Article 3: Sabarcodes.co.za
BARCODES - EVOLUTION AND TYPES Barcodes are a machine-readable representation of data, form of numbers and a pattern of parallel lines of varying widths, printed on the product for identifying the object to which they are attached. The main objective behind use of barcodes is to rapidly and precisely get to data through the code by a automated system. The gadgets that read information present on barcodes are called bar code scanners. Barcodes were initially used only for retail purposes but now they are being used everywhere from grocery items to books. Because of their accuracy, ease of use, uniformity of data collection and timely feedback, more and more businesses have started using barcodes to improve their productivity and profitability. Today barcodes are being widely used in manufacturing, warehousing, retail, transportation and many other industries. The origin of barcodes can be traced back to 1932 when Walace Flint invented an automated checkout system using punched card, for a grocery store. This system used punched cards which were placed in the reader to update inventory records. Ever since the invention of this checkout card, there was no looking back. In 1948 a classifying apparatus and method using a symbol made up of series of concentric circles was used to identify product information. Later a black and white bar code system readable by a laser beam was developed. This system was used in the distribution, production, shipping, sorting and many other applications. The present day barcode system has evolved as the most effective tool of business productivity only after undergoing several changes. At present, barcodes are available in many shapes and sizes fulfilling different needs of various businesses. The present day bar code system consists of 4 components:
The barcode printer that is used to print barcode labels. The barcode labels, which are nothing but tags, used for printing the barcodes. These barcode labels are attached to the products and are read by scanners. Barcode Scanners- these are the devices used for reading barcodes using variety of scanning technologies. Lastly the barcode system consists of database which stores the information about the product such as its description, price, and inventory. Scanning the barcode simply accesses this information from the database.
From the old codebar barcode to the recently developed intelligent mail systems, depending upon what your application is and how simple you would like the bar-coding process to be, there are many choices available.
One dimensional bar code (1D) Originally barcodes systematically represented data by varying the widths and spacings of parallel lines, these were called linear or one-dimensional barcodes. This type of barcode is useful in inventory management, as you can control what these barcodes represent and easily read them with any type of scanner. Two- Dimensional barcodes (2D) These barcodes represent data in form of variety of symbols like rectangles, Dots, Hexagons and other geometric patterns.
From an unassuming starting in mid 1930's, barcode system has gradually improved and today they are the life blood for some commercial enterprises. The rise of technological advancement prompted the development of 2D barcode system, which is taking into account each need of today's organizations. To know more about online barcodes, visit SABarcodes.co.za. ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Article 3: Sabarcodes.co.za Dave Hawkins is an expert when it comes to new age barcode technology. He also likes to write many interesting articles and blogs on the topic, helping people understand the basics of these systems and adapt them in their business/professional life. For barcode registration and other information, he recommends SABarcodes.co.za as the most trustworthy website.