WHAT IS A BARCODE?

A barcode is a method of representing alpha numeric characters in a form that can be recognised and decoded by barcode scanning equipment.
There are a number of different types of barcodes, but the principle is the same in all types. Alpha numeric characters are represented by varying number and thicknesses of lines. The barcode itself has a number of components.

1/ Start character – This character at the start of the barcode defines the start of the barcode.

2/ Stop character – Like the start character the Stop character defines the end of the barcode.

Check Digits – This is an extra character generated from a formula that enables the barcode reading equipment to verify if the barcode has been correctly decoded. Not all types of barcodes use Check digits.

Quiet Zones – An area at the front and the end of the barcode that should be kept clear of any print.

Human Readables
This is the name given to the numbers and letters that appear usually under the barcode but can be anywhere around the barcode. If the barcode becomes damaged so that it cannot be read by a scanner, the Human Readables can be entered manually.

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