Bar Code Technology : Bar Code Resources

Technologies: Bar Code / Bar Code Resources

Bar Code Solutions from Beginning to End

Define What will be Encoded and in What Order At this early stage you must decide what information needs to be put into the bar code. Sometimes this will be contained in a directive from a customer. "Compliance labeling" is a term used to describe the process of complying with customer mandates or requests. Often, a mandate references guidelines that have been reviewed and approved by a specific industry or standards setting organization.		Industry Organizations Standards


In Bar Code Language this is called a Symbology A bar code is a graphic representation for numbers or alphabetic characters. Typical bar code images are made up of a pattern of lines and spaces or light and dark areas. The graphic symbols represent data characters as well as some control characters. Often the human-readable data appears below the bar code. Your requirements or the mandates you are complying with will determine what symbology will be needed.		Linear Symbologies 2D Symbologies Composite Symbologies


Create the Bar Code Bar code symbols may be produced on demand at your facility or you can purchase pre-printed bar code labels from a printing bureau that has bar code experience. Your application needs will determine whether bar codes can be produced on-site in small quantities, or in bulk by a printing supplier.		The Make or Buy Decision


Verify the Data Bar code verification is the bridge between creating the bar code image and successful scan accuracy rates. A verifier will inspect and report on bar/space widths or light and dark areas, give the encoded data, check color combination's acceptability for scanning, and check other characteristics of the image for scanning ease and accuracy.		Bar Code Verification


Directly Mark Items or Apply Preprinted Labels Bar code symbols may be produced in a variety of ways: by direct marking, as with laser etching or with ink jet printing; or, more commonly by imaging or printing the bar code symbol onto a separate label and then applying the label to the product. Your application will determine what type of marking is required.		Bar Code Printing


Scan the Bar Code This function is performed by a scanner and an interface controller called a decoder. The light source in the scanner reflects the information in the bar code by "translating" dark and light images into the appropriate data.		Bar Code Scanning


Communicate the Decoded Data to the Computer Data communications is the key link in implementing an automatic identification system. Decoded data is transmitted to the computer. Some systems use wireless communications (Radio Frequency) while others use traditional cable wires.		Data Communications


Use the Data The host system receives the information and uses it for some purpose. The information may be used for: inventory control, manufacturing process control, shipping & receiving, quality control, automated re-ordering, and electronic commerce to name just a few potential uses.		Case Studies