Fax Ink Film And Barcode Ribbons- The New Generation Of Supplies For The Office

The times when people used mural paintings or papyrus to transmit information is now only a memory. As time went by, people made it possible for themselves to communicate a lot faster and information can now be sent in just a few seconds. The facilities that we have nowadays would scare people who lived thousands of years ago and if you come to think of it better it would probably scare you too if not for all products that make it easier to use what you already have.

Barcode ribbons and fax ink film are just some of the office supplies that make it possible for you to do your work properly. It is of high importance, when you work in an office to be able to transmit information in different ways. When information has to be sent from one place to another, under a form that has to be put on paper, fax ink film and barcode ribbon are essential to you. Contacts, pictures, deeds or many other valuable papers are now sent by fax in just a few seconds time. But to be able to do this properly, fax ink film must not be missing from your desk. And not only that, but these supplies also have to be the best.

There are many companies that sell barcode ribbon and fax ink film, but is their standard high enough for your all demands to be met? To be able to discover this, you have to know what to look for.

Fax ink film must be reliable and meet all the specifications of major fax machines available today. When you look for a fax ink film you should search for one that assures the quality of the print as close to the original as possible, clear and sharp and there should be no other settings required. Fax ink film must only be inserted and ready to use. You should see if the length and size that the fax ink film has is what you are looking for and most importantly you should see if the quality of the ink fax film suites the price. The performance and quality you are looking for must be very high and the price must be reasonable.

Another supply for your office that you should always have if you want to do your work properly is barcode ribbon. They are essential and if you do not choose the one adequate to your needs, things can go very bad. There are three major types of barcode ribbon: resin, wax and resin and wax. When you pick one of these products you have to know what you need it for and thus choose the one that is most suitable for you.

Every form of barcode ribbon has its advantages and disadvantages and this is the main reason why choosing the right type can save you a lot of trouble. However, the most important thing there is to know about barcode ribbon is that they are specific to the printers that they are manufactured for. So, when choosing a barcode ribbon you definitely have to know what barcode ribbon you are looking for. Furthermore, in your search do not forget to compare prices. The most suitable barcode ribbon is the one that offers you what you need at a very good price.

For more information about Fax Ink Film or even about Barcode Ribbon please review this page www.telepapers.com

3 Super Advantages Of Barcoding And Barcode Scanners

The use of barcoding and barcode scanners has transformed operational efficiencies of a phenomenal number of businesses both large and small. Simple yet effective, the barcode as an invention has made itself indispensable purely by the multi-faceted advantages that its offers to the user across the entire barcoding spectrum – from generating barcodes through customizable barcode generating software right up to sophisticated barcode scanners and barcode readers. Here we present to you the killer advantages of these marvelous devices.

Super Advantage 1: Speed and Accuracy – A really good data entry operator would be able to enter a 12 digit number (like product code for example) on his keypad in approximately 4-5 seconds, but the average would be more like 7 seconds. The same operation if performed with a barcode scanner would take just one flick of the wrist, less than a second. The speed difference is evident – the use of the barcodes is unmatched in its ability to plough through large volumes of these operations effortlessly. While a data entry operator might make keyboard errors when he types in data, the chances of a barcode reader giving wrong output is practically nonexistent tending almost to zero. For all practical purposes, accuracy is exact, every time the barcode reader makes its flowing motion over the barcode.

Super Advantage 2: Implementation Ease – You decide you want to start using barcodes for your products but are worried that you have never done it before? Fear not, for in 10-20 minutes of your time that scenario will get reversed. The use of barcode readers is almost childishly simple with no prerequisite for usage. Not only can anybody do it, but they can do it quickly as well for the learning curve of using barcodes is extremely steep and short.

Super Advantage 3: Bang for the buck – If you could capture information quickly and accurately, it could only mean a tighter supply chain and well-knit business processes based on this information. With superior information, you can take superior business decisions that increase shareholder value. Imagine what disastrous consequences incorrect information could have on your business! A vast collection of barcodes and barcode scanner usage data has revealed that the investment made in this technology pays back in as short a period as 6 to 10 months – way faster than most modern technologies that attempt to improve the way we conduct our business. Thus the barcode genre is one where the customer truly gets good value for money and high return on investment.

One can never get enough of the importance and advantages of barcodes and barcode scanners. It now only remains for you to start scouring the market for various barcoding solutions to unlock the immense savings and gains that are lying in wait for your business! Go ahead and barcode your business growth in to the future!

Discover how to get the most bang for your buck! Visit our site at Best Barcode Scanners for more such practical advice, tips and information.

Image Processing & Bar Codes - Selecting The Right Bar Code With Image Binarization

Documents that are scanned for image processing or storage are often captured at 8 bits per pixel. These are referred to as grayscale images in that 256 levels of gray are able to be represented in the image. The capability to represent shades of gray is required to faithfully capture photographs and graphics but is not normally needed for text. Consequently, scanned images are often binarized. This process involves the selection of a threshold value and then changing all pixel values below that threshold to black and all pixel values above the threshold to white. This compresses the image by only requiring 1 bit per pixel instead of 8 bits per pixel. For example, an 8.5 inch by 11 inch document scanned at 200 samples per inch, has its storage requirement drop from 3.6 megabytes to 450 kilobytes. Binarization also occurs when documents are transmitted by fax as images are created that are represented with 1 bit per pixel as well.

Given a proper threshold, binarized images that contain text can normally still be read by either human eye or OCR algorithms. Indeed, some OCR algorithms begin the OCR process by binarizing the image as the text is typically dark against a lighter background. However, if bar codes are present within the binarized image, they can by altered enough by the binarization process to cause difficulty for a decode algorithm. The image to the left (http://www.omniplanar.com/_upload/CodePics/Code39-GreyscaleWeb.gif) shows part of the start pattern of a Code 39 linear bar code. The top portion shows the image represented as 8 bits per pixel, while the lower portion shows a binarized version using a threshold of 100. Note that the smooth transitions from white to black in the grayscale image have been transformed into ragged edges that have plus or minus one pixel variability. As a result, the width of each bar or space can vary by plus or minus 2 pixels. Given that the information in linear bar codes is contained in the widths of the bars and spaces, decode problems can result depending on the size and type of the original bar code symbol. The remainder of this article will focus on two issues that should be considered to improve the read rate of binarized bar codes: sample density and symbology type.

Sample Density

Sample density is the number of samples per unit area that an image is captured. Typical sample densities used for document processing range from 200 to 300 samples per inch (dots per inch or DPI). Fax transmission can vary from 100 up to 400 DPI. In bar code decoding, a more important parameter to consider is the samples per module, where the module size is the size of the smallest feature of the bar code. This distance is also referred to as the X dimension. This parameter includes both the sample density of the image capture device along with the size of the bar code being scanned. If a bar code decoding software toolkit requires a minimum of 1.6 pixels per module for linear bar codes in a grayscale image. From above, if the width of a bar or space can vary by 2 pixels after binarization, one can see that problems can exist in the short widths at this low sample density. Consequently, it is recommended that a typical value of 4 pixels per module for bar codes that will be binarized. For a document scanned at 200 DPI, this requires a minimum module size in the printed bar code of .020 inchs or 20 mils. Increasing the samples per module beyond 4 is also recommended for images that will go through multiple binarization processes such as documents that will be faxed multiple times.

