Tag: barcodes

Types of barcode printers and how they differ from label printers

Post author By Admin
Post date May 25, 2024

In today’s business world, cutting costs, automating tasks, and boosting efficiency are top priorities. Gone are the days when businesses, big or small, relied on manual data entry by clerks. Now, barcode printing and scanning are essential for businesses of all sizes.

Barcode printers aren’t like your usual printers. They’re specialized computer tools designed for printing labels or tags that stick onto packages or directly onto products. These printers can create adhesive labels for packaging or retail items, printing barcodes on various surfaces.

Barcodes can be printed using two main techniques: direct thermal and thermal transfer. In direct thermal printing, heat from a pinhead activates a chemical reaction in special paper, turning it black. Thermal transfer, on the other hand, transfers ink from a ribbon to the paper using heat without reacting with the paper.

There are various types of barcode printers to choose from, each suited to different business needs. These types differ in print quality, maintenance costs, initial investment, and other factors.

Types of barcode printers

Dot Matrix – Dot matrix printing is an established, cost-effective technology suitable for businesses with high-volume printing needs and lower quality expectations. These printers are durable, low-maintenance, and capable of printing on diverse surfaces, though their output lacks water and chemical resistance.

Inkjet – High-speed production settings often utilize inkjet printers for barcode printing. These printers, though costly and complex to install, provide excellent print quality. They require constant oversight to maintain optimal performance.

Laser – Laser printers, similar to photocopiers, are capable of producing high-quality text and graphics on both labels and paper. These versatile printers can also function as document printers. Their labels are easily read by infrared scanners but are not designed for industrial use.

Thermal – Thermal printers, including direct and transfer types, dominate the manufacturing sector due to their ability to produce highly durable labels. These labels withstand environmental stresses, maintain scan-ability over time, and can be printed in flexible quantities to prevent waste.

Comparing Barcode Printers and Label Printers

The terms “label printers” and “barcode printers” are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Here’s a comparison to highlight their differences:

Intended Use – Label printers are designed to print labels, tags, and other small documents. Barcode printers, however, are specifically designed to print barcodes on labels, paper, or adhesive materials.

Printing Technology – The technology used in printing affects the cost and quality of the output. Label printers typically use direct thermal and thermal transfer technologies. Barcode printers usually employ direct thermal printing, with the option for thermal transfer at a higher cost.

Print Speed and Resolution – Print speed depends on various factors, including resolution and printer model. Label printers generally have faster speeds and a wider range of resolutions for different applications. Higher resolutions result in clearer images but take longer to print. Barcode printers tend to have lower resolutions but can offer higher resolutions for detailed graphics.

Size and Weight – Label printers are built for industrial settings, making them bulky and heavy, constructed from durable materials to withstand tough environments. Barcode printers are generally smaller, lighter, and portable, ideal for desktop or mobile use.

There exist several distinctions between barcode printers and label printers, allowing businesses to select based on their specific needs. Both types offer features advantageous to certain businesses, underscoring the importance of clear understanding before deciding.

TVS Electronics offers a diverse range of barcode printers and label printers, allowing businesses to choose according to their printing volume, quality, and durability requirements.

Tags barcode label stickers, barcodes

barcode label printer barcode label scanners barcode label sticker

How to Choose the Right Barcode Label

Post author By Admin
Post date May 25, 2024

Barcode labels are important stickers that help keep track of things like inventory and equipment. They’re used in different industries like healthcare, technology, construction, schools, stores, and more.

But how do you know which barcode label is right for your business? There are different kinds of barcode labels. They vary based on whether they work with your barcode printer and how well they stick. If you pick the wrong one, it can be expensive and cause problems. When choosing a barcode label maker in India, there are a few things to think about. Keep reading to find out what they are.

Key Things to Think About When Picking a Barcode Label

There are many things to think about when choosing the right barcode label for your product. Things like temperature, chemicals, weather, surface, and how long it needs to last all matter. Knowing about each of these things will help you pick the right label and avoid making a mistake.

Surface:

This is really important when choosing a barcode sticker. If the surface is smooth or curved, it affects how well the sticker sticks. Different materials like paper, plastic, or metal stick differently.

Size:

The size of the sticker is really important. It affects how much it costs and how much you can save.

