How does a barcode work?

This is an example of a Code 128 barcode that contains letters.

code 128 barcode

When the barcode scanner reads the bar code, it translates the bars into numbers or letters. It then sends that information into the computer, or terminal or whatever device it is attached to. In the case of a supermarket it would send the numbers to the central computer in the back office, and ask the computer to send back the price and description information that corresponds to the UPC number. There is no price in the UPC number. The price and description, weight, etc are stored somewhere else.

If you have a product that you intend to sell through retail or distribution channels, you will need a unique barcode for that product. Click here for information on How to get a barcode.

If you would like to create your own barcode, we have free utility on our website to do that. Click here to Create your own barcode.

{jcomments on}

Was this article useful? Subscribe to our weekly(ish) email newsletter to receive more great articles about bar code technology.

How does a barcode work?

1. Create a QR Code for business cards

2. QR Code for Signs and Flyers

3. Create a UPC Bar code

4. Make sheets of bar code labels