How do I add or remove prefix or suffix characters from my barcode scanner?

Most USB barcode scanners permit special characters to be added at the beginning (prefix) or end (suffix) of the scanned barcode.  The most common use for this is sending a carriage return after scanning a code (the same as pressing the enter key), so that as soon as a product's SKU is read by the scanner, that product will be added to a sale (or stock order, stocktake etc).

Some scanners from previous point of sale systems may be preconfigured to use special characters, such as spaces, tildes ( ~ symbol) or other characters. We recommend removing any special prefix or suffix characters from barcode scanners compatible with Retail POS, but including a carriage return in the suffix, for easy adding of products to a sale.

Most standard USB scanners will come with a quick start guide (and also a more detailed product reference guide) containing series of barcodes and instructions on how to add or remove special characters and keys from the prefix or suffix of a scanner. For example:

Make/Model: Honeywell 1450g
Quick Start Guide: view online