QR Code Scanning

The MHS Partner Portal includes built-in QR code scanning functionality, perfect for warehouse environments and quick part identification.

What is QR Scanning?

QR code scanning allows you to: - Instantly search for parts by scanning QR codes or barcodes - Eliminate typing errors when searching for parts - Speed up the ordering process in warehouse environments - Work efficiently on mobile devices

Accessing the QR Scanner

From the Main Navigation

1. Click “Part Enquiry” in the navigation menu

2. Look for the QR scanner icon in the search area

3. Click the scanner icon to activate the camera

From Mobile Devices

1. Navigate to Part Enquiry on your mobile device

2. Tap the QR code icon next to the search box

3. Allow camera permissions when prompted

Direct Access: - Visit the scanner page directly from the main menu - Bookmark the scanner for quick access on mobile

Setting Up QR Scanning

Camera Permissions

When you first use the scanner, your browser will request camera access:

1. Click “Allow” when prompted

2. Select the appropriate camera (usually back camera on mobile)

3. Ensure good lighting for best scanning results

Mobile Setup: - Add to home screen for quick access - Keep the camera lens clean for better scanning - Use in well-lit environments when possible

How to Scan QR Codes

Basic Scanning Process

1. Open the QR scanner

2. Point your camera at the QR code or barcode

3. Hold steady until the code is recognized

4. Wait for automatic search to complete

Scanning Tips: - Hold the device steady for 2-3 seconds - Ensure the entire code is visible in the frame - Move closer or farther if the code isn’t focusing - Use good lighting for better recognition - Clean the camera lens if scanning is difficult

Screenshot needed: QR scanner showing a QR code being successfully scanned with “Code recognized: HYD-123-456” message and automatic search starting

What Happens After Scanning: - The part number is automatically extracted - An exact part search is performed - Results are displayed just like a manual search - You can immediately add items to your cart

Screenshot needed: Search results page showing part details after successful QR code scan, with “Scanned from QR code” indicator and part information displayed

Supported Code Types

The scanner recognizes:

QR Codes: - Standard QR codes containing part numbers - Data Matrix codes - Custom QR codes with part information

Barcodes: - UPC barcodes - Code 128 barcodes - EAN-13 barcodes - Most common industrial barcode formats

Part Number Formats: - Plain text part numbers - JSON formatted data - URL-encoded part information

Using QR Scanning Effectively

In the Warehouse

1. Scan parts directly from shelves or bins

2. Verify part numbers before ordering

3. Check stock levels instantly

4. Add to cart for immediate ordering

For Inventory Management

• Scan multiple items quickly

• Build orders efficiently using mobile device

• Verify part authenticity against your records

For Reordering

• Scan empty packaging to reorder parts

• Use QR codes from previous orders or invoices

• Quick lookup for maintenance schedules

Troubleshooting QR Scanning

Scanner Won’t Start: - Check camera permissions in browser settings - Refresh the page and try again - Try a different browser if issues persist - Ensure you’re using HTTPS (required for camera access)

Can’t Scan Codes: - Clean the camera lens - Improve lighting conditions - Hold device steadier - Try different angles or distances - Check if the code is damaged or unclear

Wrong Part Found: - Verify the QR code contains the correct information - Check for custom part number mappings - Use manual search as a backup - Contact support if codes consistently fail

Mobile-Specific Issues: - Update your browser to the latest version - Clear browser cache and try again - Check mobile data/WiFi connection - Try switching between front/back cameras

QR Scanning Best Practices

For Best Results: - Use in good lighting conditions - Hold the device steady while scanning - Keep QR codes clean and undamaged - Scan at appropriate distance (usually 6-12 inches)

Warehouse Efficiency: - Train staff on proper scanning techniques - Maintain QR code quality on shelving and bins - Use mobile devices with good cameras - Create standardized QR codes for frequently ordered parts

Security Considerations: - Only scan trusted QR codes - Verify part information after scanning - Be cautious with QR codes from unknown sources

Mobile Scanning Tips

Device Orientation: - Portrait mode usually works best - Landscape mode for wide barcodes - Auto-rotation can help with difficult angles

Camera Quality: - Higher resolution cameras scan more reliably - Auto-focus features improve accuracy - Good lighting is more important than camera quality

Battery Management: - Camera usage can drain battery quickly - Close scanner when not in use - Use power-saving mode if available

Creating QR Codes for Your Business

You can create your own QR codes for frequently ordered parts:

QR Code Content: - Simple part numbers work best - Avoid special characters that might cause issues - Test codes before printing in bulk

QR Code Tools: - Free online generators are available - Include part number only for simplest scanning - Test with the portal scanner before deployment

Physical Implementation: - Print on durable materials for warehouse use - Size appropriately for scanning distance - Include human-readable text as backup

Advanced QR Features

Bulk Scanning Workflow

1. Scan multiple parts sequentially

2. Parts automatically added to current search session

3. Review all scanned parts before adding to cart

4. Batch process for efficiency

Integration with Favorites

• Scan parts to automatically add to favorites

• Create QR codes for your most-ordered parts

• Build custom part libraries using QR codes

Next Steps

After mastering QR scanning:

1. Search History and Favorites - Manage your search patterns and favorites

2. Advanced Search - Explore advanced search capabilities

3. Adding Items to Cart - Learn to add scanned parts to your cart

4. Bulk Upload and Ordering - Explore bulk ordering options