A Barcode is actually a readable-machine code in the form of numbers and a pattern of parallel lines of varying width, printed on a commodity. A printed series of parallel bars or lines of varying width that is used for entering data into a computer system is called Barcodes. The bars are typically black on a white background, and their width and quantity vary according to application. The bars are used to represent the binary digits 0 and 1, sequences of which in turn can represent numbers from 0 to 9 and be processed by a digital computer. The presence or absence of a bar of a particular width in a particular position in a sequence is read by the computer as either a 0 or 1. Most such codes use bars of only two different widths (thick and thin), though some codes employ four widths. The numbers represented by a Barcode are also printed out at its base.
Hence a barcode essentially is a way to encode information in a visual pattern that a machine can read. The combination of black and white bars (which is called elements) represents different text characters which follows a set of algorithm for that particular barcode. It contains information about a product like; price & weight of the product, date of manufacturing and expiry, name of the manufacturer etc.

Who Invented Barcodes and when?

The barcode was invented by Norman Joseph Woodland and Bernard Silver and named in the US in 1951. The invention was based on Morse code that was extended to thin and thick bars. However, it took over twenty years before this invention became commercially successful. An early use of one type of barcode in an industrial context was sponsored by the Association of American Railroads in the late 1960s. Barcoding was actually introduced in the 1970s and is now everywhere and an important part of routine commercial transactions.

Why invented?

In 1948, Bernard Silver, a fellow Drexel Institute graduate student with Woodland, overheard a supermarket executive asking the dean of engineering if the Institute could determine how to capture product information automatically at checkout. The dean turned down the request, but Silver was interested enough to mention the problem to Woodland. After working on some preliminary ideas, Woodland was persuaded that they could create a viable product.

Woodland took some stock market earnings, quit his teaching job and moved to his grandfather's Florida apartment. While at the beach, Woodland again considered the problem, recalling, from his Boy Scout training, how Morse code dots and dashes are used to send information electronically. He drew dots and dashes in the sand similar to the shapes used in Morse code. After pulling them downward with his fingers, producing thin lines resulting from the dots and thick lines from the dashes, he came up with the concept of a two-dimensional, linear Morse code.

History of Barcodes

Norman Joseph Woodland and Bernard Silver came up with the idea for barcodes based on the symbols in Morse code. The two recent graduates of Drexel Institute of Technology, (now Drexel University), applied for a patent for the invention in 1949 and received it three years later. Woodland sought the help of his employer, IBM, in building this technology, but IBM felt technological limitations in force at that time would prevent barcodes from catching on. The founders sold the patent to electronics company Philco in 1962, and Philco later sold it to RCA.

The railroad industry was one of the first to experiment with barcodes in the early 1960s, with a project spearheaded by David Jarrett Collins of electronics company Sylvania. To monitor the movement of railcars, Collins created a colorful barcode that was placed on the side of cars and scanned by a device next to the railroad tracks. Though this was an important first step, the system had some issues, and the Association of American Railroads gave up on it in the late ‘1970s. Another early adopter was General Motors, which used barcodes to track transmissions as they moved around a factory.

Types of Barcodes

As noted earlier, there are two basic types of barcodes. Here are the basics on each and key differences:

§ Linear/1D

Linear, or 1D, barcodes are what most people visualize when they picture barcode— black vertical bars with numbers below them. This is what most stores put on their products. Linear barcodes contain numbers, letters and symbols, which tie the code to a set of information in a database with details like product name, type, size and color. This Linear/1D barcodes are often used on consumer goods, loyalty cards, shipping labels and books etc.

Some of the 1D Barcode Symbologies are as Follows:-

vCodabar –

Codabar is a linear barcode symbology developed in 1972 by Pitney Bowes Corp. Its variants are also known as Codeabar, Ames Code, NW-7, Monarch, Code 2 of 7, Rationalized Codabar, ANSI/AIM BC3-1995 or USD-4. Although Codabar has not been registered for US federal trademark status, its hyphenated variant Code-a-bar is a registered trademark.

Codabar was designed to be accurately read even when printed on dot-matrix printers for multi-part forms such as FedEx air bills and blood bank forms, where variants are still in use as of 2007.

§ Characteristics of Codabar:-

ª This Symbology is used by U.S. blood banks, photo Labs, Librabries, and on FedEx air bills.

ª Encodes numbers and the characters –$:/.+

ª First and last symbols ( the guard patterns) are one of A, B, C, or D. They are returned as part of the String.

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª Some standards that use Coda bar will define a check digit, but there is no agreed-upon standard checksum algorithm.

ª The width ratio between narrow and wide can be chosen between 1:2.25 and 1:3.

v Code 11–

Code 11 is a barcode symbology developed by Intermec in 1977. It is used primarily in telecommunications. The symbol can encode any length string consisting of the digits 0–9 and the dash character (-). A twelfth code represents the start/stop character, commonly printed as "*".

§ Characteristics:-

v Primarily used for labeling tele communication equipment. It is also known as USD-8

v The Barcode data can be encode numerical data, the dash and dot character.

v Supports variable length data content.

v For up to 10 data digits a single check digit is used, otherwise two check digits are used.

v Code 128

Code 128 was invented in 1981 by Ted Williams of Laser light Corporation to solve the problem of representing both alphabetic and numeric characters without sacrificing barcode density. Code 128 enables you to encode all 128 ASCII characters, as Code 39 - Full ASCII does. Additionally, when you encode only numbers, Code 128 can encode them more densely than Interleaved 2 of 5 does.

The most common use of Code 128 is for certain shipping labels, primarily as defined by GS1 in the GS1-128 barcode standard.

§ Characteristics:-

Ø Used in a wide range of application.

Ø The Barcode data can be encode numerical data only or two different subsets of the ASCII table. Combinations of the three different modes can be used in single codes.

Ø Supports variable length data content.

Ø A mandatory checksum is verified.

Ø It has been standardized under ISO/IEC 15417

v Code 32 Italian Pharmacode Code 32, also known as Italian PHARMACODE, is used to identify pharmaceutical products in Italy. It encodes numeric data in a compressed format by using the Code 39 - Regular character set. Code 32 is partially defined in the Specifiche PHARMACODE (o CODE32) document.

§ Characteristics:-

Ø It encodes numeric data in a compressed format by using the Code 39- Regular character set.

Ø The symbol compromises the following elements.

Ø Eight symbol character that represent numeric digits

Ø Check digits

Ø If fewer than eight Characters are specified, padding characters are added.

Ø Code 32 uses five bars and four spaces to encode each character. Three of the elements are wide, and other six are narrow.

Ø This symbology supports the following alphanumeric characters:

All numeric digits (0-9)

All uppercase letters except for A, R, I, and O

Ø The code 32 human readable interpretation begins with the ASCII character “A”. This character is not encoded into the the Barcode.

Ø Code 32 uses a check digit that is based on the module 10 (mod 10) algorithm.

vCode 39–

Code 39 was developed by Dr. David Allais and Ray Stevens of Intermec in 1974. Their original design included two wide bars and one wide space in each character, resulting in 40 possible characters. Setting aside one of these characters as a start and stop pattern left 39 characters, which was the origin of the name Code 39. Four punctuation characters were later added, using no wide bars and three wide spaces, expanding the character set to 43 characters. Code 39 was later standardized as ANSI MH 10.8 M-1983 and MIL-STD-1189. MIL-STD-1189 has been cancelled and replaced by ANSI/AIM BC1/1995, Uniform Symbology Specification — Code 39.

§ Characteristics:-

Ø Mostly used in logistics to encode application specific identifiers.

Ø The standard version can encode numbers 0-9, capital letters A-Z, symbols -.$/+% and space.

Ø Supports variable length data content.

Ø Narrow to wide bars ratios from 1:2 up to 1:3 are supported. 1:2.5 is recommended.

Ø By default no checksum is verified.

Ø It has been standardized under ISO/IEC 16388.

§ SDK Features:

ª An optional mod43 checksum can be enforced.

ª All ASCII characters including control characters encoding support can be enabled.

§ Code-93–

Code 93 is a barcode symbology designed in 1982 by Intermec to provide a higher density and data security enhancement to Code 39. It is an alphanumeric, variable length symbology. Code 93 is used primarily by Canada Post to encode supplementary delivery information. Every symbol includes two check characters.

§ Characteristics:

ª Mostly used in logistics to encode application specific identifiers.

ª Data in standard encoding (numbers 0-9, capital letters A-Z, symbols -.$/+% and space) and full ASCII mode (including control characters) are supported.

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª Two mod47 checksums are verified.

§ EAN Code–

EAN stands for ‘European Article Number’. It was introduced by the predecessor institution of today’s GS1 with the aim of providing all European products with individual article numbers. In 2009 the EAN was replaced by the 13-digit Global Trade Item Number (GTIN). It is important to clearly label articles and article variations to ensure traceability and to simplify or automate production management through the entire supply chain until the point of sale.

§ Characteristics:

ª Used to encode Global Trade Identification Numbers (GTIN).

ª Contains 8 (EAN-8) or 13 (EAN-13) numerical digits.

ª Last digit serves as a mod10 checksum.

ª Additional data can be stored in an EAN-2 or EAN-5 add-on code.

ª It has been standardised under ISO/IEC 15420.

vGS1 Data Bar

GS1 Data Bar (formerly known as RSS or Reduced Space Symbology) is a relatively new bar code symbology that was formally adopted by the global supply chain in January 2011. The GS1 Data Bar can carry all 14 digits of a manufacture’s GTIN and is more than 50% smaller than the currently used UPC and EAN symbols. This makes it particularly useful for identifying small/hard-to-mark items such as produce and pharmaceutical items. Additionally, the GS1 Data Bar symbol can carry GS1 Application Identifiers which allow additional information such as serial numbers, lot numbers, and expiration dates to be encoded. The greater dimensional efficiency combined with the ability to encode additional data opens the doors for creating trade solutions that greater support product identification, traceability, quality control, and more flexible coding for coupon applications.

KEY POINTS:

· Data bar Barcode symbols can encode all 14 digits of a GTIN-14 where UPC & EAN cannot.

· The Data bar symbol is over 50% smaller than EAN/UPC so it can be used for smaller or hard to mark items.

· Data bar bar codes are not going to replace EAN/UPC symbols. Product manufacturers can decide the language they wish to use based on package design.

· Data bar symbols and GS1 Application Identifiers will be available in all trade item scanning systems beginning January 1, 2010. At that time, retail POS scanners should be able to autodiscriminate between the various GS1 barcode languages.

· Adoption of the Data bar symbology is critical to address the revised coupon coding requirements.

§ Characteristics–

ª Used to encode a Global Trade Identification Numbers (GTIN) along with variable additional information defined by application identifiers (AI). Examples are price, weight or expiry date.

ª Valid application identifiers (AI) are defined in the GS1 specification.

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª Barcode data is verified by an implicit checksum.

ª Does not require quiet zones around the barcode.

ª It has been standardized under ISO/IEC 24724.

ª DataBar-14 is supported in the omnidirectional, truncated and stacked flavour.

ª DataBar Expanded is supported in the normal and stacked flavour.

ª DataBar Limited is supported which is also known as RSS Limited, Reduced Space Symbology Limited.

v IATA 2 of 5 Bar Code–

The IATA (International Air Transport Association) 2 of 5 barcode is a self-checking, numeric 1D barcode that is commonly used by the airline industry. This barcode is a variation of Industry 2 of 5 and employs a checksum for error detection.

§ Characteristics:

ª Also known as Computer Identics 2 of 5.

ª Used by International Air Transport Association (IATA) for managing air cargo.

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª By default no checksum is verified.

ª An optional mod1010 checksum can be enforced.

v Interleaved 2 OF 5 (ITF):

Interleaved 2 of 5 (ITF) is a numeric only barcode used to encode pairs of numbers into a self-checking, high-density barcode format. In this symbology, every two digits are interleaved with each other to create a single symbol. If a number string containing an odd number of digits needs to be encoded, a leading zero must be added to produce an even number of digits in the Interleaved 2 of 5 barcode. In many cases, the Code 128 barcode offers an advantage over the ITF barcode because it encodes even and odd numbers of digits, as well as letters and symbols, with nearly equal density.

§ Characteristics:

ª It is used primarily in the distribution and warehouse industry.

ª Encodes an even number of numerical characters.

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª Narrow to wide bar ratios from 1:2 up to 1:3 are supported. 1:2.5 is recommended.

ª By default no checksum is verified.

ª It has been standardized under ISO/IEC 16390.

ª An optional mod10 checksum can be enforced.

v KIX (Klant Index) Barcode

The Klant IndeX (KIX) 4-State Customer Code is used by the Netherlands postal system for faster automatic processing of bulk mail and for other uses. It is a variant of the Royal Mail 4-State Customer Barcode (CBC); KIX has the same specifications for the data bars as CBC but lacks start and stop bars.

§ Characteristics:

ª Used for mail sorting by the postal service of the Netherlands, Koninklijke TNT Post (Royal TNT Post)

ª Regarded as “four-state” because there are four types of bars, classified by presence of ascenders and/or descenders

ª Transcribable using DAFT notation

ª Used by a number of countries in their postal systems, though the specific symbologies by which they encode characters can vary

ª Encodes alphanumeric characters, and is a slight variant of the Royal Mail 4-State system, omitting the start and end symbols and checksum.

v Matrix 2 OF 5–

Matrix 2 of 5 (also known as Code 2 of 5 Matrix. ^[1] is a variable length, discrete, two width symbology. Matrix 2 of 5 is a subset of two-out-of-five codes. Unlike Industrial 2 of 5 code, Matrix 2 of 5 can encode data not only with black bars but with white spaces.

Matrix 2 of 5 was developed in 1970-х by Nieaf Co. in The Netherlands and commonly was uses for warehouse sorting, photo finishing, and airline ticket marking.

Matrix 2 of 5 can encode only digits 0-9. Matrix 2 of 5 can include optional check digit. Most of barcode readers support this symbology.

