Configuring barcodes

Bar codes are machine-readable symbols comprising black-and-white patterns of bars and stripes, or in some cases checkerboard-like grids. The different styles of bar codes are called symbologies. Code 39, UPC, ISBN and Code 128 are examples of different symbologies.

Bits of information are encoded within bar codes. This data is read by barcode scanners, and often used in conjunction with databases. Bar codes don't require human input. They can be read by automated machines, and are virtually error-free.

A UPC barcode is used in North America and Japan on retail items. EAN is used in Europe. ISBN bar codes are used for books. Code 39 is one of the most popular in areas of warehousing, for tracking purposes.

A barcode can be either single dimensional or 2 dimensional (2D). Parcel and truckload carriers use 2D symbologies like PDF417 code or MAXICODE, to represent a large amount of information.

The system supports all barcode symbologies through the use of RF scanners. The barcode data captured through the RF is compared to a data source in the application for validation. This is achieved through the use of a barcode type and translation definition.