Symbology Type

The choice of symbology used to encode data should also be considered carefully. Linear (or 1D) bar codes can be broadly classified into two distinct groups: wide/narrow codes and multiple width codes. In a wide/narrow code, each bar or space can only be either narrow or wide. The wide to narrow ratio, which gives the size ratio between the two widths, typically ranges from 2 to 3. Popular symbologies that use only 2 widths include Code 39 and Interleaved 2 of 5. Multiple width codes have more than 2 possible choices for the widths of bars and spaces. Popular symbologies that employ more than two possible widths include UPC and Code 128, both of which allow a bar or space to be either 1, 2, 3, or 4 modules. Given the same samples per module, wide/narrow symbologies typically survive the binarization process with higher read rate performance than their multiple width counterparts. This is simply due to the fact that in the presence of edge variation due to binarization, it is easier to determine if a run is X or 3X wide (where X is the length of a module and an assumed wide to narrow ratio of 3) or if it is 1X, 2X, 3X or 4X as is the case with multiple width symbologies. The table below classifies some popular linear symbologies into the two classes mentioned above.

Wide/Narrow

Codabar
Code 39
Interleaved 2 of 5
Patch Code

Multiple Width

Code 128
Code 93
RSS
UPC

While wide/narrow symbologies are preferred in applications where binarization will occur, they do not normally have as high a data density (data stored per unit width) compared to multiple width symbologies with the same X dimension. This can be an issue where limited space on the document is provided for the bar code symbol.

2D Symbologies

2D (or two-dimensional) matrix symbologies are typically presence/absence codes. They use a regular grid of possible cell positions, and the presence or absence of a cell in a grid location encodes the data. Two-dimensional symbols have much higher data density than 1D codes as information is stored in both dimensions of the symbol. In addition, they normally provide error correction to provide redundancy in case some cell data values can not be determined. When a 2D symbol is binarized with sufficient samples per module (the size of a grid position), they tend to do better than linear codes as the edge information is not as critical: it is the position of the center of the cell that is more important. Decoding software may require a minimum of 2.75 pixels per module in a grayscale image for reliable operation. If additional samples per module beyond 2.75 is provided, performance continues to improve and is a good choice for images that will undergo multiple binarizations. A sample density of 5 pixels or more for 2D matrix symbologies gives good read performance after binarization. Popular 2D Matrix codes include Data Matrix, QR Code, and Aztec Code.

PDF417 is often referred to as a 2D symbology. However, it is not a true matrix code. It is a stacked linear code, consisting of multiple rows of short linear codewords. It allows bars and spaces to have up to 6 different widths and as such it can be adversely affected by binarization at lower samples per module.

Summary

In applications where scanned documents containing bar codes are to be binarized, read rate performance can be improved by using linear symbologies that employ only wide/narrow choices for bars and spaces along with at least 4 or more pixels per module. Two-dimensional matrix codes are a good choice when binarization is used with a minimumof 5 pixels per module, and they provide the added benefit of increasing data density of the bar code symbol.

With over 17 years of experience in the bar code industry, Bob Dunphy has been Principal Engineer at Omniplanar, Inc (http://www.omniplanar.com) since its inception. He has designed numerous CCD camera systems as well as high speed processing platforms.

ID Bar Code Scanner

As you can imagine, there are many companies and establishments that use ID bar code scanners day in and day out. Is this something that you think you may be able to use with your company? There are a lot of large companies that use an ID bar code scanner for one reason or the next. But when it comes down to it, smaller businesses often times pass by an ID bar code scanner because they think that it will cost them too much or they will not be able to find a use for it. Fortunately, this is not the truth. There are many ways that companies of all sizes can use ID bar code scanners to their advantage.

First off, you should know that an ID bar code scanner does not cost too much money. Generally speaking, you should be able to get a high quality machine for no more than $350. While this may seem like a lot to you right now, using one of these scanners will be able to save you a lot of time and money. Instead of looking at an ID bar code scanner as a large expense you should consider it an investment in the well being of your company as well as your employees.

So what does an ID bar code scanner do? The basic job of one of these is to extract data from ID cards such as driver licenses, and then input the information into a database. Most ID bar code scanners have a reading and processing speed of about two seconds. So as you can imagine, you can do whatever needs to be done in no time at all.

Overall, your company may be able to use an ID bar code scanner to organize and simplify a lot of day to day work.

ScanShell Store offers solutions for ID Bar Code Scanner, document scanning, Portable scanner . To learn more about this topic Scanshell recommends you visit: ID Bar Code Scanner.com

Bar Code Label Printing Software

NiceLabel Barcode Label Printing Software

NiceLabel is a WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) bar code label printing software program designed to print barcodes, as well as text and graphics on labels including thermal transfer bar-code printer labels and standard laser/inkjet printers’ labels. Main features of NiceLabel include

• Drag and drop functionality and WYSIWYG layout
• Supports Linear 2 dimensional Symbologies
• Supports RSS and Composite bar-code types
• Supports EAN/UCC 128
• Supports laser, inkjet, and thermal printers
• Supports databases such as comma delimited text files and CSV files as a data source
• Supports images formats such as BMP, GIF, JPEG, WMF and PCX; and objects such as squares, rectangles, lines, boxes, and circles

There are two version of NiceLabel - NiceLabel Express, which is completely Wizard-based; and NiceLabel Pro, with advanced features such as RFID Support, Comprehensive database support, Pre-designed templates, ActiveX Programmers Interface, Advanced label design elements, Import labels, and Advanced data processing capabilities.

IDAutomation Barcode Label Software

This is another WYSIWYG bar code label printing software program to print barcodes, as well as text and graphics on labels including thermal transfer bar-code printer labels and standard laser/inkjet printers’ labels. Main features of IDAutomation Barcode Label Software include

• Imports label data from comma delimited text files, Microsoft Excel, Access and CSV files
• Ability to increment, static, link or determine barcode value by VB script.
• Embedded database built in for creating custom values
• Supports UCC/EAN 128 identifiers
• Supports laser, inkjet, and thermal printers
• Supports XML-based file formats
• Supports all EAN and UCC 128 AIs
• Source code available
• Multiple symbologies
• Supports images formats such as BMP, GIF, JPEG, WMF and PCX

There is also a PRO version available with additional features such as support for linear barcodes, RSS and Composite Symbology barcode types; ability to connect to additional data sources; and support for VB Script formulas to determine barcode values

Aulux Technologies Barcode Label Maker
Barcode Label Maker is a powerful tool to design and print any size of label with Barcodes, as well as text and graphics. Main features include

• Datasheet Manager to generate sequences data freely
• Ability to import data from Text File, MS Excel, MS Access MDB database, etc
• Supports Linear 2 dimensional Symbologies
• Supports RSS and Composite bar-code types
• Supports images formats such as BMP, GIF, JPEG, WMF and PCX

The Deluxe version of Barcode Label Maker supports read picture's path from datasheet to make ID card easier.

Flexible Information Systems (FIS) LabelVision 20/20

The LabelVision 20/20 from Flexible Information Systems, Inc (FIS) incorporates features such as

• Built-in MS Access-Compatible Database to create MS Access databases and print labels from them without using ODBC
• Ability to create Custom Menus to simplify the interface to the most complicated label printing applications
• Multiple labeling applications
• Supports Automatic print with Record Watch by monitoring data changes in databases or text files to automate label printing.

Print digital photos from as low as 10c. Bar code label printing software, plus reviews on the top 3 digital photo print services online.

