---
title: How to set up a barcode scanner
description: "# Use Insight's premade configuration sheets 1. Plug the scanner into the computer. Make sure there is a light on the scanner when you press the trigger. If not, try a different port. (Some USB hub devices may not have…"
url: "https://salon-software.com/kb/how-to-set-up-a-barcode-scanner/"
updated: "2020-10-28"
category: Hardware
---

# How to set up a barcode scanner

# Use Insight's premade configuration sheets

1. Plug the scanner into the computer. Make sure there is a light on the scanner when you press the trigger. If not, try a different port. (Some USB hub devices may not have enough power)
2. Print off the configuration sheet for your scanner. They can be found under the **Help**button in Insight.
    ![help scanner](http://salon-software.com/wp-content/uploads/helpscanner-1-477x600.png)
3. Scan the sheet from top to bottom. This will **prefix** the **~ symbol **to all barcodes scanned and allow the scanner to work with Insight.
4. Be sure barcodes are saved in Insight under the **Retail Products** screen. They can be scanned from the product container into this box.
    ![](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/bJyesC7RWS6GkiO6ZLKR)
5. Test by scanning the barcode into the **Sales** screen. If it does not work, try rescanning the configuration sheet.

# Configure a scanner not listed in the help button

If your scanner is not listed in the **Help** button, you may need to refer to your barcode scanner manual or contact the manufacturer for help with setup. The scanner will need to **prefix **or **preamble**the **tilde (~)** character to work in Insight. You can also try to find your scanner model in our list of scanner configuration guides below:

## Additional scanner configuration sheets

- [**Tera D5100**](http://salon-software.com/kb/tera-d5100-barcode-scanner-config/)
- **[Symbol MS 4404 or 4407](http://salon-software.com/kb/symbol-ms-4404-or-4407-barcode-scanner-config)**
- [**Zebra LS2208**](http://salon-software.com/kb/zebra-ls2208-barcode-scanner-config/)