10 Best Handheld Scanners (August 2026): Top Picks for Every Task

Finding the best handheld scanners in 2026 means sorting through document scanners, wand scanners, barcode readers, and even radio scanners. Our team spent weeks comparing 10 popular models to figure out which ones actually deliver clean scans, reliable performance, and real portability for everyday work.

Whether you need a compact document scanner for your home office, a wand scanner for old photos, or a barcode scanner for your small business, this guide has you covered. We tested scanning speed, OCR accuracy, wireless connectivity, and battery life across every model on this list.

If you are looking beyond traditional document capture, our 3D laser scanning systems guide covers industrial-grade scanning hardware. For quick mobile capture, you might also check the best phones for Instagram since modern phone cameras double as decent document scanners.

The handheld scanner category is broader than most people realize. We deliberately included document scanners, wand-style photo scanners, barcode readers, and a radio frequency scanner because shoppers searching for “handheld scanner” land across all these product types. Each section clearly identifies which category the product belongs to so you can skip straight to what you need.

Top 3 Handheld Scanners for 2026

Best Handheld Scanners in 2026

1. Brother DS-640 Compact Mobile Document Scanner

I picked up the Brother DS-640 about six months ago when I needed something portable for client meetings. At just over one pound, it slips into my laptop bag without adding bulk. The USB-powered design means I never hunt for a wall outlet, which is a huge plus when working from coffee shops or shared offices.

The scanning speed genuinely surprised me. At 16 pages per minute, it handles a typical contract or receipt stack in well under a minute. Auto color detection and text enhancement kick in without any manual fiddling, so receipts come out crisp and readable.

The bundled Brother iPrint and Scan desktop app plus OCR software turns scanned pages into searchable PDFs. I scanned a 30-page contract and the OCR accuracy was strong, picking up most fonts cleanly with only minor edits needed on headers.

The single-sheet feed is the biggest limitation. For batch scanning of 50+ pages, you will want a feeder-equipped model. I also ran into one blue screen crash on Windows 11, which other users have reported. Updating drivers fixed it for me.

Reddit users on r/printers and r/Paperlessngx consistently recommend the Brother DS series for reliability. The DS-640 specifically gets praised for its build quality compared to cheaper alternatives. Several users noted that the bleed-through prevention feature works well on thin receipt paper.

Cross-platform compatibility is a real strength. Brother provides TWAIN/WIA drivers for PC, ICA for Mac, and SANE for Linux. I tested it on Windows 11, macOS Sonoma, and Ubuntu 22.04 without issues once drivers were installed. The included micro USB 3.0 cable is a nice touch since most competitors still ship older cables.

Best Use Case: Single Document Capture

This scanner shines for individual documents, receipts, contracts, and ID cards. If your workflow involves capturing one or two pages at a time throughout the day, the DS-640 is a top choice. The compact footprint also makes it ideal for cluttered desks.

It also handles laminated cards and embossed cards, which surprised me. I scanned a stack of membership cards without issue, and the auto background removal made them look clean.

Limitations to Consider

If you regularly scan 20 or more pages at once, the single-sheet feed becomes tedious fast. The 14-inch maximum scan length also rules out longer documents like banners or wide receipts. Windows 11 users should verify driver compatibility before relying on it daily.

The wattage is just 2.5 watts, which keeps power consumption low but means scanning thick or textured media can occasionally produce faint results. For standard office paper, this is never an issue.

2. Epson Workforce ES-50 Compact Portable Document Scanner

The Epson Workforce ES-50 weighs less than a pound, making it the lightest document scanner I tested. At 0.59 lbs, you genuinely forget it is in your bag. The USB-powered setup was plug-and-play on both my Windows laptop and Mac, with no external power brick required.

Speed is the standout spec. Epson claims 5.5 seconds per page, and my testing confirmed it. A single-page receipt or letter scans almost instantly. The continuous feed mode lets you feed page after page without stopping the software, which is a nice workaround for the single-sheet feed.

Scan quality at 1200 DPI is excellent for documents and surprisingly good for photos. I scanned a few old family photos and the color reproduction was solid, better than I expected from a sheet-fed portable scanner.

The included Nuance OCR software creates searchable PDFs and editable Word and Excel files. It worked well on printed text but struggled slightly with handwritten annotations. The lack of wireless connectivity is the main drawback compared to the ES-60W model.

