Barcode Labels Are Evolving – Here’s How

June 7th 2018 15:00:00 PM

Barcode labels have experienced very little change since they were first introduced in the 20^th century. The 12-digit UPC code, which is the series of numbers with lines of varying thickness that you scan with a barcode scanner, is the industry standard, and usually referred to as “one-dimensional barcodes” because they’re read with a one-dimensional laser line.

However, as supply chains grow in complexity, the need for longer, more complex information transmitted through barcodes remains. Futuristic barcode labels with two-dimensions or more can share exponentially more information. How much more? You can store 7,000+ characters on a 2D barcode.

The good news is that traditional photo recognition software can read these complex 2D barcodes. There are also many benefits from using the futuristic 2D barcodes:

• Unlimited directional reads – which speeds your scanning activities
• Stores more information in less space than a one-dimensional barcode – which can help you track and trace more information
• Any camera can scan a 2D barcode, including your mobile device – which means you already have the tools you need to succeed

Barcodes have evolved even further. Newer, 3D barcodes invented by National Physical Laboratory are described as “nanobarcodes printed on microscopic adhesive cubes.” These tiny particles contain 90,000 small squares etched into the surface of a cube at varying depths. An automated microscope must read it, so it’s not practical for warehouse work, but … it leads the imagination into many new possibilities.

Although the future looks bright for barcodes, the traditional one-dimensional barcode is still the standard for a reason. It’s reliable, proven, and cost effective. It also works perfectly with Sage 100. Even better, your warehouse can start using barcode labels almost immediately when you get fully integrated barcode label printing software and scanning technology from Scanco.

Contact Scanco online or at (330) 645-9959 to schedule your free consultation and learn more about barcode labels and barcode scanners for the warehouse and beyond.