§ Characteristics–

ª From the same family as Code 25 and IATA 2 of 5

ª Encoding uses variable width spaces as well as bars

ª ~30% more dense than Code 25 or IATA 2 of 5

ª Symbology can have variable length storage

ª Stores numerical [0-9] data only

v Maxicode

Maxi Code is a public domain, machine-readable symbol system originally created and used by United Parcel Service. Suitable for tracking and managing the shipment of packages, it resembles an Aztec Code or QR code, but uses dots arranged in a hexagonal grid instead of square grid. MaxiCode has been standardized under ISO/IEC 16023. A MaxiCode symbol (internally called "Bird's Eye", "Target", "dense code", or "UPS code") appears as a 1-inch square, with a bullseye in the middle, surrounded by a pattern of hexagonal dots. It can store about 93 characters of information, and up to 8 MaxiCode symbols can be chained together to convey more data. The centered symmetrical bullseye is useful in automatic symbol location regardless of orientation, and it allows MaxiCode symbols to be scanned even on a package traveling rapidly.

MaxiCode symbology was released by UPS in 1992.

§ Characteristics–

ªFixed size 2D symbology originally created by UPS in 1992.

ªUsed for tracking and managing shipments of packages.

ªIt has been standardized underISO/IEC 16023.

ªSupports encoding of a Structured Carrier Message or data in extended ASCII.

ªUses Reed-Solomon error correction.

v MSI Plessey

MSI Plessey (also known as Modified Plessey) is a numeric-only, variable-length symbology that is a variant of Plessey Code, which was originally developed by the Plessey Company of England in 1971.

MSI Data Corporation developed MSI Plessey to address the disadvantages of Plessey Code: it does not encode numbers efficiently, and it is one of the most error-prone of all barcode symbologies. The second check digit that MSI Data Corporation added as an option improved the code's reliability enough that MSI Plessey has continued to be used in specialty applications.MSI Plessey has typically been used for inventory tracking, such as on the front edge of shelves in supermarkets and other warehouse environments to indicate where products are stored. It has also been used to identify storage containers.

MSI Plessey is currently maintained by Symbol Technologies, Inc.

§ Characteristics:

ª MSI is used primarily for inventory control, marking storage containers and shelves in warehouse environments.

ª Encodes any number of numerical characters.

ª By default a mod10 checksum is verified.

ª Verifying no checksum is supported as an option.

ª Alternative supported checksum options are mod11, mod1010 and mod1110.

v Posi Lapa 4 State Code–

§ Characteristics–

ª Uses the same symbol alphabet as RM4SCC.

ª Uses Reed-Solomon error correction. It can correct up to 8 erasures or 4 errors.

ª LAPA can be read from left-to-right or right-to-left. The direction can be determined by reading the leftmost or the rightmost bar.

ª Thanks to its fixed length and error correction, it offers better robustness than RM4SCC.

v RM4SCC

RM4SCC (Royal Mail 4-State Customer Code is the name of the barcode character set based on the Royal Mail 4-State Bar Code symbology created by Royal Mail. The RM4SCC is used for the Royal Mail Clean mail service. It enables UK postcodes as well as Delivery Point Suffixes (DPSs) to be easily read by a machine at high speed.

§ Characteristics:

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª Data encoding modes support numeric, alphanumeric, binary data and kanji characters.

ª Different sizes (called versions) and error correction levels can be defined.

ª It has been standardised under ISO/IEC 18004.

ª Color inverted decoding can be enabled.

ª GS1 codes are identified to signal that application identifiers are present (GS1 QR).

v UPC Code–

A UPC, short for universal product code, is a type of code printed on retail product packaging to aid in identifying a particular item. It consists of two parts – the machine-readable barcode, which is a series of unique black bars, and the unique 12-digit number beneath it.

The purpose of UPCs is to make it easy to identify product features, such as the brand name, item, size, and color, when an item is scanned at checkout. In fact, that’s why they were created in the first place – to speed up the checkout process at grocery stores. UPCs are also helpful in tracking inventory within a store or warehouse.

To obtain a UPC for use on a product a company has to first apply to become part of the system. GS1 US, the Global Standards Organization, formerly known as the Uniform Code Council, manages the assigning of UPCs within the US.

§ Characteristics:

ª Used to encode Global Trade Identification Numbers (GTIN).

ª Contains 6 (UPC-E) or 12 (UPC-A) numerical digits.

ª Last digit serves as a mod10 checksum.

ª Additional data can be stored in an EAN-2 or EAN-5 add-on code.

ª It has been standardised under ISO/IEC 15420.

v Feature–

ª The first digit is always zero and can be removed on demand.

ª UPC-E representation can be automatically converted to the UPC-A format.

v USPS Intelligent Mail–

USPS Intelligent Mail barcode (IMb), also known as the USPS One Code Solution or USPS 4-State Customer Code, was developed by the United States Postal Service (USPS) and is used for automated sorting of mail. It supersedes the USPS Postal Numeric Encoding Technique (USPS POSTNET) and Postal Alpha Numeric Encoding Technique (USPS PLANET) codes and effectively encodes data from these symbologies into a single symbol in addition to providing enhanced tracking data.

§ Characteristics:

ª Used by U.S. Postal Service (USPS) mail stream

ª Designed to sort and track mail deliveries, containing routing and tracking information

ª Combines and improves functionalities of POSTNET and PLANET Code barcodes

ª Allows providing multiple postal services with a single barcode

USPS Intelligent Mail barcode is height-modulated and it encodes up to 31 digits of mail piece data. It consists of 65 vertical bars using a 4-state symbology (four types of bars, which are allowing for more information to be encoded in a single barcode).

Matrix/2D

2D barcodes are also known as Matrix Barcodes. This 2D barcodes can store additional information, including quantity, images and website URLs. A 2D barcode can render this information without any connection to a database can render this information without any connection to a database. Common uses of 2D barcodes are QR codes, which may direct users to a specific website or act as digital boarding passes. They have also become increasingly common in high-value manufacturing environments that require detailed tracking of parts and products, like medical equipment and pharmaceuticals.

Some of the 2D Barcode Symbologies are as Follows:-

Aztec Code

Aztec Code is a type of 2D barcode invented by Andrew Longacre, Jr. and Robert Hussey in 1995. The code was published by AIM, Inc. in 1997. Although the Aztec Code was patented that patent was officially made public domain. The Aztec Code is also published as ISO/IEC 24778:2008 standard. Named after the resemblance of the central finder pattern to an Aztec pyramid, Aztec Code has the potential to use less space than other matrix barcodes because it does not require a surrounding blank "quiet zone".

§ Characteristics of Aztec Code :

§ Used for Tickets in the transport industries, eg. Railway companies.

§ Data can be encoded in ASCII or extended SCII.

§ Supports variable length data content.

§ Different error Correction Levels can be defined.

§ It has been Standardlized under ISO/IEC 24778

v Data Matrix–

Data Matrix is a type of 2-D barcode with very high data density and can encode a large amount of data. Data Matrix consists of a random sequence of black and white pairs. Data matrix code type can encode the text, as well as raw data. The range of the data encoded by the Data matrix usually lies between a few bytes up to 2 kilobytes. With this data storage space, approximately 2,335 alphanumeric characters can be encoded by a data matrix symbol. Data Matrix coding standard is widely used in Europe and the United States for information encoding.

ID Matrix is credited as being the inventor of the Data Matrix barcode around 2005.

§ Characteristics

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª Encodings and sizes defined in the Data Matrix ECC 200 standard are supported.

ª Different error correction levels can be defined.

ª It has been standardized under ISO/IEC 16022.

§ Features–

ª Color inverted decoding can be enabled.

ª GS1 codes are identified to signal that application identifiers are present (GS1 DataMatrix).

§ Dot code–

The Dot Code is 2D barcode which encodes data in dots in a rectangular array. It was originally developed as a solution for a machine-readable code that could be read reliably when printed using high-speed inkjet or laser technologies.

In industries with high-speed production processes, Dot Codes can be used as an alternative to other 2D codes to facilitate item-level serialization allowing products to be tracked throughout global supply chains.

The Dot Code was developed by Dr Andrew Longacre, with official specifications published by global industry standards organization AIM in 2009.

Characteristics:

ª Designed to tolerate missing, extra or poorly-placed dots without sacrificing reading integrity.

ª The symbology is intended for industrial, high-speed marking with ink-jet or laser.

ª This variable size, dot matrix symbology encodes data in an array of nominally disconnected dots arranged within a regular grid of possible locations.

ª The overall symbol shape is adjustable, rectangular to nearly square shaped symbols are possible.

ª The symbol size is theoretically unlimited but practically limited to approximately 124 modules (lines/columns).

ª Standard code page is Latin 1.

ªReady for GS1 applications and suitable for encoding application identifiers (AIs).

v GS1 Composite Code–

As the name suggests, the GS1 Composite code symbology combines a GS1 system linear symbol and a 2D Composite Component as one symbology. While the two components are separated by a separator pattern, the 2-dimensional component is printed above the linear component.

§ Characteristics:

Composite codes are combinations of a linear (1D) barcode and a 2D code. The linear component encodes the item’s primary identification. The 2D component describes additional data like a batch number or.. expiration date. The Scandit SDK version 4.14 or newer supports all GS1 Composite Codes as defined in ISO/IEC 24723:2010. The specification defines three different types; A, B and C. The linear component of a composite A or B code can be any of the following symbologies:

ª EAN/UPC symbology (EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A, or UPC-E)

ª GS1-128 (Code 128)

ª Any member of the GS1 Data Bar family

ª Version C supports GS1-128 as the linear component only.

v Micro QR Code–

Micro QR Code was designed by Denso Wave in Japan to be a smaller, more compact version of their regular QR Code. Micro QR is intended for use where QR Code would take up too much space or where less data needs to be encoded, as with direct parts marking on small components. It also encodes kanji characters.

Micro QR Code can be printed in black on a white background or in white on a black background.

Micro QR codes take up much less space than traditional QR codes. They can only handle 35 characters but you can easily fit them on your business card, website or a small product tag. Standards: ISO/IEC 18004, JIS X 0510, ITS – QR Code, AIM ISS – QR Code.

v Data & Options–

Ø The data field can contain any extended ASCII data. The default interpretation of data by readers is in accordance with ISO/IEC 8859-1.

Ø An appropriate size will be selected to work around the following restrictions:

Ø An M1 symbol is only compatible with numeric data.

Ø An M2 symbol is only compatible with alphanumeric data.

Ø When the Parse option is specified, any instances of ^NNN in the data field are replaced with their equivalent ASCII value, useful for specifying unprintable characters.

Ø The version option is used to specify the size of the symbol, either version=M1, version=M2, version=M3 or version=M4.

Ø The eclevel option is used to specify the error correction level:

Ø eclevel=L – Low (default)

Ø eclevel=M – Medium; Not compatible with M1 symbols

Ø eclevel=Q – Quality; Only compatible with M4 symbols

Ø If unspecified the encoder will select the version of the symbol that is the minimum size to represent the given data at the selected error correction level.

v Micro PDF 417

MicroPDF417 is a two-dimensional, variable-length stacked symbology that is designed to encode a moderate amount of data in a very small space. It is based on PDF417 and shares several of its features.

MicroPDF417 is two-dimensional (2D), multi-row symbology, derived from PDF417 that encodes up to 150 bytes. All of our MicroPDF417 products were created from ISO/IEC 24728. Micro-PDF417 is designed for applications requiring improved area efficiency, and is used for Composite Codes in GS1 DataBar.

› Characteristics:

Ø More space efficient version of PDF417 without start and end patterns.

Ø Used in GS1 Composite Codes type A (CC-A) and B (CC-B).

Ø Supports variable length data content using one to four columns and up to 44 rows.

Ø All size versions have a fixed error correction level.

Ø It has been standardised under ISO/IEC 24728.

v PDF 417

PDF417 is used in many applications by both commercial and government organizations. PDF417 is one of the formats (along with Data Matrix) that can be used to print postage accepted by the United States Postal Service. PDF417 is also used by the airline industry's Bar Coded Boarding Pass (BCBP) standard as the 2D bar code symbolism for paper boarding passes. PDF417 is the standard selected by the Department of Homeland Security as the machine readable zone technology for RealID compliant driver licenses and state issued identification cards. PDF417 barcodes are also included on visas and border crossing cards issued by the State of Israel.

§ Characteristics:

Ø Used in a wide range of applications.

Ø Supports variable length data content.

Ø The number of rows and Coloumns are Configurable.

Ø Different error correction levels can be defined.

Ø It has been standardized under ISO/IEC 15438.

Ø Truncated PDF417 codes are supported.

v QR Code–

A QR code (an initialism for quick response code) is a type of matrix barcode (or two-dimensional barcode) invented in 1994 by the Japanese automotive company Denso Wave. QR codes often contain data for a locator, identifier, or tracker that points to a website or application. A QR code uses four standardized encoding modes (numeric, alphanumeric, byte/binary, and kanji) to store data efficiently; extensions may also be used.

§ Characteristics:

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª Data encoding modes support numeric, alphanumeric, binary data and kanji characters.

ª Different sizes (called versions) and error correction levels can be defined.

ª It has been standardised under ISO/IEC 18004.

ª Color inverted decoding can be enabled.

ª GS1 codes are identified to signal that application identifiers are present (GS1 QR).

Key differences Between 1D & 2D Barcode :- While 1D barcodes have only horizontal or vertical lines, 2D versions can have both, along with other shapes and patterns. This allows 2D barcodes to hold as many as 2,000 characters, compared with 80 characters with 1D codes. In addition, a wide variety of scanners can read linear barcodes, while 2D barcodes require more advanced scanners or smartphones. Finally, matrix barcodes can have smaller physical footprints than linear ones, so they’re often ideal for small items with minimal space for a barcode.

What are the Uses of Barcodes?

There are countless uses of Barcodes. Here are a few most popular uses of Barcodes:-

· Tracking inventory: Companies need to know the current location of those products, at all times. Barcodes can resolve that warehouse management issue—warehouse associates scan new items as they arrive and again when they’re shipped out as part of an order; in more automated facilities. Every products needs a barcode, of course, and codes must be linked to a database that has all the necessary product information. But once that’s set up, inventory numbers will always be reliable and update in real time.

