Barcode Languages

There are a number of different types of bar code languages (symbologies) to satisfy varying applications and print requirements. The listing below provides a brief description of some of the most common bar code languages:

1. UPC-A

UPC-A

The UPC-A is most widely used and most recognized symbol in the United States. Its primary usage has been for product identification in the retail industry. (See U.P.C Symbol section)

This symbol has a fixed length of twelve numeric characters. The data encoded within a UPC-A conforms to a standardized format (See above illustration). The twelfth digit of a UPC-A symbol is a calculated check character computed from the eleven prior numbers. We will automatically calculate this number when providing bar codes for our customers.

UPC-E

UPC-E

Whereas the UPC-A encodes 12 numeric characters, the UPC-E only codifies 8 numbers. These symbols are referred as “zero suppressed”, since they actually represent a condensed version of the twelve data characters of a UPC.

2. EAN

EAN

All other countries aside from the United States utilize the EAN bar code for identification on retail goods. The symbol is identical to the UPC-A with one exception, the EAN bar code represents thirteen numeric characters instead of twelve.

3. Code 3 of 9 (Code 39)

Code 3 of 9 (Code 39)

Code 3 of 9 (also referred to as Code 39) is a very common bar code language which can represent alphanumeric characters of varying length. The start/stop characters for Code 39 symbols is always an asterisk (*).

4. Interleaved 2 of 5 (I 2/5)

Interleaved 2 of 5 (I 2/5)

Interleaved 2/5 is a high density code of variable length. Only an even number of numeric data can be encoded within this symbol. This “double density” symbol encodes odd positioned data in the bars, and even positioned data in the spaces.

GTIN-14 (SCC-14)

GTIN-14 (SCC-14)

The GTIN-14, or SCC-14 (Shipping Container Symbol) is used to mark cartons, cases, or pallets that contain products which have UPC or EAN identification numbers. The container symbols are used by retailers, manufacturers, and distributors for accurate logistical and inventory handling. The bar code symbol used to encode the SCC-14 is GTIN-14.

5. Code 128

Code 128

Code 128 is a very compact and versatile language which allows the encodation of the entire 128 ASCII character set. This symbology is self-checking and is designed with geometric features to improve scanner read performance.

6. UCC/EAN-128

UCC/EAN-128

This language is a variation of the Code 128 symbology designed primarily for product/shipment identification applications. The UCC/EAN-128 specification uses the same code set as Code 128, however a special character (function 1) is used as part of the start code in the symbol. In addition, UCC/EAN-128 symbols utilize standardized application identifiers (AI’s).

7. GS1 DataBar

GS1 DataBar

The new DataBar Coupon format will provide manufacturers more options for purchase requirements and values and make it possible to code more complex offers. It will enable the coupon to be validated at checkout to ensure the manufacturer intended the purchase that was made. Ideally, it may reduce mis-redemption.

In addition, retailers would get better scanning accuracy at the POS. More specific coding and fewer human readable elements should reduce mis-redemption, while minimizing the amount of “hard-to-handle” coupons. With the new bar code, retailers will be able to code chain-specific promotions, which now is almost impossible to do. They will also be able to leverage offer tracking and provide improved purchase auditing back to the manufacturers.

8. Codabar

Codabar

Codabar is a self-checking language which encodes 16 data characters:0-9,6 special characters (-$:/.+).

9. Postnet

Postnet

The Postnet (POSTal Numerical Encoding Technique) bar code was developed by the US Postal Service to encode ZIP code information on letter mail. Postnet symbols differ from other bar codes, because the individual bar code height alternates rather than the bar width.

10. Pharmacode

Pharmacode

Pharmacode symbols are primarily used in packing control systems. This language only encodes numeric data with values ranging from 1 – 8190.

11. PDF-417

PDF-417

PDF-417 is a high density code, two dimensional bar code consisting essentially of stacked lower bar code sets. This symbology is able to encode all the ASCII table characters (255).

 

12. QR Code

QR Code is a 2 dimensional barcode commonly used for mobile marketing campaigns. .