Saving Money,Saving Time,Peace of Mind and Credibility

Saving Money,Saving Time,Peace of Mind and Credibility

glossary

• 0-9

  • 1D Barcode
    A one dimensional (1D) barcode is a machine-readable representation of data directly relating to the object it is attached to. A traditional 1D barcode consists of parallel lines that represent numbers or characters.
  • 2D Barcode
    A two-dimensional (2D) barcode, also known as a quick response code (QR Code), is a machine-readable image attached to items that allows data to be accessed quickly. It stores more information than a one dimensional barcode.

• A

  • Alphanumeric
    A series of letters, numbers, punctuation marks, and symbols that can be processed by a computer.
  • ANSI
    Acronym for the American National Standards Institute. Founded in 1918, ANSI is a voluntary organization composed of over 1,300 members (including all the large computer companies) that creates standards for the computerindustry. In addition to programming languages, ANSI sets standards for a wide range of technical areas, from electrical specifications to communications protocols.
  • Application Temperature
    The temperature range at which a label adhesive will properly stick to a product or item.
  • Asset Tracking
    The process of managing a company's valuable equipment by scanning barcode tags attached to them. This system allows the business to keep tabs on location, stock, condition, and much more information about their items

• B

  • Barcode Symbology
    The technical details of a certain type of barcode, such as the width of the bars, character set, method of encoding, and checksum specifications. Symbologies contain systems of encoding data that a scanner or decoding system may read and decode.
  • Barcode Verifier
    A barcode verifier works the way a reader does, but instead of simply decoding a barcode, a verifier performs a series of tests to ensure the scanability and quality of the barcode in comparison to industry standards and specifications. Barcode verifiers are primarily used by businesses that print and use their own barcodes.
  • Bluetooth
    A short range radio technology aimed at simplifying communications among Internet devices and between devices and the Internet. It also aims to simplify data synchronization between Internet devices and other computers.

• C

  • CAC - Common Access Card
    A "smart" card that is the size of a credit card. Most commonly, CAC cards enable physical access to buildings and controlled spaces. It can also provide access to computer networks and systems. It uses ditigal signatures and data encryption technology, such as authentication, integrity and non-repudiation. The CAC contains a PDF417 barcode on the front of the card and a Code 39 barcode on the back.
  • Code 128
    A symbology that encodes alphanumeric data in applications where a large amount of data must be encoded into a small amount of space. The data is encoded by including a checksum digit and is verified character by character. The Code's character set includes the letters A-Z, digits 0-9, and all ASCII symbols and control codes.
  • Code 2 of 5
    A continuous two-width barcode symbology that encodes pairs of digits. It is used commercially on ITF-14 barcodes, 135 film, and product containers.
  • Code 39
    Also known as Alpha39, Code 3 of 9, Code 3/9, Type 39, USS Code 39, or USD-3, this barcode symbology varies in length. It defines 43 characters, which consist of uppercase letters, numeric digits, and special characters. The '*' character is also used for start and stop delimiters. Code 39 was the first alpha-numeric symbology to be developed, and it is used by the United States Department of Defense, the Health Industry Bar Code Council, and in non-retail environments.
  • Contact Scanner
    A contact 3D scanner can scan an item through physical touch while the item is on a precision flat surface plate.
  • Cordless
    Any electronic device that is powered by a battery and can function without a power cord or cable. Cordless does not mean wireless, even though some commonly used items, such as cordless telephones, are wireless.

• D

  • Depth of Field
    The distance from the front of a scanner to the barcode it is trying to read.
  • Direct Thermal
    A digital printing process which uses a thermal print head that applies heat to coated thermal paper. Direct thermal printing does not require a ribbon. The image is produced directly on the printed material as the coating turns black in areas where it is heated. There are also direct thermal printers that can print two colors, often black and red, by applying heat at two different temperatures.
  • Direct Thermal Paper
    Paper coated with a colorless formula that develops an image when heat is applied to it. This paper is used by Direct Thermal printers.
  • DPI
    Dots per inch (DPI) is a measurement of printer resolution that defines how many individual dots can be placed in a line within the span of 1 inch when the image is printed. DPI is commonly confused with PPI. DPI refers to the resolution of the printer, where as PPI refers to the resolution of the image itself. Photo-quality ink jet printers have a DPI resolution in the range of 1200 to 4800 dpi.
  • DRAM
    Dynamic random access memory, or DRAM, is the most common type of computer memory. It is particularly useful for computers as it can hold a lot of data in a small physical space. However, it does not usually retain data when its power supply is switched off, meaning that it isn't suitable for permanent storage.
  • Driver
    Software and/or firmware that controls hardware and often connects an operating system with specific hardware devices, allowing them to properly work in unison. Software refers to a program sunning on hardware while firmware is a semi-permanent software that is placed into the hardware. Firmware does not disappear when the hardware is turned off and, in order to change the firmware, it must be done by a special installation process.