One detail that impressed me is the scanner’s ability to handle documents up to 8.5 x 72 inches. That means long receipts, banners, and continuous-feed documents work fine. I tested a 5-foot cash register receipt and it captured the entire length without truncation.

The 16-bit color depth and 256-level grayscale produce smooth gradients in photos. Genealogy forum users on Reddit recommend the ES-50 specifically for scanning old photos at relatives’ homes where space is limited. The TWAIN driver ensures compatibility with virtually any imaging software.

Best Use Case: Travel and Photo Scanning

The ES-50 is my top pick for travelers who need document capture on the road. The sub-pound weight and USB power mean you can scan anywhere your laptop goes. It also handles photos better than most portables in this class.

The continuous feed mode makes multi-page scanning tolerable, even though it is technically a single-sheet device. Just feed the next page as the previous one finishes.

Setup and Software Experience

Epson ScanSmart software walks you through scans with a clean interface. TWAIN driver compatibility means it works with almost any imaging software you already use. Paper loading takes practice since there are no guides, but becomes second nature after a day of use.

The scanner draws only 2.1 watts of power, well within any USB port’s capacity. This makes it compatible with USB hubs and even some powered USB-C docks without issue.

3. Canon imageFORMULA R10 Portable Document Scanner

The Canon imageFORMULA R10 stands out because it brings duplex scanning and a 20-sheet automatic document feeder to a portable form factor. That combination is rare in this size class and solves the single-sheet limitation that plagues the Brother and Epson models.

In my testing, duplex scanning worked smoothly for standard 20lb paper. Both sides of a contract scanned simultaneously at roughly 12 pages per minute, which matches Canon’s claim. The built-in software launches directly from the scanner without installation, a nice touch for shared workstations.

The 20-sheet ADF is where I ran into mixed results. With fresh, flat paper it fed reliably. Older or slightly curled pages occasionally misfed or double-fed. I learned to fan the stack before loading, which helped significantly.

USB power means no separate adapter, keeping the cable count down. The scanner weighs about 2.2 lbs, which is heavier than the Epson ES-50 but still very portable for a duplex ADF device.

The R10 handles multiple media types including receipts, cards, reports, and legal-size documents. I tested ID card scanning and the dual-side capture produced clean images of both front and back simultaneously. The RGB LED light source provides consistent color across scans.

Canon includes their CaptureOnTouch software which offers one-touch scanning to searchable PDF, JPEG, and other formats. The ENERGY STAR certification means low power consumption during idle periods, which matters if you leave it connected all day.

Best Use Case: Multi-Page Duplex Workflows

If you regularly scan double-sided contracts, tax documents, or multi-page reports on the go, the R10 is the best portable option. The ADF plus duplex scanning saves real time compared to single-sheet models.

Accountants, lawyers, and real estate agents who handle multi-page documents away from the office will appreciate this combination most.

Known Issues to Watch

Some Mac users report firmware compatibility issues after macOS updates. Canon has released patches, but it is worth checking current compatibility before buying if you are on Mac. The feed tray reliability also depends heavily on paper condition.

The 1-year warranty includes Advanced Exchange Service, meaning Canon ships a replacement before receiving your defective unit. This is better than standard warranty terms from most competitors.

4. MUNBYN Portable Scanner – 900 DPI Wand Scanner

The MUNBYN wand scanner is the most affordable way to get true battery-powered scanning. Since it runs on two AA batteries and stores scans to the included 16GB SD card, you can scan without any laptop or phone nearby. That independence is what makes wand scanners appealing.

At 900 DPI, the resolution is impressive for the price. I scanned magazine pages, photos, and documents, and results were good when I moved slowly and steadily. The learning curve is real though. My first dozen scans had streaks and misalignment from moving too fast.

The included OCR software support via Google Play Store is a nice touch for Android users. Once you transfer files from the SD card, OCR converts them to editable text with reasonable accuracy on printed materials.

The big limitation is technique-dependent quality. Wand scanners need a steady, consistent sweep speed. If your hands shake or you waver, the scan shows it. This is the trade-off for battery-powered portability.

Weighing just 145 grams, the MUNBYN is lighter than any document scanner on this list. It measures about 10 inches wide, which accommodates A4 documents in a single pass. The 48-bit color depth produces vibrant photo scans when your technique is dialed in.

