Serialization

What is a Barcode Serialization?

Barcode serialization is the process of converting an existing barcode representation into a sequence of characters. It is used to encrypt data and make it easier to read by machines.

The first step is to convert the barcode symbol into a format that is recognized by a barcode reader (such as a laser scanner). A barcode reader uses a light source, photo detector and signal processing circuitry to read the barcode and convert it into an electronic signal.

A scanner is able to read barcodes by shining a laser beam onto the bars and then reading the laser’s reflected light. This light then passes through a photo detector and is measured by the scanner’s circuitry.

Next, the circuits translate that information into a series of digits and possibly also letters or symbols. These digits are then transmitted to a computer.

Once a computer recognizes the barcode, it can use that data to deliver critical information at incredible speed and accuracy. This can be anything from product inventory to document control and retrieval to fixed asset tracking.

There are a number of different types of barcodes, which each have their own characteristics. A few of the most common include:

1-D Barcodes

1D barcodes are typically used for text information, such as product type, size and color. They are found on the top part of universal product codes (UPCs) on package labels and in ISBN numbers on the back of books.

2-D Barcodes

Two-dimensional barcodes are often used for storing additional information, such as prices and quantities. These types of barcodes aren’t as easy to scan by linear barcode scanners, although smartphones and image scanners can read them. A few of the most popular two-dimensional codes are QR codes, data matrix codes and PDF417 codes.