Barcode systems use a network of hardware and software, and barcode systems make use of mobile computers, handheld scanners, printers and supporting hardware. Barcode systems are extremely useful for automated data collection and where hand recoding is neither time nor cost effective. Barcode systems are not radio frequency identification systems; however the companies which provide barcode systems, will often provide radio frequency equipment and most companies make use of both technologies. There is a wide range of equipment available for use in barcode systems, and the one most commonly seen is the handheld scanner, which is widely used for stock taking, in supermarkets and retail stores. The scanner is used to read a series of bars usually printed on the packaging or label, and the information is processed by computer software.