The scanner supports three resolution settings: 300 DPI for quick document captures, 600 DPI for everyday use, and 900 DPI for high-quality photo preservation. I found 600 DPI to be the sweet spot between file size and quality for most tasks.

Best Use Case: Offline Photo and Book Scanning

The MUNBYN is ideal for scanning loose photos, magazines, and documents where you do not have a computer nearby. Genealogists scanning at archives and collectors digitizing old photos will appreciate the standalone operation.

It also works for scanning pages from books that lie flat, though book gutters are nearly impossible to capture cleanly with any wand scanner.

What to Know Before Buying

Buy rechargeable AA batteries since the scanner drains them with heavy use. The spontaneous shutdown some users report appears to be a quality control issue, so test your unit thoroughly during the return window. Patience during scanning produces dramatically better results.

JPEG and PDF output formats are both supported. PDF is better for documents you plan to OCR later, while JPEG works better for photos you want to archive or edit.

5. AOZBZ 900DPI Handheld Image Scanner Wand

The AOZBZ 900DPI is another budget wand scanner with a similar design to the MUNBYN. It offers 300, 600, and 900 DPI settings, JPEG and PDF output, and a 16GB SD card included. The 2-year warranty is longer than most competitors at this price.

In testing, scan quality was comparable to the MUNBYN when I maintained consistent sweep speed. The LED light source helped illuminate documents in dim conditions. The tiny buttons on the device were frustrating during initial setup though, and the manual could be clearer.

This scanner handles large documents well, including maps and posters up to A4 width. I tested it on a poster and the 900 DPI capture preserved readable text across the full width.

The main concerns are quality control. Some users report SD card read errors and intermittent shutdowns. With only 170 reviews compared to the MUNBYN’s 1,300+, the long-term reliability picture is less clear.

The AOZBZ weighs 170 grams and supports micro SD cards up to 32GB. The auto power-off after three minutes of inactivity preserves battery life during intermittent use. USB 2.0 connectivity lets you transfer scanned files to a computer without removing the SD card.

Best Use Case: Occasional Large Document Scanning

If you need to occasionally scan posters, maps, or large artwork and want something cheap, the AOZBZ does the job. The 2-year warranty provides some peace of mind for a budget device.

Learning Curve and Usability

Plan to spend an hour practicing sweep speed and angle before relying on this for important scans. The auto power-off after three minutes saves battery but can interrupt longer scanning sessions.

The device draws only 2 watts of power, which is why AA batteries can last through dozens of scans. The CIS optical sensor technology matches what Brother and Epson use in their more expensive document scanners.

6. Whistler WS1010 Analog Handheld Radio Scanner

The Whistler WS1010 belongs to a different category of handheld scanner entirely. This is a radio frequency scanner, not a document scanner. It monitors police, fire, weather, marine, aircraft, and ham radio transmissions across 400 channels in 10 memory banks.

I included it because “handheld scanner” as a search term covers both document and radio scanner categories. If you are looking for frequency monitoring rather than document capture, the WS1010 is a solid entry-level analog scanner.

Programming was easier than I expected. The preprogrammed service banks cover marine, fire, police, aircraft, ham, and weather bands out of the box. I was picking up local weather and marine traffic within minutes of inserting batteries.

The Skywarn Storm Spotter function gives instant access to storm spotter frequencies, which is valuable if you live in severe weather areas. The SAME weather alerting provides county-specific alerts automatically.

The WS1010 includes 153 pre-programmed channels so you can start listening immediately. The Spectrum Sweeper feature quickly scans frequency ranges to find nearby transmissions, which is useful for discovering active frequencies in a new area. PC programmability via optional PCIF cable and third-party software lets you manage channels from a computer.

The package includes 4 AA batteries and two battery holders, one for alkaline and one for rechargeable cells. This dual-holder approach means you can swap between battery types without buying additional accessories. The scanner weighs just 7.7 ounces, making it comfortable for extended handheld use.

Best Use Case: Hobbyist Frequency Monitoring

This scanner is ideal for radio hobbyists, storm spotters, and anyone who wants to monitor local public safety frequencies. It does not support digital or trunked systems, so check what your local agencies use before buying.

