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INFOcus May 10, 2007 |
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Knowledge Base |
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Bar Coding for Beginners |
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Courtesy of Brodart Supplies &
Furnishings Division |
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Determine
Symbology. There are three basic symbologies that
most software packages support: Codabar, Code 39 (Code 3 of 9), and
Interleaved 2 of 5. Software determines which you need. Determine if a
pre-designated number or alpha character is required. Most software packages
use a pre-designated numerical or alpha character to verify that an item
(book, periodical, video, etc.) doesn’t get accidentally used as a patron or
student number. |
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Choose
bar code type and style. There are three standard styles: single, double and
pair. Single bar codes are used on the outside or the inside of the item.
Double bar code includes one "live" bar code label and an extra
strip with the eye-readable number only for use on the shelf list or book’s
card or may be placed somewhere else inside the book itself. Pairs consist of
two "live" labels (one for outside or inside the book and another
for outside or inside the book or for on the shelf list). |
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Digital
bar codes are the latest in technology and most durable bar codes available.
Imaged on 4-mil 60-lb. white paper with a 1-mil permanent archival-safe
acrylic adhesive. Advantages include: 100% guaranteed first time read-rate;
higher print-contrast ratio than photocomposed; archival quality; no change
in adhesive; greater abrasion resistance than all other technologies; and a
lower cost than photocomposed. Laser bar codes are produced on a 1200 dpi
printer on 24 lb. smudge-proof paper with a gloss or matte laminate coating
for durability, and are available in five background colors plus white. Thermal bar codes are printed on a 2-mil
polyester material with a matte finish laminate for durability and are
offered in four colors and three design configurations. |
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Always
request a bar code sample to verify the quality. Different types of
production of bar codes will vary in quality and quality is essential to a
good "read." A bar code is read when a beam or spot of light from a
scanner is passed over the bars. The black bars absorb the light and the
spaces reflect the light back to the scanner. The mathematical differences in
reflection are translated into electrical signals. These signals are then
converted into binary ones and zeros, which form various combinations
equaling letters and numbers. Some lower line production methods may produce
voids in the inked area (bars) that may be misinterpreted as a space by the
scanner, or the ink may "overspray" into the space area between the
bars and may also cause a misread. |
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When
applying bar codes NEVER apply hand lotion beforehand. Depending on the print
quality of the bar code and the substrate material of the label, hand lotion
may cause ink to smear. Lotion may also cause the protector (if used) not to
adhere properly to the label or even make grease spots on the label that can
interfere with readability. |
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About Brodart Library Supplies
& Furnishings Division: The Supplies &
Furnishings Division provides thousands of products to keep any
library, large or small, running smoothly. The Brodart supply catalog offers
everything from book repair items and bar code labels to shelving and
children's furniture. |
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