An Introduction To Barcode Equipment

 

A complete barcode system will consist of software, scanners, a printer or labeler and labels for thermo transfer or thermo direct printing. Also of interest are mobile terminals for mobile data acquisition with a built-in scanner or reader, a display and a keyboard. A POS (point of sale) solution will require laser barcode scanners with high throughput and automatic triggering for hands-free barcode scanning.

Barcode Software

Barcodes are created with special software. While barcode software for Microsoft Windows is available, best suited for barcode creation are Apple Macintosh computers. Macs are preferable due to their strong position in the DTP, prepress and graphics market segment. A typical barcode software will support the common symbologies, calculate checksums automatically and will provide a variety of output options with support for the most common images formats (like PNG, TIFF or JPG) and also for Post Script or EPS.

A cheap alternative to dedicated barcode generators are so called barcode fonts. However, the quality a barcode created with such a font will usually not conform to the respective standards.

Depending on the application the use of dedicated, barcode enabled, label printing software may be advised. For example, such software can be used to print sequential barcodes (for serial numbers) or print logos or product images next to the actual barcode.

Barcode Scanner

Barcode Scanners, also known as barcode readers exist in various forms: The most common type are laser scanners. Here a moving laser beam scans the code which results in fast and error free reading. A cheap alternative to laser scanners are CCD scanners that feature a row of light emitting diodes and photo detectors. The earliest type of barcode reader where so called barcode wands, also known a magic wands. Here a single light emitting diode (LED) and a single photo detector are used to detect the typical black and white pattern of a barcode. While laser and CCD barcode scanners scan a barcode as a whole the barcode wand has to be swiped across the code to read it.

Barcode Printers

Barcode printers are used to print the barcode on self adhesive labels. Today most barcode label printers work in either thermo direct or thermo transfer mode. Using the thermo direct principle the print head applies heat to selected parts of the label which then turn dark. This is the same principle as is used with older fax machines. Thermo direct labels are sensitive to light and should not be used if they have to last longer than a few days or weeks. Typical applications are address labels which only have to last a few days.

With thermo transfer printers a heat sensitive ribbon (thermo transfer ribbon) sits between the print head and the label. As heat is applied to the ribbon, ink transfers (hence the name) from the ribbon to the label. Labels that were printed with thermo transfer are very durable. However, besides the actual label the transfer ribbon is another consumable which will increase the printing cost. The Barcode Authority.

Wireless Barcode Scanners: The Next Generation Gizmo

 

Wireless barcode scanners are a clear example of the best just having got better. Much like Alexander Graham Bell’s wired telephone that got eclipsed by the cordless phone which became a craze across millions of households, wireless bar code scanners have become a mega-hit with an ever-increasing number of business entrepreneurs making the upward shift to realize greater productivity day in day out. To put it simply, wireless barcode scanners offer you all the benefits of your regular barcode scanner or barcode reader and then, some more!

But hold on just yet, while wireless barcode readers and scanners are blitzing the market, you still need to which type of the device you need to best suit your business needs before going ahead and making a purchase. You need to very clearly articulate the reason for wanting to move into the wireless barcode scanner space and the plausible reasons for wanting to go wireless could be any of the following:-

* You need the freedom of mobility to be able to capture information away from your computer because of the spatial location of your tagged products

* You might want to collect the data away from your computer but be able to sync it or upload it once you get back to the origin i.e. the computer

* You might not only want to collect data away from the computer but also be able to log on via wireless networks to a database and post the captured information

Thus simply put, do you need a simple barcode scanner with a really long cord or do you have a genuine need for a wireless barcode scanner? And once you do a cost comparison on the various types of the barcode readers and barcode scanners, both wired as well as cordless, you will know exactly how much you are paying for what, and how much you are likely to benefit from the application of the device. Accurate information capture, ease of the information capture, speed at which different materials can be barcode registered and tagged, exquisite levels of data control are just some of the innumerous benefits that this technology promises for the user!

Finally a key thing that you need to keep in mind is that implementation of a new technology by itself does not guarantee success. You need to handle the change from one level to the next very well and proactively too, as in the case of wireless barcode scanners too. People management as part of change management is crucial to the success of your business and this should be given core focus. New technology is useless unless its espoused as a unifying cause by all in the work force. Once you have mastered the change in people, you have truly put yourself on the road to progress. Experience the wonders of wireless barcode scanners and be awestruck!

Discover how to get the most bang for your buck! Visit our site at Best Barcode Scanners for more such practical advice, tips and information.

3 Super Advantages Of Barcoding And Barcode Scanners

The use of barcoding and barcode scanners has transformed operational efficiencies of a phenomenal number of businesses both large and small. Simple yet effective, the barcode as an invention has made itself indispensable purely by the multi-faceted advantages that its offers to the user across the entire barcoding spectrum – from generating barcodes through customizable barcode generating software right up to sophisticated barcode scanners and barcode readers. Here we present to you the killer advantages of these marvelous devices.

Super Advantage 1: Speed and Accuracy – A really good data entry operator would be able to enter a 12 digit number (like product code for example) on his keypad in approximately 4-5 seconds, but the average would be more like 7 seconds. The same operation if performed with a barcode scanner would take just one flick of the wrist, less than a second. The speed difference is evident – the use of the barcodes is unmatched in its ability to plough through large volumes of these operations effortlessly. While a data entry operator might make keyboard errors when he types in data, the chances of a barcode reader giving wrong output is practically nonexistent tending almost to zero. For all practical purposes, accuracy is exact, every time the barcode reader makes its flowing motion over the barcode.

Super Advantage 2: Implementation Ease – You decide you want to start using barcodes for your products but are worried that you have never done it before? Fear not, for in 10-20 minutes of your time that scenario will get reversed. The use of barcode readers is almost childishly simple with no prerequisite for usage. Not only can anybody do it, but they can do it quickly as well for the learning curve of using barcodes is extremely steep and short.

Super Advantage 3: Bang for the buck – If you could capture information quickly and accurately, it could only mean a tighter supply chain and well-knit business processes based on this information. With superior information, you can take superior business decisions that increase shareholder value. Imagine what disastrous consequences incorrect information could have on your business! A vast collection of barcodes and barcode scanner usage data has revealed that the investment made in this technology pays back in as short a period as 6 to 10 months – way faster than most modern technologies that attempt to improve the way we conduct our business. Thus the barcode genre is one where the customer truly gets good value for money and high return on investment.

One can never get enough of the importance and advantages of barcodes and barcode scanners. It now only remains for you to start scouring the market for various barcoding solutions to unlock the immense savings and gains that are lying in wait for your business! Go ahead and barcode your business growth in to the future!

Discover how to get the most bang for your buck! Visit our site at Best Barcode Scanners for more such practical advice, tips and information.

Bar Codes Faxing Improve Business Document WorkFlow

Reliably integrating important electronic and paper documents received by fax such as invoices, expense reports, purchase orders, employment applications, claims and legal contracts into the daily business workflow is a common challenge. These documents are critical to many revenue related business processes and yet they are commonly misplaced, lost or misfiled in a never-ending row of filing cabinets.

In addition, the reproduction of these paper documents decrease productivity and increase daily soft costs such as manual labor burden, fax retransmission, paper, toner, and printer wear and tear.

