1. Overview of Code128 Barcode |
Code128 barcode is a high-density barcode type widely used in various industries such as logistics, retail, medical and manufacturing. It was developed by ANSI (American National Standards Institute), a computer company in the United States, and is particularly suitable for application scenarios that require high data density. Code128 can encode all 128 ASCII characters and supports multiple character types such as numbers, letters, special symbols, etc., so its data capacity is very large. |
Code128 barcode is a linear barcode that usually consists of a set of black and white stripes and spaces, and the width of each stripe represents a different data unit. Since it can represent characters through stripes of different lengths and widths, it has a very high data density and is suitable for use in environments with limited space. |
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2. How Code128 works |
The working principle of Code128 barcode is based on the design of 'alternating bar width'. Each barcode character consists of a set of stripes and spaces, and the width of the stripes and the width of the spaces represent the characters according to specific encoding rules. Code128 uses a method called 'alternating bar width', that is, the width of the stripes and spaces changes alternately, so that more information can be expressed. |
Each Code128 character consists of 6 modules (i.e. stripes and spaces), of which 3 modules are stripes and 3 modules are spaces. The width of the stripes can be 1, 2 or 3 module lengths to distinguish different data. In this way, Code128 can very efficiently represent a variety of information such as numbers, letters, symbols, etc. |
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3. Code128 barcode encoding method |
Code128 barcode encoding method uses a method called 'byte mode'. Each character is represented by a 7-bit binary number, which is presented by the width of the stripes and spaces. Code128 supports three different character sets: A character set, B character set and C character set. |
Character set A: Contains uppercase letters, numbers, control characters (such as line breaks), and some other symbols. Suitable for occasions where uppercase letters and control characters need to be represented. |
Character set B: contains uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers and some common symbols. It is suitable for more types of text content. |
Character set C: This character set is only used for numbers and is encoded using two digits, so it can improve efficiency when representing pure numbers. |
In practical applications, Code128 barcodes usually choose the appropriate character set according to the content to be encoded. |
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4. Structure of Code128 barcodes |
The structure of Code128 barcodes includes several important elements, including start symbol, data symbol, end symbol and check code. |
Start symbol: Each Code128 barcode contains a start symbol to mark the beginning of the barcode. The start symbol is the first character of the barcode and usually varies depending on the selected character set (for example, the start symbol of character set A is different from the start symbol of character set B). |
Data symbol: The data symbol consists of multiple stripes and spaces, each symbol represents a character. The encoding of each character is based on the rules of character set A, B or C. The width of the stripe and the length of the space represent different binary values. |
Terminator: There is usually a terminator at the end of the Code128 barcode to mark the end of the barcode. The terminator may be slightly different in different barcodes, but its function is to help the decoder identify the end of the barcode. |
Checksum: Checksum is also used in Code128 barcode to verify the accuracy of the data. The checksum is calculated based on all the data characters in the barcode to ensure that there are no errors in the barcode during scanning. |
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5. Checksum of Code128 barcode |
Code128 barcode uses a weighted checksum algorithm to verify the accuracy of the data. The checksum is calculated based on the character position of the barcode data to ensure that each bit of the barcode data is correct. |
When calculating the checksum, Code128 multiplies the encoded value of each character by a specific weight value and then sums the results. Finally, the checksum value is modulo-operated with a specific value to obtain the checksum. |
The introduction of the checksum code can effectively avoid data damage caused by scanning errors, data transmission errors and other problems, and ensure the reliable transmission of information. |
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6. Features and advantages of Code128 barcode |
High data density: Code128 barcode can represent very high information density, which is suitable for application scenarios that need to store a large amount of information in a limited space. |
Support for multiple character sets: Code128 supports multiple character sets, including numbers, letters and symbols, which can meet various encoding requirements. |
Powerful error checking: Through weighted checksum algorithm, Code128 can effectively avoid data errors and ensure the accuracy of the barcode. |
Strong flexibility: Code128 barcode can encode various types of data and adapt to a wide range of application scenarios, including logistics management, inventory management, ticketing systems, etc. |
Wide application: Due to its efficient encoding method and high data density, Code128 is widely used in many industries, especially in logistics and medical fields. |
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7. Application fields of Code128 barcode |
Due to its high density, Code128 barcode is widely used in the following fields: |
Logistics and transportation: Code128 barcode is often used in package tracking, shipping labels and warehouse management, and can quickly store and transmit transportation information. |
