Industry Insights

RS232 vs RS485 comes down to communication range, wiring topology, and electrical noise. RS232 is usually better for short-distance point-to-point serial communication, while RS485 is usually better for longer cable runs, noisy industrial environments, and multi-device networks. For system integrators, maintenance engineers, automation teams, field service teams, and procurement teams, the practical question is not

Key Takeaways How barcode is generated: structured data is converted into a barcode symbology and rendered as a scannable 1D barcode or 2D barcode symbol. A good barcode is not just visible on a computer screen; it must scan reliably in the warehouse, store, factory, or logistics yard. Barcode generation involves choosing the barcode type,

Key Takeaways A barcode and inventory system combines barcode labels, scanning devices, inventory software, and defined workflows for receiving, picking, counting, shipping, and asset tracking. For B2B teams, the buying decision should include hardware risk, not only software features. Choose scanners, rugged handhelds, rugged tablets, IP rating, drop protection, connectivity, battery, and docking based on

Key Takeaways A Code 39 barcode, also called Code 3 of 9, is a 1D linear barcode for alphanumeric data, with an asterisk start/stop character and optional check digit. Code 39 barcodes are widely used in inventory, manufacturing, logistics, healthcare equipment, government, asset tracking, and non-retail industrial labels. Code 39 is simple to print and

Reading barcodes means decoding printed or digital barcode patterns into usable data, such as a universal product code, serial number, lot code, or asset ID. For procurement teams, warehouse operators, logistics teams, and field service teams, reliable barcode interpretation depends on barcode type, barcode number structure, check digit validation, scanner compatibility, rugged handheld durability, connectivity,

Key Takeaways GS1 barcodes are standardized barcodes that use the global trade item number, application identifiers, and other GS1 keys to uniquely identify products worldwide. There are several types: linear barcodes such as universal product code, EAN, GS1 128, ITF-14, and GS1 DataBar, plus 2d barcodes such as GS1 DataMatrix and QR code. Barcodes improve

A data matrix scanner reads compact 2D identifiers when a normal barcode is too large or too limited. For buyers, the right scanner depends on code size, surface, lighting, software settings, and the data workflow after each scan. Introduction to Data Matrix Scanners A data matrix scanner is a camera-based barcode reader, often with LED

Key Takeaways A DPM barcode is a machine-readable code, usually a data matrix code, marked directly on industrial parts for lifetime traceability. Common direct part marking DPM methods include laser marking, laser etching, dot peen marking, chemical etching, engraving, and other permanent techniques for metal, plastic, glass, and ceramics. DPM barcodes are essential in automotive,

Choosing between 2D barcodes and QR codes affects data capacity, scanning compatibility, durability, and application suitability. QR codes are actually a specific type of 2D barcode, but not all 2D barcodes are QR codes. The right choice depends on your scanning environment, data requirements, and whether you need consumer or industrial applications. Below is a

An inverse data matrix barcode is a normal ECC 200 Data Matrix symbol with reversed contrast: light modules on a dark or black background. It is not a different barcode type; the data structure stays the same, but the scanner must handle inverse luminance. Key Takeaways An inverse Data Matrix barcode is a standard ECC