Technology

History

Barcode Types

Barcode Printer

Inventory Management

Application

Software

Label Paper

Barcode Scanner

AI Barcode QRCode

Barcodes B

Barcodes C

Barcodes D

Barcodes E

Barcodes F

Robot Tech

Electronic

New Tech A

New Tech B

Psychology at Work

<<< Back to Directory <<<

The history of Code 39 barcode

1.Origins and Development (1974-1975)

The Code 39 barcode was developed by Dr. David Allais and Ray Stevens of Intermec in 1974. Intermec, a company known for its innovations in automatic identification and data capture (AIDC), recognized the need for a more versatile barcode system that could encode alphanumeric characters, unlike the predominantly numeric Universal Product Code (UPC).

Dr. Allais, an expert in information theory and coding, teamed up with Ray Stevens, who had extensive experience in engineering and design. Their goal was to create a barcode symbology that could be easily read by barcode scanners, was flexible enough to encode various types of data, and could be printed using various printing methods.

2.Initial Adoption and Standardization (1975-1981)

Code 39 quickly gained traction in the industrial sector due to its ability to encode both letters and numbers. This was a significant advancement over the UPC, which was limited to numeric data. The adoption of Code 39 was particularly strong in the automotive and defense industries, which required more complex data encoding for inventory management and tracking purposes.

In 1981, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) officially recognized Code 39 as a standard, further solidifying its place in the market. This standardization was crucial for its widespread adoption across various industries, as it provided a consistent framework for implementation and use.

3.Expansion and Versatility (1980s)

Throughout the 1980s, Code 39 continued to expand its footprint. Its versatility in encoding alphanumeric characters made it suitable for a wide range of applications, from manufacturing to healthcare. During this period, several industries began to adopt Code 39 for their inventory and asset management systems.

One notable example of Code 39's adoption was in the U.S. Department of Defense's LOGMARS (Logistics Applications of Automated Marking and Reading Symbols) program. LOGMARS standardized the use of Code 39 for military logistics, ensuring accurate and efficient tracking of equipment and supplies.

4.Integration with Automated Systems (1990s)

The 1990s saw the integration of Code 39 into automated systems, driven by advancements in computer technology and scanning equipment. The introduction of more sophisticated barcode scanners and software allowed businesses to streamline their operations further. Code 39's robustness and reliability made it a preferred choice for many organizations looking to automate their inventory and data management processes.

During this decade, Code 39 was also integrated into various standardized systems and protocols. For instance, the Health Industry Business Communications Council (HIBCC) adopted Code 39 for medical device labeling, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and improving traceability within the healthcare sector.

5.Introduction of Extended Code 39 (Code 39+) (1990s)

In the 1990s, an extended version of Code 39, known as Code 39+, was introduced. This extended version allowed for the encoding of all 128 ASCII characters by using a combination of characters. For example, to represent the lowercase letter 'a,' Code 39+ would use the sequence '+A.' This extension significantly increased the flexibility and applicability of Code 39, enabling it to encode a wider range of data.

The introduction of Code 39+ was particularly beneficial for industries that required detailed and complex data encoding. For example, in the pharmaceutical industry, Code 39+ enabled the encoding of detailed product information, including batch numbers and expiration dates, improving the accuracy of product tracking and recall processes.

6.Global Adoption and Standardization (2000s)

By the 2000s, Code 39 had become a globally recognized barcode symbology. Its adoption extended beyond the United States, with many international organizations and industries implementing Code 39 for their barcode needs. This widespread adoption was facilitated by the global standardization of barcode technologies and the increasing need for efficient data management systems.

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) recognized Code 39 in the ISO/IEC 16388:2007 standard, which provided detailed specifications for its implementation. This international standardization further cemented Code 39's position as a reliable and widely used barcode symbology.

7.Use in Modern Applications (2010s)

In the 2010s, Code 39 continued to be a popular choice for various applications, despite the emergence of newer barcode symbologies. Its simplicity, ease of implementation, and compatibility with a wide range of scanning equipment made it a preferred choice for many organizations.

