 pcs) | EMS standard terms |
| Warranty | 2 years | From first unit |
Family-class values shown — exact per-model figures in the datasheet; the FAE team verifies small-part capture within 48h.
From part to parent, one matrix at a time.
Traceability in OEM plants now reaches down to the component level: a DataMatrix on the PCB, a serial on the sub-assembly tray, and a production record that needs both. The U18 is the gun engineering and QC checkpoints share — slim enough to live on the inspection cart, imaging enough to read the small markings:
- The matrix your line prints — laser-etched and printed DataMatrix at the 4 mil class, the density range most PCB and fixture marking uses, decodes without a fixture or a stand.
- One gun, two points of the process — the QC station's board matrix and the line-end fixture Code 128 both pass through the same trigger, so the record stays one document.
- A pocket that never misses — slim profile means follow-up crews carry it from station to station; the 2-year warranty covers a work cart's motion, and the FAE team verifies your marking contrast within 48h.
U18 FAQs
Etched marking is contrast-dependent — the U18 handles typical etches at the 4 mil class, but low-contrast laser marks on brushed alloy should be tested once against your real part before fleet order.
The U-series is a standard commercial build; the W-series industrial line is the honest answer when carts and docks are involved — our FAE will confirm the fit.
Yes — RS232 or HID output with the free SDK, both documented; the 48h FAE line confirms the framing your MES expects.
Let an engineer verify your U18 checkpoints.
Send your part marking samples and station flow — get a decode report, updated datasheet and sample offer within 48h.
