Barcode scanner works with software to gather data

IntelliScanner has released its Wine Collector mini, a software and hardware package for scanning barcodes and organizing wine collections. The scanner tracks wines based on the barcodes found on many wine bottles, while the software automatically recognizes wines, organizes them and visualizes collections in a virtual cellar. The scanner is USB-powered, rechargeable, and has memory for retaining scans until the data can be offloaded.

The mini's software automatically identifies details beyond names, such as a wine's color, variety, winery, region and country. It also calculates optimal drinking times and features a color-coded maturity indicator. The Virtual Cellar can locate bottles in racks or on shelves and features advanced reporting tools including physical printouts and website publishing. The company also offers a free web-based portal for the iPhone, giving users visual access to a collection while away from home.

The Wine Collector mini package works with Mac OS X 10.4 and higher, along with Windows XP, Vista and 7. It costs $280 and is available with numerous extras, such as 500 custom barcode tags and extra software, for $330.

by MacNN Staff