Generally, desktop printers need barcode software which allow the user to design and print labels. Sometimes label printing software is available on an application you are already using.

Our barcode specialists know how to help you with the right way to barcode. They can guide you through the process and get you what you need, when you need it. Just give us a call and speak to one of our sales people or technical staff.

The barcode scanner sees white and dark spaces and bars of various widths. Using software algorithms that are built into the scanner, it "decodes" the barcode into ASCII characters. It then passes those characters onto the barcode reader or data collector.

The use of barcodes allows companies to have up-to-date information quickly and accurately. Barcoding is very useful for inventory tracking, attendance tracking, asset tracking, inspections and shipping/receiving. Barcoding is relatively economical and can help a business run more smoothly, saving both time and money. 

Linear barcode: The simplest barcode is a linear, encoded set of bars and spaces of different widths that can be scanned and interpreted into numbers or alphanumeric characters to identify a product.

Two-Dimensional Barcode: Also known as a 2D barcode or matrix barcode is a two-dimensional way of representing information. It is similar to a linear (1-dimensional) barcode, but has more data representation capability. These barcodes are special rectangular codes which "stack" information in a manner allowing for more information storage in a smaller amount of space. Some 2-D barcodes require special scanners, called imagers, to decode the symbologies.

You will need barcode labels on your items. You will also need barcode software to process the scans and communication software to transfer the data collected.

A barcode is a unique identifier that represents a sequential number. The simplest barcode is an encoded set of bars and spaces of different widths that can be scanned and interpreted into numbers or alphanumeric characters to identify a product or other item. Think of a barcode like a license number. The barcode (or license number) represents a unique number that can link to a set of data elements in a database. A barcode can be created in several different symbologies or "languages." For example, Code 39 allows you to use both letters and numbers, a Universal Product Code (UPC) barcode consists of 12 numbers and Code 128 uses a very compact bar code for alphanumeric applications.

A barcode scanner does not collect data but only passes it on to a data collection device, such as a PC. A barcode reader, on the other hand, is a device that collects the scan from a barcode scanner and may be integrated with a built-in scanner.