Barcodes:

A Barcode comprises a series of parallel bars and spaces. The combinations of widths represent numeric and / or alpha numeric data which is scanned into business control systems.

The prime purposes of a barcode are:

• To allow instant data input / verification without incurring manual input / keystroke time.
• Consequently it also avoids human keystroke errors. Additionally, a check digit can be incorporated into the barcode to validate the barcode content and ensure that scanning is correct.
  During the last 30 years, different barcode style have been generally adopted and developed for certain business sectors:
  
  Eg: CODE 39 - Government, Manufacturing
        EAN 128 - Distribution, Wholesale, Retail
  
  There are many more. Recent developments include 2 dimensional barcodes which can represent a considerable volume of information being compacted down to a very small area of barcode.

Barcode Quality:

It all works very well...provided that the barcode scans first time and every time.
The supermarket check-out is probably everyone's experience of barcode scanning failures. The remedy is counter productive, it involves:

• Time consuming manual keystrokes.
• The consequential risk of human keyboard errors.

Barcode Problems / Failures - Common Causes:

• Barcode not printed to the correct specification.
• Poor quality print definition caused by the barcode print and/or substrate material.
• Barcode print not adhering to the substrate.
• Barcode print not resistant to damage from handling (scuffing) or moisture.
• Insufficient contrast between barcode print and substrate material.
• Barcodes missing or duplicated caused by imperfect production techniques.

Support Services for Barcode Problems:

A service is offered to answer your BARCODE questions e.g.

• Existing repeat jobs - Identification and specification of Barcode type and style.
• New Proposals - Recommend appropriate barcode for clients application / industry along with the correct specification for the clients proposed stationery.
• Barcode failures - Send us a sample, we have the equipment and expertise to identify the cause(s).

The helpline services are free to the Trade and are without obligation.

Quality Production:

• 360 to 480 d.p.i. barcode resolution.
• Waterproof barcodes (optional)
• Laserproof barcodes (optional)
• Excellent adhesion
• Barcode printing verified throughout production.

Barcode Stationery:

Paper, card and label BARCODED products are available in all of the following formats.

• Continous 1 to 4 part - 38 form depths
• Cut sets, pads, books.
• Labels, piggy back labels.