Incorporating bar code faxing into an organization will improve the business document workflow and mission critical data access to the following departments in your organization:

• Human Resource Departments
• Accounts Payable
• Accounts Receivables
• Sales
• Marketing
• Legal Departments
• Production
• Manufacturing

Bar code faxing will also help eliminate the need to purchase or develop special forms applications and processing procedures, minimize lost documents and help with any eDocument initiatives your organization may have.

 

What is bar code faxing?

Bar code faxing is a computer based fax methodology in which commonly faxed documents are given bar codes for identification, routing, metadata and indexing purposes. Bar code faxing is simple to implement, reliable and depending on the bar code symbology used, very secure. Bar code symbologies used in bar code faxing include 1D and 2D bar codes, most commonly referred to as Code 39, Code 128, PDF417 and DataMatrix. Code 39 and 128 are the most inexpensive and easiest to implement because applications like Microsoft Word support bar code fonts. Code 39 and 128 fonts are readily available on the internet free of charge. PDF417 and DataMatrix bar codes can hold larger amounts of data, support Check Sum and various types of encryption. In some cases, implementation of these PDF417 or DataMatrix is more expensive due to proprietary application requirements.

Bar code faxing can be accomplished with the actual document itself or with a bar code fax cover page. The bar code is computer generated and added to the actual document/cover page. Another method of adding a bar code is with a hand held bar code printer or bar code label maker. The bar code can be placed and easily identified in the one of the four corners of the document. It is recommended to use slightly larger font sizes when using bar code faxing because fax documents shrink slightly during actual fax transmission. The use of intelligent fax hardware minimizes the shrinking and provides the highest quality fax images. Information captured in a bar code will vary depending on the document type. For invoices the bar code may contain the invoice number, customer name, and account number. It may also contain the name of the department it is being routed. For expense reports the bar code may contain the employee ID number, month of report, total amount due etc. Employment applications may contain phone number, social security number, position applying. The information that can be contained within a bar code is unlimited.

Once the fax with the bar code is received, the fax server software has the ability to read the bar code and extract the information or metadata. This metadata is then used to a) Identify, b) Route, c) Store & Deliver and d) Retrieve documents efficiently and effectively.

Summary

The use of bar code faxing isn’t new by any means. In the past several years however it has gained traction and acceptance in the fax server, scanning, document management, content management and imaging industries due to the introduction of the multi-function devices (scanner, fax, printer, copier), better imaging technologies, more robust computers, operating systems, intelligent fax boards and the need to resolve compliance and regulatory issues.

Document Imaging - Chris Norwood has been in this industry for over 13 years and is currently the Business Development Manager for One Touch Global Technologies. One Touch Global Technologies is a Platinum Solution Provider, Specialized Software Developer and Systems Integrator for several of the leading fax server and document management technologies on the market. Chris may be reached directly at cnorwood@otgt.com www.onetouchgt.com

Fax Bar Codes

Modern day computers are designed to read a barcode sent through fax. This process is completed by a certain program in the PC that allows the computer to automatically read a barcode at the top and bottom of a fax coversheet. Instructions encoded in the barcode direct the computer to make a correct data entry or any other function. Special fax servers are able to handle the receipt of all faxes, significantly reducing the need for standard fax machines and papers.

Barcode fax technology provides an economical, secure, and smart way to integrate inbound fax handling with the computer application. Most of the faxes received this way are automatically passed to the application as PDF or Tagged Image File (TIF). When inbound mails are received, they get posted to a catcher application in the computer. The post usually contains data like date and time of fax receipt, file type (PDF or TIF), number of Pages, fax Status, number of Barcodes scanned, Barcode value, Barcode sequence, Barcode symbology and Barcode page number. It also contains fax images.

We can capture data from barcodes within a fax and use it for routing purposes or relational data tracking by data capture via barcode scanning. The system scans and reads the barcode image on a document when a fax is received. This process has proved very optimal for companies with a huge volume of data that need an automated way to read a value on a fax, in order to automatically associate that fax with other data. It is preferred for routing purposes also. It is ideal for tracking and processing many business documents.

Bar Code Labels provides detailed information about bar code labels, bar code label printers, bar code label software, bar code label makers and more. Bar Code Labels is the sister site of Bar Code Software.

Create Bar Codes

 

Barcodes are created with the help of graphics. The codes make use of widths of white spaces and black bars. The widths of the spaces and bars must be printed within exact tolerances in order to be readable by most bar code readers and scanners. Presently, barcodes are created by Microsoft Windows using three main graphic types: bitmaps, fonts and metafiles.

Bitmap is actually an array of small dots which are called pixels. An image is created with the dot resolution of any printer to create a barcode. Fonts, on the other hand, are not graphics in strict sense of the term but they can still be used to create bar codes. A font is in fact a collection of graphic elements that are assigned to each character in any given set of characters. Since most bar code symbologies encode data by mapping specific characters to specific bar and space patterns, we make use of fonts to create bar codes.

The most widely used method to create barcode is a vector style graphic. Such a graphic consists of a series or sequence of instructions to describe how an image is cast. Metafiles fall in this category. Encapsulated postscript graphics are also designated as vector graphic. We do not have to use a device for such graphics. This format supports precise dimensions for all graphic elements. The amount of memory stored in a metafile is small. As a plus, commonly used Windows programs and several programming languages provide built-in support for handling metafiles.

Many modern businesses offer barcode image generators. This software helps in creating barcode images files in quickly in a range of formats like JPEG, BMP, Photoshop, Quark, CorelDraw and others. Many of these software programs are very user friendly and can even be used by someone with no bar code experience. We can even create barcodes on the internet.

Bar Code Labels provides detailed information about bar code labels, bar code label printers, bar code label software, bar code label makers and more. Bar Code Labels is the sister site of Bar Code Software.

Printing Bar Codes

 

There are two main considerations in bar code printing for small businesses, first the printers the software works with and secondly the print quality. Most software can send print commands to Windows based printers, including ink jet, laser and dot matrix. Of course they are also compatible with popular thermal printers. But what is the difference? And what works the best?

Inkjet
Inkjet printers are cheap and adequate for some uses, but not bar code printing. Scanners require a high level of quality and these types of printers cannot provide consistent quality.

Laser
Laser printers can work for bar code printing, however may not be suitable for mass production. Generally, laser printers print bar codes on common sticker types like Avery, which can be purchased anywhere. So this is a good choice for a small company that only needs a limited number of stickers or it is a good choice to use as a back up, like for printing replacement stickers.

Dot Matrix
Dot matrix printers are impact type printers and are still used for things like forms with multiple copies. But they can also be used for jobs that do not require color and do not require high quality. In some rare cases they are used to print receipts that have bar codes on them, but the quality is not dependable.

Thermal Printers
Thermal transfer or label specific printers, use a thermal printhead that applies to marked heat surfaces and they are fast. Thermal printers are the best choice for high-quality label printing. Thermal printers can produce exact bar widths, which bar code scanners require.

Keep in mind that it is much easier, in most cases, to replace a printer than an enterprise version of bar code and label software. So it is a good idea to choose your printer based on your software preference to ensure compatibility.

Pamela Stevens

Pamela Stevens writes for TopTenREVIEWS.com, a review site that publishes technology and entertainment reviews.

Bar Codes

 

Norman Woodland, a 27-year-old graduate student at Drexel Institute of Technology in Philadelphia developed the first code system that automatically read product information during checkout. Woodland and his friend Silver were awarded a patent for their application titled Classifying Apparatus and Method on October 7, 1952. Many experts are of the view that the Woodland and Silver bar code was the basis of what would soon become a global phenomenon.

