Guide to Barcode Standards: Choosing the Right Scanning ...

There are countless types and variations of barcodes, and deciding which is right for your business and its various applications isn&#;t entirely straightforward. There is no standardized barcode format, so companies have a lot of room to decide which barcode standards will serve their business the best.

For more information, please visit WCMI.

What Do You Need to Know Before Choosing a Barcode Scanning System?

Understanding Barcode Types: 1D VS 2D

There are two main barcode types, 1D and 2D, and many variations of both. Different barcode types and variations have different ideal applications across various industries and usages, and even different barcode type variations have their variations.

1D Barcodes

1D barcodes are often called linear barcodes because they comprise varying widths and spacings of vertical lines. These are some of the most common types of barcodes used to identify products, so much so that when the average person thinks of a barcode, they&#;re likely thinking of a couple of the main variations of 1D barcodes.

Further, when dividing 1D barcodes into subsections, both numeric (containing only numbers) and alphanumeric (containing both numbers and letters), barcodes are considered 1D barcodes.

Despite limitations, 1D barcodes are still the most common type of barcode used across many industries, especially where consumer products are concerned. The 1D barcode&#;s greatest advantage is simplicity. They can convey basic product information without frills and are widely used across nearly every industry in some fashion.

Examples of 1D Barcode Variations:

• UPC
• EAN
• Code 39
• Code 128
• Code 93

2D Barcodes

2D barcodes use both the vertical and horizontal axis to encode data. Because they use both axes for data, 2D barcodes can hold more information than 1D barcodes. Thanks to the sheer volume of data that can be stored in a 2D barcode, they often contain built-in redundancies and self-checks to ensure more accurate scans.

2D barcodes are often squares or rectangles made up of many squares or other shapes with a unique pattern to make the code read accurately. This type of barcode has an advantage over 1D barcodes because it can be printed smaller and still be read, and it&#;s more likely that damaged or scuffed 2D barcodes will still be legible.

Because they can store more information, 2D barcodes are suitable for more complex information and tasks like tracking. The use of 2D barcodes has taken off in the past decade with 3.2 billion QR codes in use in compared to an estimated 6.8 billion in .

Examples of 2D Barcode Variations:

• QR Codes
• Data Matrix Code
• PDF417
• Aztec

Choosing the Right Barcode Standard: A Practical Guide

Finding the right barcode standard for your purposes may seem complicated given all the available options, but by asking a few practical questions, you can narrow down the options and make the right choice.

Factors to Consider

How much data do you need to encode?

This single question will help you break down whether a 1D barcode will even work for your purposes.

If you only need to store simple product information in a barcode, a 1D barcode may be the most straightforward choice. If the barcode must store a lot of data or will be used to carry out a complex task, a 2D barcode might be more effective.

What application will the barcodes be used for?

The intended purpose of the barcode can help direct you to the right type. Certain types of barcodes are designed for specific applications.

Will the barcode be used in a retail or manufacturing setting? How will data be captured within that application? These questions can help direct you to a type of barcode that will suit your application.

What scanning technology is available?

Your barcode choice should be heavily influenced by the available scanning technology for vendors, at your company, and with customers, as well as whether you&#;re willing to invest in new scanning technology.

If a certain type of barcode pairs with available scanning technology and is up to the task, it&#;s probably a good choice. If you have smart scanners that can read different barcodes, your options may not be as limited.

Are there printing limitations to consider?

This includes size limitations due to available space on the product, the type of material you&#;ll be printing on or etching into, and whether scanning technology requires barcodes to be in a specific orientation or limits dimensions and available printing technology.

Practical Examples of When You Might Choose a Specific Barcode Type

Some barcode standards are perfectly suited to certain scenarios.

For example, UPC and EAN barcodes are ideal for retail applications. In manufacturing, data matrix barcodes are commonly used for small parts tracking and PDF417 barcode standards are used for complex product data. For shipping, USPS-friendly QR codes are necessary as many barcodes cannot be scanned by the postal service.

Beyond the Basics: Composite Symbols

Not all barcodes adhere to the standard 1D or 2D formats. Composite symbols use elements of both 1D and 2D barcode standards to manage multiple types of data across different applications within the same barcode.

Composite symbols offer the advantage of additional data capacity and flexibility. Because they aren&#;t limited to one type of barcode, they can leverage the strengths of multiple barcode standards to include different types of data in the same barcode. They&#;re ideal in scenarios where compatibility with multiple types of scanning technology is required.

For example, a QR code may be integrated into a UPC or EAN barcode to incorporate data tracking across multiple carriers that have different scanning requirements. The flexibility to move a package between carriers can help save money on shipping costs.

