General Barcoding FAQ

A barcode is a way to encode information in a visual pattern that a machine can read. The combination of black and white bars (elements) represents different text characters which follow a set algorithm for that barcode type. A barcode scanner reads this pattern of black and white bars and translates it into a line of text your computer can understand.

Barcodes are not magic. A barcode only contains an identification number that the point of sale system uses to look up the stored record which holds the price. The barcode itself does not contain price information.

A 1D (linear) code is the typical barcode that people are most familiar with. There are several versions of 1D codes and some encode only numbers while others can encode any keyboard character. 2D barcodes are more complex, storing significantly more information. Common 2D formats include QR codes, DataMatrix, and PDF417. 2D scanners can also read standard 1D barcodes.

Depending on the specific barcode type, 1D barcodes can hold from 8 to 25 characters while 2D codes can go up to 2,000 characters. The more data stored in a barcode, the larger it becomes.

Barcodes can be made as small as about a quarter inch in 1D format. However, making a barcode too small can make it difficult to scan reliably.

In the United States, most driver licenses use a PDF417 2D barcode that encodes the information printed on the front of the card, including name, address, date of birth, and license number.