DataBar Barcode

DataBar Barcode is a type of linear barcode symbol which started its journey as RSS (Reduced Space Symbology) Barcode. As the name indicates, RSS (now dataBar) is a space constrained barcode intended to comply with both GS1 (Formerly EAN International (EAN) and Uniform Code Council Inc ) guidelines. The term RSS conflicts with “Really Simple Syndication (RSS)”, an internet documenting technology and creates ambiguity. To eliminate this confusion, GS1 decided to rename RSS barcode to DataBar.

GS1 DataBar barcode can encode 14 digits GTIN (Global Trade Identification Number) Numbers, which is more data than what EAN and UPC can encode. GS1 DataBar is also smaller than EAN or UPC, specially truncated version. Moreover, DataBar barcode can be stackable in second row, and that way barcode will look more like square than wide rectangle, and in many packaging it is very useful. DataBar can also be linked to 2D component and hence encode more data in the barcode. Another form of DataBar Barcode can be expanded to encode up to 74 digits or 41 character sets, which is helpful to encode additional information like expiration date, weight, etc.

Advantage:

Using DataBar Barcode is definitely forward thinking.  It has many advantages:

• Space saver:

Although for big packaging, quarter of an inch of free space does not make much difference, but small items like chewing gum box, lipstick case, medicine pack, will definitely use that extra space.  It creates even more space by allowing barcode stackable in DataBar Stack Omni Directional  format.

• Encodes more Data:

DataBar encodes 14 digit GTIN number, and additionally up to 74 digits in DataBarExpnaded format.

• Expnadable with 2D:

DataBar can easily be linked with 2D barcode, specially MicroPDF barcde with linkage character. When linkage character is turned on, scanner will read both barcode one after another.

• Separate Data Aggregation:

DataBar Barcode with 2D barcode can be printed separately in different location. For example, linear 14 digit DataBar part of a pharmaceutical barcode for a medicine can be printed during mass packaging, but Lot number and expiration date can be added in 2D part separately when medicine is poured  in to package. At the pharmacy counter all data can be read at once.

• Vertical Space Accommodation:

Linear barcode like EAN or UPC,  GS1 128, code 39 etc, can grow horizontally which may not be acceptable in small to medium packaging. With DataBar Expandd stacked, we can make taller barcode stacking each layer.

• Encode Application Identifier:

It is now possible to encode different Data with DataBar Expanded Barcode besides 14 digits GTIN number. We can add dxpiration date, product weight, lot number,  etc with its own Identifier (AI) separated by function character.

Disadvantages:

Although GS1 DataBar Barcode has its many advantages, but like many other new technologies, it has its toll on implementing cost. New DataBar barcode symbol requires new improved scanners, which are at least twice as expensive as old UPC/ EAN scanners. Right now, a DataBar scanner will cost you about $300. Also old system will require software upgrade to work with new symbols. Therefore adopting this new symbol at the point of sales (POS) systems worldwide will be a huge task financially. In this barren economic condition, this will definitely be an issue. Probably, for that reason, GS1 decided to postpone DataBar sunrise timeline for another year, until 2011. No matter what, DataBar will replace the current barcode at the POS along with many other industries.

To Be Continued …