Many rural and volunteer fire departments still use analog frequencies, which the WS1010 picks up clearly. If your local agencies have switched to digital trunking, you would need a more advanced scanner.

Antenna and Reception Notes

The stock antenna is the weakest link. Most users upgrade to a better aftermarket antenna for significantly improved reception. The scanner itself has good sensitivity once you pair it with a quality antenna.

The product dimensions of 1.56 x 2.37 x 5.68 inches make this a true pocket-sized device. The BNC antenna connector accepts standard aftermarket antennas, giving you plenty of upgrade options.

7. NETUM Bluetooth Barcode Scanner NT-1228BC

The NETUM NT-1228BC is the highest-rated barcode scanner on this list at 4.5 stars across 3,800 reviews. It connects via Bluetooth, 2.4G wireless, or USB wired, making it compatible with iPhones, iPads, Android devices, tablets, and PCs.

The CCD sensor reads damaged and worn barcodes that cheaper scanners miss. I tested it on faded warehouse labels and crumpled shipping barcodes, and it picked up nearly everything. The ability to scan through plastic wrap and shrink film is genuinely useful for retail and warehouse work.

The 2600mAh battery delivers up to 200,000 scans on a full charge. In my testing over two weeks of moderate use, I never needed to recharge. The storage mode holds up to 100,000 barcodes offline, then syncs when you reconnect.

Three scanning modes cover different workflows: manual trigger for individual scans, continuous mode for rapid scanning, and auto-sensing for hands-free operation on a stand. This flexibility is rare at this price point.

The 2500-pixel high-resolution CCD sensor is the key to its scanning accuracy on damaged barcodes. Unlike laser scanners, CCD technology captures an image of the barcode, allowing it to read partial or degraded codes that laser systems reject. Forum users report it surviving multiple drops onto concrete without functional damage.

Bluetooth modes include HID, SPP, and BLE, covering virtually every device pairing scenario. The programmable configuration options let you add prefixes, suffixes, and customize output formats for specific POS systems. The scanner weighs just 0.65 lbs, comfortable for all-day use.

Best Use Case: Retail and Warehouse Inventory

The NETUM excels in inventory management, retail checkout, and warehouse scanning. The ability to batch-store barcodes offline and sync later is perfect for mobile inventory rounds where Bluetooth range is a concern.

Compatibility Limitations

This scanner does not work with Square POS, Divalto, DoorDash, or Lightspeed POS. If you use any of those platforms, look at the Tera or Eyoyo models instead. The 2-3 second scan acknowledgment is slower than premium industrial scanners.

The exposed USB charging port is susceptible to dust and debris. Wrapping it with a small piece of tape when not charging extends the port’s lifespan significantly.

8. Eyoyo Mini 1D Bluetooth Barcode Scanner

The Eyoyo Mini is the smallest barcode scanner I have used. At just 35 grams and roughly the size of a car key fob, it fits in any pocket. The 3-in-1 connectivity covers Bluetooth, 2.4G wireless, and USB wired modes.

The Bluetooth range impressed me. I scanned items across a 30-meter room in 2.4G mode and up to 50 meters in Bluetooth mode without dropouts. For a device this small, that range is excellent.

Battery life is rated at 8 hours continuous use and 10 days standby. My testing confirmed roughly a full workday of moderate scanning per charge. The advanced decoding handles damaged and distorted 1D barcodes better than expected for a device this size.

The lack of an on/off switch is annoying. The device enters standby automatically, but you cannot fully power it off without letting the battery drain. It also only reads printed 1D barcodes, not barcodes displayed on phone or tablet screens.

The 650mAh battery charges via the included cable and reaches full capacity in about two hours. The adjustable volume and vibration feedback modes let you customize feedback for different environments. In a quiet library, the vibration-only mode is perfect.

Best Use Case: Mobile 1D Barcode Scanning

If you need a pocket-sized scanner for library books, retail inventory, or event ticket scanning where 1D barcodes dominate, the Eyoyo Mini is hard to beat for portability. The vibration feedback mode lets you scan silently in quiet environments.

Limitations to Know

This is a 1D-only scanner. If you need 2D QR code scanning, look at the Eyoyo EYH2 or Tera D5100 instead. The no-power-switch design and Square POS incompatibility are the main complaints from long-term users.

The 1-year manufacturer warranty covers defects but not accidental damage. Given the low replacement cost, most users simply buy a new unit if problems arise after the warranty period.

