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Unlock Smarter Projects with the GM65 Barcode Scanner

  • Writer: Cartell Automotive
    Cartell Automotive
  • Jul 16
  • 2 min read

If you've ever wanted to bring real barcode scanning into your DIY electronics projects—whether for smart inventory, automation, or fun home builds—the GM65 Barcode Scanner is one of the best modules to get started with. In this post, we’ll explore what the GM65 is, how it works, and how you can integrate it into your Arduino, ESP32, or Raspberry Pi projects.

GM65 Barcode Scanner
GM65 Barcode Scanner

What Is the GM65 Barcode Scanner?

The GM65 is a compact, high-performance 2D barcode scanner module that supports a wide range of 1D and 2D codes. It includes a built-in camera and decoding chip that processes barcodes independently, meaning no external processing is require, just plug it into your microcontroller, and it sends scanned data over serial.


Unlike basic infrared barcode readers, the GM65 uses an actual image sensor and sophisticated decoding, so it can handle:

  • QR codes

  • EAN-13

  • Code128

  • Data Matrix

  • PDF417

  • And more...


Key Features at a Glance

Feature

Details

Size

Compact – fits easily into small enclosures

Interface

UART TTL (3.3V/5V logic) or USB (varies by model)

Lighting

Integrated LED and aiming laser for accurate scanning

Decoding

Onboard decoder – no external processing required

Code Support

1D and 2D barcodes

Power

Operates on 5V with low power consumption


How to Connect the GM65 to Arduino

One of the best things about the GM65 is how easy it is to hook up to a microcontroller like an Arduino or ESP32.


GM65 Pin

Connect To

VCC

5V

GND

GND

TXD

Arduino RX (use SoftwareSerial or pin 0)

RXD

Arduino TX (use SoftwareSerial or pin 1)


Sample Code

#include <SoftwareSerial.h>
SoftwareSerial scanner(10, 11); // RX, TX

void setup() {
 Serial.begin(9600);
  scanner.begin(9600);
  Serial.println("GM65 Barcode Scanner Ready.");
}

void loop() 
{
  if (scanner.available()) 
{
    String barcode = scanner.readStringUntil('\n');
    Serial.print("Scanned Code: ");
    Serial.println(barcode);
  }
}


DIY Project Ideas Using the GM65


The possibilities are endless once you integrate a barcode scanner into your project:

Access Control System

Scan a QR code or ID badge to unlock a door or trigger a relay.

Smart Workshop Inventory

Track which tools or components are removed by scanning barcodes.

Maker POS Terminal

Turn your DIY project into a working point-of-sale demo.

Library Checkout

Scan books or tools with tags for a classroom or lab system.



Pro Tips for Working with the GM65

  • Switch Modes: Some modules can be set to manual trigger or auto-scanning mode via serial commands.

  • Mute the Beep: Use serial commands to disable the buzzer for quiet operation.

  • Advanced Configuration: You can program what types of codes to recognize, append suffixes, or even adjust scanning sensitivity.


Go check out the above project

Final Thoughts

The GM65 barcode scanner is one of those modules that instantly adds a “pro feel” to any DIY project. Whether you’re building for fun, automation, or a small business, integrating scanning capabilities opens up an entirely new layer of interaction.

If you're into DIY electronics, this is one module that will surprise you with how powerful and easy it is to use.

Have questions or want to show off your project? Drop us a message or tag us online with your GM65 builds!


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