The creation of barcodes should in reality be the easy bit, the harder part should be the database and the accurate reading of the barcode. However this is of course all insignificant if the barcode itself is not correct. Despite the simple appearance of barcodes, especially Code 39 barcodes, it is all too easy to forget the simply rules which allow for the barcodes to be read. Just as with any language, be it in computing or something as ‘simple’ as every day English, certain rules must be obeyed.
Although a barcode generator will often ensure that these procedures are followed fonts are often used to create barcodes. It is in these instances that the ‘stop’ and ‘start’ characters are often forgotten or the number of bars is not correct. This can lead to the frustrating situation of a perfectly normal looking barcode failing to be read.
The rules though are very simple, as is the beauty of Code 3 of 9. For more information on what constitutes a correct Code 39 barcode visit the Bardecode Knowledge Base on our website.
Anything else you want to know about barcodes? Just ask and we will endeavour to add it to our knowledge base.
Jack
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