Adhesive:

This is another thing to think about when picking a barcode label. Some stickers are supposed to stay on for a long time, while others are just for a little while. You shouldn’t use strong adhesive on stickers that you’ll only use temporarily.

Label Lifespan:

If your sticker needs to stay readable for a long time, it’ll probably get rubbed, wet, or exposed to chemicals. If it doesn’t need to last long, you don’t need a super tough sticker. In that case, a simple paper sticker will do.

Barcode Label Printer Compatibility:

Printing barcodes using thermal methods is the most reliable and common way. There are two main types of thermal printers: direct thermal and thermal transfer. Both make good quality barcodes, but they work differently and are picked based on what you need them for.

Direct Thermal:

When you print barcodes using direct thermal printing, the printer uses a special kind of ink instead of ink ribbons. The printer head heats up, making the ink visible on the label. Since heat is what makes the ink show up, the label won’t last in very hot temperatures, moisture, or sunlight. Direct thermal printers make good quality labels that are best for short-term use, like packing labels.

This shows that the kind of barcode label you pick depends on the kind of printer you have, and vice versa.

Thermal Transfer:

In thermal transfer printing, the printer melts ink onto the barcode label using a special ribbon with ink. This method makes labels that last longer than direct thermal printing, perfect for situations where labels need to survive tough conditions. Labels printed with thermal transfer printers can handle smudges, scratches, moisture, extreme heat, and sunlight. If you don’t use this printing method, your barcode labels might wear out over time, causing mistakes and reading errors.

Types of Materials for Barcode Labels:

Different barcode label materials have their own good and bad points, which decide where they’re best used. With thermal transfer printing, it’s important to match the label material with the right ribbon type. If you don’t, your labels might smudge or not print properly. Here’s a closer look at the materials for barcode labels and the ribbons that go with them.

Paper Barcode Labels:

Paper labels with wax ribbon printing can last a long time if they’re used indoors and taken care of. They work best on smooth, dry surfaces and should be kept away from extreme temperatures, liquids, and sunlight. Paper labels are easy to take off and break down over time. They’re often used on indoor items like folders and product labels. They’re easy to scan and don’t fade or rub off easily.

Polypropylene Barcode Labels:

Polypropylene labels are synthetic and tougher than paper labels. Printing them with a wax/resin ribbon makes them look good and can have a clear or matte finish. These labels resist bad weather, scratches, and tearing, and sometimes they can resist chemicals and oil. They’re great for sturdy materials but can’t handle being squeezed, stretched, or soaked in water. They’re water-resistant but not waterproof. So, they’re not the best choice if your products will be in water a lot or in very humid places.

Polyester Barcode Labels:

Polyester labels printed with resin ribbon are really tough. They can handle high temperatures and are often used outdoors. They resist scratches, chemicals, water, and bad weather.

These labels make barcodes that last a long time and are easy to read. You can choose between a matte or white finish, depending on what you like.

Choosing the Right Barcode Label Type:

When picking a barcode label, think about what you need. Consider the environment and surface where the label will go. The label’s stickiness should match where it’ll be used, especially if it’s humid or hot. How long it needs to last also matters.

There are three main types of barcode labels:

Permanent:

These labels stick on and stay there. They’re good for things like wood, plastic, metal, and glass.

Removable:

These labels are for temporary use. They come off without damaging the product.

High Tack:

These labels are super sticky and meant to stay put, even on uneven or dirty surfaces. They’re not meant to come off easily.

If you need help picking the right barcode label, talk to our experts at Sun Data Processing Pvt. Ltd. We can make sure you get the right label for your needs. Schedule a free consultation today to find out how we can help.

Tags barcode label stickers, Barcode Scanner, barcodes

barcode label printer barcode label scanners

Learn how barcodes function: we’ve got the answers to your questions.

Post author By Admin
Post date May 22, 2024

Barcodes and SKUs play vital roles in retail operations. While they may seem natural to experienced staff, newcomers often struggle to grasp their functions, including those of UPCs. This post aims to demystify their workings, explaining their distinctions, functions, and advantages.

What exactly is a barcode?

A barcode is a graphic containing parallel black and white bars readable by a barcode scanner.

Barcodes are affixed to products for rapid identification. They serve various purposes, commonly in retail during purchases, in warehouses for inventory tracking, and on invoices to aid in accounting.