· Tracking assets: Barcodes are the most popular method for tracking the assets that businesses use to support their daily operations. For mobile items like computers or vehicles, barcodes can show who last used those items and when. They also help company leaders understand the usage and condition of different assets as they plan future investments.

· Invoicing: Many organizations put barcodes on invoices to make it easier to track accounts payable (AP) and accounts receivable (AR). Companies could put barcodes on invoices to tie it to a specific customer. When the customer pays, an employee can scan the barcode to make sure they credit the correct account, and could follow the same process for accounts payable (AP)

· Mail: Much like with inventory, businesses can use barcodes to track all the mail and packages they send out. They can scan letters and packages before handing them off to couriers to link tracking information to that order, and then send it to customers so they can check the status of their orders. If mail is returned to the seller, it can scan the barcode to quickly identify the customer it needs to contact to resolve the issue.

· Mail Merges: A mail merge links a data source, like a spreadsheet, with another document to automatically plug that data into preset fields. Business can use mail merges to create barcodes for a batch of items in a few simple steps. It’s a much more efficient method than handling them one by one.

                   How do Barcodes Work?                                                                                                                                                   As we know that a barcode is a square or rectangular image consisting of a series of parallel black lines and white spaces. The information is encoded between the length of each shaded line and the space between them. A scanning device uses a laser to "read" the bar code by scanning in the unique bar of shaded lines. A barcode scanner reads the lines from left to right.
A barcode scanner reads pattern of black and white bars which turns the information in the binary code (0 or 1). Then Computer reads the information in the binary forms only and same is displayed on the the      screen of the monitor.

The "number" written in the right hand side of the "center guard" informs about the type of the product whether it is made of plastic or by natural things, vegetarian or non-vegetarian.
In the picture given below, If “2” is written instead of 0; it shows that the product is either vegan or non-vegan.

If “3” is written; it means that the product is related to pharmacy

Two digits near the left bar i.e. 0 and 5 inform that the product if either made in USA or in Canada because barcode from 00 to 13 is assigned to these two countries.

The last digit "7" given on the right hand side of the barcode is a check number, which ensures that whether information has been properly read by the barcode reader or not.

Now let us know that what barcode is assigned to different countries of the world-

1. India: 890:

2. France: 30-37

3. Germany: 40-44

4. Japan: 45-49

5. Russia: 46

6. Taiwan: 471

7. Philippines: 480

8. Hong Kong: 89

9. United States and Canada: 00 -13

10. China: 690-692

From the data given above, now we came to know about the different Barcodes of the different countries of the world.

Now the question is how Barcode is made?

A barcode has 95 blocks.

Out of 95 blocks; the barcode is written in the 12 blocks

Out of these 95 blocks three blocks are named as the, left guard, centre guard and right guard.

So on the basis of the information given above we can conclude that what is barcode and how is it made.

Now we are going to discuss about the advantages of Barcodes–

It is very important to understand the advantages of Barcodes and how it can be applied to help your business grow. The following are the some advantages of barcodes:

Barcodes eliminate the possibility of human error. The occurrence of errors for manually entering data is higher than data entered by barcodes and scanning machines. A barcode scanner is a more reliable and less time-consuming option than to enter data by hand.

Using barcode systems reduces the time spent in training the employees. It only takes a few minutes to learn and understand how a barcode scanner works for reading barcodes compared to the hours spent training employees.

Barcodes will inevitably reduce labour cost. Barcodes will do a two-man job. It is perfectly possible for one person to operate it.

Barcodes are inexpensive to design and print. Generally, they cost very less, regardless of their purpose or where they will be placed. Also, they can be customized in a variety of finishes and materials.

Barcode usage is extremely varied. They can be used for any kind of data collection necessary. This could include pricing or inventory information.

Barcodes improve inventory control. Since barcodes make it possible to track inventory so precisely, excess inventory levels can be reduced. Additionally, the location of inventory can be tracked, reducing the time spent searching for it.

Barcodes provide better data. Since one barcode can be used for both inventory and pricing information, it is possible to obtain data for a wide variety of products.

Data obtained through barcodes is available quickly. Since the information is scanned directly into a computer, it is ready and accessible instantly. This ensures that time will not be wasted on data entry or retrieval.

Barcodes promote better decision making. Since the data is obtained rapidly, it is possible to make more informed decisions that ultimately helps saves money and time.

Barcode Labels

Barcode labels have become essential in logistics, production, and retailing. They allow product information to be read in a split second and ensure an efficient flow of goods. Packages, boxes and packaging units are precisely labelled and identified. Barcode labels are used for quick data storing and retrieving. Barcode labels include a representation of the company and product-related information. (MINDWARE) As a Label Manufacturer, we do make following types of labels as per customer’s requirements.

Types of Labels

Indoor Asset Labels: Depending on the type of environment you’ll be using your indoor asset labels on (an office storage space versus an indoor warehouse), you might decide to use paper or polypropylene label mediums. In that case, wax (for paper) or a wax/resin ribbon (for polypropylene) will be suitable for your labels.

Outdoor Asset Labels: Asset labels for outdoor applications need a strong, durable medium that is water or humidity-resistant, semi-permanent or permanent, and chemical-resistant. For the best durability, a polyester medium using a resin ribbon will make your labels last longer through tough environments.

Product labels: The typical product labels that you find applied on canned goods, bottles, plastic, and paper or cardboard packaging is typically printed on a simple, cost-effective paper medium. To remain cost-effective, use a wax ribbon for printing on these types of labels.

Product or Inventory tags: Unlike labels, tags don’t have an adhesive on the back to apply onto a product or shelf. instead, they are hung off a product, like a clothing tag. Depending on how they are secured, they can be easy to remove. Usually, tags that are meant to be removed after Point-of-sale (like clothing tags), are printed on paper labels, so you would want to stick to a wax ribbon. Tags that will be used more substantially or permanently, like inventory tags, are printed on more durable materials like polypropylene, so you should match it with a wax/resin ribbon.

If you would like to print your own barcode labels using thermal printers or thermal transfer printers, we’ll manufacture unprinted rolls of labels according to your requirement. Send mail at gm@indianbarcode.com to let us know what you need. We’ll be glad to talk with you to find the perfect solution for your application. View this products here– https://www.indianbarcode.com/barcode-labels

Metal Labels

Metal Tags and Labels are the preferred choice for indoor and outdoor applications that require exceptional durability. We (MINDWARE) manufacture pre-printed metal labels and data plate blanks that are ideal for equipment tags and variable information labels because they meet many Department of Defense and aerospace specifications, as well as other industry standards for agriculture, construction, food service, manufacturing, marine, military, transportation, utilities, energy, and more.

Advantages of Metal Labels –

· Exceptional resistance to weather, UV, extreme temperatures, chemicals, abrasion and corrosion.

· Permanent readability for the life of your part, inventory or equipment with little maintenance required.

· Can be fabricated using a large selection of graphic, die cutting, adhesive and mechanical attachment options to meet your most demanding application.

· Provide years of durability.

· Advanced MPC fabrication capabilities reduces your lead time and tooling charges while delivering labels and tags to your exact specifications.

We provide dependable, durable, printed metal labels and tags that will last the lifetime. We will delivered at a competitive price – that’s our guarantee. Contact us today! +91 9810822688

Common Use Cases for Metal Tags-

You will find metal tags being used in many industries that utilize heavy equipment, such as the military, marine, aerospace, transportation, and construction industries, among others. Have a look at a few of the common uses of metal tags and labels:

Transportation. Metal tags are widely used in the transportation industry for several applications, including VIN tags, manufacturing nameplates, safety data plates, and operating and maintenance instruction plates. Transportation is subject to harsh environmental factors such as UV exposure, abrasion, extreme temperatures, corrosion, and chemical exposure, requiring durable metal labels that can resist damage from these environmental conditions. Metal labels can support variable information, including unique serial numbers, barcodes, and QR codes that enable tracking of transportation assets for a variety of business purposes.
Aerospace and Defense. The aerospace and defense industries must comply with rigorous regulatory standards to ensure asset and equipment identification and keep equipment safe and operating nearly continuously under difficult conditions. .
Marine. The wind, salt, and water exposure prevalent for assets during ocean travel can cause damage to even the strongest ships and vessels. Metal ID tags and labels that have an anodized surface layer, such as Metal or anodized aluminum, are a popular choice in marine applications due to this protective finish many marine labels and tags contain important safety, identification, and operational warnings that must remain legible under all conditions.
Industrial & Chemical. Metal labels and tags are a critical component of asset tracking and inventory control systems in factories and warehouses. This is particularly true for operations that process or fabricate components in high heat conditions or using harsh chemicals. In some situations, metal tags are selected as a permanent marking solution for equipment. Other applications call for the use of blank metal labels that can be marked in the facility and used to process work-in-progress or finished goods.

Thermal Transfer Ribbons

Barcode ribbon is an important consideration, especially for your thermal transfer printer. It’s even more important if your business is printing many different types of labels for your projects, from products labels to shipping labels.

Types of Ribbons- Ribbons come in three different categories: wax, wax/resin, and resin. Picking among the three will rely on what type of barcode material you will be printing on.

WAX RIBBON: Melting low temperature, adhesion to the print media under the central components of resin inside Ribbon Wax, challenge that the quality of the ribbon change. Wax Ribbon with abrasion resistance, chemical resistance solvent medium used to print onto paper labels to stay inside or in a dry place. Suitable uses for supermarkets, bookstores and small goods warehouse, less shipping. Should not be used for printing on fabric, leather, metallic paper. Use Wax ribbon can lower print head temperature to low increases print head life.

View this product here https://www.indianbarcode.com/wax-thermal-transfer-barcode-ribbon

WAX / RESIN RIBBON: Melting at higher temperatures Ribbon types Wax, also higher adhesion. Scratch resistant, abrasion, chemical resistance, high resistance to solvents. Resistant to temperature and humidity for a long time that the image quality remains guaranteed. Used to print shipping labels, packaging labels, the labels of pharmaceutical products, frozen, metallic paper, plastic paper etc.

View this product here– https://www.indianbarcode.com/wax-resin-barcode-ribbon

RESIN RIBBON: Highest melting temperature of the 3 categories but adhesiveness and sustainability as well as the highest levels in ink Resin majority. Resin ribbon with abrasion resistant abrasion, chemical resistance, solvent resistance is very high. Withstand the harshest conditions of the environment such as temperature, humidity, pressure, etc. A type of ribbon used to print high-grade industrial materials such as fabric, leather, synthetic resin and the product label outdoor, regular transport, in terms of pressure, heat, freezing, etc.

View this product here – https://www.indianbarcode.com/resin-barcode-ribbon

You can buy Thermal transfer ribbons from MINDWARE, we will give you first-rate printing results.

Barcode Registration

What is Barcode Registration? In India for barcode registration Mindware (Indian Barcode can be contacted)

Barcode registration enables visibility on Google search for the barcode number affix on the product. On registration, Barcode scanning will return product information from an international database to the readers online. You can registered your Barcode here– https://www.indianbarcode.com/barcode-registration-services

Registered Barcode & Free Barcode - Registered barcode is that which helps prevent theft or accidental misuse of your barcode numbers, as you have extra proof that they belongs to you. If your barcode is registered on internet database, it can dissuade people from using the barcode number illegally on sites like amazon whereas you may use free barcodes as a part of your non-commercial web application or web-site.

Let’s discuss about the Advantages of barcode registration

Our barcode registration service is completely optional but however, there are several advantages to registering your barcodes:

v Registration makes your product visible on some cell phone app scanners – Barcode registration helps with some cell phone app scanners (such as the Zebra app) so that when the product barcode is scanned the product information will appear.

v Registration Increase the internet profile of your product – Barcode registration will increase the internet profile of the product so that when the barcode is searched for on Google or another search engine the product information will appear. This makes it easier for retailers and customers to find your company & product information.

v Registration helps prevent theft or accidental misuse of your barcode numbers– as you have extra proof that they belong to you. If a barcode is registered on internet databases, it can dissuade people from using the barcode number illegally on sites like Amazon. If a quick internet search tells the person that the barcode number is in use they will be much less likely to use the barcode.

v Registration helps prove that your barcodes are valid – Registration helps those few reluctant retailers who still think GS1’s database has all the answers, you can point them to this independent database where your barcodes are registered, as proof that they are yours, and are valid. This can save a lot of wasted time and unnecessary frustration with some retailers.

It is easy to copy a barcode, anyone can see a barcode number and then duplicate that barcode on a different product. Our registration helps protect you against illegal use of your barcode numbers, and helps retailers and customers find the details of your product and business.

Now the question is How to register your barcode?

You can register your barcode and product or company details on https://www.indianbarcode.com/barcode-registration-services it will increase the profile of your product on the internet.

After you register your barcode and product details, your product details will be displayed when customers search for your barcode number in online search engines (e.g. Google) or on some smart-phone apps (e.g. the Zebra app).

Now Let’s talk about How to get a Barcode?

The right procedure needs to be followed for the process of barcode registration. The steps involved in the process include:

Ø Deciding on the type and number. The barcode is of various types and it can be taken in different lot sizes. The process begins with the identification of a requirement by the applicant.

Ø Arrange documents. For barcode application, there are various documents like the balance sheet of the company’s bank account to prove the turnover of the company, etc. that need to be annexed.

Ø Government fee. The Government fee is paid in the form of a demand draft after determining the lot size and the validity period of the barcode to be acquired.

Over 2 million companies globally use barcodes, making it the default standard for the retail industry worldwide. Barcodes are a very efficient way to categorize and sell your products. Therefore, it is important to register your barcode. This will allow your barcode to be unique. If you are still wondering about the process of barcoding, Contact MINDWARE (Indian Barcode Corporation) as we provide you with the advantages of barcodes & assistance or guidance for Barcode registration and any queries related to it or to the business in general .

IS BARCODE REGISTRATION MANDATORY?

Barcode registration is not a government compulsory requirement. A retail barcode will work fine even without registration because stores enter the barcode number and link it to their billing or inventory software on an individual basis.

