What is a Bar Code

Created on 1 August, 2024 • 1 minutes read

Barcode is a graphical representation of information intended for machine reading. It consists of a series of black and white stripes of different widths, which represent encoded data. Bar codes are used to automate the process of identifying goods, documents, parcels and other objects.

Components of the bar code:

Stripes and spaces:

  • Black bars and white spaces of different widths represent binary code that is read by special scanner devices.

Start and stop signals:

  • Each barcode has a start (start) and end (stop) signals that indicate the beginning and end of the data.

Zones of tranquility:

  • Empty areas before and after the bar code, which ensure the correct reading of information.

Types of bar codes:

Linear (1D):

  • The most common type used in retail. Examples: EAN-13, UPC-A, Code 39.

Two-dimensional (2D):

  • More complex ones can contain much more information in a smaller area. Examples: QR code, DataMatrix, PDF417.

Main Standards:

UPC (Universal Product Code):

  • It is used in the USA and Canada for labeling consumer goods.

EAN (European Article Number):

  • An international standard similar to UPC used in many countries around the world.

Code 39 and Code 128:

  • More versatile formats, often used in logistics and manufacturing.

Application:

Retail:

  • Automation of processes at cash desks, inventory, inventory control.

Logistics and transportation:

  • Tracking of parcels and cargo, automation of warehouse operations.

Medicine:

  • Labeling of medicines, medical devices and documents.

Production:

  • Production process management, tracking of components and finished products.

Advantages:

Speed and accuracy:

  • Reading the bar code takes a fraction of a second and eliminates errors inherent in manual data entry.

Automation:

  • Simplification and acceleration of business processes, reduction of labor costs.

Cost-effectiveness:

  • Reduction of personnel costs and reduction of losses from the human factor.

Disadvantages:

Limited information:

  • Linear bar codes (1D) can contain a limited amount of data.

Dependence on print quality:

  • Poor print quality can make it difficult or impossible to read the bar code.

Popular posts