Usage Help
What is a Barcode?
A barcode is a graphical representation of data that can be read by machines. It consists of parallel lines of varying widths (for 1D barcodes) or matrix patterns (for 2D barcodes like QR codes). Barcodes are used extensively in retail, logistics, healthcare, and many other industries to quickly and accurately identify products, track inventory, and manage data.
Common Barcode Formats
QR (Quick Response) codes are two-dimensional barcodes that can store a large amount of data, including text, URLs, contact information, and more. They are widely used for marketing, product information, and mobile payments.
Code128 is a high-density linear barcode symbology that can encode all 128 ASCII characters. Code39 is a variable-length barcode symbology that can encode uppercase letters, numbers, and some special characters. Both are commonly used in logistics and inventory management.
EAN-13 (European Article Number) is a 13-digit barcode used internationally for product identification. EAN-8 is a shortened 8-digit version used for small products. Both are widely used in retail for point-of-sale scanning.
UPC (Universal Product Code) is a barcode symbology primarily used in the United States. UPC-A is a 12-digit barcode, while UPC-E is a shortened 6-digit version. They are commonly used in retail for product identification.
Codabar is a linear barcode symbology that encodes numbers and a few special characters. It is commonly used in libraries, blood banks, and air cargo for tracking purposes.
Barcode Query and Usage
BarcodeHelper automatically identifies the format of scanned barcodes. When you scan a barcode, the app will display both the encoded data and the detected format (e.g., 'QR Code', 'EAN-13'). This information helps you understand what type of barcode you're working with and how to interpret the data.
Product barcodes (like EAN-13 and UPC-A) follow specific encoding rules. The first few digits typically represent the country code or manufacturer, followed by product-specific codes, and ending with a check digit for error detection. This standardized structure allows for global product identification and efficient supply chain management.
In most countries, businesses must register with a barcode authority (like GS1) to obtain unique manufacturer codes for their products. This ensures that each product has a globally unique barcode, preventing conflicts and ensuring accurate identification across supply chains. Barcodes obtained through正规 channels are recognized internationally and comply with industry standards.
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Barcodes on products should be printed clearly and placed in a prominent location that's easy to scan at checkout. The barcode should be large enough to be read by standard scanners, with sufficient white space around it to avoid interference. For best results, barcodes should be printed on flat, non-reflective surfaces using high-quality printing methods.
Batch Export Records
Starting from version 2.0, BarcodeHelper offers enhanced export capabilities:
- Export to Text File: Save all barcode records as a simple text file for easy viewing and sharing.
- Export to Excel File: Generate a structured Excel spreadsheet with all barcode data.
- Export to Excel with Images: Create an Excel file that includes both barcode data and associated images for comprehensive record-keeping.
- Export Images to ZIP: Compile all barcode images into a single ZIP file for easy storage and sharing.
For versions before 2.0, export options vary by platform:
On iOS devices, you can export records using:
1. On the app's settings page, enable WiFi file service. 2. Connect your computer to the same WiFi network as your device. 3. Enter the provided IP address in your computer's web browser. 4. Download the exported files directly to your computer.
1. Connect your iOS device to your computer. 2. Open iTunes and select your device. 3. Go to the 'File Sharing' section. 4. Select BarcodeHelper from the list of apps. 5. Download the exported files from the 'Documents' section.
On Android devices, you can export records by: 1. Open the following directory in the system's "File Manager": External Storage->Android->data->com.easeapi.barcode->files 2. You can perform batch operations on barcode images and Excel files.
iCloud Sync
BarcodeHelper offers iCloud sync functionality to keep your barcode records synchronized across all your iOS devices. This ensures you have access to your data wherever you go, and provides a backup of your important barcode information.
To use iCloud sync, you need to be signed in with your Apple ID on all devices. This ensures that your barcode records are securely synchronized through Apple's iCloud service.
1. Open BarcodeHelper on your iOS device. 2. Go to the app's settings page. 3. Toggle the 'iCloud Sync' option to enable it. 4. Your barcode records will now automatically sync across all your iOS devices signed in with the same Apple ID.