In the beginning, barcodes were developed to store data in the spacing of printed parallel lines. The idea was to help grocery stores speed up the checkout process and keep better track of the inventory. However, the system soon picked up and became a success story.

Barcodes form the basis of identification in almost all types of businesses in the modern world. Barcodes are variously called as Universal Product Codes or UPCs. These are machine-readable codes and come in strips, generally comprising of a series of short black lines of varied thickness. These codes are read by optical scanners called barcode readers or scanned from an image by special software. A laser reader or scanner can translate the barcodes into the corresponding alpha-numeric digits, which are used to uniquely identify a piece of property. Barcodes are used world over to implement Auto ID Data Capture (AIDC) systems that improve the speed and accuracy of computer data entry.

At present, we have codes in several patterns of dots, concentric circles and hidden in images. Barcodes are provided by a body called Uniform Code Council (UCC). A manufacturer has to apply to the UCC for permission to enter the UPC system. An annual fee is charged for the service. In return, the UCC issues the manufacturer a six-digit manufacturer identification number. The manufacturer identification number is part of a standard 12-digit bar code.

Bar coding standards have brought about great precision, technical refinement and uniformity in the way business is conducted in the world. Throughout the world, most of the data entry is done much more quickly. All data is collected in real time. Bar codes have also led to the elimination of manual data entry and retrieval system. The coding has completely streamlined products, making the most effective use of human and physical resources.

Bar Code Labels provides detailed information about bar code labels, bar code label printers, bar code label software, bar code label makers and more. Bar Code Labels is the sister site of Bar Code Software.

Bar Code Software Choices - Which Software is Right for You Business?

Commercial establishment owners, libraries and video rental shops may benefit a lot from purchasing a bar code software, which helps in product selling, in improving operation efficiency, and in keeping track of products and collections.

Types of barcode software – which is best for your business?

Some bar code software can identify or decode bar code symbology. They are operated with a hand held or stationary scanner. The software can recognize and decode the bar codes picked up by the scanner and organize them in spreadsheets or databases. This type is called a bar code data collection software.

Another kind of bar code software generates graphic bar code images. This type of software generates special fonts for creating and printing bar codes used on labels and forms. This type is called the bar code production software. Meanwhile, a bar code inventory software and bar code tracking software is used for shipping and distribution applications. This is most helpful for businesses that conduct deliveries for tracking the shipping of their products. Libraries and video rental shops also use this to track their collections.

Money saving tips

To ensure effectiveness, choose a bar code software that's compatible with your computer's operating system and other system requirements. Buying an incompatible application – even it is on sale – will cost you a lot of money in the long run. Also, choose a bar code software with an easy to understand interface that matches your computer proficiency level. Highly-recommended for new users are software products that come with tutorial guides.

More information and recommended products

A complete Guide to BARCODE SOFTWARE is available in Picky Guide, one of the fastest growing online magazines giving free consumer advice and product information.

Socket SDIO Scan Card - A Revolution In The Arena Of Bar Code Scanning

 

Shopping, nowadays, has gone hi-tech with bar codes replacing the conventional paper price tags attached to various commodities in the market. Data collection applications are used to process the sales data captured through bar code scanning.

Scan cards are gaining popularity as a means for reading bar code labels. Socket offers various types of plug-in SDIO scan cards that can be used to scan bar codes and transfer the data into pocket PC, Pocket PC phone edition, a Smartphone and a Palm PDA having an SDIO slot.

Socket SDIO scan card helps to enhance the efficiency of data collection applications. You need to insert the Secure Digital Scan card (SDSC) into the SDIO slot of your mobile computer, scan various types of bar codes and store the data in your mobile for future processing.

Socket SDIO scan card is probably the smallest plug-in scanner with a powerful class 2 laser that is capable of scanning through reflective surfaces, such as glass and Mylar. SDSC 3P scan card scans almost all the popular linear bar code symbologies. You can use it to scan even the damaged and hard-to-read bar code labels.

SDIO scan cards use the best-of-class technology for scanning bar codes in a broad range of environmental conditions, such as bright sunlight. The 3P scan card from Socket can function in the standard SD slot of a wide variety of PDAs. This enables you to use the same scanner when you switch or upgrade PDAs. Socket SDIO scan card helps to improves productivity as one can scan with one hand using the mobile computer and use the other hand for handling packages. There is no need for extra batteries or special power adapter to use this scanner as it gets the required power from the host mobile computer.

So, just plug in this scan card into your mobile computer's SDIO slot and relax...the scan card will handle the bar code scanning and data collection.

Adrian Phillip is a renowned business writer who has years of experience in writing technical reviews, product descriptions and product feature analysis of technical gadgets and gizmos. He has won appreciation especially for enlightening people about the latest communication gizmos...the Smartphones and PDAs.

Bar Code Labels Serve a Multitude of Practical Business Uses Today

As technology has advanced so has the use of bar code technology in many industries here in the United States. Businesses from shipping services to local hospitals are using bar codes to track everything from packages to patients. Bar codes are essential where accessing, testing, or research functions are happening. Bar code adhesive labels can help your business to more accurately track items without the worry of human error.

Most all shipping service companies and the United States Postal Service use bar codes on all of their packages for the most efficient route and tracking information. Most likely, you will find a adhesive bar code label on any package you receive through these shipping services.

One of the fastest growing sectors to use bar code labels in their daily business is healthcare. Hospital admissions offices use bar codes on patient ID wristbands. The bar code label wristbands help reduce patient processing time hospital-wide and decrease the possibility of misreading and miskeying information about the patient. Scanning this wristband before conducting any laboratory testing, the hospital can be assured they have the correct patient and information, thus reducing their chances of error and potential liability.

The emergency department is a key place where hospitals are using bar codes. Because emergency departments see such a high volume of patients, they are a prime place for the use of bar coded ID wristbands. Any emergency room is a very fast-paced environment where costly and potentially deadly mistakes can occur. With the use of bar coded wristbands, this liability can be significantly reduced.

It is not just the healthcare industry that uses bar code labels in their daily operations. Many businesses use them for asset and package tracking as well. If your business needs improvement in its level of efficiency, productivity, and cost savings, bar code labeling can be just what you need.

Any successful bar code system implementation requires you to have bar code labels which stick when they should, come off when you need them to, and are easily readable when you scan them. Bar code labels come in a variety of adhesive label strengths and sizes to meet any business need you might have. Because you want your bar code labels to meet you own specific business needs, you will want to have your labels professionally printed by a company with years of experience printing the various kinds of labels. They can advise you about the different labels available and determine which meets your needs the best.

If your business manufactures items for retail sale, you will want to contact the Uniform Code Council, and obtain your unique UPC code from them. There web site URL is www.UC-Council.org. This unique UPC code will then be the first six digits on all UPC codes of your product labels.

As you can see, bar code labels serve a multitude of business needs in just about any business sector today. You will find a bar code system to be a big asset to your business when implemented correctly.

Bar code labels serve a multitude of practical business uses today. To decide which bar code labels fit your needs best, contact A B B Labels online at http://www.abblabels.com for more information and to get a personalized quote. A B B Labels is the single source for all your barcoding needs.

Discover Everything About Wholesale Bar Code Reader And Software!

It is a given fact that buying wholesale would make us save more money than buying individual items at retail. Purchasing in bulk means more profit for the seller that he could be afforded the leeway of granting discounts. This principle is important when you’re planning on buying wholesale bar code reader and software.

