1. A classification device for identification of articles in an automated checkout counter, comprising: a memory unit configured to store digital reference signatures, each of which digital reference signatures corresponds to an article identity, and a processor connected to the memory unit; wherein the classification device further comprises a first spectroscopy sensor which is connected to the processor, and a light source for illuminating an article wherein light emitted from the light source has a wavelength distribution covering at least operating wavelengths of the spectroscopy sensor; wherein the first spectroscopy sensor is configured to determine a measured signature of an article from a unique reflection spectrum when the article is placed before, on or after a weight sensor; wherein the processor is configured to compare the measured signature with the digital reference signature in order to identify the article as an existing article identity in the memory unit; and wherein the first spectroscopy sensor is an NIR sensor configured to measure light having a wavelength between about 850 nm and about 2500 nm.