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SEL Number: 04HW-02-BARC
Title: Equipment, Bar Code / QR Code Reading and Printing


Last Updated: 2/27/2024 7:08:38 PM

Previous SEL Number: 04HW-02-BARC

Description: Bar code / QR Code readers and printers, including devices that have wireless network capabilities.

ImportantFeatures: Codes can be printed using either dedicated label printers or general purpose printers, and most can be printed either with specialized apps or through general purpose software such as Microsoft Office.
Bar codes generally require readers than utilize a laser to scan the tag. QR codes can use either a specialized reader or the camera function of a cell phone. Alternative codes such as Datamatrix canbe read via cell phone but often require an additional app to interpret.


Operating Considerations: Ensure compatibility of code types. A wide variety of standards exist that apply to different barcoding techniques such as Code 39, Code 128, Interleaved 2-of-5, etc. See http://www.aimglobal.org/standards/aimpubs.asp for details.

Evaluate alternative formats such as 1D (UPC, ISBN, EAN barcodes) and 2D (QR, Datamatrix). Consider use of non-paper labels for outdoor use. Also consider RFID as an alternative strategy (see 04HW-02-RFID). Note that 2-dimensional codes such as QR Codes carry significantly more information and have more resilience than 1-dimensional (linear) bar codes.

When deploying readers with wireless capabilities, the security protocols available for the products should be carefully examined. For those that utilize WiFi, those products that support WPA2/WPA3 are preferred.


Training Requirements: Core Training: Per Manufacturer's Specifications
Initial Training: Minimal (<1 day)
Sustainment Training: Minimal (<1 day)


Mandatory Standards:

Applicable Standards and References:


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