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Barcode scanner

FSM Navigator includes a built-in barcode scanner that runs directly in your web browser. Point your device's camera at a barcode label and the system instantly looks up the part in your catalog — no additional app or hardware required.

Enterprise feature

The barcode scanner is available exclusively on the Enterprise plan. Compare plans to learn more.

Why use the barcode scanner

Manually searching for parts by name takes time and introduces errors. The barcode scanner gives you:

  • Instant lookups — scan a label and jump straight to the part record.
  • Accurate identification — no risk of selecting the wrong part from a long list.
  • Faster workflows — add parts to jobs, stock counts, or transfers in seconds.
  • No extra equipment — works with your phone, tablet, or laptop camera.

Supported barcode formats

The scanner recognizes the most common barcode formats used on parts and product packaging.

Format Description Typical use
CODE 128 High-density alphanumeric barcode Custom SKU labels, internal part tags
UPC-A 12-digit universal product code Retail product packaging
EAN-13 13-digit international article number European and international products
QR Code Two-dimensional matrix code Custom labels, asset tags, URLs

Print your own barcode labels

You can print CODE 128 labels for your parts using any standard label printer. Use the part's SKU as the barcode value so scanners match it to your catalog.

Starting the scanner

From the inventory page

  1. Navigate to Inventory in the sidebar.
  2. Click Scan Barcode in the toolbar.
  3. Your browser requests camera access — click Allow.
  4. Point your camera at the barcode label.
  5. When the scanner reads the code, the matching part opens automatically.

From a job's parts tab

  1. Open a job detail page.
  2. Navigate to the Parts tab.
  3. Click Scan to Add.
  4. Point your camera at the barcode.
  5. The part is identified and you can enter the quantity used.

From the mobile app

  1. Open the Inventory tab or a job's Parts section.
  2. Tap the barcode icon.
  3. Point your phone's camera at the label.
  4. The part is matched and ready for action.

Camera permissions

The scanner needs access to your device's camera. Your browser asks for permission the first time you use the scanner.

Browser How to grant access
Chrome Click Allow in the permission dialog, or go to Settings → Privacy and Security → Site Settings → Camera
Safari Click Allow in the permission dialog, or go to Settings → Safari → Camera → Allow
Firefox Click Allow in the permission dialog. Permission is saved for future visits

HTTPS required

Camera access is only available on secure (HTTPS) connections. If you access FSM Navigator over an unsecured connection, the scanner will not function.

Scan results

After a successful scan, the system searches your parts catalog for a matching SKU. You see one of two outcomes:

Part found

The part detail card appears showing the name, SKU, current stock levels, and pricing. From here you can:

  • Add to job — record this part as used on the current job.
  • View details — open the full part record in the catalog.
  • Adjust stock — update the quantity at the current location.

Part not found

If the barcode does not match any SKU in your catalog, the system displays a "Part not found" message with the scanned code value. You can:

  • Add as a new part — create a new catalog entry using the scanned code as the SKU.
  • Try again — re-scan if the reading was unclear.

Avoid glare and wrinkles

For the best scan results, hold the barcode steady, avoid reflective glare, and make sure the label is not wrinkled or torn. The scanner needs a clear view of the full barcode.

Scan debounce

The scanner includes a built-in delay between reads to prevent the same barcode from being scanned multiple times in rapid succession. After a successful scan, the scanner pauses briefly before accepting the next read.

Using the scanner for stock counts

You can use the barcode scanner to speed up physical inventory counts:

  1. Go to a warehouse's stock page.
  2. Click Scan Barcode.
  3. Scan each part on the shelf.
  4. The system displays the expected quantity — verify it against the physical count.
  5. If there is a discrepancy, adjust the stock level directly.

Frequently asked questions

Does the scanner work on desktop computers?

Yes, if your desktop has a webcam. The scanner uses your browser's camera API, which works on any device with a camera.

Can I use an external Bluetooth barcode scanner?

Yes. External scanners that emulate keyboard input work with the search fields throughout FSM Navigator. Type the scanned code into the search bar and the system finds the matching part.

What if my camera is blurry?

Try holding the device closer to or farther from the barcode. Most cameras need the barcode to fill roughly half the viewfinder for a clear read. Ensure your camera lens is clean.

Can I scan barcodes while offline?

The scanner requires an active internet connection to look up parts in your catalog. Scans made offline are not supported at this time.