Barcode Generator

CODE128 barcodes from any text string.

Overview

Generates standard retail and industrial 1D barcodes (Code 128, EAN-13, UPC-A, Code 39) with custom label text and high-resolution SVG/PNG downloads.

Formula & Calculation Method

Barcode_Pattern = Encode_Symbology(Data_String, Check_Digit_Algorithm)

Encodes alphanumeric data into alternating dark bars and light spaces conforming to GS1 international retail standards.

Worked Example: Generating EAN-13 Retail Barcode

Inputs: Symbology = EAN-13 | 12-Digit Base = 890123456789

  • Calculate Modulo-10 checksum digit on alternating 1x and 3x digit weights.
  • Checksum digit calculated = 4; Full 13-digit sequence = 8901234567894.
  • Render guard bars, center separators, and optical bar-space modules.

Summary: Symbology = EAN-13 | 13 Digits | Valid Checksum | Print-Ready SVG/PNG

Common Use Cases

  • Retail Inventory Management: Generate scannable product packaging barcodes for supermarket checkout scanners.
  • Warehouse Asset Tracking: Print Code 128 barcode labels for storage bins, pallets, and shipping cartons.
  • Library Book Cataloging: Print durable ISBN/EAN identification barcodes for book management.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Code 128 and EAN-13?

EAN-13 is strictly a 13-digit numeric barcode used for global retail products; Code 128 is an industrial barcode that encodes both letters and numbers.

What is the quiet zone on a barcode?

The clear, unprinted white margin on both sides of the barcode bars required by laser scanners to recognize the start and end of the barcode.

Can barcode scanners read barcodes displayed on smartphone screens?

Optical image-based (2D) scanners can read screens easily; older red laser scanners struggle with reflective phone displays.

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