What is a barcode scanner?

A barcode scanner, also known as a barcode reader, is a device designed to capture and interpret the data encoded within a barcode. Typically, barcode scanners comprise four main components:

Light source: This illuminates the barcode to enable accurate reading and decoding.
Lens: It scans the barcode.
Photoconductor: This converts optical signals into electrical ones.
Decoder: This analyzes the barcode’s data and sends it to the scanner’s output port.

Once the information is captured, barcode scanners connect to a host computer or tablet, transmitting the data in real-time without requiring additional human intervention. This automation helps retailers streamline processes such as inventory tracking and point-of-sale transactions, reducing errors and enhancing efficiency.

How exactly do barcodes function?

A barcode is a method of encoding information into a visual pattern consisting of black lines and white spaces, which can be interpreted by a machine, such as a barcode scanner.

The arrangement of black and white bars, known as elements, corresponds to different text characters based on a predetermined algorithm specific to that barcode type.

When scanned by a barcode scanner, this pattern is translated into a text line comprehensible to your retail point-of-sale system.

Types of barcodes

Barcodes are categorized into two types: one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D).

These categories can be subdivided into specific types, such as the one-dimensional Universal Product Codes (UPC) or the two-dimensional QR codes.

One-dimensional (1D) barcodes

One-dimensional (1D) barcodes consist of black and white bars capable of storing information such as a product’s type, size, and color.

These barcodes, like UPCs found on product packaging, aid in tracking packages through delivery services such as UPS, FedEx, the US Postal Service, and Canada Post.

Two-dimensional (2D) barcodes

Two-dimensional (2D) barcodes are more intricate compared to 1D barcodes. They have the capacity to encode additional information beyond mere text, such as price, inventory levels, and even product images. QR codes represent a type of 2D barcode, as do Aztec codes, which are commonly utilized on flight or concert tickets.

Although not all barcode scanners are equipped to read 2D barcodes, Lightspeed Retail POS is compatible with various wireless barcode scanners that have 2D barcode support.

What about three-dimensional (3D) barcodes?

You might be familiar with 3D barcodes, the latest addition to the barcode scene. Essentially, they are similar to 2D barcodes, but instead of information being encoded through an image, 3D barcodes utilize three-dimensional shapes like engravings. These barcodes necessitate specialized scanners and are not commonly encountered in retail environments.

The advantages of utilizing barcodes

While initially developed to expedite sales and transactions, barcodes offer several additional advantages.

1. Enhanced Accuracy:

Barcodes ensure greater precision in processing product data compared to manual entry, minimizing the risk of human error.

2. Real-Time Data:

The rapid processing speed of barcode information enables instant access to inventory levels and sales data.

3. Reduced Training Needs:

The simplicity of barcode scanners—requiring only point-and-click actions—means employees require minimal training to operate them effectively.

4. Improved Inventory Management:

With heightened accuracy and real-time data, retailers can conduct faster cycle counts and make more precise estimates of inventory turnover.

5. Cost-Effective Implementation:

Barcode generation is swift and uncomplicated. Moreover, the expedited transaction speed and enhanced accuracy of inventory and sales data lead to anticipated cost savings for retailers post-implementation.

What is a Universal Product Code (UPC)?

A universal product code (UPC) is a code printed on the packaging of retail products to aid in identification. Although predominantly utilized in North America, they are also employed globally in e-commerce.

A UPC comprises two components: the machine-readable barcode, consisting of black bars, and a distinctive 12-digit number positioned beneath the barcode.

Parts of a UPC

To obtain a UPC for product usage, companies must apply through GS1 US, the organization responsible for managing and assigning UPCs in the United States.

Upon payment of the application fee, GS1 assigns a six-digit manufacturer identification number, constituting the first six digits of the UPC for all of the company’s products, identifying the manufacturer.

The subsequent five digits of the UPC represent the item number, uniquely identifying the product. Each company should designate an individual responsible for issuing item numbers, ensuring their uniqueness and discontinuing their use for obsolete products.

Given that most consumer products come in various sizes, colors, etc., each variation necessitates its own item number. For instance, a box of medium-sized t-shirts would have a distinct item number from that of the same t-shirt in small size.