Perhaps the parties interested with purchasing wholesale bar code reader and software are those who own several branches of their businesses, or those who maintain several identification and verification operations in their establishments. Wholesale bar code reader and software, after all, would result in more savings for such a business.

There are many places where you could buy wholesale bar code reader and software. On the Internet alone, a lot of online stores are offering retail and wholesale bar code reader and software. Given the lofty status of these devices, wholesale bar code reader and software are considered as items of above 5 pieces. Not a bad deal right?

Additionally, wholesale bar code reader and software regularly appears on eBay. Ebay is a bidding site where a lot of enterprising people advertise what they want to sell. The person you would deal with won’t necessarily be the wholesaler per se, but most certainly, he’ll have access to a drop shipper who would give you access to wholesale bar code reader and software, if such is your wish.

Additionally, most major manufacturers of these fantastic tools also offer wholesale bar code reader and software. You may study and determine the goods offered by each manufacturer, and if they suit your needs to a tee, you could purchase wholesale bar code reader and software from them. Here is a list of the major manufacturers who also sell wholesale bar code reader and software:

Argox
Opticon
DataLogic
Visidot by ImageID
Symbol Technologies
Intermec
PSC Inc.
Hand Held Products
American Microsystems, Ltd.
Metrologic Instruments

Wholesale bar code reader and software can also be bought from warehouses of establishments devoted to office supplies and commercial products. Most of these warehouses have to be visited personally however, which would be better for your expenses. Shipping wholesale bar code reader and software can cost a fortune, specially if you prefer the flatbed ones, or worse, those with bigger terminals.

It goes without saying that, given the bulk of wholesale bar code reader and software, you would have to doubly make sure that you’re getting the bar code reader type and kind that you want and need. You won’t want to get stuck with wholesale bar code reader and software that you won’t get to use, right?

So before purchasing wholesale bar code reader and software, determine which built and your business would need. You could select from stationary terminals and handheld bar code readers. Of the latter, you could choose from normal ones or those that can download data through radio frequency. You would also have to determine beforehand which bar codes would best suit your operations. Bar codes determine the bar code reader, and not the other way around.

Then and only then can you decide to buy wholesale bar code reader and software.

Ewen Chia is the owner of BarCodeReader.info providing excellent bar code reader information, news plus completely  free barcode fonts!  http://www.BarCodeReader.info

The Use of Bar Code SMS in Mobile Marketing, Advertising, CRM

Anybody that frequents shopping malls are familiar with the bar coding systems used by retailers to ease the line at the pay points. No more long lines at the till as the operator just pulls the product past the scanner and voila – the buyer pays and are on their way.

What most people do not realize is that the bar coding systems entails more than just the code being scanned with the scanner. The systems normally plugs straight into a database, which is also hooked up with the accounting system and the moment the item is scanned, it deducts the item from the warehouse’s inventory. Each product in the database has a minimum stock level – the moment it reaches that stock level, it sends out an alert that x amount of a product needs to be ordered. Automated, convenient, easy.

The above sample system serves to explain how and why bar codes are used in the offline or sales / Warehousing side of business. Nowadays the same principles apply to mobile technology.

With the ability of bar coding systems to be incorporated with Office functionality, convergence of technology opened a new automation arena in the business world. I am sure all of us at one point or another queued at the movie theatre to watch our favourite movie.

Just imagine no more long lines - you arrive at the movie theatre with your mobile phone, walk past a scanner where a bar code on your mobile phone is scanned and you take your seat to enjoy the movie!!! That is how easy it could be with mobile ticketing (mobile bar coding).

The process is simple – let’s use e-ticketing as an example: A customer visits the venue’s web site where they book and pay online. Confirmation of their booking or ticket is received on their mobile phone via bar code SMS. The client saves the bar code SMS and present their mobile phone upon arrival at the venue, where it is scanned and access allowed.

Now that is service!!!! E-ticketing will apply to many events – for example the upcoming 2010 World cup soccer in South Africa, the rugby and soccer matches which takes place weekly, conferences and events that are organized also requiring access – just to name a few.

Mobile bar coding also plays an important role in customer services (CRM). Retail stores that send out discount vouchers with snail mail could now replace the paper work with bar code SMS – on condition of course that customers give their permission. Instead of posting vouchers, retailers could SMS a bar code discount voucher to their clients. The client saves the barcode on their phone. Upon arrival at the store they present their mobile phone with the saved bar code at the pay point. The bar code is scanned in, discount allocated to the purchase total and new balance due calculated.

Besides the convenience factor the marketing department also obtains a method of measuring response on promotions. With the bar code scanner hooked up to the till, which is hooked up to the office back end and accounting system, tracking of clients making use of discount vouchers is easy to obtain. A marketing executive’s dream, as reports are produced with the push of a button.

Convergence of mobile and web combined with offline/online technologies are inevitable. We believe it is the companies that join the wireless revolution that will benefit most. They will retain more clients as they show that they carry the best interest of their customers at heart through eliminating any situation that could lead to customer dissatisfaction.

Marinda Stuiver has been involved in mobile, web convergence for the past 4 years with 8 years experience in online marketing and web development. Recently convergence of technologies with the partnership formed with FirefoxIE lead to FirefoxIE SMS – a browser tool. She joined the European Mobile & Business Tech based in Europe alliance to bring more advanced mobile solutions to the market place.

Please email hq@smswarehouse.com if you require more information about applications or convergence of web and mobile technologies.

Ref: SMS warehouse

Bar Code Labels Provide Greater Customer Service

 

Bar code labels provide greater customer service for many reasons. One of the primary reasons is that these labels can save you so much time in processing orders and assisting customers with checkout. You can use the handy product labels as adhesive labels, which make it easy to add bar code labels to your current inventory.

Did you know that you can save a great deal of time determining your inventory with bar code labels? Using these labels will enable you to quickly determine how much inventory that you have on the shelf. Each time that a product is purchased, it can be automatically deducted from the current inventory numbers. This saves you valuable time that you can then utilize for greater customer service.

Another advantage to these product labels is being able to determine what item variation was purchased and is now available. For example, if a customer purchases a bottle of vanilla scented shampoo and bottle of lavender scented shampoo from the same brand, you will know specifically which scents were sold instead of sorting the product strictly by the brand name.

Bar code labels are terrific for using as product labels for products such as DVDs, CDs, VHS tapes and other electronic media. With the adhesive labels, it is easy to have product labels that will provide quality control and accurate inventory for your items. You can assign a specific bar code for each individual product type and a different code for specific brands, genres or collections.

Another great use for product labels and adhesive labels is for promotional purposes. You can order blank labels that can be converted to use as bumper stickers or even put on the sales receipts. The top quality vinyl material of these labels is great for promoting your business or your specific products.

Want to customize your product labels? There are large number of choices for sizes, material type and what you want type-set on your labels. You can even select your bar code label numbers and have them customized to a specific size to fit your product line and current inventory numbering system.

Switching over to the bar code labels has never been made simpler for you and your company. Bar code labels, product labels and adhesive labels can be customized by the type of printing that you want done. They are offered in thermal transfer, laser, and direct thermal and even dot matrix. This makes it possible for you to customize and tailor these labels to your specific needs and to your wallet.

