Introduction to Bar Coding

Bar Coding Basics
What is a Bar Code? How is it read? What can you encode in one?

Which Bar Code Scanner Interface is right for me? RS232, Keyboard, or USB.
Modern bar code scanners are normally available with one of three "output options" - either "Keyboard Wedge" output, RS232 serial output, or USB output. The following is a description of each of the three output options and how they work and the differences between them.

What about GTIN numbers?
UCC strongly recommends enhancing systems to accept bar code data of up to 14 digits in preparation for a new numbering system called GTIN beginning in Jan 2005.

Printing Perfect Barcodes to ANY Printer
How to ensure compliant, readable barcodes from any printer.

Raster vs. Vector Graphics
Explains the important difference between different graphic formats commonly used to create bar codes. Which format is best for producing the highest quality bar codes?

How A Bar Code Reader Works
Bar code readers are extremely simple devices made up of a light source, a photo diode and a simple decoder. It is also very easy to add bar code reading capabilities to any PC program. See how they work and how they interface to a PC.

Which Bar Code Scanner do I need?
Help in chosing between RS232, Keyboard or a USB scanner interface.

Reading Bar Codes Directly From A Computer Screen
It is entirely possible to read bar codes directly from a computer screen however there are a number of considerations that must be dealt with first.

Bar Code Symbologies
Descriptions of all the most commonly used types of bar codes (i.e. Bar code symbologies).

Which Bar Code Software is right for me?
Discusses the most efficient applications for each of our bar coding tools.

Using the built in PostNet bar coding features of Microsoft Word
Walks you through creating a mail merge document with PostNet bar codes.