Hi,
Here is my experience on using barcode readers in Access.
The barcode reader (or called scanner) is just a subsitute for the keyboard. When the scanner reads a barcode it's just the same as inputing the text or number from the keyboard. There is no driver required, just plug in the scanner before you switch on the computer.
There used to be scanners that connects to the serial port, or to your keyboard through a special connector. Nowadays I've seen some ads about USB scanners but haven't tried because my old one still works well (9 years old).
I don't know if all handheld barcoder scanners are the same. I just asked for the simplest one that cashiers use in superstores. Check with the reseller if the scanner reads 3of9 Codes (or called Code 39) as well, because most stores use UPC codes. Code 39 includes ASCII characters while UPC codes are for indentification of products in the market.
Read the instructions regarding the programming of the scanner. You can program it to stay in the same field after or to jump to the next field after reading a barcode.
If you only want to READ barcodes then you don't need to buy any software. If you want to print barcodes you need Barcode Fonts for Windows. You can install the fonts in the usual way (Control Panel - Fonts - Install New Fonts...). There are barcode fonts available in the internet, just search for "barcode fonts". To use barcodes just select the barcode font in the Font Name field of the text box's property window. There are softwares too for printing barcodes, but not as convenient as Windows fonts. With Windows fonts you can apply barcodes to any application like Excel, Word..any program that lets you select fonts.
Hope the information helps.
Peter Lai