bar code

Product identity stripes

A bar code is a pattern of parallel lines of varying widths printed on products and packaging, readable by optical scanners.

The lines encode information—typically product identification numbers—that registers instantly at checkout or tracks items through supply chains.

Two-dimensional versions like QR codes store more data in a grid pattern.

The cashier scanned the bar code.

product

UPC

Product identification stripes

checkout · price · label · packaging · merchandise · supermarket · grocery · stock · consumer · purchase

scanning

scanner

Device that reads data

  • readerOne who peruses text
  • laserConcentrated light device
  • beepShort electronic tone

handheld · POS · checkout · optical · data capture · decoding · verification · cashier · register · terminal

encoding

symbology

Study of symbols

  • binaryConsisting of two parts
  • matrixOrdered numerical arrangement
  • checksumError-detecting calculated value

validation · modulation · alphanumeric · digits · pattern · lines · spaces · quiet zone

visual

stripes

Parallel linear markings

  • linesStrokes connecting two points
  • patternRecurring arrangement or template
  • parallelEquidistant at all points

black-and-white · rectangular · linear · vertical · spacing · width · narrow · wide · printed · 2D

Categories
Opposites
encoding format

bar codeQR code

Two-dimensional scannable data pattern

2D barcode · matrix code · plain text

identification method

bar codevisual inspection

Examination by sight alone

price tag · product name

identification technology format

bar codeQR code

Two-dimensional scannable data pattern

RFID tag · NFC chip · microchip · hologram · watermark

Family

barcode, barcodes, barcode scanner, barcode scanning, barcode reader

Familiarity
Top 50,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G