At the beginning of the 1980's there is a strong research drive into the field of optical reading for bar codes. This, in fact, had already begun at the end of the 70's, making Datalogic a world leader (our industrial barcode reader was the first to be installed in Europe in 1978!).

Important industrial applications are realised in Europe using Datalogic's exclusive laser beam scanners, making the company a technological leader and a fixed point of reference for the sector. 
 
Continuing the policy of international expansion, Datalogic opens new branches for research, production and sales. It acquires Escort Memory Systems in California, a company active in the market of  electronic tags and RFID technology systems.
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