One notable example of Code 39's use in modern applications is its adoption by the library sector. Libraries often use Code 39 for cataloging and tracking books and other materials. The ability to encode both letters and numbers makes it ideal for encoding ISBNs (International Standard Book Numbers) and other cataloging information.

Another example is its use in the transportation and logistics industry. Many shipping companies use Code 39 for labeling and tracking packages. The barcode's ability to be easily scanned and decoded by various devices ensures efficient handling and delivery processes.

8.Advantages and Limitations

Throughout its history, Code 39 has been recognized for its several advantages, including its simplicity, ease of use, and versatility. Its ability to encode alphanumeric characters and its compatibility with various printing and scanning technologies have made it a reliable choice for many applications.

However, Code 39 also has its limitations. One of the main drawbacks is its relatively low data density compared to other barcode symbologies, such as Code 128 or QR codes. This means that Code 39 barcodes can be larger and take up more space, which can be a limitation in applications where space is a constraint.

Additionally, the check digit in Code 39 is optional, which can sometimes lead to errors in data entry and scanning. In contrast, other barcode symbologies, such as Code 128, require a mandatory check digit, enhancing their accuracy and reliability.

9.Code 39 in the Digital Age (2020s)

In the 2020s, Code 39 continues to be a relevant and widely used barcode symbology. Its simplicity and robustness make it suitable for various applications, even as new technologies and barcode symbologies emerge. The continued use of Code 39 in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics highlights its enduring value and utility.

One of the key trends in the digital age is the integration of barcode technologies with the Internet of Things (IoT). Code 39 barcodes are being used in IoT applications to enable real-time tracking and monitoring of assets and inventory. This integration enhances the efficiency and accuracy of data management processes, providing organizations with valuable insights and analytics.

Another trend is the use of Code 39 in mobile and cloud-based applications. Many mobile apps and cloud platforms now support Code 39 barcode scanning, enabling users to access and manage data from anywhere. This flexibility and accessibility are crucial in today's fast-paced and interconnected world.

10.Future Prospects and Evolution

As technology continues to evolve, the future prospects of Code 39 remain promising. While newer barcode symbologies with higher data densities and advanced features are being developed, Code 39's simplicity, reliability, and versatility ensure its continued relevance.

One potential area of evolution for Code 39 is the development of hybrid barcode systems that combine the strengths of multiple barcode symbologies. These hybrid systems can offer enhanced data encoding capabilities, improved error correction, and greater flexibility, catering to the diverse needs of various industries.

Additionally, advancements in printing and scanning technologies are likely to enhance the performance and usability of Code 39. High-resolution printing and sophisticated scanning devices can improve the accuracy and efficiency of Code 39 barcode scanning, further expanding its applications and benefits.

Conclusion

The history of Code 39 barcode is a testament to its enduring value and versatility. From its development in the 1970s by Dr. David Allais and Ray Stevens at Intermec to its widespread adoption and standardization in various industries, Code 39 has proven to be a reliable and robust barcode symbology. Its ability to encode alphanumeric characters, simplicity, and compatibility with various technologies have made it a preferred choice for many applications, from manufacturing and logistics to healthcare and libraries.

As technology continues to advance, Code 39 is likely to remain relevant and valuable, adapting to new trends and requirements. Its integration with modern technologies such as IoT and mobile applications, as well as the potential development of hybrid barcode systems, ensure that Code 39 will continue to play a crucial role in data management and automation processes. The legacy of Code 39 is a testament to the ingenuity and foresight of its developers, as well as the ongoing innovations in the field of automatic identification and data capture.

 

CONTACT

cs@easiersoft.com

If you have any question, please feel free to email us.

 

https://free-barcode.com

 

<<< Back to Directory <<<     Free Online Bulk Barcode Generator     Barcode Freeware