Barcode Registration

Our (Indian Barcode Corporation) Barcode Packages allows you to register your product or Company details alongside the Barcode number in an online database. If require you can Contact us. Here is Our Contact number - +91 9810822688 you can also send mail to gm@indianbarcode.com

Barcode Technologies

You need just a few pieces of technology to start using barcodes. There are three key components:

v Barcode Printer: As noted earlier, you will need a printer designed for barcodes if you have even a few hundred items in your warehouse or replace products regularly. There are a wide range of printers available ––some are large and need to be plugged in, while others are wireless and built to be portable. Depending on the size of your operation, you may need multiple printers for different areas of the warehouse or store. Barcode printer is a computer peripheral for printing Barcode labels or tags that can be attached to, or printed directly on, physical objects. Barcode printers are commonly used to label cartons before shipment, or to label retail items^.Barcode printers are designed for different markets. Industrial barcode printers are used in large warehouses and manufacturing facilities. They have large paper capacities, operate faster and have a longer service life. For retail and office environments, desktop barcode printers are most common.

The most common barcode printers employ one of two different printing technologies–Direct thermal printers & Thermal Transfer Printers.

Direct Thermal Printer use a print head to generate heat that causes a chemical reaction in specially designed paper that turns the paper black. Direct thermal printers are generally less expensive, but they produce labels that can become illegible if exposed to heat, direct sunlight, or chemical vapors.

Thermal transfer printers also use heat, but instead of reacting the paper, the heat melts a waxy or resin substance on a ribbon that runs over the label or tag material. The heat transfers ink from the ribbon to the paper.

Direct Thermal Printer:- A direct thermal printer prints by applying heat to the material. It does not use any ribbon, ink or toner, but it requires a special type of heat-sensitive material that blackens when heat is applied. Because the label material is heat sensitive, it fades and the label can become hard to read and scan over time. In addition, direct thermal labels are sensitive to abrasions and exposure to water, chemicals, and strong sunlight. With no ribbon needed to print, direct thermal printers are also easy to operate and have fewer components that can fail. Usually, these printers have a lower purchase price and require less maintenance and repair attention than thermal transfer printers. And while direct thermal labels are slightly more expensive, you don’t have to spend money on ribbons.

Contact MINDWARE for Direct Thermal Printers, Spare Parts and for Services! You can reach our sales team by phone at +91 9810822688
Concerning about services and spare parts please contact +91 8527522688/+91 8527422688 Mindware offers you Variety of Direct Thermal Printers from the Best Brands like – TSC, ZEBRA, GODEX & CITIZEN

For any queries you can send mail to gm@indianbarcode.com

You can view these products here –

TSC–– https://www.indianbarcode.com/tsc-da-310-barcode-printer

Zebra–– https://www.indianbarcode.com/zd220-thermal-desktop-printer

Godex –– https://www.indianbarcode.com/godex-rt-730-barcode-printer

Citizen – https://www.indianbarcode.com/citizen-cl-s621-barcode-printer

Thermal Transfer Printer:- Thermal transfer printers work by using a heated print head that applies heat to a ribbon, melting ink onto the media. The ink is absorbed so that the image becomes part of the media. This technique provides image quality and durability that is unmatched by other on-demand printing technologies. Thermal transfer printers can accept a wider variety of media than direct thermal models, including paper, polyester and polypropylene materials. Contact MINDWARE they offer you wide variety of Thermal Transfer Printers from the best Brands Like – TSC, ZEBRA, GODEX and CITIZEN

View this products here –– https://www.indianbarcode.com/barcode-printers

Different Types of Barcode Printers:-

There are four basic types of Barcode printers– Ink Jet, Dot Matrix, Laser, Thermal. Each barcode printer is unique and designed for a specific environment.

INK JET PRINTERS

An Inkjet printer is typically used in high production settings where barcodes need to be produced and applied at rapid speeds. They only require one step to finish the carton or readable material, while other Barcode printers may require the adhesion of the label to the finished product. Due to its ability to mark items quickly, Ink Jet printers are popular in high production environments.

There are different types of inkjet printers-below explain each one –

Single Function Inkjet Printers
Multifunction Inkjet Printers
Photo Inkjet Printers

1. Single Function Inkjet Printers: These types of printers are capable to perform only simple printing functions. These printers are very useful in home and small office usages where to need print enlarge documents with great efficiently.

ü Easy to operate

ü Less expensive

ü Various inks can be used as per your printing need

ü Easy to use

ü Able to print Black & White and color

ü Produce quality pictures depend on the model.

2.Multifunction Inkjet Printers: Multifunction Inkjet Printer is also known as the “All-in-One” functions printer. These printers are getting more popularity for using in home and office. They are capable to perform various tasks like as Printing, scanning, and copying. They need to replace ink cartridge, and they can also provide print Black & White or Color.

3.Photo Inkjet Printers: Main aim of photo inkjet printer is to make pictures stand out, and they are capable to produce color printout in several print sizes. These printers are costly compare to other inkjet printer because in which various types of inks are used like as dye and pigment based.

ü Best option for photographers

ü To perform multiple functions like as printing, scanning, and copying

ü Uses 6 to 12 ink cartridges

Inkjet printers are used in several areas for performing various tasks; like as –

Ø Inkjet printer is used in home and small office to perform for printing text due to their high contrast and speed.

Ø Inkjet printer is also used in banks and electricity department for taking bank statements and electricity bill, because it is capable to run long time without any hindrance.

Ø Inkjet printer is also able to provide high quality color print out, so it is also used by photographers and graphic designer

Ø It is used for printing signs, billboards, T-shirts, and more.

Examples of Inkjet Printer

Inkjet printer is an example of non impact printer that means this printer is able to produce printout without hitting a ribbon. Below some examples of this types of printers–

Canon Inkjet Printers

IMAGEPROGRAFIPF670
IMAGEPROGRAFIPF680

HP Inkjet Printers

DESKJET460
DESKJET460CB
DESKJET5740

Dell Inkjet Printers

Ø A942, A944, A946, A962, A964

Brother Inkjet Printers

DCPJ4110DW
MFCJ4410DW
MFCJ4510DW

DOT MATRIX PRINTERS

Dot matrix barcode printing technology is the oldest method for producing barcodes on-site. The barcode image is composed of hundreds of dots in a matrix to make a series of lines and spaces (commonly referred to as a barcode). The barcode label printers are easily accessible and are a cost-effective solution for many manufacturing and distribution companies. They can be printed on various surfaces and use multi-pass ribbons, which can drastically reduce for the cost for ribbons and labeling materials.

How They Work?

Dot matrix printers have moving heads that print what you want line by line. It punches holes through the ribbon and leaves marks — the printout — on the paper.

Surpassing typewriters, these printers are capable of intricate symbols and are not restricted to a pre-set template. This lets the printer produce different fonts in different sections of the paper.

Feature Variations

Though dot matrix printers follow a similar formula when building every model, they vary in their purpose. Different needs such as speed, quality, and quantity are met with different model variations.

If the person has to work with hundreds of documents every day, a model that handles continuous paper feeding would be ideal. Most of these printers can handle printing large quantities throughout the day with little to no paper jams. However, it should be noted that not all models print in high quality or high resolution.

Dot Matrix Printers comes under the category of Impact Printers– Let’s go thoroughly-

Impact Printers

For printing documents; they use key that hit through the ink ribbon which later produce output on the print on the paper; that’s why it is called the Impact Printers.

Impact printers are of three types Dot Matrix Printer, Daisy Wheel Printer, Line printer, etc.

Impact Printers are of Three Types:

Dot- Matrix Printers

This is one the type of Impact printers it makes too much noise when printing; this type of printer has print heads attached to many pins of a matrix, and on every pin, there is a ribbon tied which strikes the paper.

At the same time, many pins strike simultaneously to create the character on the print head. Each pin in the vertical group is 7, 9, 10, 14, 18, and 21.

Each one, when printed, makes a character just down from the pins where it strikes. Once the character prints, the print head moves forward to print the next character.

Daisy Wheel Printers

This Printer also has a head that hits the head with ink through the ribbon, and then any of the characters are printed.

In fact the dot matrix printer and daisy wheel printer consist of single difference which is mention below–

In Daisy Wheel Printer, the head has a hammer, which is in character shape. Dot Matrix Printers have needles or pins in their heads. Depending on which button is pressed, a hammer will strike the ribbon and push this character, which is then printed on the page.

Daisy Wheel printer Design

Line Printer

It can print 3000 lines in a minute which is the highest speed of all impact printers.

With this type of Printer, you are not printing a single character but printing an entire line, which is why it is called a line printer.

Line-per-minute (LPM) is a measure of the speed of the Printer.

With this Printer, you can print 3000 lines a minute. Printing bank statements, large company product shipments, product invoices, and large books using this type of printer is common in banks.

LASER PRINTERS

A laser Barcode printer is similar to a photo copier. They can print high-quality text and graphics on paper documents (or adhesive labels) and can be used as a document printer when not being used to print barcode labels. The density and resolution of these barcodes are high, meaning that the barcodes can be read easily by any infrared scanner. Barcode labels printed via a laser printer are not suitable for industrial environments, nor are they logical for small operations.Their durability is limited at best, as label printers cannot produce water or chemical resistant barcode labels.

How a laser printer works and its printing steps?

Following are the steps a laser printer takes to print–

Ø Cleaning

Ø This process removes the prior image information and toner from the drum.

Ø Conditioning

Ø The corona wire applies a uniform, positive charge to the photoreceptor drum.

Ø Writing

Ø The image to be printed is drawn onto the drum using a laser to "carve-out" positive charges and leave behind negative ones. As an aside, the laser in the printer uses light sources, like LED (light-emitting diode) or LCS (liquid crystal shutter).

Ø Developing

Ø The toner in the ink roller is ionized with a positive charge, attracting it to negatively charged areas on the drum.

Ø Transfer

Ø The drum's toner is transferred to the paper by either a positively ionized field (created by a transfer corona wire) or a transfer roller in newer printers. The toner is not yet permanently set on the paper and requires the last stage.

Ø Fusing

Ø Heat and pressure are applied to the paper and toner by two fuser units. The toner melts and is pressed into the paper like doing an iron-on transfer to a T-shirt.

› THERMAL PRINTERS

Thermal printers include Direct Thermal and Thermal Transfer printers (as we discussed before). Thermal printers for barcode labeling use are the most popular types of printers in manufacturing environments as their barcodes are more durable than other solutions on the market.

v There are two types of Thermal Printers: Thermal Transfer & Direct Thermal.

Thermal transfer printers work by using a heated print head that applies heat to a ribbon, melting ink onto the media. The ink is absorbed so that the image becomes part of the media. This technique provides image quality and durability that is unmatched by other on-demand printing technologies. Thermal transfer printers can accept a wider variety of media than direct thermal models, including paper, polyester and polypropylene materials.

Direct thermal printers work by creating images directly on the printed material without using a ribbon, toner or ink. Instead, this method uses chemically treated, heat-sensitive media that blackens when it passes under the thermal print head. As a result, this media is more sensitive to light, heat and abrasion. And, labels and tags are not as long lasting. Images can fade over time, and media will darken if overexposed to heat, light or other catalysts.

MOBILE PRINTERS

These portable tools are designed to meet your on-the-move barcode printing needs. They should be lightweight, durable and feature wireless connectivity. You should be able to install media easily. They should have an easy to read display. Some mobile printers have incredible durability to withstand sprays of water, immersion, drastic temperature ranges and repeated drops to concrete from a distance. Mobile printers are ideal for retail, hospitality, healthcare, warehouse management, transportation and manufacturing to print a variety of labels, receipts and tags. You can buy Mobile Printers from MINDWARE as we offer best prices for high quality printing mobile printer.

DESKTOP PRINTERS

Desktop printers are designed to do just that—fit on a desk or other small space. They should require minimal maintenance, be easy to use and offer varying wired and wireless connectivity options. Media should be simple to load. Desktop printers should be reliable, cost effective and able to handle a moderate level of print jobs. Premium models should evolve with technology and changing business needs. Desktop printers are ideal for use in retail, healthcare, hospitality, transportation and light manufacturing to print a variety of labels, tags, wristbands and receipts. Shop Desktop printers, Printer parts and accessories at affordable prices from MINDWARE. We have a variety of Desktop printer. You can view Desktop printers here - https://www.indianbarcode.com/zebra-zd230t-desktop-printer

INDUSTRIAL PRINTERS

For more demanding environments and higher volume printing, industrial printers are ideal. Larger in size, they are typically more substantial in construction. They should be easy to integrate into your existing enterprise and intuitive for your teams to operate. Premium models are incredibly rugged and can even support 24/7 environments and critical business operations. They can help you to see your entire supply chain in real time, increase efficiencies and leverage Internet of Things (IOT) technologies to gain a competitive advantage. Incredibly rugged models can even support 24/7 environments and critical business operations. Industrial printers are best suited for use in applications in manufacturing, transportation and logistics, government, retail and healthcare to produce labels and tags. In addition you can buy industrial printer, printer parts and accessories from Mindware. Customize your printer with our variety of different printer parts and accessories including Labels, Ribbons, charging adapters, and more. For any questions or more information, Contact us today! View these product - https://www.indianbarcode.com/tsc-ml240-industrial-barcode-printers

Industrial Printers

PRINT ENGINES

Print engines are designed to integrate into a print-and-apply system, such as a packaging line. They are typically accompanied by a product sensor to activate printing and an applicator (tamp) to affix the label to the item being marked. Print engines need to be durable workhorses that can perform nonstop. Because they are integrated into a system, you need easy access for speedy maintenance. And, it is ideal to have swappable components that can be removed to keep production lines moving.

Print engines are used in manufacturing, shipping and fulfillment environments to produce labels.

Print engines & modules

As a Barcode supplier, we often asked about DPI—what is it? Does it matter? On the other hand we find that there are some common misconceptions and assumptions regarding DPI we often have to explain.

So here we aim to explain what DPI is and the role it plays when it comes to barcodes specifically so you can more confidently invest in the best print strategy for your application. Let’s get to it!

What is barcode resolution/DPI?

When talking about barcode resolution we’re talking about the same thing as print image resolution. Print image quality, or resolution, is measured in DPI or “dots per inch”—a literal description of the ink dots spread across the media depicting the final image.

While the dots may not be visible to the naked eye in most cases—they are there! In fact, they’re there before the image is even printed in a form you’re probably also familiar with—pixels. Pixels on a computer are very different from dots on a page, however they serve the same core purpose—spots that when viewed from a distance merge together to form a comprehensive image.

In a few words, barcode resolution is the overall quality of your barcode image measured in pixels per inch (PPI) on screen, and in DPI when printed onto your media—but what does that mean to you?

Does Barcode DPI Matter?

To a certain degree, the higher the dpi, the sharper the image and the lower the dpi the more likely it is to have a grainy appearance. This is because a higher resolution contains a higher density of dots. If you’ve ever grabbed an image from the internet and printed it only to find it didn’t look quite as you expected, you’ve already witnessed this first hand.

So yes, DPI does matter.

Size Matters-

For the most part you’ll find barcode printers with DPI capabilities of 203, 300 and 600 (though there are some 400 DPI printers around)—each of these will be best suited for different density needs.

203 DPI is best suited for less dense codes. Even with lower DPI the image can remain crisp and readable to the scanner. Medium to high density barcodes will perform much better at 300 dpi, and codes requiring especially high density will require at least 600 dpi.

Typically, lower density is best suited for larger barcodes and higher density is most suitable for smaller barcodes—especially smaller 2D barcodes—where sharp edges are critical in preventing misreads. But depending on what code you’re using, your needs may differ.

Also, keep in mind that you can print low density codes with a high density printer so you won’t need a different printer to meet all of your size and density needs. Utilizing a high DPI printer for low density printing can decrease the likelihood of misreads or no-reads by increasing the quality of those codes—where there was one dot with a 200 DPI printer, you now have 3 dots with a 600 DPI printer.

ü Barcode Scanner: Scanners enable organizations to take advantage of the many benefits barcodes provide. There are a few different types of scanners to choose from: Laser scanners are the most popular because they’re relatively inexpensive, can read codes from up to two feet away and can read most 1D barcodes. This type of Barcode Scanner can be handheld or stationary. It doesn’t have to be close to the barcodes to read them. This model uses mirrors and lenses to read the barcode and can be used up to 24 inches away and there are long range models that can read barcodes up to 30 feet away. It can also read barcodes no matter what their orientation is. Laser scanners can perform up to 500 scans per second.

ü Central database: Barcodes are useful only if a computer can link those unique identifiers to a certain product. So a company needs a central data source that ties each barcode to a specific product to ensure scanning a barcode renders the right information. This data is often stored within a software application that point-of-sale (POS) systems and warehouse devices can access.

Print & Apply Printer

Print and apply Printers are designed for automated print and apply processes in production lines. Different applicators allow the label to be applied via roll-on, blow-on or tamp-on to a product or packaging. Print and Apply Systems, also known in labeling technology as label printers and applicators or label printing systems, which provides a 2-in-1 solution. These labeling systems combine label printers and applicators in one unit. They enable you to have your labels printed fully automatically and then immediately dispensed onto your product or packaging. Industrial printing systems from all major manufacturers, including Zebra, TSC, Godex, and Citizen, can be integrated regardless of whether you use thermal transfer printing or direct thermal printing for the labeling process. These label print and apply systems are ideal for texts, barcodes and images with high print resolution. The on-demand labeling method enables precise positioning of any size of label on the packaging – even at high speeds. Print & Apply labeling systems offer a high level of customization known as late-stage customization and are recommended in particular for applications in which labels bearing different data are to be applied to products. The labeling systems are designed in such a way that they not only fulfill these requirements but can also be easily integrated into existing production lines. They are designed to be flexible and can label in either a right-hand or left-hand configuration.

Print & Apply Systems recommend some advantages distinctly for the logistics sector: When products or packaging need to be labeled with variable data, safety is a top priority. When printing address and shipping labels and individual identification labels with variable data as well as when printing and dispensing a complete shipping label with graphics and common code types (data matrix, barcode, QR code etc.), uncompromising quality is paramount.

If you need label products and Printers with different dimensions, no matter what type of printing method you prefer, MINDWARE provides you all the solutions and will not let you down. In case of any queries you can contact us - +91 9810822688 e-mail: gm@indianbarcode.com

Print & Apply Machine

Features of Label Print and Apply machines

This machines can come in 3 label width sizes: 4-inch, 5-inch, and 6-inch

This machine can apply labels with direct wipe-on method

Optional add-on modules: Blow-on, Tamp-On, Swing-On

It’s feature is fully integrated electronics and common interfaces

These machines have ribbon-save, which minimizes the use of thermal transfer ribbon when printing long labels

This machine is compatible with the off-line desktop Chess-64 printer range

This machine come with the ALS unique 2-Year, on-site warranty

This machine feature the ALS lifetime print-head warranty, when used with ALS labels and ribbons

Benefits of Print & Apply Machines

Reduced Labor Costs -

One of the primary benefits of print and apply machine is- It reduces your labor costs. Depending on the specifics of your operation, it’s possible that a print and apply system can secure upwards of 20 labels per minute (per device). That’s the equivalent of labeling roughly one package every three seconds, which is simply not achievable when you’re dealing with human workers. Speedier labeling allows for a higher throughput and, ultimately, more profit for less cost.

Reduced Errors – Print & Apply Machine removes the primary source of error. Scan verification ensures that each label is placed on the correct package every single time, leading to increased accuracy, fewer errors, and happier customers.

Accuracy in Positioning - In addition to reducing errors caused by labels placed on the wrong orders, automatic print and apply systems reduce errors caused by labels placed incorrectly on the correct packages. In addition to increasing your efficiency and throughput, this automatic print and apply can reduce the number of recompense that you receive due to incorrect label positioning.

Compatibility with a Range of Products - Some operations may mistakenly believe that automated print and apply technologies aren’t well suited for the types of product that they handle but In reality, print and apply systems can be tailored to your specific needs. In particular, these systems can make use of a variety of label application methods, depending on the product being handled. For example, labels can be blown on, tamped on, wiped on, or even applied passively—all depending on the specific needs of the operation.

Integration is Everything - While automated print and apply labeling systems bring a number of powerful benefits to an order fulfillment environment, in order to be utilized to their full potential, it’s crucial that they be properly integrated with the rest of your facility.

A trusted systems integrator can help you understand your different options for automated print and apply, while choosing the system that will best integrate with your other manual and automated systems.

RFID System

Radio-frequency identification (RFID) uses electromagnetic field to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects. An RFID system consists of a tiny radio transponder, a radio receiver and transmitter. When triggered by an electromagnetic interrogation pulse from a nearby RFID reader device, the tag transmits digital data, usually an identifying inventory number, back to the reader. This number can be used to track inventory goods.

Passive tags are powered by energy from the RFID reader's interrogating radio waves. Active tags are powered by a battery and thus can be read at a greater range from the RFID reader, up to hundreds of meters.

Unlike a barcode, the tag does not need to be within the line of sight of the reader, so it may be embedded in the tracked object. RFID is one method of automatic identification and data capture (AIDC).

RFID tags are used in many industries. For example, an RFID tag attached to an automobile during production can be used to track its progress through the assembly line, RFID-tagged pharmaceuticals can be tracked through warehouses, and implanting RFID microchips in livestock and pets enables positive identification of animals. Tags can also be used in shops to expedite checkout, and to prevent theft by customers and employees.

Since RFID tags can be attached to physical money, clothing, and possessions, or implanted in animals and people, the possibility of reading personally-linked information without consent has raised serious privacy concerns. These concerns resulted in standard specifications development addressing privacy and security issues.

How does RFID work?

Every RFID system consists of three components: a scanning antenna, a transceiver and a transponder. When the scanning antenna and transceiver are combined, they are referred to as an RFID reader or interrogator. There are two types of RFID readers -- fixed readers and mobile readers. The RFID reader is a network-connected device that can be portable or permanently attached. It uses radio waves to transmit signals that activate the tag. Once activated, the tag sends a wave back to the antenna, where it is translated into data. The transponder is in the RFID tag itself. The read range for RFID tags varies based on factors including the type of tag, type of reader, RFID frequency and interference in the surrounding environment or from other RFID tags and readers. Tags that have a stronger power source also have a longer read range.

Types of RFID systems

Now that you know how a RFID system works, it is time to get to know the different types of RFID systems in the market. Depending on the frequency band they operate, we find different systems: low frequency (LF), high frequency (HF / NFC) and ultra-high frequency (UHF).

There are also two broad categories of systems: passive RFID and active RFID. In the following sections we will see the different frequencies and types of RFID systems.

RFID frequencies

Frequency refers to the size of the wave that is used to communicate the different components of the system. RFID systems that exist in the world operate in low frequency, high frequency or hyper high frequency. Let’s go thoroughly-

Low frequency (LF) RFID

The LF band covers frequencies between 30 KHz to 300Khz. Typical LF RFID systems work with 125 KHz or 134 KHz. This frequency provides a short reading range, about 10 cm, and the reading speed is slow. It is very resistant to external interference. Typical applications of LF are access control and animal control. LF RFID, UHF RFID, and GPS systems are all used in animal management. The specific system selected is usually dependent on the information needed and safety of the animals.

Standard norms for traceability systems for animals are defined in ISO 14223, and ISO / IEC 18000-2. The LF spectrum is not considered a frequency for global applications due to the different frequencies and reading powers that work around the world.

Low Frequency -MINDWARE Clear Disc Tag

High frequency (HF) RFID

The ranges of the HF frequencies go from 3 to 30 MHz Most RFID HF systems work with 13.56 MHz, with reading ranges between 10cm and 1m. Interferences moderately affect HF systems. HF systems are commonly used for ticketing, payments and data transfer applications.

High Frequency Library Tag (MINDWARE Icode Label)

Ultra high frequency (UHF) RFID

UHF systems cover frequency ranges from 300MHz to 3Ghz. RAIN RFID systems comply with the standard UHF Gen2 standard that uses frequencies 860 to 960 MHz there are differences in variation between regions, most of them operate between 900 and 915 Mhz. UHF RFID reading systems can reach more than 12 meters, have very fast data transmission and are very sensitive to interference. UHF tags are easier and cheaper to manufacture compared to LF and HF.

RAIN RFID UHF systems are used in a wide variety of applications. From store inventories to the identification of medications for protection. Most RFID projects currently use UHF (RAIN RFID) technology, making it the fastest growing market segment. The RFID UHF Jewellery Tag is one of the smallest tag in the UHF family and also most economic Jewellery tag suitable for any small obejcts tagging.

MINDWARE Mini UHF Metal Tag

Differences between RFID Frequencies- LF/HF/UHF/

Low Frequency TAGS	High Frequency TAGS	Ultra High Frequency TAGS
The LF band covers frequencies between 30 KHz to 300Khz	The high-frequency band is able to cover frequencies from 3 MHz (Megahertz) to 30 MHz.	UHF systems cover frequency ranges from 300MHz to 3Ghz.
Usually, low-frequency RFID systems operate right around 125 KHz.	High-frequency RFID systems operate around 13.56 MHz	Ultra-high frequency systems operate around 900 to 915 MHz
Low Frequency can be used in moist situations.	HF bands can also operate in moist conditions.	UHF is generally more degraded by moisture than lower bands, such as VHF TV signals.
Low-frequency RFID applications can be used for access control and livestock tracking, which is a great benefit.	High-frequency RFID has the use for data transfer applications, ticketing, and payment.	UHF tags are often used in parking control and racing where time-marking is crucial, it is also used on docks, in warehouses and on showroom floors.
This frequency band provides a short read range of only 10 cm, but it is not very sensitive to radio wave interference.	High-frequency systems tend to experience reading ranges of 10cm and 1m. moderate sensitivity to radio-wave interference	Out of the three frequencies, the ultra-high frequency is the most sensitive to interference. UHF RFID reading systems can reach more than 12 meters
Low- and high-frequency tags work better on products with water and metal.	Both Low & High-frequency tags work better on products with water and metal.	Tracking metal products or those with high water content, with passive RFID UHF tags can be challenging.

The LF band covers frequencies between 120 – 150 KHz under water

The HF band covers frequencies between 13.56MHz under water.

The UHF band covers frequencies between 433MHz, 868-928MHz under water.

Low Frequency can be theoretically used for the underwater identification of items.

High Frequency RFID can be used under water only for short range solution.

Ultra High Frequency is too high to allow its use also for underwater contactless application.

Passive and active RFID systems

Active RFID - Active RFID systems tags transmit their own signal with the information they have stored on the chip because they have their own power. Normally this power source is batteries. Usually Active RFID systems operate at UHF frequencies and offer a reading range of more than 100 meters. They are usually used on very large objects such as wagons, containers or products that have to be controlled in large spaces.

Passive RFID Tags - Passive RFID uses high-power readers that send out a low-frequency, high-power RF signal to battery-free tags. The antenna in the tag is woken up by the amount of energy flowing to it, which wakes up its circuit. The tag then transmits a coded message back to the reader at a different frequency.

	ACTIVE RFID	PASSIVE RFID	BATTERY ASSISTED PASSIVE (BAP)
Tag Power Source	Internal to Tag	Energy Transfer from the reader via RF	Tag uses internal power source to power on, and energy transferred from the reader via RF to backscatter.
Tag Battery	Yes	NO	Yes
Availability of Tag Power	Continuous	Only within the field reader	Only within the field reader
Required Signal Strength from Tag to reader	High	Very Low	Moderate
Communication Range	Long Range (100cm or more)	Short Range (up to 10cm)	Moderate range ( up to 100cm)
Sensor capability	Availability continuously monitor and record sensor input	Ability to read and transfer sensor values only when tag is powered by reader.	Ability to read and transfer sensor values only when Tag receives RF signal from reader.

Uses of RFID-

RFID dates back to the 1940s; however, it was used more frequently in the 1970s. For a long time, the high cost of the tags and readers prohibited widespread commercial use. As hardware costs have decreased, RFID adoption has also increased.

Some common uses for RFID applications include: 1. Pet and livestock tracking using RFID Solution by MINDWARE.

MINDWARE - World’s best RFID Solution Provider Contact now - +91 9810822688 e-mail: gm@indianbarcode.com 2. Inventory management 3.Asset tracking and equipment tracking 4.Inventory control 5.Cargo and supply chain logistics 6.Vehicle tracking 7.Customer service and loss control 8.Improved visibility and distribution in the supply chain 9.Access control in security situations 10.Shipping 11.Healthcare 12.Manufacturing 13.Retail sales 14.Tap-and-go credit card payments

MAXIMUM RANGE OF RFID

It depends on the type of RFID solution that you are using. Passive low-frequency (LF) and high-frequency (HF) systems have a read range of approximately 3 feet (1 meter). A passive ultrahigh-frequency (UHF) system has a read range of 10 feet to 25 feet (3 meters to 8 meters) under most conditions, but phased array antennas can read tags from a distance of 100 feet to 600 feet (30 meters to 180 meters) or more. Active RFID systems, on the other hand, can typically be read from 300 feet (90 meters) away, but many can now go up to 1,500 feet (460 meters) or more by employing signal repeaters.

RFID Chip

Radio frequency identity (RFID) chips are tiny computer chips connected to miniature antennas that can be placed on or in physical objects. They are used in a wide variety of applications where “contactless” authentication is desired, including toll booths, transit passes, passports, and

Contact less entry keys.

How do you detect an RFID Chip?

In order to detect RFID chips, you must have a RFID chip reader that can send and receive the signals transmitted by the RFID tags.

At first, obtain an RFID chip reader at a specialized online or local electronic retailer.

Secondly, Turn on the RFID chip reader and scan the vicinity of the area you believe RFID chips are present. Although each RFID chip reader is different, RFID chips will generally emit a frequency that will cause the chip reader to produce a beeping noise to indicate the presence of RFID chips.

Thirdly, follow the signal strength with the increase in the series of beeps from the RFID chip reader. If your RFID chip reader has the ability to detect the direction of the frequency, the device will be able to tell you exactly what direction the RFID chip is located.

Medical use for RFID Chip-

Inventory Control

Equipment Tracking

Personnel Tracking

Providing data for electronic medical record system

Monitoring Patients

Preventing the distribution of drugs

RFID Inlays, RFID Tags, RFID Labels

When designing an RFID system – a few components typically come to mind, including RFID hardware and software. For hardware, typically RFID Readers, RFID Antennas, & RFID Tags are selected based on the respective use. Other hardware component includes RFID printers and other accessories/ peripherals.

In regards to an RFID tag, various terminologies are often used including RFID Inlays, RFID Labels & RFID Tags, so here are the differences between – RFID inlays, RFID Tags & RFID labels.

RFID Inlay:

An RFID Inlay is just the RFID Chip (IC), Tag Antenna and Substrate, typically on a film face. If the substrate has adhesive it’s called a “Wet Inlay”. Otherwise, it’s called a Dry Inlay.

Dry Inlay Wet Inlay

RFID Label:

If an RFID Inlay in embedded into paper label, it is reference to as an RFID Label or Smart Label.

RFID Tag:

If the RFID Chip and Tag Antenna are encapsulated (to protect the components or for ease of use case), then it’s referenced as an RFID Tag. If we look the components of an RFID Tag, there are typically the following pieces:

RFID Chip (or Integrated Circuit): Responsible data storage as well as handling processing logic based on the respective protocol.
Tag Antenna: Responsible for receiving and transmitting the signal from the interrogator (AKA RFID Reader). Typically takes up the largest amount of space.
Substrate : Holds everything together.

Now! When we package everything together, there are difference terms that may be used.

If you have any questions regarding what RFID Tag would be right for your use Contact MINDWARE. Contact no. +91 9810822688 e-mail: gm@indianbarcode.com

RFID & Barcodes

Barcodes and RFID Tags are regularly being used to track objects through store information, both technologies allow for a wide range of applications which other technologies cannot meet. Below are some of the similarities and the differences between RFID and Barcodes.

· Barcodes and RFID have many similarities including-

· Barcodes and RFID tags allow you to track objects with ease.

· Both can store data which can be easily read.

· You can read information using both fixed and mobile scanners.

However there are many differences between RFID and Barcodes.

Differences between RFID and Barcodes –

ü Barcodes can only be scanned one at a time, unlike RFID which multiple tags can be scanned at once using a single scanner.

ü Barcodes require the scanner to have a direct line – of – sight with code where are RFID is a near field technology, which allows the scanner to read the tags within a range and without a direct line of sight.

ü Barcodes are typically printed on adhesive labels or on a paper resulting in the barcode being prone to wear and damage which can impact the readability. However, RFID tags are usually embedded with plastic labels or within the object itself, resulting in a more robust which can withstand more damage than barcodes.

ü Barcodes are limited by the type and volume of data that can be store, while RFID allows for up to 2,000 bytes of data to be stored with a single tag.

Now the question is which is good Barcodes or RFID?

It is dependent on your requirement or budget. Barcodes are cheaper and store less information but, RFID can read multiple tags at once at high speed. So, when choosing between barcodes or RFID, it is essential to look at the purpose, environment and potential costs. Not all use case would require RFID tags to be used, some other case will require the technology.

Whether you are looking for Barcodes or RFID you can contact our team (MINDWARE) we will help you choosing the best solution for you as MINDWARE is the biggest consultant for Barcode & RFID Technology.

RFID Printer

RFID Printer - An RFID printer is a printer that creates RFID smart labels. These labels use radio frequency technology to transmit information through user systems. These printers add specific digital functionality to images by embedding RFID labels into different types of print formats. In many cases, RFID printers apply RFID technology to barcodes so that, as a result, while moving through a shipping or manufacturing process, either an RFID reader or a barcode reader can interpret the results.

Conventional RFID printers use an RFID head to print, using thermal transfer technology. These printers print tags for interpretation through radio wave technologies. An RFID tag includes an integrated circuit and antenna. Smart labels are made of adhesive material with an RFID tag inlay.

If you are looking for RFID Printers/solution contact our team (MINDWARE) we offer you wide range of RFID applications from desktop to high volume industrial printers. For any queries send mail at gm@indianbarcode.com

Industrial RFID Printer

RFID PRINTER ENCODER

RFID Printers Encoders are used in applications where wet inlays or label are used to tag inventory or assets. The printer’s encoders not only print on the top of the label but also encode information into the RFID chip.

RFID READER

The RFID reader is a network-connected device that can be portable or permanently attached. It uses radio waves to transmit signals that activate the tag. Once activated, the tag sends a wave back to the antenna, where it is translated into data. The transponder is in the RFID tag itself.

How does RFID reader work?

The tag's antenna receives electromagnetic energy from an RFID reader's antenna. Using power from its internal battery or power harvested from the reader's electromagnetic field, the tag sends radio waves back to the reader. The reader picks up the tag's radio waves and interprets the frequencies as meaningful data.

WI-FI RFID Reader

RFID Technology for Packaging & Shipping

In the world of packaging and shipping, RFID offers more than just protection against theft and fraud. It helps businesses track damage, loss, error, expiration, slow delivery, and more. Shipping crates and containers are the most popular way to ship cargo around the world. RFID allows companies to track containers and shipping crates “in each link of the supply chain,” says Finland-based Nordic ID. “Active RFID Tags can be used to track containers in real-time in yards and docks. Ultra-high frequency RFID has long identification distance and speeds up identification.” In short, RFID offers: Visibility of Real-Time Cargo Movement Helps Accelerate the Speed of Delivery Increases Accuracy Improves Efficiency

In addition to shipping crates and packaging containers, RFID tags may be incorporated into heavy duty wood box designs, part specific boxes, light duty boxes, and much more. If you need RFID products for packaging and shipping, please contact us! MINDWARE can help.

REFERENCES

· Barcode Wikipedia

· Britannica-Oracle

· net suit

· technopedia

· Jagran josh

· Adazon Blog

· http://www.barcodesaigon.com/

· www.conveyco.com

MINDWARE

(INDIAN BARCODE CORPORATION)

Redefining Technology with Human Touch

Contents

· History of Barcodes-

· Types of Barcode:- What is 1D or 2D Barcode?– Symbologies of Barcodes – 1D or 2D – KEY Differences

· Uses of Barcodes–

· How Barcodes work?

· How Barcode is made?

· What are the Advantages of Barcode?

· What is Barcode Labels?

· What is Metal Lebels

· What is Ribbons?

· Barcode Registration

· What is Registered Barcode or Free Barcode?

· Advantages of Barcode Registration

· How to register your Barcode?

· How to get a Barcode?

· Barcode Technologies

· Barcode Printers Resolutions

· Print and Apply Machines

· What is RFID? – Types of RFID

· How does it work?

· Uses of RFID

· Maximum Range of RFID

· Rfid Chips

· Differences between RFID Inlays, RFID Tags, RFID Labels

· Rfid & Barcodes

· RFID Printer

· RFID Encoder

· RFID Reader

· RFID Technology for Packaging & Shipping

· References

What is BARCODE?

Who Invented Barcodes and when?

Why invented?

History of Barcodes

Types of Barcodes

As noted earlier, there are two basic types of barcodes. Here are the basics on each and key differences:

§ Linear/1D

Some of the 1D Barcode Symbologies are as Follows:-

vCodabar –

§ Characteristics of Codabar:-

ª This Symbology is used by U.S. blood banks, photo Labs, Librabries, and on FedEx air bills.

ª Encodes numbers and the characters –$:/.+

ª First and last symbols ( the guard patterns) are one of A, B, C, or D. They are returned as part of the String.

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª Some standards that use Coda bar will define a check digit, but there is no agreed-upon standard checksum algorithm.

ª The width ratio between narrow and wide can be chosen between 1:2.25 and 1:3.

v Code 11–

§ Characteristics:-

v Primarily used for labeling tele communication equipment. It is also known as USD-8

v The Barcode data can be encode numerical data, the dash and dot character.

v Supports variable length data content.

v For up to 10 data digits a single check digit is used, otherwise two check digits are used.

v Code 128

Code 128 was invented in 1981 by Ted Williams of Laser light Corporation to solve the problem of representing both alphabetic and numeric characters without sacrificing barcode density. Code 128 enables you to encode all 128 ASCII characters, as Code 39 - Full ASCII does. Additionally, when you encode only numbers, Code 128 can encode them more densely than Interleaved 2 of 5 does.

The most common use of Code 128 is for certain shipping labels, primarily as defined by GS1 in the GS1-128 barcode standard.

§ Characteristics:-

Ø Used in a wide range of application.

Ø The Barcode data can be encode numerical data only or two different subsets of the ASCII table. Combinations of the three different modes can be used in single codes.

Ø Supports variable length data content.

Ø A mandatory checksum is verified.

Ø It has been standardized under ISO/IEC 15417

§ Characteristics:-

Ø It encodes numeric data in a compressed format by using the Code 39- Regular character set.

Ø The symbol compromises the following elements.

Ø Eight symbol character that represent numeric digits

Ø Check digits

Ø If fewer than eight Characters are specified, padding characters are added.

Ø Code 32 uses five bars and four spaces to encode each character. Three of the elements are wide, and other six are narrow.

Ø This symbology supports the following alphanumeric characters:

All numeric digits (0-9)

All uppercase letters except for A, R, I, and O

Ø The code 32 human readable interpretation begins with the ASCII character “A”. This character is not encoded into the the Barcode.

Ø Code 32 uses a check digit that is based on the module 10 (mod 10) algorithm.

vCode 39–

§ Characteristics:-

Ø Mostly used in logistics to encode application specific identifiers.

Ø The standard version can encode numbers 0-9, capital letters A-Z, symbols -.$/+% and space.

Ø Supports variable length data content.

Ø Narrow to wide bars ratios from 1:2 up to 1:3 are supported. 1:2.5 is recommended.

Ø By default no checksum is verified.

Ø It has been standardized under ISO/IEC 16388.

§ SDK Features:

ª An optional mod43 checksum can be enforced.

ª All ASCII characters including control characters encoding support can be enabled.

§ Code-93–

§ Characteristics:

ª Mostly used in logistics to encode application specific identifiers.

ª Data in standard encoding (numbers 0-9, capital letters A-Z, symbols -.$/+% and space) and full ASCII mode (including control characters) are supported.

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª Two mod47 checksums are verified.

§ EAN Code–

§ Characteristics:

ª Used to encode Global Trade Identification Numbers (GTIN).

ª Contains 8 (EAN-8) or 13 (EAN-13) numerical digits.

ª Last digit serves as a mod10 checksum.

ª Additional data can be stored in an EAN-2 or EAN-5 add-on code.

ª It has been standardised under ISO/IEC 15420.

vGS1 Data Bar

KEY POINTS:

· Data bar Barcode symbols can encode all 14 digits of a GTIN-14 where UPC & EAN cannot.

· The Data bar symbol is over 50% smaller than EAN/UPC so it can be used for smaller or hard to mark items.

· Data bar bar codes are not going to replace EAN/UPC symbols. Product manufacturers can decide the language they wish to use based on package design.

· Adoption of the Data bar symbology is critical to address the revised coupon coding requirements.

§ Characteristics–

ª Used to encode a Global Trade Identification Numbers (GTIN) along with variable additional information defined by application identifiers (AI). Examples are price, weight or expiry date.

ª Valid application identifiers (AI) are defined in the GS1 specification.

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª Barcode data is verified by an implicit checksum.

ª Does not require quiet zones around the barcode.

ª It has been standardized under ISO/IEC 24724.

ª DataBar-14 is supported in the omnidirectional, truncated and stacked flavour.

ª DataBar Expanded is supported in the normal and stacked flavour.

ª DataBar Limited is supported which is also known as RSS Limited, Reduced Space Symbology Limited.

v IATA 2 of 5 Bar Code–

§ Characteristics:

ª Also known as Computer Identics 2 of 5.

ª Used by International Air Transport Association (IATA) for managing air cargo.

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª By default no checksum is verified.

ª An optional mod1010 checksum can be enforced.

v Interleaved 2 OF 5 (ITF):

§ Characteristics:

ª It is used primarily in the distribution and warehouse industry.

ª Encodes an even number of numerical characters.

