The "Interleaved 2/5" barcode, also known as ITF, is a numeric-only barcode used primarily for encoding numbers. It is designed with a pattern of alternating narrow and wide bars, which represent two digits per character, hence the name "Interleaved". Each character in this barcode consists of five bars, with two of them being wide and the remaining three being narrow. This design allows for more data to be encoded in a smaller space compared to other barcode symbologies.

The ITF barcode can encode any even number of numeric digits; if an odd number of digits is required, a leading zero is added to balance the count. This barcode is particularly useful in industries where space is at a premium and only numeric data is required. For example, it's widely utilized in logistics for tracking packages, in warehousing for inventory management, and in healthcare for labeling medical equipment and managing patient records.

In terms of design specifics, the ITF barcode includes a start code and a stop code to mark the beginning and end of the barcode sequence. The digits are encoded in pairs, with the first digit represented by the bars and the second by the spaces. This interleaving of characters allows for compactness and efficiency in encoding.

Moreover, ITF barcodes are favored for their reliability and quick scanning capabilities. They are often surrounded by a thick black border known as the Bearer Bar, which helps to equalize the pressure exerted during printing and enhances the scanning reliability.

Overall, the Interleaved 2/5 barcode is a robust and efficient choice for many industries, providing a reliable method for encoding numerical data in a compact form.

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