What is a barcode and how does it work?

Barcodes or in Thai called "bar codes" consist of dark lines (usually black) and bright lines (usually white) arranged vertically. It is a code representing numbers and letters. It is used to facilitate computers to read data codes more easily by using a barcode reader (Barcode Scanner) which works quickly and helps reduce errors in data entry.

How does a barcode work?

In principle, a barcode is read by a scanner, and the data is recorded directly into the computer without having to press a button on the printer. This makes it convenient and fast to work, and the data can be read accurately, reliably, and it is clear that the barcode system currently plays a role in every part of the trading and service industries that require data management from computer databases. Currently, barcodes are being applied to the use of mobile computers, which are easy to carry, in order to store, display, check, and process in other aspects as well.

Types of Barcodes

The origin of barcodes is in grocery stores, book covers, car parts stores and general consumer goods stores in Europe. Every truck that has to travel between France and Germany must have a barcode on every window to show the driver's license, permit and weight of the truck so that customs officers can check it easily and quickly. As the truck slows down, the scanner will read the information from the barcode and display the information on the computer immediately. Currently, there are 3 types of barcodes: 1D barcodes, 2D barcodes and 3D barcodes.

1D Barcode

It is a strip consisting of alternating black and white lines. It is used to represent a number or letter code and can contain approximately 20 characters. Barcodes are often used in conjunction with a database, that is, when the barcode is read and decoded, the resulting code is used to retrieve data from the database. Examples of 1D barcodes include Code 39, Code 128, Code EAN-13, and others. The appearance of the barcode will change according to the type of barcode.

2D Barcode

It is a technology that has been further developed from 1-dimensional barcodes. It is designed to be stored both vertically and horizontally, allowing it to store approximately 4,000 characters or approximately 200 times more information than 1-dimensional barcodes in the same or smaller space. The information stored can be in languages other than English, such as Japanese, Chinese, or Korean. 2-dimensional barcodes can be decoded even if some of the barcode images are damaged. Devices used to read and decode 2-dimensional barcodes range from CCD readers or laser readers and mobile phones with built-in cameras that have a decoding program installed.

3D Barcode

It is a technology that is further developed from 2D barcodes to make barcodes stick on objects for a long time and withstand environmental conditions. It is done by shooting a laser or engraving the barcode directly on the object, causing the barcode to be higher or lower than the surface. We will find such barcodes in the automotive industry, medical equipment, and electronic circuit boards. Examples of 3D barcodes.

How important is barcode?

Using barcode in business has many benefits: reducing steps and saving working time. Buying and selling products will be more convenient and faster, especially receiving payments, issuing receipts, and cutting inventory. It is easy for the computer inventory system, which is connected to the scanner to automatically cut the product balance. Therefore, it can provide information about product circulation, which products are selling well or not, and how much product is left.

In addition, it also raises product standards, identifies the source of production of each country, allowing manufacturers to improve quality to maintain the image of the product and comply with the industrial product standard on symbols, bar codes for displaying product information, creating competitive potential in foreign markets. Bar codes are an indicator of quality and reliable products. Having a code for each country allows those interested in buying products to know the source of production and contact each other conveniently. It is a development of packaging for export and increases management efficiency. Data from the bar code system will help business operators make decisions, plan, and manage production, purchasing, and marketing quickly and efficiently.

Benefits of Barcode in Business

Barcode means a product identification number that can be read by a barcode scanner using the principle of light reflection or processing photography. It is commonly used with almost all types of consumer products and various finished products. Issuing a number for each product will help the communication between traders (manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors and retailers) to work more smoothly. It is comparable to an ID card that indicates the differences of each person. The product identification number is also an indicator of the difference of that type of product from other products. All types of products that are different, whether it is size, color, number of packages, will have different product identification numbers. For example, vanilla ice cream will have a different identification number from chocolate ice cream. Or in the case of a large box containing 12 cups, there will be a different identification number from 1 cup, which means that each type of product will have a different barcode number.

How does it help reduce costs?

Save time and resources. Using barcodes reduces the time spent on inventory counting, inventory management, payment, and communication, which saves resources and reduces costs.

Selecting barcode products to help your business

Ricoh recommends products from Zebra, which include barcode printers, barcode scanners, and RFID. That's not all, Ricoh also has a product called the B118w ribbon, which is scratch-resistant, can be printed on a variety of materials, is clear, and has high quality. It can be used with all models and brands of barcode printers. It is suitable for small, medium, and large businesses in the industrial sector. Ricoh is happy to help your business grow together.