Composite Code

What is a Composite Code?

A composite code barcode is a type of barcode that combines multiple symbologies or elements into a single, integrated symbol. Unlike traditional barcodes, which are typically one-dimensional (1D) or two-dimensional (2D), composite codes incorporate both 1D and 2D components, providing additional flexibility and data capacity.

The purpose of using a composite code is to leverage the strengths of different barcode types and efficiently encode various types of information within a single barcode. This is particularly useful in situations where there are diverse data requirements or where compatibility with different types of barcode scanners is necessary.

Composite Code C (CC-C)

Here are the key components typically found in a composite code:

• 1D Component: A traditional one-dimensional (1D) barcode, such as Code 128 or Code 39, is often used as one component. This part is typically used to encode alphanumeric or numeric data and is commonly found in the linear part of the composite symbol.
• 2D Component: A two-dimensional (2D) barcode, such as PDF417, DataMatrix, or QR Code, is another component. The 2D component is employed to encode more data or to store binary information efficiently. The 2D component be comprised of one of the following:
  • CC-A: is a variant of a PDF417 barcode and the smallest of the 2D Composite Components which can encode up to 56 digits.
  • CC-B: it is a subset of PDF417 barcode which can encode up to 338 digits. Encoding systems normally automatically select CC-B when the data to be encoded exceeds the capacity of CC-A.
  • CC-C: it is a PDF417 barcode that can encode up to 2361 digits. CC-C can be used as a 2D Composite Component within a GS1-128 Composite Symbol only.
• Separator Patterns: Separator patterns or special characters are used to distinguish between the 1D and 2D components within the composite barcode. These patterns help the decoding device recognize and properly interpret the different parts of the composite symbol.
• Quiet Zones: Quiet zones are clear spaces on either side of the barcode that ensure proper detection and decoding. These zones help prevent interference from other graphics or text and provide a margin of error for the scanning device.
• Data Formatting: Data formatting information is embedded in the composite barcode to guide the decoding process. This includes information about the structure of the data, the location of separators, and any necessary identifiers for each component.

Composite codes offer advantages such as increased data capacity, the ability to store different types of information, and compatibility with both linear and 2D barcode scanners. These features make composite codes suitable for applications where diverse data needs to be encoded in a single symbol, such as in logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing.