What is Barcode?
Barcode is a machine-readable representation of data using patterns of parallel lines (1D) or geometric patterns (2D) that can be quickly scanned to retrieve encoded information.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Barcode / Bar Code |
|---|---|
| Created | 1974 (first commercial use, UPC) |
| Specification | Official Specification |
How It Works
Barcodes are optical, machine-readable representations of data that encode information in visual patterns. One-dimensional (1D) barcodes use varying widths and spacings of parallel lines, with common formats including UPC (retail products), EAN (international products), and Code 128 (logistics). Two-dimensional (2D) barcodes like QR codes, Data Matrix, and PDF417 can store significantly more data by using patterns of squares, dots, or other geometric shapes. Barcodes revolutionized inventory management, retail checkout, shipping tracking, and countless other applications. They can encode numbers, text, URLs, or binary data. Modern smartphones can read most barcode formats using their cameras. Barcode generation requires choosing the appropriate symbology (format) based on the data type, required capacity, scanning conditions, and industry standards.
Key Characteristics
- 1D barcodes: parallel lines (UPC, EAN, Code 128)
- 2D barcodes: geometric patterns (QR Code, Data Matrix)
- Encodes data for quick machine scanning
- Different formats for different use cases
- Can be printed or displayed on screens
- Requires scanner or camera to read
Common Use Cases
- Retail product identification (UPC/EAN)
- Inventory and warehouse management
- Package tracking and shipping labels
- Event tickets and boarding passes
- Document management (PDF417)
Example
Loading code...Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 1D and 2D barcodes?
1D barcodes use parallel lines of varying widths to encode data (like UPC and EAN), while 2D barcodes use geometric patterns like squares or dots (like QR codes and Data Matrix) and can store significantly more information.
How much data can a barcode store?
1D barcodes typically store 20-25 characters, while 2D barcodes can store much more: QR codes up to 4,296 characters, Data Matrix up to 2,335 characters, and PDF417 up to 1,850 characters.
Can smartphones read all types of barcodes?
Most modern smartphones can read common barcode formats including QR codes, UPC, EAN, and Code 128 using their built-in camera apps or dedicated barcode scanning apps.
What is the most common barcode format for retail products?
UPC-A (12 digits) is most common in North America, while EAN-13 (13 digits) is the international standard. Both are widely used for retail product identification and point-of-sale scanning.
Why do some barcodes fail to scan?
Barcodes may fail to scan due to poor print quality, damage or scratches, insufficient contrast between bars and background, incorrect sizing, or improper lighting conditions during scanning.