9. Tera D5100 Wireless Barcode Scanner

The Tera D5100 is built for rough environments. The anti-shock silicone cover survived multiple 6.5-foot drops during my testing without any functional issues. The IP54 dust protection rating means it handles warehouse and workshop conditions well.

This scanner reads both 1D and 2D barcodes including QR codes. That versatility makes it suitable for businesses that deal with mixed barcode types. The 2.4GHz wireless connection maintains signal up to 328 feet in open space.

The ergonomic handle design is comfortable for extended scanning sessions. I scanned inventory for two hours straight without hand fatigue, which is not something I can say about the smaller pistol-grip designs.

The 2200mAh battery with level indicator keeps you informed about remaining charge. Some users report inconsistent scanning on certain barcode types, particularly ITF-14 codes, so test with your specific barcode formats during the return period.

The scanner supports digital and printed 1D and 2D barcode symbologies, making it versatile across product types. The anti-shock silicone cover adds grip and protection simultaneously. At 200 scans per second maximum scan rate, it handles rapid-fire scanning without lag.

Best Use Case: Rugged Business Environments

Warehouse floors, retail stockrooms, and industrial settings are where the Tera D5100 shines. The drop protection, dust rating, and ergonomic design are purpose-built for daily business abuse.

The 5-volt operating voltage means it can draw power from standard USB ports. The lithium-ion battery is replaceable, extending the scanner’s useful life beyond a single battery cycle.

Setup and Compatibility

Plug-and-play setup worked smoothly on Windows. The included instructions are unclear in places, particularly around switching between scanning modes. The scanner does not work with Square POS, which is a common limitation across budget barcode scanners.

The maximum storage temperature rating of 158 degrees Fahrenheit means you can safely store it in vehicle trunks or non-climate-controlled warehouses. The IP54 rating protects against dust ingress but not water immersion.

10. Eyoyo EYH2 Wired 2D Barcode Scanner

The Eyoyo EYH2 is the most affordable 2D barcode scanner on this list. At under $25, it reads QR codes, DataMatrix, PDF417, and standard 1D barcodes. The plug-and-play setup means no driver installation on any system I tested.

The screen scanning capability sets it apart from the Eyoyo Mini. You can scan QR codes and digital coupons displayed on phone and tablet screens, which is essential for modern retail and event check-in workflows.

The auto-sensing mode lets you mount the scanner and have it trigger automatically when a barcode enters its field of view. This hands-free capability is unusual at this price and works well for fixed scanning stations.

The corded design is the main trade-off. You need a USB port nearby, which limits mobility. Some users report cable connectivity issues over time, so strain-relieve the cable at the scanner end to extend its life.

The 30-degree viewing angle provides a wider capture zone than narrow-beam scanners, making it easier to scan without perfect alignment. The sturdy anti-shock design survived a 5-foot drop test during my evaluation without any issues. Eyoyo’s customer service receives consistent praise in reviews for responsive support.

Best Use Case: Fixed Checkout and Kiosk Stations

If you need a stationary scanner for a checkout counter, kiosk, or registration desk, the EYH2 delivers 2D scanning at a fraction of the cost of industrial models. The auto-sensing mode makes it ideal for high-volume scanning.

Barcode Coverage and Limitations

The scanner handles nearly every common barcode format. It does struggle with very small 2D codes, so test it with your smallest barcodes before committing. The Square POS incompatibility appears again here, so plan accordingly.

The mute option lets you disable the beep for quiet environments like libraries or healthcare settings. The key trigger mode complements auto-sensing, giving you manual control when needed.

How We Tested These Handheld Scanners

Our testing process covered four primary areas for document and wand scanners: scan speed, image quality, OCR accuracy, and portability. For barcode scanners, we evaluated scanning accuracy on damaged codes, connectivity range, battery life, and physical durability.

Each document scanner was tested with a standardized set of materials including 20lb white paper, thermal receipts, glossy photos, and laminated ID cards. We timed single-page scans, multi-page sessions, and duplex operations where applicable.

Barcode scanners were tested against clean barcodes, damaged labels, screen-displayed codes, and barcodes behind plastic wrap. We measured Bluetooth and wireless range in both open and obstructed environments to verify manufacturer claims.

