Barcodes encode numeric or textual details in a printable, machine-readable form. The use of barcodes can considerably minimize cost of warehouse management and inventory. Two major forms of barcodes exist currently: Linear or typical barcodes encode information over a horizontal stretch of space or one dimension. This type of barcode generally encodes between four and forty digits or characters. So referred to as area codes encode data in two dimensions, resulting in much higher density which allows for up to three thousand characters to be encoded.
Most linear barcode sorts will only encode numbers or digits. Two notable exceptions are Code 39 and Code 128 which may also encode alphanumeric characters like letters. Two dimensional region codes typically encode numbers, letters and unique characters.
Probably the most common linear barcode kind is Code EAN which is utilised to encode article numbers in retail. It's used throughout the world with the notable exception of the USA which uses a related code, Code UPC, for the exact same purpose. An unique form of Code EAN carries a so called Addon, a smaller barcode next to the primary barcode that will encode pricing info plus the like. Code EAN with a five digit Addon is employed to encode ISBN (International Regular Book Number), whilst Code EAN with a two digit Addon is utilised to encode ISSN (International Regular Serials Number).
Other notable linear barcode symbologies and their applications incorporate Code 39 (utilised for pharmaceuticals), Code 128 (warehouse management and retail) and Code Two-Of-Five (warehouse management and inventory).
Probably the most prevalent two dimensional region codes are PDF417 and Datamatrix, both of which are utilized in manufacturing, package tracking and comparable applications which require huge data amounts to be encoded.
Barcode Checksums
To make certain secure and error cost-free reading and scanning of barcodes, all widespread barcode symbologies support so called checksum or check digit schemes. A checksum or check digit is an additional character or number that is calculated from the encoded information and appended to the barcode. Even though reading the barcode the scanner or reader can verify the checksum and establish if the barcode was scanned correctly. This is specially vital if the barcode can very easily be damaged or be tampered with. Simple check digit systems like the sort that's utilised with most linear barcodes will only detect basic errors, like a missing character. Much more sophisticated systems, in particular those utilized with area barcodes can not just detect but also repair any damage that may well have occurred to the code.
Barcode Applications
Nowadays barcodes take pleasure in wide spread use through all sorts of companies. The very first major application of barcodes was inside the retail sector where the codes would encode write-up numbers, manufacturer information and pricing. An additional prominent use of barcodes is in the transport industry where the codes carry address and tracking info. Lastly, two dimensional location codes have recently gained much popularity for use in personal identity cards, drivers licenses and so forth. They are also utilized for the tagging of electronic parts like personal computer or memory chips.
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.look4articles.com/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.look4articles.com/images/rss.jpg "XML Feed For RSS")