Barcode: What It Is, How It Works and How to Print It

A barcode is one of the most widely used tools for identifying products, packages and components throughout production and logistics processes. Through a graphical representation that can be read by dedicated scanning systems, a barcode makes it possible to associate a product with specific information and manage identification quickly and automatically.

In industrial environments, barcode printing can therefore support product traceability, warehouse management, production control and the movement of goods.

What Is a Barcode?

A barcode represents information through a sequence of graphical elements, generally consisting of bars and spaces with defined characteristics. These elements are read by scanning devices that convert the code into data that can be processed by computer systems.

There are different types of barcodes designed for specific requirements. Some of the best-known include EAN, UPC, Code 128 and GS1-128. The choice of barcode depends on the information to be represented and the context in which it will be used.

In industrial applications, a barcode can be associated with a product, package, batch or logistics unit, becoming part of the identification system used by the company.

What Is a Barcode Used for in Industry?

The use of an industrial barcode can help automate numerous activities related to product and goods management.

Key applications include:

• product identification;
• supply chain traceability;
• warehouse management;
• goods handling;
• production control;
• order management;
• logistics operations;
• reducing identification errors.

The ability to automatically read a barcode makes it possible to connect the physical product with information stored in company systems, facilitating the management of large volumes of products and data.

How to Print a Barcode on Products and Packaging?

A barcode can be printed directly onto a product, package or other packaging material using industrial marking and coding systems, when the substrate and application requirements allow it.

Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) and Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) technologies can be used for different industrial printing applications. The choice should be based on the characteristics of the material and production process.

Key factors to consider include:

• material and surface to be printed;
• type of packaging;
• position of the code;
• barcode dimensions;
• production line speed;
• environmental conditions;
• readability requirements;
• ink type.

When the barcode is intended for automatic scanning, it is particularly important to achieve a clear and consistent print that meets the requirements of the scanning system.

Barcode and Product Traceability

A barcode for product traceability can be used together with other variable data to identify products and production units more precisely.

Depending on the application, a marking may include:

• batch number;
• production date;
• expiry date;
• product code;
• serial number;
• identification information;
• barcodes.

Combining variable data with automatically readable codes creates a link between the physical product and the information managed by company systems, supporting production, quality control and logistics activities.

How to Choose a Barcode Printing Solution?

Choosing an industrial barcode printer should start with an analysis of the specific application.

Before selecting a technology, it is useful to consider the substrate to be printed, the type and dimensions of the barcode, the number of codes to be produced, production line speed and the potential need to manage variable data.

When necessary, carrying out print tests on the actual material can also help verify the marking result and its compatibility with scanning requirements.

Why Choose Fam Printing for Industrial Marking?

Fam Favata supports companies in selecting and implementing industrial marking and coding solutions, using CIJ and TIJ inkjet technologies.

The process can begin with an application analysis and include technical consulting, technology selection, print testing, installation, configuration, operator training and after-sales technical assistance.

The objective is to identify a solution that is consistent with the product, the material to be printed and the production process, rather than considering the printer as an isolated element separate from the actual requirements of the production line.

Conclusion

A barcode is an important tool for product identification, management and traceability across many industrial applications. The ability to print it directly onto products and packaging makes it possible to integrate coding into the production process.

However, selecting the most suitable solution depends on the characteristics of the application, the substrate and the required printing and scanning performance.

Fam Printing can support companies in analysing their application and selecting an industrial marking solution based on CIJ or TIJ technology.

Do you need to print a barcode directly onto your products or packaging? Contact Fam Printing to discuss your application.