The UCC/EAN 128 barcode, now known as GS1-128, is a highly versatile and widely used linear barcode symbology, which is part of the global GS1 system for product identification and barcoding. Its design is based on the Code 128 symbology, renowned for its high-density alphanumeric data encoding capabilities. The structure of a UCC/EAN 128 barcode is composed of various elements: a start code, known as the "quiet zone," which assists scanners in locating and reading the barcode; application identifiers (AIs), which are two- or three-digit numbers that specify the type of data encoded; the data itself, which can be alphanumeric or numeric; and a check digit to ensure the barcode's accuracy.
The flexibility of the UCC/EAN 128 barcode lies in its application identifiers, which enable the encoding of a broad spectrum of data types, such as product numbers, batch numbers, expiry dates, weights, measures, and serial numbers. This adaptability makes it an integral part of supply chain management, facilitating the tracking of products and inventory management. It's also compatible with other systems like RFID and electronic data interchange (EDI), enhancing its utility in various logistical applications.
Industries ranging from retail to healthcare rely on the UCC/EAN 128 barcode. In retail, it manages inventory, stock levels, and ensures accurate pricing and billing. In healthcare, it's used to encode patient and medication information, aiding in tracking and inventory management. Manufacturing, transportation, and logistics also benefit from its use, underscoring its importance in modern commerce and industry. The UCC/EAN 128 barcode's ability to integrate seamlessly with other systems and its capacity to encode a wide array of information make it a cornerstone of efficient supply chain operations.
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