Retail industry: In the retail industry, Code128 barcode is often used in product labels and barcode scanners to improve commodity management efficiency. |
Medical industry: Code128 barcode is widely used in the medical industry for drug labels, medical record management and equipment tracking. |
Manufacturing industry: Code128 barcode is used for product identification and production line management to help manufacturing companies improve production efficiency. |
Inventory management: In inventory management, Code128 barcode can help companies track the inventory of goods in real time and optimize inventory processes. |
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8. Advantages and Disadvantages of Code128 Barcode |
Advantages: |
Large data capacity: Code128 supports up to 128 ASCII characters, has a large data capacity, and can meet the needs of most application scenarios. |
Efficient error checking: Through the checksum mechanism, Code128 can effectively reduce scanning errors and ensure the accurate transmission of information. |
Wide applicability: Code128 can represent numbers, letters, and symbols, and is applicable to a variety of data types with strong adaptability. |
Disadvantages: |
Low readability: Since the stripes of Code128 barcodes are narrow, the scanning device needs to have high accuracy, otherwise it may affect the scanning effect. |
Long barcode: Due to the diversity of the character set of Code128 barcodes, the length of the barcode will increase when encoding long data, which may take up more space. |
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9. Scanning requirements of Code128 barcodes |
Due to its high density and complex encoding structure, Code128 barcodes have certain requirements for scanning devices. The scanner needs to have high-precision decoding capabilities and be able to correctly identify the width of the stripes and the intervals between blanks. |
Modern barcode scanning devices usually support multiple barcode standards, including Code128, so different types of barcodes can be identified simultaneously by one scanning device. When scanning, the device scans the barcode through a beam and converts the scanned data into a digital signal, which is then decoded by the decoder and outputs the result. |
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10. Standards and specifications for Code128 barcodes |
The standard for Code128 barcodes is defined by ISO/IEC 15417 and published by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The standard describes in detail the encoding rules, checksum calculation method, character set selection, etc. of Code128 barcodes. |
These specifications ensure the universality of Code128 barcodes around the world, allowing different regions, industries, and devices to be interoperable. When using Code128 barcodes, enterprises should follow the ISO/IEC 15417 standard to ensure the correct generation and efficient scanning of barcodes. |
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Is Code128 the highest data density 1D barcode? |
Code128 is a high data density 1D barcode, but it is not the highest data density 1D barcode. Here is a comparison of Code128 and other 1D barcode types (such as Code39, EAN-13, UPC-A, etc.) in terms of data density. |
1. Code128 Data Density |
Code128 is a high density barcode that can encode all 128 ASCII characters, including numbers, uppercase letters, lowercase letters, and common control characters and symbols. Because each character uses a very efficient combination of bars and spaces, it has a relatively high data density, which means that Code128 can store more information in the same space than many other 1D barcodes. |
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2. Data density of other common 1D barcodes |
Code39: This barcode can only represent up to 43 characters (numbers, letters, most common symbols), so it has a smaller data capacity compared to Code128's 128 characters. Due to its smaller character set, Code39 has a significantly lower data density than Code128. |
UPC-A / EAN-13: These two barcodes are standard barcode types used in the retail industry, used to encode products in the US and international markets, respectively. They usually only encode numbers (UPC-A is 12 digits, EAN-13 is 13 digits). These two barcodes have a lower data capacity and data density than Code128. Since they only encode numbers and have a very limited character set, these barcodes have a relatively low density. |
Code93: Similar to Code39, Code93 supports letters and numbers, but its character set is larger than Code39, so its data density is higher than Code39, but still lower than Code128. |
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3. One-dimensional barcodes with the highest data density |
Relative position of Code128: Although the data density of Code128 is very high among common one-dimensional barcodes, it is not the one-dimensional barcode with the highest data density. Another barcode standard with very high density is GS1-128 (also known as UCC/EAN-128), which is an extension of Code128 and is designed for global trade standards, including more complex data encoding, such as cargo batch numbers and expiration dates. GS1-128 is still based on the technology of Code128, but its application scenarios usually contain more information, so it can store richer content. |
PDF417 and DataMatrix: Although they are not one-dimensional barcodes, they far exceed one-dimensional barcodes in terms of data density. Especially two-dimensional barcodes such as DataMatrix and QR Code, which can store much more content than one-dimensional barcodes in the same space. If your needs are extremely high data density and space is limited, two-dimensional barcodes are a better choice. |
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4. Summary |
Code128 is a high-density 1D barcode that is suitable for scenarios where more information needs to be stored. |
GS1-128 (based on Code128) is probably one of the highest data density 1D barcodes. |
