Some barcode types, or symbologies, encode only numbers while others
encode letters and numbers. Other barcode types can actually encode
files, pictures and other binary data. Here is a basic breakdown of
a few barcode types and what they encode:
If the intended use of the barcode fonts is for printing, check
the type of data to encode:
Only numbers, up to about 20 digits, choose Codabar
or Interleaved
2 of 5. Codabar is the densest self-checking symbology.
ITF is a numeric-only barcode used for encoding pairs of numbers
in a high-density barcode format.
Only uppercase letters, numbers and these symbols (- . $ / +
%), up to about 15 digits, choose
Code 39.
Code 39 is the densest self-checking alpha-numeric barcode type.
Uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, punctuation, any letter
or symbol appearing on the US 101 key keyboard and lower ASCII functions
such as returns and tabs, up to about 20-30 digits, use
Code 128.
In a study
at Ohio University, several different bar code symbologies were
tested to determine their accuracy and are listed below. Keep in mind
that a well-trained data entry operator will usually make a data entry
error once every 300 keystrokes. Therefore, even implementing the
least accurate symbology is a huge step forward to increase production
and reduce data entry errors. The most inaccurate symbology (UPC) is
used in the retail industry.