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª Narrow to wide bar ratios from 1:2 up to 1:3 are supported. 1:2.5 is recommended.

ª By default no checksum is verified.

ª It has been standardized under ISO/IEC 16390.

ª An optional mod10 checksum can be enforced.

v KIX (Klant Index) Barcode

§ Characteristics:

ª Used for mail sorting by the postal service of the Netherlands, Koninklijke TNT Post (Royal TNT Post)

ª Regarded as “four-state” because there are four types of bars, classified by presence of ascenders and/or descenders

ª Transcribable using DAFT notation

ª Used by a number of countries in their postal systems, though the specific symbologies by which they encode characters can vary

ª Encodes alphanumeric characters, and is a slight variant of the Royal Mail 4-State system, omitting the start and end symbols and checksum.

v Matrix 2 OF 5–

Matrix 2 of 5 was developed in 1970-х by Nieaf Co. in The Netherlands and commonly was uses for warehouse sorting, photo finishing, and airline ticket marking.

Matrix 2 of 5 can encode only digits 0-9. Matrix 2 of 5 can include optional check digit. Most of barcode readers support this symbology.

§ Characteristics–

ª From the same family as Code 25 and IATA 2 of 5

ª Encoding uses variable width spaces as well as bars

ª ~30% more dense than Code 25 or IATA 2 of 5

ª Symbology can have variable length storage

ª Stores numerical [0-9] data only

v Maxicode

MaxiCode symbology was released by UPS in 1992.

§ Characteristics–

ªFixed size 2D symbology originally created by UPS in 1992.

ªUsed for tracking and managing shipments of packages.

ªIt has been standardized underISO/IEC 16023.

ªSupports encoding of a Structured Carrier Message or data in extended ASCII.

ªUses Reed-Solomon error correction.

v MSI Plessey

MSI Plessey (also known as Modified Plessey) is a numeric-only, variable-length symbology that is a variant of Plessey Code, which was originally developed by the Plessey Company of England in 1971.

MSI Plessey is currently maintained by Symbol Technologies, Inc.

§ Characteristics:

ª MSI is used primarily for inventory control, marking storage containers and shelves in warehouse environments.

ª Encodes any number of numerical characters.

ª By default a mod10 checksum is verified.

ª Verifying no checksum is supported as an option.

ª Alternative supported checksum options are mod11, mod1010 and mod1110.

v Posi Lapa 4 State Code–

§ Characteristics–

ª Uses the same symbol alphabet as RM4SCC.

ª Uses Reed-Solomon error correction. It can correct up to 8 erasures or 4 errors.

ª LAPA can be read from left-to-right or right-to-left. The direction can be determined by reading the leftmost or the rightmost bar.

ª Thanks to its fixed length and error correction, it offers better robustness than RM4SCC.

v RM4SCC

§ Characteristics:

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª Data encoding modes support numeric, alphanumeric, binary data and kanji characters.

ª Different sizes (called versions) and error correction levels can be defined.

ª It has been standardised under ISO/IEC 18004.

ª Color inverted decoding can be enabled.

ª GS1 codes are identified to signal that application identifiers are present (GS1 QR).

v UPC Code–

§ Characteristics:

ª Used to encode Global Trade Identification Numbers (GTIN).

ª Contains 6 (UPC-E) or 12 (UPC-A) numerical digits.

ª Last digit serves as a mod10 checksum.

ª Additional data can be stored in an EAN-2 or EAN-5 add-on code.

ª It has been standardised under ISO/IEC 15420.

v Feature–

ª The first digit is always zero and can be removed on demand.

ª UPC-E representation can be automatically converted to the UPC-A format.

v USPS Intelligent Mail–

§ Characteristics:

ª Used by U.S. Postal Service (USPS) mail stream

ª Designed to sort and track mail deliveries, containing routing and tracking information

ª Combines and improves functionalities of POSTNET and PLANET Code barcodes

ª Allows providing multiple postal services with a single barcode

Matrix/2D

Some of the 2D Barcode Symbologies are as Follows:-

Aztec Code

§ Characteristics of Aztec Code :

§ Used for Tickets in the transport industries, eg. Railway companies.

§ Data can be encoded in ASCII or extended SCII.

§ Supports variable length data content.

§ Different error Correction Levels can be defined.

§ It has been Standardlized under ISO/IEC 24778

v Data Matrix–

ID Matrix is credited as being the inventor of the Data Matrix barcode around 2005.

§ Characteristics

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª Encodings and sizes defined in the Data Matrix ECC 200 standard are supported.

ª Different error correction levels can be defined.

ª It has been standardized under ISO/IEC 16022.

§ Features–

ª Color inverted decoding can be enabled.

ª GS1 codes are identified to signal that application identifiers are present (GS1 DataMatrix).

§ Dot code–

The Dot Code was developed by Dr Andrew Longacre, with official specifications published by global industry standards organization AIM in 2009.

Characteristics:

ª Designed to tolerate missing, extra or poorly-placed dots without sacrificing reading integrity.

ª The symbology is intended for industrial, high-speed marking with ink-jet or laser.

ª This variable size, dot matrix symbology encodes data in an array of nominally disconnected dots arranged within a regular grid of possible locations.

ª The overall symbol shape is adjustable, rectangular to nearly square shaped symbols are possible.

ª The symbol size is theoretically unlimited but practically limited to approximately 124 modules (lines/columns).

ª Standard code page is Latin 1.

ªReady for GS1 applications and suitable for encoding application identifiers (AIs).

v GS1 Composite Code–

§ Characteristics:

ª EAN/UPC symbology (EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A, or UPC-E)

ª GS1-128 (Code 128)

ª Any member of the GS1 Data Bar family

ª Version C supports GS1-128 as the linear component only.

v Micro QR Code–

Micro QR Code can be printed in black on a white background or in white on a black background.

v Data & Options–

Ø The data field can contain any extended ASCII data. The default interpretation of data by readers is in accordance with ISO/IEC 8859-1.

Ø An appropriate size will be selected to work around the following restrictions:

Ø An M1 symbol is only compatible with numeric data.

Ø An M2 symbol is only compatible with alphanumeric data.

Ø When the Parse option is specified, any instances of ^NNN in the data field are replaced with their equivalent ASCII value, useful for specifying unprintable characters.

Ø The version option is used to specify the size of the symbol, either version=M1, version=M2, version=M3 or version=M4.

Ø The eclevel option is used to specify the error correction level:

Ø eclevel=L – Low (default)

Ø eclevel=M – Medium; Not compatible with M1 symbols

Ø eclevel=Q – Quality; Only compatible with M4 symbols

Ø If unspecified the encoder will select the version of the symbol that is the minimum size to represent the given data at the selected error correction level.

v Micro PDF 417

› Characteristics:

Ø More space efficient version of PDF417 without start and end patterns.

Ø Used in GS1 Composite Codes type A (CC-A) and B (CC-B).

Ø Supports variable length data content using one to four columns and up to 44 rows.

Ø All size versions have a fixed error correction level.

Ø It has been standardised under ISO/IEC 24728.

v PDF 417

§ Characteristics:

Ø Used in a wide range of applications.

Ø Supports variable length data content.

Ø The number of rows and Coloumns are Configurable.

Ø Different error correction levels can be defined.

Ø It has been standardized under ISO/IEC 15438.

Ø Truncated PDF417 codes are supported.

v QR Code–

§ Characteristics:

ª Supports variable length data content.

ª Data encoding modes support numeric, alphanumeric, binary data and kanji characters.

ª Different sizes (called versions) and error correction levels can be defined.

ª It has been standardised under ISO/IEC 18004.

ª Color inverted decoding can be enabled.

ª GS1 codes are identified to signal that application identifiers are present (GS1 QR).

What are the Uses of Barcodes?

There are countless uses of Barcodes. Here are a few most popular uses of Barcodes:-

If “3” is written; it means that the product is related to pharmacy

Two digits near the left bar i.e. 0 and 5 inform that the product if either made in USA or in Canada because barcode from 00 to 13 is assigned to these two countries.

The last digit "7" given on the right hand side of the barcode is a check number, which ensures that whether information has been properly read by the barcode reader or not.

Now let us know that what barcode is assigned to different countries of the world-

1. India: 890:

2. France: 30-37

3. Germany: 40-44

4. Japan: 45-49

5. Russia: 46

6. Taiwan: 471

7. Philippines: 480

8. Hong Kong: 89

9. United States and Canada: 00 -13

10. China: 690-692

From the data given above, now we came to know about the different Barcodes of the different countries of the world.

Now the question is how Barcode is made?

A barcode has 95 blocks.

Out of 95 blocks; the barcode is written in the 12 blocks

Out of these 95 blocks three blocks are named as the, left guard, centre guard and right guard.

So on the basis of the information given above we can conclude that what is barcode and how is it made.

Now we are going to discuss about the advantages of Barcodes–

It is very important to understand the advantages of Barcodes and how it can be applied to help your business grow. The following are the some advantages of barcodes:

Barcodes will inevitably reduce labour cost. Barcodes will do a two-man job. It is perfectly possible for one person to operate it.

Barcode usage is extremely varied. They can be used for any kind of data collection necessary. This could include pricing or inventory information.

Barcodes provide better data. Since one barcode can be used for both inventory and pricing information, it is possible to obtain data for a wide variety of products.

Barcodes promote better decision making. Since the data is obtained rapidly, it is possible to make more informed decisions that ultimately helps saves money and time.

Barcode Labels

Types of Labels

Metal Labels

Advantages of Metal Labels –

· Exceptional resistance to weather, UV, extreme temperatures, chemicals, abrasion and corrosion.

· Permanent readability for the life of your part, inventory or equipment with little maintenance required.

· Can be fabricated using a large selection of graphic, die cutting, adhesive and mechanical attachment options to meet your most demanding application.

· Provide years of durability.

· Advanced MPC fabrication capabilities reduces your lead time and tooling charges while delivering labels and tags to your exact specifications.

We provide dependable, durable, printed metal labels and tags that will last the lifetime. We will delivered at a competitive price – that’s our guarantee. Contact us today! +91 9810822688

Common Use Cases for Metal Tags-

Transportation. Metal tags are widely used in the transportation industry for several applications, including VIN tags, manufacturing nameplates, safety data plates, and operating and maintenance instruction plates. Transportation is subject to harsh environmental factors such as UV exposure, abrasion, extreme temperatures, corrosion, and chemical exposure, requiring durable metal labels that can resist damage from these environmental conditions. Metal labels can support variable information, including unique serial numbers, barcodes, and QR codes that enable tracking of transportation assets for a variety of business purposes.
Aerospace and Defense. The aerospace and defense industries must comply with rigorous regulatory standards to ensure asset and equipment identification and keep equipment safe and operating nearly continuously under difficult conditions. .
Marine. The wind, salt, and water exposure prevalent for assets during ocean travel can cause damage to even the strongest ships and vessels. Metal ID tags and labels that have an anodized surface layer, such as Metal or anodized aluminum, are a popular choice in marine applications due to this protective finish many marine labels and tags contain important safety, identification, and operational warnings that must remain legible under all conditions.
Industrial & Chemical. Metal labels and tags are a critical component of asset tracking and inventory control systems in factories and warehouses. This is particularly true for operations that process or fabricate components in high heat conditions or using harsh chemicals. In some situations, metal tags are selected as a permanent marking solution for equipment. Other applications call for the use of blank metal labels that can be marked in the facility and used to process work-in-progress or finished goods.

Thermal Transfer Ribbons

Types of Ribbons- Ribbons come in three different categories: wax, wax/resin, and resin. Picking among the three will rely on what type of barcode material you will be printing on.

View this product here https://www.indianbarcode.com/wax-thermal-transfer-barcode-ribbon

View this product here– https://www.indianbarcode.com/wax-resin-barcode-ribbon

View this product here – https://www.indianbarcode.com/resin-barcode-ribbon

You can buy Thermal transfer ribbons from MINDWARE, we will give you first-rate printing results.

Barcode Registration

What is Barcode Registration? In India for barcode registration Mindware (Indian Barcode can be contacted)

Barcode registration enables visibility on Google search for the barcode number affix on the product. On registration, Barcode scanning will return product information from an international database to the readers online. You can registered your Barcode here– https://www.indianbarcode.com/barcode-registration-services

Let’s discuss about the Advantages of barcode registration

Our barcode registration service is completely optional but however, there are several advantages to registering your barcodes:

Now the question is How to register your barcode?

You can register your barcode and product or company details on https://www.indianbarcode.com/barcode-registration-services it will increase the profile of your product on the internet.

Now Let’s talk about How to get a Barcode?

The right procedure needs to be followed for the process of barcode registration. The steps involved in the process include:

Ø Deciding on the type and number. The barcode is of various types and it can be taken in different lot sizes. The process begins with the identification of a requirement by the applicant.

Ø Government fee. The Government fee is paid in the form of a demand draft after determining the lot size and the validity period of the barcode to be acquired.

IS BARCODE REGISTRATION MANDATORY?

Barcode Registration

Barcode Technologies

You need just a few pieces of technology to start using barcodes. There are three key components:

The most common barcode printers employ one of two different printing technologies–Direct thermal printers & Thermal Transfer Printers.

Contact MINDWARE for Direct Thermal Printers, Spare Parts and for Services! You can reach our sales team by phone at +91 9810822688
Concerning about services and spare parts please contact +91 8527522688/+91 8527422688 Mindware offers you Variety of Direct Thermal Printers from the Best Brands like – TSC, ZEBRA, GODEX & CITIZEN

For any queries you can send mail to gm@indianbarcode.com

You can view these products here –

TSC–– https://www.indianbarcode.com/tsc-da-310-barcode-printer

Zebra–– https://www.indianbarcode.com/zd220-thermal-desktop-printer

Godex –– https://www.indianbarcode.com/godex-rt-730-barcode-printer

Citizen – https://www.indianbarcode.com/citizen-cl-s621-barcode-printer

View this products here –– https://www.indianbarcode.com/barcode-printers

Different Types of Barcode Printers:-

There are four basic types of Barcode printers– Ink Jet, Dot Matrix, Laser, Thermal. Each barcode printer is unique and designed for a specific environment.

