Barcode know how, Barcodes explained

What software for what purpose?

Visit our Software Selector where you can filter by task / application, barcode symbology or operating system.

Barcode FAQ

Read about printing and scanning of barcodes, obtaining an EAN number and more in our Barcode FAQ.

Barcode Symbologies

Currently around 1,000 different barcode symbologies are known. However, only a dozen or so are of significance.

Linear Barcodes

Code EAN explained, EAN 8, EAN 13, JAN
Code EAN w/ AddOn (ISBN, ISSN, Bookland)
Code UPC explained, UPC-A, UPC-E
Code 39 Standard, Code 39 Extended, Full ASCII
Code 2/5 (Two-Of-Five), Interleaved, Industrial
Code 128 all variations
Code EAN 128, UCC 128, 128 GS1 all variations
NEW DataBar GS1

2D Area Barcodes

2D Barcode PDF417
2D Barcode Datamatrix
NEW 2D Barcode QR (Quick Response)

Special forms, recent developments

Laetus Code - Sometimes incorrectly called "pharmacode". Not an actual barcode but a code to control machines for packaging (to make sure that a leaflet lands in the correct package).

BeeTagg (matrix code) - Like QR Codes used for mobile tagging. However, the code is proprietary and has not been standardized by either ISO or AIM. One of those "Web 2.0" fads that is destined for a short, short life. Only recommended for toy applications. - Other proprietary codes in this area: Trillcode, ShotCode.