One-dimensional barcodes are composed of a single row of bars in which data are coded horizontally. Both the overall size of the barcode and its shape are key features that guarantee the readability of the data, including in adverse physical conditions or when the label is damaged. In some cases it is possible to increase the amount of data contained in the one-dimensional barcode by making it wider. However, the width quickly reaches a limit beyond which reading the code becomes difficult.
Used for
Tracking/Tracing
Suitable for
Small products
Medium-sized products
Large products
Goes on
Product
Packaging
Can be used for
Physical products
Visibility
Visible
Invisible
Reading device needed
Yes
Connection to server
Yes
Description
There are several standard types of one-dimensional barcode. They are almost always accompanied by a plain text version of the code to give a ‘human-readable’ label as well. Each type of barcode has a particular set of permitted characters (e.g. numerical, alphanumeric, special characters) and, in some cases, a maximum number of characters or digits (e.g. Code 128 can encode up to 128 different symbols, Code 39 up to 39, etc.). Other types of barcode have fixed code lengths, e.g. EAN 13 has a fixed length of 13 digits, UPC A has a fixed length of 12 digits.
When one-dimensional barcodes are scanned, the reader will connect to the relevant database to retrieve the information.
Uses
One-dimensional barcodes are widespread throughout the world and can be used on almost all kinds of goods.
Implementation
One-dimensional barcodes can easily be attached to products either via adhesive labels or by printing them directly onto the products or packaging. If you want to print barcodes directly onto your product(s), you will need to ensure that you have the appropriate processes in place to do this during packaging/printing or at any other relevant stage of the production chain.
Cost
Costs are limited to the price of printing the barcodes and, where applicable, the adhesive labels. Generating barcodes is quick and easy, as is installing a barcode system.