Why Traditional Barcode Scanning Falls Short: Limitations and the Rise of OCR Scanning

In today&#;s tech-savvy world, we&#;re always looking for ways to harness technology to carry out tasks faster, more efficiently, and more accurately. Barcode scanning is no different. Certain limitations and pitfalls associated with traditional barcode scanning can be mitigated with new technologies like OCR scanning.

Challenges of Traditional Barcode Scanners

There are some common issues that arise with traditional barcode scanners, including but not limited to:

• Defectively printed or damaged barcodes may be unreadable
• Reflective or glossy surfaces or lighting that is too bright or too dim hinder scanning accuracy
• Traditional barcode scanners are limited to reading data contained within the barcode, leaving potentially important information in the text surrounding the barcode

All these issues can lead to errors and delays that could be costly in terms of both money lost and customer complaints. The average time to scan a barcode is 24.479 seconds, and despite it being a time-consuming process, issues like missing or illegible labels, scanner errors, or operator errors can create further issues that take even more time to sort out.

Introducing Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Technology

Optical character recognition (OCR) is a technology that extracts text from images. That means that data printed on a label aside from a barcode, handwritten text QR codes, carrier information, and more can be extracted during scanning alongside the data contained in the barcode to provide a more complete set of data on the product being scanned.

OCR technology does all of that automatically and translates the text so that it can be read by and/or input into a machine. Typically, a combination of hardware (the scanning technology) and software (used to process the data) takes OCR technology full circle. OCR technology has evolved over the years, often relying on AI to decipher text for a faster, more accurate translation. 

With OCR technology powered by PackageX, workers do not need to be limited by the capabilities of traditional barcode scanning hardware. Our OCR technology is compatible with any smartphone that automatically extracts data from labels in seconds, including barcode, QR-code, carrier data, recipient information, and more. 

The Next Level: AI-Powered OCR for Logistics Documents

Once stuck behind the times, the tech boom in logistics over the past decade and a half has led to massive advances in OCR technology, enabling smarter barcode scanning. Today's AI-powered solutions can read not only labels but entire logistics documents like bills of lading, manifests, and invoices.

Beyond Labels: Capturing Data from Diverse Documents

OCR technology can handle more than barcodes and other types of labels. With the help of AI, it can be trained to quickly and accurately read and interpret a massive dataset of varied logistics documents.

Benefits of AI-Powered OCR

By incorporating AI technology into OCR, logistics operations can gain access to impactful benefits.

Streamlined Data Capture

OCR technology allows operations to automate data extraction from a wide range of logistics documents. That data can move directly into the prescribed supply chain technology solution (WMS, ERP, inventory management, TMS, etc.) so that it can be used to track products through the supply chain and make smarter decisions.

Increased Efficiency

OCR scanning gives companies access to increased efficiency and improved processing speed in warehouses and other types of logistics operations. Staff spend less time on repetitive tasks like data entry so that they have more time for their other job duties like unloading trailers or filling orders.

Improved Accuracy

To err is human, so OCR scanning technology has the potential to take some of the tasks most prone to error (data entry, verifying labels, and so on) out of human hands. OCR backed by AI is remarkably accurate and can pull accurate data from various logistics documents faster and more accurately than a person.

Richer Data Insights

By pulling a more complete set of data from a document and not relying solely on a barcode for information, OCR scanning can provide better insights into operations, thereby improving decision-making. A more accurate, real-time picture of inventory and operations to provide supply chain transparency goes a long way toward a strategy that boosts the bottom line.

{{returns-webinar}}

Conclusion

By understanding the types of barcodes and their strengths and weaknesses, businesses can choose the right barcode types for every application within their operation. The most simplistic 1D barcodes that store data in only one direction are great for basic product information, while 2D barcodes that store information both horizontally and vertically are ideal for more complex purposes. Composite barcodes that incorporate elements of 1D and 2D barcodes are ideal for specific applications that require a large amount of varied data.

OCR scanning offers advantages that go beyond even the most complicated barcode scanning. It adds additional context from the text contained on the label or within a document to provide a richer set of accurate data faster than humans could manage.

Dig into how AI-powered OCR solutions can optimize your supply chain operations and data management today by requesting a demo.

Every time we buy something, we come into contact with a barcode, yet we seldom notice it. A barcode scanner is the unsung hero behind this seamless transaction, ensuring accuracy and efficiency across various industries. This guide will delve into what a barcode scanner is, the different types of barcodes and scanners, and provide a comprehensive overview of how to use, maintain, and troubleshoot these essential tools.

What is a Barcode Scanner?

A barcode scanner is an electronic device designed to read and decode barcodes.

