The minimum hardware you'll require to use this module is a general-purpose printer (such as an HP Deskjet) and a barcode scanner.

Optionally, you may want a dedicated barcode printer for registration and shooter ID labels.

 

Several types of scanners are available.  They differ in how they connect to a computer and the technology they use for scanning barcodes.

Scanner interfaces are generally either keyboard wedge, USB, or serial.  ForScore only supports the USB type of scanner.

 

Scanners use either CCD or laser technology.  CCD scanners tend to be the cheapest (I paid $99 for mine), but are less tolerant of the distance and angle between the scanner and the barcode.  I've bought used laser scanners on eBay for as little as $50 plus tax and shipping.

 

Barcodes are printed with different encoding schemes.  ForScore can be configured to print either Code 39 or Code 128 barcodes, which most scanners should read.  The newer ("split") narrow score sheets are only printed with Code 128.

 

Some scanners are hand-held, and you need to pull the trigger each time to read the barcode.

These are MUCH less convenient than a scanner on a stand.  Some handheld scanners have optional stands available which turn them into hands-free devices.