BarCodes overview:

Barcodes are machine-readable representations of data, typically displayed as patterns of bars and spaces, used for identification and tracking across industries like retail, logistics, and manufacturing. They enable quick data retrieval by being scanned with optical devices, which decode the patterns into usable information.

Barcode Formats:

Barcodes come in various formats, each with unique structures and applications:
UPC (Universal Product Code): A 12-digit numeric barcode prevalent in North American retail for product identification at point of sale.
EAN (European Article Number): An international standard similar to UPC, available in EAN-13 (13 digits) and EAN-8 (8 digits) versions for global use.
Code 39: An alphanumeric barcode that encodes letters, numbers, and select symbols, widely used in inventory management and industrial applications.
Code 128: A high-density barcode capable of encoding all 128 ASCII characters, suited for shipping and packaging due to its compact data storage.

Functionality and Standards:

Each barcode format uses a specific encoding scheme to represent data, with the pattern of bars and spaces interpreted by scanners. Organizations like GS1 establish standards to ensure consistency and interoperability across systems. Originally patented in the 1950s, barcodes became widely adopted in the 1970s with the UPC system and have since evolved, with formats like QR codes offering enhanced data capacity and versatility.

BarCodes Types:

Code 39
Code 93
Code 128
EAN
2 of 5
datamatrix
aztec
codabar
pdf417