These barcodes consist of a series of lines and spaces of varying widths that represent data. When the scanner reads a barcode, it converts the information into a readable format, typically transferring it to a computer system for processing.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of How to Program a Barcode Scanner. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

Types of Barcodes

Barcodes come in various formats, each designed to serve specific purposes and industries. Understanding the differences between these types is crucial for selecting the right barcode and scanner for your needs.

1-Dimensional (1D) Barcodes

1-dimensional barcodes, also known as linear barcodes, are the most common and widely recognized type. They consist of a series of parallel lines and spaces of varying widths that encode information in horizontal patterns.

1D barcodes are typically used in retail environments, inventory management, and logistics. They are ideal for encoding basic information such as product numbers, prices, and inventory codes.

Examples:

• UPC (Universal Product Code): Widely used in retail for tracking trade items.
• EAN (European Article Number): Similar to UPC, but used primarily in Europe.
• Code 39: Used in automotive and defense industries for alphanumeric barcoding.
• Code 128: Common in logistics and transportation for its high data density and flexibility.

2-Dimensional (2D) Barcodes

2-dimensional barcodes store information both horizontally and vertically, allowing them to hold much more data than 1D barcodes. They often appear as squares or rectangles filled with a pattern of dots or shapes.

2D barcodes are used in a variety of applications, including ticketing, mobile payments, and healthcare. They can store complex data such as URLs, contact information, and product details.

Examples

• QR Code (Quick Response Code): Popular in marketing, mobile payments, and for storing URLs due to its fast readability and large storage capacity.
• Data Matrix: Commonly used in industrial settings for marking small items and components due to its ability to encode a lot of information in a small space.
• PDF417: Used in transport and identification cards for its ability to encode large amounts of text and binary data.
• Aztec Code: Often used in the transportation industry, particularly for boarding passes and tickets, due to its robustness and ability to be read even when partially damaged.

Types of Barcode Scanners

Barcode scanners come in various forms and utilize different technologies to meet the diverse needs of industries. Each type of scanner offers unique features and benefits, making them suitable for specific applications.

• Handheld Scanners

Handheld scanners are perhaps the most common type, known for their portability and ease of use. Shaped like a gun, these scanners can be easily pointed at a barcode to capture data. They are versatile tools, frequently used in retail checkouts, inventory management, and point-of-sale systems.

• In-Counter Scanners

In-counter scanners are embedded into countertops or checkout lanes, facilitating hands-free scanning. These scanners are designed for high-speed and high-volume environments, such as grocery stores and supermarkets. Their durability and convenience make them ideal for busy checkout lanes, allowing for quick and efficient processing of items.

• Fixed-Mount Scanners

Fixed-mount scanners remain stationary, typically mounted in a fixed position on production lines or kiosks. These scanners are designed for continuous scanning without the need for manual operation. They are highly reliable and fast, making them suitable for manufacturing, warehousing, and automated processes where items pass by the scanner on a conveyor belt.

• Mobile Computers

Mobile computers combine the functionality of a barcode scanner with a mobile computing device, such as a PDA or smartphone. These devices often run specialized software for data collection and management. Their mobility and multifunctionality make them perfect for field service, inventory tracking, and logistics, where employees need to move around while collecting data.

• Wearable Scanners

Wearable scanners are designed for hands-free operation, typically worn on the wrist or finger. This ergonomic design significantly increases productivity by allowing workers to scan items while keeping their hands free for other tasks. They are especially useful in warehouse picking, order fulfillment, and assembly line work, where constant movement and scanning are required.

• Presentation Scanners

Presentation scanners sit on a counter and scan items as they are presented in front of them. These scanners are designed for ease of use and fast scanning, capable of processing multiple items quickly. They are commonly found in retail checkout counters, pharmacies, and libraries, where they streamline the checkout process and improve customer service.

• Smartphone Scanners

Smartphone scanners utilize the camera of a smartphone or tablet to scan barcodes via specialized apps. These apps can decode various barcode types and integrate with backend systems. Smartphone scanners offer convenience and cost-effectiveness, making them accessible for small businesses, mobile ticketing, and personal use.

Benefits of Barcode Scanners

Barcode scanners offer numerous advantages across various industries, from retail to healthcare.

• Increased Efficiency

One of the primary benefits of barcode scanners is the significant boost in efficiency. Scanning barcodes is much quicker than manually entering data, which can drastically reduce the time needed for tasks like completing transactions or updating inventory. In retail environments, this speed translates to shorter lines and improved customer satisfaction as checkout times are minimized.

• Improved Accuracy

Manual data entry is prone to errors, which can be costly and time-consuming to correct. Barcode scanners eliminate these errors by ensuring that data is captured accurately every time. This leads to more reliable and consistent information across all platforms and systems, reducing discrepancies and enhancing overall data quality.