With so many different products available today, it is imperative to have a handy system in place for keeping track of your inventory, labeling your products and making it easy for your customers to purchase items. Being able to properly label and to promote your business will enable you to spend more time focusing on the specific needs of your clients.

You can provide better customer service because you have more time to focus on your customers. Clear labels let them know what the product is, pricing and any additional information that you want to include. These specialized labels make inventory and check-out much easier.

For example, if a customer calls and wants to know if a particular product is available, you can simply put in the bar code number and tell them how many is available. You don't have to go to the shelf and see if you have that specific item available. If they want to know if you have DVDRs available in the 24 pack, you can just simply pull it up on the computer for the store inventory that was put together from the bar code labels instead of putting the customer on hold and making them wait while you go to the store aisle to find out if any are currently in stock.

Bar code labels can help streamline your business operations with a multitude of practical uses. To decide which bar code labels fit your needs best, visit A B B Labels online at http://www.abblabels.com to get a personalized quote. We are the single source for all your barcoding needs.

The Effects of Fax Transmission on Bar Code Decoding

 

When documents containing bar code symbols are faxed, the quality of the bar code symbol will degrade. Documents scanned by fax machines in Standard Resolution are sampled with 204 horizontal dots per inch and 98 vertical dots per inch. Each sample point is then converted to either a white or black value (a process known as binarization). The binarization process converts straight lines of the bar code symbols into ragged lines changing the width of the bars and spaces. If a faxed document is itself resent out as a fax, further deterioration occurs. Each additional fax cycle continues to degrade the bar code. At some point, the symbol may no longer be able to be decoded by bar code decoding software.

The remainder of this article will discuss the issues that should be considered when selecting bar code symbologies and sizes to increase the likelihood of successful decodes after multiple fax cycles.

Linear (1D) Symbologies

Two popular 1D symbologies were examined: Code 128 and Code 39. Code 128 uses four bar and space widths to encode information, while Code 39 only uses two. Thirteen module sizes (smallest element) ranging from 12.5 mil to 32.5 mil of each symbol type, encoding ten numeric digits, were printed on a sheet. The sheet was sent through a fax at Standard Resolution for a total of ten cycles. This corresponds to a horizontal sample per module ranging from 2.6 to 6.6. The resulting 11 pages were then scanned on a flatbed scanner at 300 samples per inch and were presented to a bar code decode software toolkit. At 2.6 samples per module both bar code symbologies were only able to be successfully decoded for 3 faxes while the same codes with 6.6 samples per module were still readable after 10 faxes.

The larger samples per module (6 samples and greater) were able to successfully decode after 10 fax cycles. At 5.6 samples per module, the decode performance was no better than 4.6 pixels per module. This demonstrates that each fax cycle alters the bar code in a subtle way. Every fax cycle produces a unique version of the original bar code, and each alteration can make a symbol that did not read after a certain number of fax cycles read on the next one. However, if high read rates are desired after many fax cycles, then printing the bar code symbols at a minimum of 6 samples per module is recommended.

From the testing conducted, Code 128 slightly outperformed Code 39 after multiple faxes. Given the higher data density of Code 128 and the built in checksum, Code 128 appears to be a better choice between the two symbologies. The images below show the size advantage of Code 128 over Code 39, with both symbols encoding 10 numeric digits with the same module size. If the data to be encoded is purely numeric, the numeric compaction mode of Code 128 can be used to further increase data density.

There is a trade off to consider: the larger the module size of a linear code, the more horizontal room will be required to encode the same amount of information, but the larger modules sizes can improve read rate. One additional factor to consider is the bar code height. For this test, all the codes were ½ inch in height. Given that all vertical information in 1D bar codes is by definition redundant, if space allows, increasing the height of a bar code will typically provide better read rates after multiple fax cycles.

Matrix (2D) Symbologies

Matrix symbologies provide dramatically better information density because information is encoded in both horizontal and vertical directions. Given their size advantage over their linear counterparts, 2D symbols can be printed with much larger module sizes and still be comparable to linear symbols encoding the same information. For the 2D test, we printed various sizes of Data Matrix and Micro QR Codes. The Data Matrix was a 12 x 12 module square symbol. The Micro QR is a more space efficient version of a QR code that employs only one finder pattern and is limited to a number of smaller sizes. The symbols were encoded at a comparable level of error correction. The module sizes varied from 39 mil to 79 mil. Like the 1D test, we subjected the image to 10 fax cycles and then scanned the images. The images were scanned at 150 samples per inch given the large feature sizes of the test bar codes. The scanned images were then processed by the same bar code decoding toolkit.

At 8.7 samples per module the 2D bar codes were able to be read after 5 fax cycles and once 15 samples per module were reached the codes were readable up to 10 cylces.

The results were not as consistent as the 1D symbols. This is due to the fact that the distortion of the symbol during the increasing number of fax cycles affects data in both the data dimensions. However, we can draw the conclusion that symbols with larger size modules will decode more reliably after multiple fax cycles.

Summary

If documents containing bar code symbols are to be faxed multiple times, the bar code symbols must be printed with larger module sizes to be successfully decoded.

For linear symbologies, if a large number of fax cycles (greater than 5) is required, the number of samples per module should be at least 6. Code 128 performed well in our tests and has a higher data density than Code 39. Linears are a good choice for encoding small amounts of data.

For larger data requirements, 2D symbologies such as Data Matrix, provide good decode performance after faxing if larger module sizes are used. They provide the added benefit of reducing the amount of real estate required in the application document due to their superior data density.

With over 17 years of experience in the bar code industry, Bob Dunphy has been Principal Engineer at Omniplanar, Inc (http://www.omniplanar.com) since its inception. He has designed numerous CCD camera systems as well as high speed processing platforms. He has also been a key contributor to the design and implementation of SwiftDecoder (http://www.omniplanar.com/swiftdecoder.php) bar code decode software.

Bar Code Label Uses for Your Business

 

Bar Code Labels can have many uses within a business, and there are many types available, a few of them are listed below with specific purposes. 5 top areas covered are: asset tags, parking permits, product labels, general solutions / applications, and bar code types.

Asset Tags: Asset tags can be used to identify equipment, furniture and other physical assets in your business. They are usually printed with sequential serial numbers for tracking in database systems. Typical materials are white polyester, metalized matte silver polyester, security silver polyester, destructible reflective vinyl, Lexan®, or LexSaver®.

Parking Permits: Bar Code labels can be integrated on wide range of parking permit types; such as hang tags, bumper stickers and window stickers. Some materials used are PVC, LexSaver™, static cling, vinyl with permanent adhesive, and destructible reflective vinyl.

Product Labels: There are 100’s of uses for bar coded product labels. To name a few, industrial labels, media labels, Product ID labels, Property management, shipping / mailing, tracking / pricing and many others.

General Bar Code Solutions / Uses: Product ID Labels with UPC bar code on rolls or fan folded, product ID labels with UPC code on laser sheets, very small sizes, bar code only, no other printing on the label and blank laser, thermal and ink jet bar code labels.

Bar Code Types: Codabar (numeric only): Codabar bar codes are typically used in labeling solutions for applications that require sequential issuing and processing of information. Some examples would include library systems, membership cards, overnight package delivery systems, and other simple processing and tracking applications.

 

• Code 128 (alphanumeric): Code 128 bar codes are typically used when a high reliability code read is required from the label application.

• Code 39 (alphanumeric): Code 39 is the most popular, general purpose bar code printed on labels. Some examples would include serial numbers for any type of hard good (from automobiles to laptops). Asset tags and parking permits typically are printed with code 39 bar codes.

