Bar Code Film Masters

With the development of U.P.C. in the early 1970s, bar codes became an integral part of product packaging, and (because of variations in specifications and tolerances among commercial printing processes) film became the most practical means of incorporating bar codes into packaging artwork. A very precise image of the bar code is developed on the film master as either a film positive or negative (depending upon the printing method). This film master is then stripped into the appropriate artwork for final plate production.

Because of the many specification variations in presses, plate-making procedures, and inks among printing processes as well as variations in substrates, the UCC developed its Film Master Verification Manual. The manual provides guidelines for determining the variables associated with specific commercial printing processes. Though referenced to the U.P.C. symbology, these rules apply to other symbologies produced by using a film master as well. Film master suppliers have significant experience in matching film master specifications to various printing processes, but they should work directly with the printer for optimum results.