2D barcodes (such as QR Code and DataMatrix) have a density far exceeding any 1D barcode, but they are different barcode technologies. |
If you care about data storage density and have strict requirements for 1D barcodes, Code128 is a good choice, but if there is no mandatory requirement for 1D barcodes, 2D barcodes will be a better choice, especially when more capacity information needs to be stored. |
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Will Code128 barcodes be replaced by GS1-128 barcodes? |
Although Code128 barcodes and GS1-128 barcodes are similar in some aspects, they are not direct substitutes. GS1-128 will not completely replace Code128 because their application scenarios, standards and purposes are different. Below I will analyze the differences, relationship and future development trends between the two in detail. |
1. The relationship between Code128 and GS1-128 |
GS1-128 is actually an application extension of Code128. It relies on Code128 barcode technology, but adds additional functions to support global standardized business needs. It complies with the GS1 standard, which was developed by GS1 (a global non-profit organization) to unify global commodity identification and data exchange. |
Code128 barcode is a universal encoding standard that can encode all 128 ASCII characters. It is a relatively flexible standard suitable for a variety of scenarios that require high-density data storage, including industrial production, warehouse management, etc. |
GS1-128 barcode is designed for supply chain management and global trade. Its basic structure is Code128, but it includes additional functions that enable it to support information such as Global Trade Identifier (GTIN), batch number, expiration date, serial number, and encode according to GS1 standards. |
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2. Differences between Code128 and GS1-128 |
Encoding content: |
Code128 is a universal barcode standard that can be used in any application, and there is no fixed requirement for the encoding content. |
GS1-128 is specifically used for supply chain management and global logistics. The encoding content usually includes information such as Global Trade Item Number (GTIN), production date, expiration date, batch number, etc., which complies with GS1 standards. |
Purpose: |
Code128 is a universal barcode standard that can be used in many different industries and applications, and is widely used in logistics, warehouse management, asset tracking, etc. |
GS1-128 is mainly used in global supply chains, especially in industries such as retail, wholesale, pharmaceuticals and food, especially where standardized tracking and information exchange are required. |
Standardization requirements: |
Code128 is an open barcode standard that can be used by any enterprise. |
GS1-128 is a standard managed by the GS1 organization. Only products and information that meet GS1 certification can use this barcode format. It is a standardized solution in global supply chain management and trade. |
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3. The possibility of GS1-128 replacing Code128 |
Since GS1-128 is based on Code128 technology, GS1-128 will not completely replace Code128, but will be used in different applications according to needs. The two can coexist, mainly depending on the scenarios and specific needs of barcode use. |
Wide application of Code128: Code128 is a very flexible and widely used barcode standard that can be used in various application scenarios that require high-density data storage, not limited to global supply chains. It still maintains an important position in many industries, especially in non-standardized applications. |
Professionalism of GS1-128: GS1-128 is specifically used in supply chain management that meets GS1 standards, especially in cross-border logistics and international trade. It has its unique advantages. It is critical for tracking products, identifying production batches, expiration dates, and other information, especially in the pharmaceutical and food industries. |
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4. Future development trends |
Code128 will continue to exist in many general barcode applications, especially those that do not need to comply with GS1 standards. Its flexibility and high data density make it still very competitive in many different fields. |
The use of GS1-128 in global supply chain, logistics, retail and wholesale will continue to grow, especially in industries that need to follow global standardization requirements. Due to the continued growth of global trade and cross-border e-commerce, the importance of GS1-128 in international trade will continue to increase. |
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5. Summary |
Code128 barcode and GS1-128 barcode are not direct substitutes. GS1-128 is an extension based on Code128. It mainly serves the standardization needs of the global supply chain, especially for product tracking, batch number management, expiration date management, etc. It has an irreplaceable role. |
If your application scenario involves standardized supply chain management, cross-border logistics, or industries that need to follow GS1 standards (such as pharmaceuticals and food), then GS1-128 is essential. |
If you need a universal, high-density data barcode that is not dependent on supply chain standardization requirements, then Code128 is still a very suitable choice. |
Therefore, Code128 barcodes will not be replaced by GS1-128 barcodes, but the two will coexist according to different needs and application scenarios. |
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What are the unique advantages of Code128 barcodes compared to GS1-128 barcodes? |
Although Code128 barcodes and GS1-128 barcodes have many similarities in technology (after all, GS1-128 is based on Code128 technology), they have different application scenarios, functions and advantages. Below I will compare Code128 barcodes and GS1-128 barcodes in detail, and focus on analyzing the unique advantages of Code128 barcodes. |