The final digit of the 12-digit UPC is the check digit, calculated by adding and multiplying several numbers from the UPC code. It serves to verify the validity of the UPC to the barcode scanner. An incorrect check digit results in improper scanning of the UPC code.

UPCs vs. SKUs

Although UPCs and stock keeping units (SKUs) have similarities, they are distinct entities.

A UPC, or universal product code, serves to identify a product irrespective of its point of sale. For instance, a t-shirt purchased online or from a local retailer sharing the same product will bear the same UPC.

Conversely, a SKU is an internal inventory code unique to each company. Comparing the SKU of identical products across different stores would reveal differences.

To differentiate between a UPC and SKU, note that the UPC is the barcode label on a product’s packaging, while the SKU is typically found on a store’s pricing shelf.

When searching for a product online, using its UPC enables you to locate it across various retailers, whereas the SKU restricts the search to the business using that specific code.

UPCs are valuable for suppliers and manufacturers to monitor inventory sold to different retail outlets, whereas SKUs aid merchants in inventory management tailored to their business needs.

Both SKUs and UPCs offer advantages to retailers: SKUs for their customization and UPCs for their universality. Many businesses employ a combination of both systems.

Comparing barcode scanners: laser vs. charged coupled device (CCD) vs. camera-based

When choosing a barcode scanner, retailers typically consider three main types: laser, CCD, and camera-based scanners.

Laser scanners are known for their accuracy and speed, making them well-suited for busy environments with high scanning volumes, such as supermarkets and warehouses. While they come at a moderate to high cost, their efficiency and durability justify the investment.

CCD scanners, on the other hand, are more budget-friendly and ideal for short-range scanning. They are commonly used in smaller retail settings where cost is a significant factor. However, they are limited in their ability to read from screens, which may restrict their usefulness in certain modern retail setups.

Camera-based scanners offer the greatest versatility, capable of reading both 1D barcodes and 2D QR codes from various angles, including from screens. This makes them particularly suitable for retailers implementing mobile payment or loyalty programs. Although they are typically the most expensive option, their adaptability and functionality make them a worthwhile investment, especially in dynamic retail environments.

How to create your own barcodes

Here’s a simplified guide to using barcodes:

1. Determine the type of barcode that best fits your needs. 1D barcodes are suitable for basic inventory tracking, while 2D barcodes provide more detailed information.

2. If necessary, acquire a unique manufacturer identification number from a GS1 member organization to ensure global uniqueness of your barcodes.

3. Use a barcode generation tool to input your product details and create printable barcodes for labeling your items.

4. Test your barcodes with your scanners to confirm compatibility and readability. This proactive approach ensures smooth inventory processes, improving overall efficiency and accuracy.

Here are some commonly asked questions about barcodes:

1. How do barcodes encode data?

Barcodes encode data by varying the widths and spaces of parallel lines (in 1D barcodes) or using patterns of geometric shapes (in 2D barcodes). This encoded data is then decoded by a barcode scanner.

2. Can two products share the same barcode?

Ideally, each product should have a unique barcode (such as UPC or EAN) to ensure accurate tracking and inventory management, thus avoiding confusion.

3. Do barcode scanners only read black bars?

Barcode scanners read both the black bars and the white spaces between them. The contrast between black and white enables the scanner to decode the information accurately.

4. Can I generate my own barcodes?

Yes, you can create barcodes for internal use, like inventory tracking with SKUs. However, for retail purposes requiring a unique identifier (like UPCs), you should obtain a unique code from a GS1 member organization.

5. What do the first two digits of a barcode signify?

In EAN-13 or UPC barcodes, the first two digits typically represent the manufacturer’s country code, although it’s more about where the manufacturer’s business is registered than geographical location.

6. How is barcode information read?

Barcode information is read by a scanner using light to translate the barcode into digital data. The scanner then sends this data to a computer or cash register for processing.

7. Are all barcodes 13 digits long?

No, EAN-13 barcodes consist of 13 digits, but UPC-A barcodes have 12 digits. Other barcode formats may vary in length depending on their specifications.

8. What is the standard encoding for barcodes?

Retail barcodes typically adhere to either the UPC (Universal Product Code) or EAN (International Article Number) standards. UPC is prevalent in North America, while EAN is used globally. Other standards like Code 128 and QR codes are utilized for different purposes, depending on the application.

Tags Barcode Scanner, barcodes