By 2000, Datalogic was the only player also focusing on imager technology. Following the introduction of the first models developed in the late 80s (TC6 and TC45), the company now directed its R&D focus on developing this new technology further. Although the early applications were entry-level, the new imager technology would quickly eclipse that of laser-based ones, mainly due to the widespread application of 2D barcodes in ID processes, something that was only readable by the new imagers. The Matrix 2000 was the breakthrough model of the new imager family for use in ID applications within automotive and electronics manufacture. Datalogic was the first to introduce the imaging technology in Manufacturing, but also a pioneer in Retail with the Handheld Scanners.