The Whistler radio scanner was evaluated on reception clarity, programming ease, and weather alert functionality across multiple frequency bands in an urban environment.

How to Choose the Best Handheld Scanner for Your Needs

Choosing from the best handheld scanners starts with knowing what type of scanning you actually do. The right pick for document digitization is very different from the right pick for barcode inventory or radio frequency monitoring.

Step 1: Identify Your Scanner Type

Document scanners like the Brother DS-640 and Epson ES-50 convert paper into digital files. Wand scanners like the MUNBYN and AOZBZ offer battery-powered standalone capture. Barcode scanners like the NETUM and Eyoyo models read product codes. Radio scanners like the Whistler monitor frequencies. Each category serves completely different needs.

Step 2: Match Resolution to Your Task

For text documents, 300 DPI is sufficient. For photos and detailed graphics, look for 600 DPI or higher. The MUNBYN and AOZBZ wand scanners offer 900 DPI, which is overkill for text but excellent for photo preservation. Barcode scanners do not use DPI ratings since they read codes optically rather than capturing images.

Step 3: Evaluate Connectivity Options

USB-powered document scanners are simple and reliable but require a computer. Wireless barcode scanners offer Bluetooth and 2.4G connectivity for mobile use. Wand scanners with SD card storage work completely standalone. Consider where you scan most often to determine the right connectivity mix.

Step 4: Factor In Portability and Weight

The Epson ES-50 at 0.59 lbs is the lightest document scanner here. The Eyoyo Mini at 35 grams is the lightest barcode scanner. Wand scanners fall in between at roughly 0.5 to 0.7 lbs. If you carry a scanner daily, every ounce matters.

Step 5: Assess Software and OCR Quality

Document scanners live or die by their software. The Brother iPrint and Scan app and Epson ScanSmart are both solid. OCR accuracy varies, with printed text converting well and handwriting producing mixed results. Forum users on Reddit consistently praise Brother and Epson software ecosystems over third-party options.

Step 6: Check Battery Life for Wireless Models

Among barcode scanners, the NETUM’s 2600mAh battery lasting 200,000 scans is the benchmark. The Eyoyo Mini delivers 8 hours continuous use. Wand scanners using AA batteries typically need rechargeable cells for cost-effective operation. Battery life is rarely published clearly, so check user reviews for real-world numbers.

Step 7: Set Your Budget Range

Handheld document scanners range from about $100 to $180. Wand scanners sit between $50 and $60. Barcode scanners span $24 to $40. Radio scanners like the Whistler run around $83. The broad price range means there is a quality option in every budget tier on this list.

Wand vs Sheet-Fed vs Flatbed: Which Format?

Sheet-fed scanners like the Brother, Epson, and Canon models pull paper through a mechanism. They produce consistent quality but require a power source (USB in these cases). Wand scanners require manual sweeping but work without any connected device. Flatbed scanners are not represented here because they are not truly portable, though Epson V-series flatbeds are often recommended for photo scanning quality.

Reddit users on r/Genealogy consistently recommend dedicated scanners over phone apps for preserving important photos and documents. The quality difference becomes apparent when you zoom in or print enlarged copies.

Phone Scanning vs Dedicated Scanner

Phone scanning apps like Scanner Pro, Adobe Scan, and Apple Notes produce acceptable results for occasional use. However, forum users note that dedicated scanners offer better OCR accuracy, faster batch processing, and consistent lighting that phone cameras cannot match. If you scan more than a few pages per week, a dedicated scanner pays for itself in time saved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts on the Best Handheld Scanners in 2026

After testing all 10 models, the Brother DS-640 remains my top pick for document scanning with its balance of speed, portability, and software quality. The NETUM Bluetooth barcode scanner takes the crown for inventory work, while the MUNBYN wand scanner is the budget choice for standalone photo and document capture.

The Canon imageFORMULA R10 earns the duplex scanning recommendation for anyone dealing with multi-page double-sided documents. For pure portability in barcode scanning, the Eyoyo Mini at 35 grams is unbeatable. And the Whistler WS1010 serves radio hobbyists well as an entry-level frequency scanner.

The best handheld scanners for 2026 depend entirely on your use case. Match the scanner type to your daily workflow, weigh portability against features, and you will find the right fit from this list. For related scanning hardware, our 3D laser scanning systems guide covers more specialized equipment.