• Cost Savings

By automating data entry tasks, barcode scanners help lower labor costs. There&#;s less need for extensive manual labor, which can be redirected towards more critical tasks. Additionally, improved accuracy in inventory management helps prevent issues such as overstocking or understocking, optimizing inventory levels and reducing waste. These efficiencies contribute to significant cost savings over time.

• Enhanced Productivity

Barcode scanners streamline various workflows, allowing employees to focus on higher-value activities rather than repetitive data entry. This boost in productivity can be seen in faster inventory audits and quicker training for new employees, who can learn to use barcode scanners with minimal effort.

• Better Inventory Management

Real-time tracking of inventory is another major advantage of using barcode scanners. Businesses can obtain up-to-date information on stock levels and product movements, facilitating more informed decision-making. This capability simplifies the process of conducting inventory audits, making them less time-consuming and more accurate.

• Enhanced Customer Experience

In retail environments, faster checkout processes lead to a better shopping experience for customers. Accurate pricing and quick transactions build trust and satisfaction, contributing to a positive overall experience.

How to Use A Barcode Scanner and Optimize It

Optimizing the use of barcode scanners involves ensuring they are used efficiently and integrated effectively into your operational workflows.

Using a Barcode Scanner

Efficiently using a barcode scanner involves a few simple steps:

• Power On: Ensure the scanner is powered on and properly connected to the system.
• Aim: Hold the scanner 6 to 12 inches away from the barcode and align the scanner&#;s light beam with the barcode.
• Scan: Press the trigger (for handheld scanners) or present the item to the scanner (for fixed or presentation scanners). Ensure the barcode is fully visible within the scanner&#;s beam.
• Confirm: Wait for the beep or visual indicator to confirm the scan was successful. Check the system to ensure the data has been accurately captured.

1. Choose the Right Scanner for Your Needs

Selecting the appropriate type of barcode scanner based on your specific requirements is the first step. Consider factors such as the environment (e.g., retail, warehouse), the types of barcodes you will be scanning (1D, 2D), and whether you need handheld, fixed-mount, or wearable scanners.

2. Ensure Proper Setup and Maintenance

Proper setup and regular maintenance of barcode scanners are crucial for optimal performance. This includes:

• Calibration: Regularly calibrate your scanners to ensure accuracy.
• Cleaning: Keep the scanner lenses clean to avoid read errors.
• Software Updates: Ensure firmware and software are up-to-date to benefit from the latest features and security enhancements.

3. Integrate with a Comprehensive Point of Sale (POS) System

Integrating barcode scanners with your POS system can streamline operations and improve data accuracy. For instance, ConnectPOS offers a robust integration solution that allows for seamless data capture and real-time inventory updates. This integration helps in reducing manual entry errors, speeding up the checkout process, and providing better inventory management.

4. Train Employees on How Tto Use Barcode Scanner Effectively

Proper training is essential to ensure employees can use barcode scanners effectively. Training should cover the following aspects:

• Basic Operation: How to hold and aim the scanner.
• Troubleshooting: Basic troubleshooting steps for common issues.
• Best Practices: Tips for scanning efficiency, such as maintaining a steady hand and ensuring barcodes are unobstructed.

5. Optimize Barcode Quality

The quality of your barcodes significantly affects scanning efficiency. Ensure that barcodes are:

• High Contrast: Use high-contrast colors for easy readability.
• Properly Sized: Ensure barcodes are large enough to be scanned easily but not too large to waste space.
• Undamaged: Regularly check for and replace damaged or worn-out barcodes.

6. Use Analytics for Continuous Improvement

Leverage the data collected by your barcode scanners to gain insights into your operations. Analyzing this data can help identify bottlenecks, improve inventory management, and enhance overall efficiency. Many modern POS systems, including ConnectPOS, offer analytics features that can provide valuable insights.

ConnectPOS is a versatile point-of-sale (POS) system designed for modern businesses. It boasts seamless compatibility with various barcode scanners, ensuring efficient data capture. ConnectPOS also integrates with numerous business software, offering real-time inventory updates, advanced analytics, and comprehensive transaction management. This makes it an ideal solution for streamlining operations and enhancing productivity.

Conclusion

Optimizing barcode scanner usage is key to enhancing operational efficiency. This includes selecting the right scanner, ensuring proper setup, integrating with robust POS systems like ConnectPOS, and training employees. High barcode quality and leveraging analytics further boost productivity. By following these best practices, businesses can achieve accurate data capture, streamlined workflows, and better inventory management.

Ready to streamline your operations with ConnectPOS? Contact us today to learn more about how our versatile POS system can enhance your business efficiency and productivity.

The company is the world’s best How to Program Barcode Scanner supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.