Barcode Generator

A barcode is a standardized graphic symbol composed of vertical bars and spaces of defined widths. These patterns are interpreted by a machine as a sequence of numerical values according to a given symbology (for example, EAN-13, Code 128, or Code 39).

Structurally, a linear barcode generally consists of: a blank area (white margin), a starting pattern, the encoded data, a checksum to detect reading errors, then a finishing pattern, and another blank area. The contrast between dark bars and light spaces is what allows the reader to convert the image into a usable digital signal.

To decode a barcode, the user can use a dedicated here (affiliate link) laser scanner or a smartphone with a barcode scanning app.

Technically, the scanner scans the symbol and measures its reflectance: dark bars reflect less light than light areas. This analog signal is digitized and then segmented into modules whose widths are compared to a lookup table specific to the symbology used. A checksum calculation then verifies the integrity of the read data.

Indicate the content to be coded and the type of bar code standard.

The dCode generator only follow the instructions of each barcode norm.

Most barcodes are accompanied by human-readable text called HRI (Human Readable Interpretation), which usually repeats the encoded value.

dCode allows the user to display a different value if needed.

For an EAN-13 code, the first three digits constitute the GS1 prefix, which identifies the country (or region) of the organization that assigned the number to the manufacturer. Note: this is not necessarily the country of production of the product.

Here are the first digits for the most often international barcodes: