Barcodes are a system of asset tagging. They have a series of lines imprinted on them. The spacing between the lines and the sizes of the lines are different for every barcode. Each unique barcode represents a particular piece of equipment or product in a database. They are a great way to manage inventory and replenishments. The lines on the barcode are readable by an optical device.
What are the uses of barcodes?
Barcodes are effectively used for identification of property, products, letters and important documents. They are perfect for tracking of inventory and the movement of documentation between organisations. They help reduce costs greatly by eliminating data errors. The data read by the optical device is transmitted to a data sheet on the data recording software. All the information you may need about your inventory and replenishment requirements is only a mouse click away. You can hence track the movement of computers and other office equipment by the use of barcodes.
Classification of barcodes according to code type
Barcodes work according to a symbology. Symbology is the charter of codes – encrypted or hidden information. There are two common barcode symbologies – Code 39 and Code 128.
They are alpha-numeric coding systems. Code 39 is also referred to as code 3 of 9 and is considered as a barcode for general purposes. It is collection of 44 characters, none of which are alike.
Code 128 is an alpha-numeric coding system of much higher density. It is used for worldwide shipping, retail and courier operations.
Barcodes are becoming increasingly tech-savvy day by day and are proving to be a cost-effective way of asset management.