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EAN-2 (European Article Number-2) is a type of barcode that is a two-digit add-on code used in conjunction with the EAN-13 or UPC (Universal Product Code) barcodes.

This supplemental barcode is often used to encode additional information, such as the issue number of a magazine or the weight of a product in a variable weight item.

The encoding of EAN-2 characters is very similar to that of the other European Article Numbers. The only difference is that the digits are separated by 01. The EAN-2 always begins with '01011'. Also, the R-Code is not used.

Here is a detailed description of EAN-2:

Structure of EAN-2

1.Length: The EAN-2 barcode consists of two digits, each representing a number from 0 to 9.

2.Components:

Guard Bar: The EAN-2 barcode begins with a single guard bar, which is a bar of standard width. This guard bar helps in the scanning process by indicating the start of the barcode.

Digit Encoding: Each digit in the EAN-2 barcode is represented by a pattern of black and white bars (or spaces). The encoding pattern for each digit is based on the EAN/UPC barcode system, which uses a combination of two bars and two spaces for each digit.

Encoding Pattern

The EAN-2 barcode uses a variation of the L-code (left code) and G-code (right code) encoding patterns found in the main EAN-13 barcode. The specific encoding of the two digits is determined by a modulo 4 calculation on the number formed by the main barcode (EAN-13 or UPC). Here's a summary of how it works:

Modulo Calculation: Take the entire number from the main barcode, and calculate it modulo 4.

Selection of Encoding Pattern: The result of the modulo calculation (0, 1, 2, or 3) determines which of the four possible encoding patterns is used for the two digits in the EAN-2 barcode.

Usage

Magazines and Periodicals: The EAN-2 barcode is commonly used on magazines and other periodicals to indicate the issue number. For example, '01' might indicate January, and '12' might indicate December.

Variable Weight Items: In some cases, the EAN-2 barcode is used on products with variable weights, such as fresh produce or meat, to encode weight information.

Scanning and Decoding

Integration with EAN-13/UPC: The EAN-2 barcode is scanned together with the EAN-13 or UPC barcode. Modern barcode scanners are designed to recognize and decode the EAN-2 add-on automatically when it is present alongside the main barcode.

Application Identifiers: The data encoded in the EAN-2 barcode is interpreted based on the context provided by the main barcode. For instance, in the case of magazines, it is understood to represent the issue number.

Visual Appearance

Positioning:

The EAN-2 barcode is typically positioned to the right of the main EAN-13 or UPC barcode. It is smaller in size compared to the main barcode to ensure it does not overshadow the primary product code.

Spacing:

A small gap is maintained between the main barcode and the EAN-2 add-on to help scanners distinguish between the two barcodes during the scanning process.

In summary, the EAN-2 barcode is a compact, efficient way to encode supplementary information in conjunction with a primary barcode, enhancing the information-carrying capability of product labeling and providing specific details that are essential for certain types of products.

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Once you obtain a GS1/UPC/EAN barcode, or other barcode type and QR code, you can use our free software to batch print barcode labels onto Roll label paper using a professional label printer, or to batch print barcodes onto Avery 5160 label sheets using a regular laser or inkjet printer. Our software has free and paid versions.

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