• EAN-13 (numeric only) EAN - 13 is often referred to as the international retail product code. EAN stands for European Alpha Numeric (bar code). This is the global version of the UPC codes used in North America. The primary bar code label application of EAN 13 codes is products that are to be sold in Europe.

• Interleaved 2 of 5 (numeric only) Interleaved 2 of 5 bar codes are the compressed version of EAN-13 code described above. Used to provide bar code product information on small products throughout Europe.

• PostNet (numeric only) PostNet bar codes were developed by the USPS to make automated mail a reality. Most PostNet bar codes are printed on labels and are ultimately applied pieces that are mailed through the USPS, ranging from envelopes to catalogs.

• UPC-A UPC-A stands for Universal product Code. The UPC bar code is required on all products sold in North America and throughout the world. Typically, the UPC bar code is printed on the product ID label.

• UPC-E Compressed UPC code used on small products sold in North America and throughout the world. Typically, the UPC-E bar code is printed as a separate label rather than as part of the product ID label.

• 2D Bar Codes: 2D (two dimensional) barcodes contain more information than typical one dimensional barcodes. One dimensional barcodes get wider as more data is encoded. Typically, 2D bar codes area applied to labels by a thermal printing device. 2D barcodes make use of the vertical dimension, allowing for more data to be stored. Bare in mind that using more square inches and a larger label which will add expense to your bar code labels. 2D barcodes have become possible as auto scanning CCD and laser scanners have replaced the original 'light pen' type of scanner. At this time most conventional CCD and Laser scanners cannot read 2D barcodes but low cost 1D/2D scanners are entering the market.

• Ink and Printing Methods for Bar Code Labels: Bar code symbols are printed in black ink. The rest of your label can be printed in spot (PMS) colors or in process (CMYK) colors. You also have a choice between excellent quality traditional flexo printing or high end photo quality digital printing. The example to the left displays the difference between the flexo and digital production methods. Either method will ensure excellent readability of your bar code. Digital label printing is best suited for label quantities of 5,000 or fewer. Traditional flexo printing is best suited for quantities of 1,000 or more labels.

This was written by Tim Frisch with the permission of Maverick Label - http://www.MaverickLabel.com

Maverick Label - We're All About Printed Labels. Maverick Label was founded in 1994. Located in Edmonds, Washington, our goal is to meet the growing need for a custom label source utilizing the latest technologies blended with old fashioned quality and customer care.

We offer a complete range of custom printed, roll, fanfold, sheet, digital and stock labels. Our commitment is to meet your most demanding label printing needs.

Our online label printing quotes, online proofs and online ordering make quick work of your label projects. Ordering stock to fully custom printed labels has never been easier.

Bar Code Scanners - Information for Retail Users

 

Corded scanning Simple scanning in a small shop could use a low cost bar code scanner possibly that requires near contact touch to the product. This would not be the best bar code scanner in the world but would read bar codes effectively and be cheap to buy (Under £50 ex VAT).

Alternatively if you required a bar code scanner that can read a greater distance away from the bar code you could spend slightly more on a mid range bar code scanner that can also scan bar codes at a faster rate, slightly more expensive but still will not break the bank (Under £99 ex VAT).

Cordless scanning For scanning without wires there are two main options - Bluetooth or Wireless LAN (WLAN 802.11b/g). In retail short range cordless scanning can enhance staff performance on the shop floor or help stock takes or checks in warehouses.

Bluetooth works over a short range, the highest distance working up to 100M without interruption from obstructions. Bluetooth bar code scanners tend to be lower cost due to a shorter range typically up to 15M dependent on obstructions although the range can extend up to 100M on more expensive scanners.

Wireless LAN works over a company’s wireless network, the scanners typically utilise 802.11b/g standards. WLAN bar code scanners have a longer range (from 30 - 100M).

Omni Directional Scanning Omni directional bar code scanners are most commonly used in retail applications especially in Epos systems in shops and supermarkets. The bar code scanners enable the cashier to scan the product from multiple angles to decrease time spent scanning and make the process more efficient.

2 dimensional (2D) Scanning 2D bar code scanners are used when a bar code is required to hold more than just a product number. For example to hold customers address details or to store more details about a product (name, weight, type...).

Bar code Verifiers For suppliers to retail businesses bar code verifiers are very important especially for supermarkets. Suppliers can be fined large amounts for printing bar codes that do not provide a good reading when scanned. Through the use of a bar code verifier either on the production line or in testing departments bar codes can be scanned and if necessary production can be stopped to correct the label printing to avoid a fine from the retailer.

Vanessa Raby, AM Labels Ltd, http://www.amlabels.co.uk Barcode Scanners: http://www.amlabels.co.uk/Barcode1.htm

Choosing The Right Bar Code Reader

The importance of a bar code reader in this day and age cannot be denied. A lot of practical and pragmatic applications for a bar code reader have been rendered essential by the changing times. Whether you’re running a commercial establishment, a public or private library, a company that employs a lot of people, or a school that is attended by numerous students, a bar code reader would do wonders for your daily operations.

A bar code reader would greatly help you in organizing your database, maintaining a good record of your inventory, monitoring and tracking the movement of items and people, and ensuring the security of your premises. These far-reaching benefits of using a bar code reader and simply fantastic!

But not all barcode readers are built alike. A bar code reader may come in many forms, and some are just better than others. Well, at least for particular needs, that is. Much care and deliberation should be invested in the choice of the right bar code reader for your enterprise.

Here is a guide that would hopefully help you in choosing the perfect bar code reader for your needs:

* Know the reason why you need a barcode reader. Is it to keep watch of the items used for your trade? Is it to reduce staff time in automating certain processes? Is it to monitor the entry and exit of people to and from your premises? It is to track the movement of items to and from your storage facility? The choice of a bar code reader greatly depends on the purpose for its usage.

* Check the numerous features of various barcode readers in the market today. A bar code reader is available in three forms. First, we have the laser-based bar code reader which makes use of light emitted from the bar code reader itself to identify and verify the barcodes of a particular item. Second, we have a charged coupled device (CCD) bar code reader which makes use of light emitted from the numerous light sensors in the barcodes which the bar code reader would gather and decode for identification and verification. Third, we have a camera-based bar code reader which takes a picture, literally speaking, of the barcodes, and identifies and verifies the same through the varying hues and contrasts of the bars of the latter. Each kind of bar code reader is good for particular industries. A laser-based bar code reader is perfect for monitoring the entry and exit of people to and from your premises, for example. A CCD bar code reader is perfect for tracking the movement of your company’s supplies and tools, as well as permanent identification tags for employees and students. And a camera-based bar code reader is perfect for monitoring and regulating the movement of more sensitive items in your inventory.

* Canvass. A better price for a bar code reader would always save you some cash for other investments. There will be barcode readers offered at lower prices from some sources, so it would be best to seek these out first and foremost.

* Choose a credible and reliable company. A bar code reader company with an established track record of excellence would be a safer bet. A bar code reader would be a longtime investment, so might as well get things right the first time around.

A bar code reader would serve your business for a long, long time. Choosing the right one, therefore, would be the essential first step for a rewarding partnership that would render the processes in your enterprise more convenient.

Ewen Chia is the owner of BarCodeReader.info providing excellent bar code reader information, news plus completely *free* barcode fonts!  http://www.BarCodeReader.info