How does a bar code work?

        Bar codes are simply lines that  have different widths and spacing in between and that are grouped together.   A UPC bar code is the equivalent of a number only.  Other bar code types contain letters or special characters.   This is an example of a UPC code.  

When the bar code 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 bar code for that product.  Click here for information on How to get a barcode.

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