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Introduction to bar code labeling
What is a bar code?
A bar code is an optical machine-readable representation of numerical data. In simpler terms, it's an identification number for a unique item that can be read and translated by a computer.
Why use bar code identification?
We use bar codes because they allows for quick and accurate identification processing for all types of items. Instead of having to manually type every unique item number into the system when performing transactions, you simply scan the item's bar code label and the computer identifies the unique number automatically.
When examining your bar code labels, you may notice a number like 5000-1 beneath the bar code. This number represents the item's unique identity in your tracking system. If you wanted to, you could manually enter that number and perform transactions on that item in the system. However, scanning the item's bar code gives you the same result but is much faster and removes the possibility of entering the wrong number.
Bar code label customization
Tracker Products bar code labels are completely customizable. They can be printed in many shapes and sizes and can display many categories of item or case information. The only necessary element on any bar code label is the actual bar code itself. All other information is completely optional. If you need to change your label format (increase or decrease label size, include or exclude item information, etc.), contact the Tracker Products support team for more information.
Example: One-dimensional bar code label
Tracker Products software allows you to use both one-dimensional and two-dimensional bar code labels, depending on the type of technology available to you.
This is an example of a standard 4“x3“ bar code label. The bar code itself is one-dimensional. With this format size, several elements containing item information can be displayed, including contact information for your organization, a description of the item, the category, the case number, the offense type (law enforcement agencies), reason seized, persons associated with the item, as well as the date and time the item was recovered.
Example: Two-dimensional bar code label
This is an example of a two-dimensional bar code label. Two-dimensional bar codes can contain significantly more data. If your organization wishes to print and use 2-D bar code labels, you need to check to make sure that your bar code scanners are capable of reading them.
