Barcode

A barcode is a symbolic language of binary structure used for automatic, computer-aided identification of objects. Originally, it is the designation for a series of dark bars and light spaces (space) of varying width. A series of elements of this type can be used to encode numeric or alphanumeric data (numeric code or alphanumeric code). Bars and spaces are arranged parallel to one another, and this arrangement is deciphered into a corresponding series of numeric or alphanumeric characters during code evaluation. Innumerable types of barcode symbols exist today including black square and rectangles with corresponding spaces in between, dots etc. Basic differentiation is made between 1D codes (1D code) and 2D codes (2D code). Barcodes are always read by means of optoelectronic scanners. Current pulses, known as a pulse train, which correspond to the series of dark symbols and light spaces on the barcode label, are generated at the scanner’s optical receiver as a result of the varying reflective qualities of the dark (black) symbols and the light (white) spaces. An electronic evaluation of the pulse train (decoding) translates it into a corresponding series of numeric or alphanumeric characters, which in turn represents the designation code for the respective product or object.