bcWebCam vs XSane

bcWebCam uses a Windows PC webcam to read EAN barcodes and QR codes, then enters the result into the active field of another application. Position the cursor in a browser, notebook, or other program and hold a code in front of the camera; the recognized item number or contents are copied there. The Free Edition reads EAN8, EAN13, and QR codes and is restricted to private use. PRO1 adds linear types including Code 128, Code 39, Code 2/5, SS1, and Post Codes; PRO2 also adds Data Matrix, PDF417, and Aztec. The maker says the free edition can be used to evaluate PRO1 and PRO2. The software is 64-bit and requires Microsoft.NET Framework 4.8. Its maker describes 640×480 as the optimized webcam resolution and says lowering a higher resolution may improve preview and recognition performance. QS QualitySoft GmbH, based in Hamburg, Germany, makes the product. Listed plans are free for Free Edition, €4,998, paid once for PRO1, and €11,662, paid once for PRO2; the pricing note says paid from €49.98.

XSane is a graphical program for accessing scanners and other image acquisition devices through SANE. It can preview images and scan from devices such as flatbed scanners, with available hardware depending on the installed device and configuration. Its viewer, save, copy, fax, and mail modes cover several ways to handle an acquired image. Used on its own, XSane saves scans as PNM or converts them to JPEG, PNG, PS, or TIFF. It can also send an image to a printer or serve as a frontend to a fax program. XSane can be invoked through The GIMP to pass images there for further processing. SANE also includes a network protocol for accessing image acquisition devices over a network. The listed features include color management, gamma enhancement, and a histogram. XSane is free, requires a SANE-compatible scanner, and is listed for Linux and Windows. Its source description also names OS/2 and various Unix systems; package dependencies include SANE and GTK 2.