More Than Just Black and White: What is Barcode?

Published: 03/20/2025

FAQ: How do I integrate my Barcode printer into my network?

Answer: All Barcode printers have the option to upgrade into Ethernet modules to connect to any network, Wireless, and LAN. However, the Industrial Printer normally comes with an Ethernet module included in the MLB

FAQ: How many meters of Ribbon can load in a Barcode Printer?

Answer: Options for label ribbon range from 75m to 450m

Ever peeped at those stripy black and white labels on, like, everything? From your fave snacks to your new kicks, they're everywhere! They might look simple, but they're secretly super smart. We're talking barcodes, and they're a total game-changer for how businesses keep track of their stuff, manage what's in stock, and even how you pay for your goodies.

So, what is a barcode, really? Think of it as a secret code that machines can read using light. It's like turning information into a visual language that computers understand. We usually picture those lines and spaces, but they can also be dots, squares, and other shapes.

The whole point? To identify something or tell you something about the product. Pretty neat, huh?

A Quick Barcode History Lesson (Because Why Not?)

Barcodes have been around longer than you might think:

It was invented by Norman Joseph Woodland and Bernard Silver.
1951: They got a patent! Inspired by Morse code.
Late 1960s: Railroads used a color-based barcode system (KarTrak ACI) to keep track of their trains. Talk about retro tech!
1973: George Laurer (an IBM genius) created the UPC barcode – the one we seeeverywhere today.
1974: Wrigley’s gum made history as the first barcoded product, scanned in a store in Troy, Ohio USA.
1988: Intermec Technologies Corp. brought us 2D barcodes.

Barcode Types: A Quick Guide

There are different types of barcodes, each with its own superpower:

1D Barcodes: These are the classic stripes you see most often. Think UPC codes (like on your groceries) and EAN codes. They’re like the OG barcodes, holding basic info, usually just a product number.
2D Barcodes: These are the more complex barcodes. They can hold way more info, like website addresses, text, and even pictures! Think QR codes (those square ones you scan with your phone) and Data Matrix codes. They’re like the superheroes of the barcode world.

Why are Barcodes So Awesome?

Let's break it down:

Speed: They make everything faster, from checkout lines to shipping packages. Scanning is way quicker than typing.
Accuracy: They’re super accurate. A barcode scanner rarely makes mistakes, unlike us humans.
Easy to Use: Barcode systems are simple to set up and use.
Saves Money: Because they boost speed and accuracy, they save businesses some serious cash.

Imagine a busy warehouse. Boxes are stacked high, and workers are rushing to fulfill orders. In the old days, they'd have to write down product numbers, which was slow and prone to errors. But now, with barcodes, it's a breeze! A worker just scans the barcode on a box, and all the information is instantly recorded. It's like magic!

Want to bring the barcode magic to your business?

Hit up Barcotech! We’ll help you figure out the best barcode solutions for your needs. Whether you need a simple 1D barcode scanner for your retail store or a more advanced 2D barcode reader for your warehouse, Barcotech has got you covered!

Check out our range of barcode products here.