1. Comparison of technical composition |
Code128 barcode: |
Code128 is a universal barcode standard that can encode all 128 ASCII characters, including letters, numbers and symbols. Its biggest advantage is its high data density and flexible encoding method, which can be used to represent various types of data. |
Code128 is an efficient linear barcode that is suitable for application scenarios that require high-density information storage in many industries and is not restricted by industry standards. |
GS1-128 barcode: |
GS1-128 is an extension based on the Code128 barcode standard. It mainly enhances Code128 through the GS1 standard, enabling it to support special information related to global supply chain and trade, such as global trade identifier (GTIN), production batch number, expiration date, serial number, etc. |
GS1-128 is a standard barcode for global supply chain management and product tracking, and plays an irreplaceable role in applications that need to comply with the GS1 standard. |
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2. Unique advantages of Code128 barcode |
2.1 Flexibility and versatility |
No industry restrictions: Code128 barcode is an open standard without any industry or regional standardization restrictions. Therefore, it can be widely used in a variety of different industries, such as logistics, warehousing, retail, medical, etc. |
No standardization requirements: Unlike GS1-128 barcode, which needs to follow GS1 standards (especially in the fields of global supply chain, batch tracking, etc.), Code128 barcode can be flexibly used to encode various data types, including numbers, letters and symbols, and is suitable for occasions that do not rely on global standards. |
2.2 Simplified encoding structure |
No need for additional identifiers: Code128 barcode does not need to add additional identifiers (e.g., application identifier, AI) like GS1-128, which makes Code128 barcode more efficient in simple applications. For scenarios that do not involve complex supply chain management, Code128 barcode is simpler and easier to implement than GS1-128 barcode. |
No need to follow complex standards: Code128 barcodes do not need to follow complex GS1-related standards when encoding, so companies can avoid some additional regulatory requirements and certification steps when implementing. It is particularly suitable for applications that do not have special global standardization requirements. |
2.3 Data density and scope of application |
High data density: Code128 is a high-density barcode that can store more information in a limited space. It is suitable for occasions that require high-density storage, such as inventory management and asset tracking, and can effectively encode more characters in a smaller space. |
Applicable to multiple character sets: Code128 supports 128 ASCII characters and can encode a variety of characters including numbers, letters and symbols. Therefore, it is very advantageous in situations where complex data needs to be processed (such as symbols, special characters and text mixed). |
2.4 No need to rely on global trade standards |
Cross-industry applications: Since Code128 barcodes are not as closely tied to global supply chain standards as GS1-128 barcodes, they can be used freely in multiple industries without having to comply with GS1 standards. This makes Code128 more widely used in medical, manufacturing, retail and other industries. |
Applicable to non-standard scenarios: For applications that do not require specific information such as global trade identifiers (GTINs), production batch numbers and serial numbers, Code128 is a simpler and more economical choice. It allows companies to define barcode content according to their needs without having to follow the additional information usually required in the global supply chain. |
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3. Limitations of GS1-128 barcodes |
Although GS1-128 barcodes have many advantages, especially in global supply chains and trade, they are relatively limited in flexibility and versatility in some specific situations compared to Code128: |
Standardization and additional complexity: GS1-128 barcodes have stricter standard requirements and must follow GS1 specifications, which may add additional costs and complexity to some industries or companies, especially when precise matching and certification are required for information encoding and application identifiers (AI). |
Specific application limitations: GS1-128 barcodes are mainly used to meet the standardization requirements of global supply chain management and cross-border trade. Therefore, in scenarios where global supply chain standardization is not required, GS1-128 may not be more efficient or applicable than Code128 barcodes. |
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4. Summary |
Code128 and GS1-128 each have their own unique advantages, but Code128 has significant advantages in the following aspects: |
Flexibility and versatility: Code128 is not restricted by any industry standard and is suitable for a wide range of application scenarios. |
Simplified encoding structure: Code128 does not require additional identifiers or complex standards, so it is easier to implement. |
High data density and applicability: Code128 has significant advantages in applications that require high-density information storage and complex data types. |
Cross-industry application: Code128 can be used freely in industries that do not involve global standardization and has a wide range of applications. |
Therefore, the unique advantages of Code128 barcodes are its flexibility, simplicity and wide range of applicability, making it an ideal choice for a variety of industry applications, especially for those occasions that do not involve global supply chain standardization. The GS1-128 barcode is mainly used in global supply chain management and international trade that need to follow the GS1 standard. Its professionalism and standardization make it more irreplaceable in specific fields. |
cs@easiersoft.com