Do you have information that must be gathered and input into a computer system? If so, you can use bar coded forms, labels, tags, packaging etc…

We have offered these accuracy-enhancing, time-reducing features as part of our line of products for years. Utilizing laser, ink jet, thermal transfer and dot matrix printing methods allows us to match the barcode to the application.

Bar coded items have been used for a variety of applications: inventory raw materials, finished goods and for shipping. We have bar-coded coupons, gift certificates and important documents to certify authenticity, and Hospital forms where accuracy and time management is critical.

Bar codes have increased accuracy of information input, increased employee productivity, increased control and accuracy of managed inventories. These features help to lower labor and tracking costs while improving customer satisfaction and employee morale.

Where can I use this?  

• Automotive - parts dealers and suppliers
• Distribution - warehouses, shipping
• Education - schools, universities
• Electronics 
• Grocers 
• Healthcare
• Retail

Frequently Asked Questions  

What is “bar code symbology”?
Symbology can be described as a computer language – the computer translates the bars and spaces into Binary code. The binary code is then translated into predetermined letters or numbers based on the value of the binary code. There are a variety of different bar code symbologies. Changing the width and spacing of the bars and spaces within each individual bar code creates these different symbologies. Some of the most common bar code symbologies are Code 3 of 9 (or Code 39), UPC, Code 128, Codabar and Interleaved 2 of 5. 

What is a quiet zone?
The quiet zone is the clear area at the beginning and end of a bar code. This clear area keeps the scanner from picking up information that does not pertain to the barcode you are scanning (ex. The scanner may see a line that forms columns around the bar code which may keep it from reading the bar code or give an improper scan). Most clear areas are recommended to be at least 10x the width of the narrowest bar or space used in the bar code. A simple rule of thumb when designing a form or label with barcode would be to leave ¼” or more of clear space. 

Can a bar code contain alpha characters? 
Yes. Code 3 of 9 is among common bar code symbologies that allow the user to use letters as well as numbers. This increases the combination of codes that can be created or may allow prefixes to be assigned to various offices/shipping locations, etc.

What is a check digit? 
This is a number within the barcode, generally at the end, whose value is used for the purpose of performing a mathematical check to ensure the accuracy of the bar code. 

How do I get UPC codes for my products?
The Uniform Code Council in Dayton Ohio is the clearinghouse for assigning these numbers. The contact information is as follows:

UCC
8163 Old Yankee Road, Suite J
Dayton, OH. 45458
513-435-3870
http://www.uc-council.org/ 

What is barcode density?
Space for bar codes is often at a premium. The density of the barcode refers to how much space is required for the needed characters. This is determined by the nominal width of the bars and spaces that make up the code itself. The narrower the nominal width of the bars and spaces, the higher the density of the bar code. As a rule of thumb: Low density = 3 or 4 cpi; medium density = 5 to 7 cpi; high density = 8 or more cpi; referencing code 3 of 9. Certain printing methods, such as laser and thermal, allow for higher density codes because they can create a narrower width bar than impact printing systems. Also, some bar codes--such as Code 128 and I-2 of 5--require less space than others.

What are some of the criteria that should be considered when determining which method to be used to print a barcode?
Many factors need to be considered, chief among these are size and density required, durability needed, end use environment, volume of bar codes to be supplied and whether or not multiple plies are to be imaged. 

What do the term’s “picket fence” and “ladder” have to do with barcode terminology? 
These terms refer to the orientation of the barcode. Bar codes that go from left to right are referred to as “picket fence” style. Bar codes that appear vertically are known as “ladder” style. The orientation is important in helping the manufacturer determine the best way to produce the bar code needed.

What is first-read rate? 
This term refers to the number of times a barcode scans correctly on the first attempt. A low first-read rate may mean that the application should be evaluated to determine if the symbology, printing method and scanner used are suitable for the application.

What if I don’t know what bar code symbology I am using?
We have scanning equipment that can be used to determine the symbology of your barcode sample. Also, a test bar code may be printed and sent to you for verification.