Cracking the Code: How Barcodes Work and Their Crucial Role in Supply Chain Management

Cracking the Code: How Barcodes Work and Their Crucial Role in Supply Chain Management

BY: NICK RECHT / DATE: 22/06/2023 / TOPICS: BARCODE BASICS

In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, the ability to efficiently track and manage products is crucial for businesses of all sizes. This is where barcodes come into play. Barcodes are not just simple lines and numbers; they are powerful tools that facilitate seamless inventory management, enhance supply chain operations, and enable businesses to operate with remarkable efficiency.  

In this blog post, we will delve into the technicality behind barcodes, explore different types of barcodes, explain how barcodes work, discuss their diverse applications, and highlight why they are indispensable to the supply chain and businesses. 

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Dissecting the Anatomy of a Barcode

Before getting into how barcodes work, it’s important to understand the technicality of a barcode. At the core of every barcode lies a system of encoded data that can represent various types of information, such as product numbers, prices, batch codes, or serial numbers. The encoding format, or symbology, determines how the data is represented in the barcode, and each symbology has its own rules and structure for encoding alphanumeric characters and special characters. 

Barcodes typically begin and end with special characters known as start and stop characters. These characters indicate the beginning and end of the barcode and help scanners recognize the barcode's boundaries. The lines or dots in a barcode form a unique pattern that corresponds to the encoded information. When scanned, a barcode reader or scanner detects and interprets these patterns to extract the encoded data. 

Quiet zones, blank areas on both sides of the barcode, provide a clear space surrounding the barcode lines or dots. These zones ensure that no other elements interfere with the scanning process, serving as a reference point for the beginning and end of the barcode. 

Types of Barcodes 

There are many different types of barcodes, each with its own purpose. Some of the most common types of barcodes include:

• UPC-A (Universal Product Code - Type A): A 12-digit barcode used to identify products in North America. It is the most common barcode in the world.
• UPC-E (Universal Product Code - Type E): An 8-digit barcode used to identify products in North America, primarily on small packages. It is a shorter version of UPC-A. 
• ITF-14 (Interleaved 2 of 5 - Type 14): 14-digit barcode for packaging and shipping, encoding GTIN and additional information. 
• EAN (European Article Numbering): A barcode that is used to identify products worldwide. It is similar to UPC-A, but it is used in Europe and other parts of the world. 
• Code 39: A 1D barcode that can encode up to 43 characters. It is a common barcode in manufacturing and shipping applications. 
• Code 128: A 1D barcode that can encode up to 255 characters. It is a more versatile barcode than Code 39 and is often used in logistics and retail applications. 
• Data Matrix: A 2D barcode that can encode a large amount of data in a small space, often used for tracking and inventory management. 
• GS1 Databar: Barcode family for retail and logistics, encoding product details like weight and expiration dates. 
• 1D barcode: A barcode that is encoded in one dimension. UPC-A, UPC-E, and Code 39 are all examples of 1D barcodes. 
• 2D barcode: A barcode that is encoded in two dimensions. QR Codes, Data Matrix, ITF 14, and GS1 DataBar are all examples of 2D barcodes.

How Barcodes Work

Barcodes can be printed on various surfaces, such as product labels or packaging, using the appropriate printing technology, ink contrast, label material, and size. Scanners, equipped with optical technology, emit light onto a barcode and analyze the variations in light reflection caused by differences in line thickness and spacing. This allows the scanner to interpret the barcode's pattern and decode the encoded data. 

Once the scanner captures the reflected light, it converts the information into an electrical signal. The scanner then decodes the encoded data based on the specific symbology used, passing it to connected systems for further processing. The decoded data seamlessly integrates into various business systems, enabling real-time updates, automated processes, and accurate tracking throughout the supply chain.

In other words, a barcode is simply a method of encoding information into a visual pattern a scanner can read; black lines absorb light while the white area reflects light, and the amount of light reflected is converted to data a computer can understand.

Applications and Importance to the Supply Chain and Businesses

Barcodes revolutionize the way businesses operate and manage their supply chains. Here are a few key reasons why they are vital: 

1. Inventory Management: Barcodes streamline inventory management by enabling accurate and efficient tracking of products. With barcoded labels, businesses can automate data entry, update stock levels in real-time, and reduce errors associated with manual processes. This results in optimized inventory levels, reduced stockouts, and improved overall efficiency. 
2. Supply Chain Optimization: Barcodes facilitate smooth logistics operations by providing end-to-end visibility and traceability. From receiving goods to shipping products, barcodes ensure seamless tracking, minimize errors, and enable efficient warehouse management. This leads to improved order accuracy, reduced lead times, and enhanced customer satisfaction. 
3. Enhanced Data Accuracy: Manual data entry is prone to errors, but barcodes eliminate this risk. By scanning barcodes, businesses ensure accurate data capture, eliminate human errors, and maintain data integrity throughout the supply chain. This accuracy translates into reliable insights, informed decision-making, and enhanced business efficiency. 
4. Cost Savings: Implementing barcodes in the supply chain helps businesses reduce costs. Streamlined processes, improved inventory accuracy, and enhanced supply chain visibility contribute to cost savings by eliminating inefficiencies, reducing obsolete stock, and minimizing the need for manual labor. 

Why TEKLYNX is the Best Software for Generating Barcodes

When it comes to barcode generation software, TEKLYNX stands out as a leading solution provider with a reputation for excellence. Here are several reasons why TEKLYNX is considered the best software for generating barcodes: 

Native Embedded Printer Drivers

TEKLYNX has developed over 4,000 native label printer drivers to enable seamless label printing. Our development teams across the globe work closely with printer manufacturers such as Zebra, Epson, Brother, BIXOLON, TSC, VIPColor, and more to develop high quality drivers that optimize printer performance. 

Robust Feature Set

TEKLYNX software provides an extensive range of symbologies, including UPC, EAN, Code 39, Code 128, QR codes, and more. The software also supports various label design capabilities, such as text and image formatting, database integration, and automation workflows. 

User-Friendly Interface

With intuitive design and navigation, users can quickly and easily create, customize, and print barcodes. The software offers a visual label design editor, drag-and-drop functionality, and wizards that simplify the barcode generation process. 

Compliance and Industry Standards

By using TEKLYNX software, businesses can generate barcodes that meet industry requirements, guaranteeing compatibility and interoperability across different systems and organizations. 

Integration Capabilities

TEKLYNX software seamlessly integrates with other business systems, such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) software or warehouse management systems (WMS). TEKLYNX software can also integrate with spreadsheets, databases, and data stored in the cloud.  

Scalability and Flexibility

TEKLYNX offers scalable solutions that cater to businesses of all sizes, from small enterprises to large corporations. Whether a business requires a single workstation or a multi-user network environment, TEKLYNX software provides flexible licensing options to accommodate evolving needs and can grow with businesses as their labeling needs grow. 

Excellent Support and Training

Our customer support team is readily available to address any questions or concerns, ensuring a smooth experience with the software. TEKLYNX offers live monthly training webinars and has a library of resources available at your fingertips. 

TEKLYNX software stands out as the best solution for generating barcodes. By choosing TEKLYNX, businesses can harness the power of barcodes, streamline their operations, improve efficiency, and achieve greater success in today's competitive business landscape. 

Request a consult to see which barcode labeling software is right for you, or download a free 30-day trial of CODESOFT to start generating your own barcodes. 

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Ready to buy CODESOFT and start generating barcodes today? You can buy it online and have your license within 30 minutes.