Have you ever noticed those black and white vertical lines accompanied by numbers on product packaging? That’s a barcode, a simple yet powerful code used to store specific data like product codes, expiration dates, or identification numbers. Barcodes are widely used in various industries because scanning them is quick and efficient.
Want to learn more about how to scan barcodes using your phone? Let’s dive into this guide!
Understanding Barcodes
Originally known as “bar code,” a barcode is a visual representation of data that can be read by machines. These codes are typically printed on labels or packaging and consist of a series of parallel lines of varying widths and spacing. Beyond the lines, barcodes also include numbers that provide further information about the product. Let’s break down the components of a common barcode:
Number System Character (NSC)
The Number System Character (NSC) is a digit in the UPC (Universal Product Code) barcode that indicates specific categories. UPC is predominantly used in North America. The NSC is usually located at the far left of the barcode. Here’s what each digit signifies:
- 0: Standard UPC number
- 1: Reserved
- 2: Random weight items
- 3: Pharmaceuticals
- 4: In-store code for retailers
- 5: Coupons
- 6: Standard UPC number
- 7: Standard UPC number
- 8: Reserved
- 9: Reserved
Guard Bars
Guard bars are essential for barcode scanners to correctly read the code. There are three guard bars: at the beginning, middle, and end of the barcode. The start and end guard bars are represented as “bar-space-bar” or “101”. The middle guard bar is “space-bar-space” or “01010”.
Manufacturer Code
The manufacturer code is a five-digit number that identifies the product’s company of origin. This code is assigned and protected by the Uniform Code Council, ensuring each manufacturer has a unique identifier.
Product Code
Following the manufacturer code, the product code is also five digits long. This code is assigned by the manufacturer for each specific product they produce, differentiating items within a company’s product line.
Check Digit
Located on the far right of the barcode, the check digit is used for validation. It ensures that the other digits have been scanned accurately, acting as an error detection mechanism.
Benefits of Using Barcodes
Barcodes offer numerous advantages, especially for businesses. Here are some key benefits:
1. Faster Transaction Processing
Barcodes streamline data entry, making it significantly faster than manual input. Scanning a barcode is quick and eliminates the need to manually type product codes or numbers during transactions, speeding up checkout processes and service times.
2. Improved Data Accuracy
Barcode scanning reduces the risk of human error associated with manual data entry. Accurate data capture leads to better inventory management, sales tracking, and overall operational efficiency. This accuracy enhances employee performance by enabling quicker and more reliable data handling.
3. Versatile Applications
Barcodes are not limited to retail product scanning. They are used across various sectors, including:
- Publishing: For book identification and inventory.
- Non-Retail Industries: For asset tracking and management.
- Pharmaceuticals: For drug identification and tracking, ensuring patient safety.
- Inventory Management: For efficient stock control and tracking product movement.
- Laboratory Data: For sample tracking and management.
- Identification and Membership: For access control and member identification.
4. Cost Reduction
Implementing barcode systems is cost-effective. The media used (paper and ink) are inexpensive, and barcode scanners are readily available at affordable prices. This affordability makes barcode technology accessible to businesses of all sizes, contributing to long-term cost savings through efficiency gains and reduced errors.
How to Scan Barcodes on Your Phone Using a Browser
One of the easiest ways to scan barcodes is through your phone’s browser, provided you have a stable internet connection. Here’s how:
1. Scanning Barcodes with Google
Whether you’re using an Android, computer, iPhone, or iPad, you can use Google to scan barcodes.
- Using a Phone: Open your camera app.
- Point your camera at the QR code. A box or prompt will appear on your screen.
- Tap the prompt to follow the on-screen instructions to sign in or access the barcode information. If this method doesn’t work, you can try “sign in another way” options.
- Using a Computer: QR codes cannot be directly scanned by a computer camera in this method. You would typically need to use an alternative sign-in method, such as a link or another device.
This method primarily describes QR code scanning for Google account sign-in, which is related but not directly about general barcode scanning for product information. For general barcode scanning via browser, the next method is more relevant.
2. Scanning Barcodes via Web QR Scanner Websites
- Open your browser and go to webqr.com. You can also search for other online QR or barcode scanner websites.
- Once the website is open, it will activate your camera.
- Point your camera at the barcode you want to scan.
- The website will automatically scan the barcode and display the results on your screen.
Alt text: Scanning a barcode on an Android phone using the webqr.com website in a browser, demonstrating the online barcode scanning process.
How to Scan Barcodes on Your Phone with Google Assistant
You can also use Google Assistant’s built-in Google Lens to scan barcodes. Here’s how:
1. Open Google Assistant
Long-press the home button on your phone or open the Google Assistant app directly.
2. Access Google Lens
Tap the Google Lens icon, usually located within the Google Assistant interface. If you’re using Google Lens for the first time, you may need to grant camera permissions and activate it.
3. Scan the Barcode
Point your camera at the barcode. If the image is blurry, tap your screen to focus on the barcode. Once focused, Google Lens will scan the barcode and display the information or direct you to the relevant website.