INK JET PRINTERS

There are different types of inkjet printers-below explain each one –

Single Function Inkjet Printers
Multifunction Inkjet Printers
Photo Inkjet Printers

ü Easy to operate

ü Less expensive

ü Various inks can be used as per your printing need

ü Easy to use

ü Able to print Black & White and color

ü Produce quality pictures depend on the model.

ü Best option for photographers

ü To perform multiple functions like as printing, scanning, and copying

ü Uses 6 to 12 ink cartridges

Inkjet printers are used in several areas for performing various tasks; like as –

Ø Inkjet printer is used in home and small office to perform for printing text due to their high contrast and speed.

Ø Inkjet printer is also used in banks and electricity department for taking bank statements and electricity bill, because it is capable to run long time without any hindrance.

Ø Inkjet printer is also able to provide high quality color print out, so it is also used by photographers and graphic designer

Ø It is used for printing signs, billboards, T-shirts, and more.

Examples of Inkjet Printer

Inkjet printer is an example of non impact printer that means this printer is able to produce printout without hitting a ribbon. Below some examples of this types of printers–

Canon Inkjet Printers

IMAGEPROGRAFIPF670
IMAGEPROGRAFIPF680

HP Inkjet Printers

DESKJET460
DESKJET460CB
DESKJET5740

Dell Inkjet Printers

Ø A942, A944, A946, A962, A964

Brother Inkjet Printers

DCPJ4110DW
MFCJ4410DW
MFCJ4510DW

DOT MATRIX PRINTERS

How They Work?

Dot matrix printers have moving heads that print what you want line by line. It punches holes through the ribbon and leaves marks — the printout — on the paper.

Surpassing typewriters, these printers are capable of intricate symbols and are not restricted to a pre-set template. This lets the printer produce different fonts in different sections of the paper.

Feature Variations

Dot Matrix Printers comes under the category of Impact Printers– Let’s go thoroughly-

Impact Printers

For printing documents; they use key that hit through the ink ribbon which later produce output on the print on the paper; that’s why it is called the Impact Printers.

Impact printers are of three types Dot Matrix Printer, Daisy Wheel Printer, Line printer, etc.

Impact Printers are of Three Types:

Dot- Matrix Printers

At the same time, many pins strike simultaneously to create the character on the print head. Each pin in the vertical group is 7, 9, 10, 14, 18, and 21.

Each one, when printed, makes a character just down from the pins where it strikes. Once the character prints, the print head moves forward to print the next character.

Daisy Wheel Printers

This Printer also has a head that hits the head with ink through the ribbon, and then any of the characters are printed.

In fact the dot matrix printer and daisy wheel printer consist of single difference which is mention below–

Daisy Wheel printer Design

Line Printer

It can print 3000 lines in a minute which is the highest speed of all impact printers.

With this type of Printer, you are not printing a single character but printing an entire line, which is why it is called a line printer.

Line-per-minute (LPM) is a measure of the speed of the Printer.

With this Printer, you can print 3000 lines a minute. Printing bank statements, large company product shipments, product invoices, and large books using this type of printer is common in banks.

LASER PRINTERS

How a laser printer works and its printing steps?

Following are the steps a laser printer takes to print–

Ø Cleaning

Ø This process removes the prior image information and toner from the drum.

Ø Conditioning

Ø The corona wire applies a uniform, positive charge to the photoreceptor drum.

Ø Writing

Ø Developing

Ø The toner in the ink roller is ionized with a positive charge, attracting it to negatively charged areas on the drum.

Ø Transfer

Ø Fusing

Ø Heat and pressure are applied to the paper and toner by two fuser units. The toner melts and is pressed into the paper like doing an iron-on transfer to a T-shirt.

› THERMAL PRINTERS

v There are two types of Thermal Printers: Thermal Transfer & Direct Thermal.

MOBILE PRINTERS

DESKTOP PRINTERS

INDUSTRIAL PRINTERS

Industrial Printers

PRINT ENGINES

Print engines are used in manufacturing, shipping and fulfillment environments to produce labels.

Print engines & modules

What is barcode resolution/DPI?

In a few words, barcode resolution is the overall quality of your barcode image measured in pixels per inch (PPI) on screen, and in DPI when printed onto your media—but what does that mean to you?

Does Barcode DPI Matter?

So yes, DPI does matter.

Size Matters-

Print & Apply Printer

Print & Apply Systems recommend some advantages distinctly for the logistics sector: When products or packaging need to be labeled with variable data, safety is a top priority. When printing address and shipping labels and individual identification labels with variable data as well as when printing and dispensing a complete shipping label with graphics and common code types (data matrix, barcode, QR code etc.), uncompromising quality is paramount.

If you need label products and Printers with different dimensions, no matter what type of printing method you prefer, MINDWARE provides you all the solutions and will not let you down. In case of any queries you can contact us - +91 9810822688 e-mail: gm@indianbarcode.com

Print & Apply Machine

Features of Label Print and Apply machines

This machines can come in 3 label width sizes: 4-inch, 5-inch, and 6-inch

This machine can apply labels with direct wipe-on method

Optional add-on modules: Blow-on, Tamp-On, Swing-On

It’s feature is fully integrated electronics and common interfaces

These machines have ribbon-save, which minimizes the use of thermal transfer ribbon when printing long labels

This machine is compatible with the off-line desktop Chess-64 printer range

This machine come with the ALS unique 2-Year, on-site warranty

This machine feature the ALS lifetime print-head warranty, when used with ALS labels and ribbons

Benefits of Print & Apply Machines

Reduced Labor Costs -

A trusted systems integrator can help you understand your different options for automated print and apply, while choosing the system that will best integrate with your other manual and automated systems.

RFID System

How does RFID work?

Types of RFID systems

There are also two broad categories of systems: passive RFID and active RFID. In the following sections we will see the different frequencies and types of RFID systems.

RFID frequencies

Frequency refers to the size of the wave that is used to communicate the different components of the system. RFID systems that exist in the world operate in low frequency, high frequency or hyper high frequency. Let’s go thoroughly-

Low frequency (LF) RFID

Low Frequency -MINDWARE Clear Disc Tag

High frequency (HF) RFID

High Frequency Library Tag (MINDWARE Icode Label)

Ultra high frequency (UHF) RFID

MINDWARE Mini UHF Metal Tag

Differences between RFID Frequencies- LF/HF/UHF/

Low Frequency TAGS	High Frequency TAGS	Ultra High Frequency TAGS
The LF band covers frequencies between 30 KHz to 300Khz	The high-frequency band is able to cover frequencies from 3 MHz (Megahertz) to 30 MHz.	UHF systems cover frequency ranges from 300MHz to 3Ghz.
Usually, low-frequency RFID systems operate right around 125 KHz.	High-frequency RFID systems operate around 13.56 MHz	Ultra-high frequency systems operate around 900 to 915 MHz
Low Frequency can be used in moist situations.	HF bands can also operate in moist conditions.	UHF is generally more degraded by moisture than lower bands, such as VHF TV signals.
Low-frequency RFID applications can be used for access control and livestock tracking, which is a great benefit.	High-frequency RFID has the use for data transfer applications, ticketing, and payment.	UHF tags are often used in parking control and racing where time-marking is crucial, it is also used on docks, in warehouses and on showroom floors.
This frequency band provides a short read range of only 10 cm, but it is not very sensitive to radio wave interference.	High-frequency systems tend to experience reading ranges of 10cm and 1m. moderate sensitivity to radio-wave interference	Out of the three frequencies, the ultra-high frequency is the most sensitive to interference. UHF RFID reading systems can reach more than 12 meters
Low- and high-frequency tags work better on products with water and metal.	Both Low & High-frequency tags work better on products with water and metal.	Tracking metal products or those with high water content, with passive RFID UHF tags can be challenging.

The LF band covers frequencies between 120 – 150 KHz under water

The HF band covers frequencies between 13.56MHz under water.

The UHF band covers frequencies between 433MHz, 868-928MHz under water.

Low Frequency can be theoretically used for the underwater identification of items.

High Frequency RFID can be used under water only for short range solution.

Ultra High Frequency is too high to allow its use also for underwater contactless application.

Passive and active RFID systems

	ACTIVE RFID	PASSIVE RFID	BATTERY ASSISTED PASSIVE (BAP)
Tag Power Source	Internal to Tag	Energy Transfer from the reader via RF	Tag uses internal power source to power on, and energy transferred from the reader via RF to backscatter.
Tag Battery	Yes	NO	Yes
Availability of Tag Power	Continuous	Only within the field reader	Only within the field reader
Required Signal Strength from Tag to reader	High	Very Low	Moderate
Communication Range	Long Range (100cm or more)	Short Range (up to 10cm)	Moderate range ( up to 100cm)
Sensor capability	Availability continuously monitor and record sensor input	Ability to read and transfer sensor values only when tag is powered by reader.	Ability to read and transfer sensor values only when Tag receives RF signal from reader.

Uses of RFID-

Some common uses for RFID applications include: 1. Pet and livestock tracking using RFID Solution by MINDWARE.

MAXIMUM RANGE OF RFID

RFID Chip

Contact less entry keys.

How do you detect an RFID Chip?

In order to detect RFID chips, you must have a RFID chip reader that can send and receive the signals transmitted by the RFID tags.

At first, obtain an RFID chip reader at a specialized online or local electronic retailer.

Medical use for RFID Chip-

Inventory Control

Equipment Tracking

Personnel Tracking

Providing data for electronic medical record system

Monitoring Patients

Preventing the distribution of drugs

RFID Inlays, RFID Tags, RFID Labels

In regards to an RFID tag, various terminologies are often used including RFID Inlays, RFID Labels & RFID Tags, so here are the differences between – RFID inlays, RFID Tags & RFID labels.

RFID Inlay:

An RFID Inlay is just the RFID Chip (IC), Tag Antenna and Substrate, typically on a film face. If the substrate has adhesive it’s called a “Wet Inlay”. Otherwise, it’s called a Dry Inlay.

Dry Inlay Wet Inlay

RFID Label:

If an RFID Inlay in embedded into paper label, it is reference to as an RFID Label or Smart Label.

RFID Tag:

RFID Chip (or Integrated Circuit): Responsible data storage as well as handling processing logic based on the respective protocol.
Tag Antenna: Responsible for receiving and transmitting the signal from the interrogator (AKA RFID Reader). Typically takes up the largest amount of space.
Substrate : Holds everything together.

Now! When we package everything together, there are difference terms that may be used.

If you have any questions regarding what RFID Tag would be right for your use Contact MINDWARE. Contact no. +91 9810822688 e-mail: gm@indianbarcode.com

RFID & Barcodes

· Barcodes and RFID have many similarities including-

· Barcodes and RFID tags allow you to track objects with ease.

· Both can store data which can be easily read.

· You can read information using both fixed and mobile scanners.

However there are many differences between RFID and Barcodes.

Differences between RFID and Barcodes –

ü Barcodes can only be scanned one at a time, unlike RFID which multiple tags can be scanned at once using a single scanner.

ü Barcodes are limited by the type and volume of data that can be store, while RFID allows for up to 2,000 bytes of data to be stored with a single tag.

Now the question is which is good Barcodes or RFID?

RFID Printer

Industrial RFID Printer

RFID PRINTER ENCODER

RFID READER

How does RFID reader work?

WI-FI RFID Reader

RFID Technology for Packaging & Shipping

REFERENCES

· Barcode Wikipedia

· Britannica-Oracle

· net suit

· technopedia

· Jagran josh

· Adazon Blog

· http://www.barcodesaigon.com/

· www.conveyco.com

Mindware RFID Solution and other Barcode Solution

v Code 128

Aztec Code

Common Use Cases for Metal Tags-

Now the question is How to register your barcode?

IS BARCODE REGISTRATION MANDATORY?

Examples of Inkjet Printer

Canon Inkjet Printers

HP Inkjet Printers

Dell Inkjet Printers

Brother Inkjet Printers

How They Work?

Feature Variations

How a laser printer works and its printing steps?

Ø Cleaning

Ø Conditioning

Ø Writing

Ø Developing

Ø Transfer

Ø Fusing

› THERMAL PRINTERS

Size Matters-

If you need label products and Printers with different dimensions, no matter what type of printing method you prefer, MINDWARE provides you all the solutions and will not let you down. In case of any queries you can contact us - +91 9810822688 e-mail: gm@indianbarcode.com

Reduced Labor Costs -

A trusted systems integrator can help you understand your different options for automated print and apply, while choosing the system that will best integrate with your other manual and automated systems.

How does RFID work?

RFID frequencies

Frequency refers to the size of the wave that is used to communicate the different components of the system. RFID systems that exist in the world operate in low frequency, high frequency or hyper high frequency. Let’s go thoroughly-

High frequency (HF) RFID

RFID Inlays, RFID Tags, RFID Labels

RFID Inlay:

RFID Label:

RFID Tag:

v Code 128

Aztec Code

Common Use Cases for Metal Tags-

Now the question is How to register your barcode?

IS BARCODE REGISTRATION MANDATORY?

Examples of Inkjet Printer

Canon Inkjet Printers

HP Inkjet Printers

Dell Inkjet Printers

Brother Inkjet Printers

How They Work?

Feature Variations

How a laser printer works and its printing steps?

Ø Cleaning

Ø Conditioning

Ø Writing

Ø Developing

Ø Transfer

Ø Fusing

› THERMAL PRINTERS

Size Matters-

If you need label products and Printers with different dimensions, no matter what type of printing method you prefer, MINDWARE provides you all the solutions and will not let you down. In case of any queries you can contact us - +91 9810822688 e-mail: gm@indianbarcode.com

Reduced Labor Costs -

A trusted systems integrator can help you understand your different options for automated print and apply, while choosing the system that will best integrate with your other manual and automated systems.

How does RFID work?

RFID frequencies

Frequency refers to the size of the wave that is used to communicate the different components of the system. RFID systems that exist in the world operate in low frequency, high frequency or hyper high frequency. Let’s go thoroughly-

High frequency (HF) RFID

RFID Inlays, RFID Tags, RFID Labels

RFID Inlay:

RFID Label:

RFID Tag:

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