• E

  • EAN
    There are different types of EAN barcodes. The most common is the EAN-13, which is a 13 digit barcoding standard that includes 12 numbers and 1 check. These barcodes are used worldwide in retail stores, and the numbers encoded in them are product identification numbers. The less common EAN-8 barcode is used for marking smaller retail goods. Also, an EAN-2 and EAN-5 are supplemental barcodes that may be added to an EAN-13 barcode for a total of 14 or 17 data digits. The supplemental barcodes are often needed for periodicals, books or weighed products.
  • ERP
    Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is an automated business management software that uses integrated applications to manage the information of an entire organization. The purpose of ERP is to facilitate information between all business functions inside an organization and manage connections to outside stakeholders. ERP systems can run on a variety of computer hardware and network configurations.

• F

  • Flash Memory
    An electronic, non-volatile computer storage device that does not require power to retain data. It can be electrically erased and reprogrammed.

• G

  • GS1
    Global Standards One (GS1) is an international non-profit association dedicated to the development and implementation of global specifications to management of supply and demand chains across multiple sectors.
  • GS1 DataBar
    These symbols can carry more information and identify smaller items than EAN and UPC barcodes. GS1 DataBar utilizes GTIN identification for fresh variable measure and hard-to-mark products like loose produce, jewelry and cosmetics. Additionally, GS1 DataBar codes can carry GS1 Application Identifiers such as serial numbers, lot numbers, and expiration dates, creating solutions to support product authentication and traceability for fresh food products and couponing.
  • GSM
    Global System for Mobile Communications is a standard set by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) to describe protocols for second generation (2G) digital cellular networks used by mobile phones and devices. This was expanded over time to include data communications via GPRS (General Packet Radio Services) and EDGE (Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution or EGPRS).

• H

  • Human Readable
    This term refers to a format of information that can be read and comprehended by humans. It is often encoded as ASCII or Unicode text, and almost all data can be converted into a human readable format by a suitably equipped and programmed computer or machine. A common example is when a scanner converts a barcode into a human readable format onto a PC.

• I

  • Interface
    The point of interaction between hardware and/or software components. These components function independently while using the interfaces to communicate with each other through an input/output system and an associated protocol. The most common interface is USB.
  • Inventory Management
    This is the process of efficiently tracking and controlling the constant flow of items in and out of an existing inventory; preventing it from becoming too high, or dwindling to levels that could put the company's operation in jeopardy. Competent inventory management also seeks to control the costs associated with the inventory, both from the perspective of the total value of the goods included and the tax burden generated by the cumulative value of the inventory.
  • IP Rating
    The Ingress Protection (IP) Rating classifies and measures the degree of protection a device offers from the intrusion of solid objects such as body parts, dust, accidental contact, and water into its electrical enclosures. The digits following "IP" represent the conformity with certain conditions. The first number is the level of solid particle protection the device offers, while the second number refers to its amount of liquid ingress protection. The higher the numbers, the more durable and rugged the device is. If a condition does not have a protection rating, it is marked with the letter X. An IP22 or IP2X are typical minimum requirements for the design of indoor electrical accessories.

• J

• K

• L

• M

  • Mobile Computer
    Also known as a portable data collector or portable data terminal (PDT), a mobile computer is a barcode scanner with a display and an operating system. People most commonly refer to a mobile computer as a cordless barcode scanner. A mobile computer allows a user to capture data on the move without having to be connected to a network to access information since it can store it internally.

• N

• O

  • Omni-directional
    This refers to the scan pattern of certain barcode scanners. These scanners work like any laser barcode scanner with the addition of several mirrors and other reflective devices to transform the single laser line into many, all at different angles. This allows fast reading of barcodes at any angle, making an omni-directional barcode scanner perfect for point of sale installations, such as at a grocery store.
  • Operating Temperature
    This is the temperature range at which a mechanical or electrical device functions properly. This range varies based on the device's function and the application it is being used for. Operating a device outside of the given range will likely cause it to fail.

• P

  • PDF417
    The new standard for identification that uses a stacked linear barcode symbol format and has become the preferred means of encoding ID information. It is used for a variety of purposes, including identification cards and inventory management. PDF stands for Portable Data File. The 417 signifies that each pattern in the code consists of 4 bars and spaces, and that each pattern is 17 units long. A PDF417 can store and transfer large amounts of data securely and inexpensively. It carries up to 1.1 kilobytes of machine-readable data and it can also contain text, numbers, graphics, photographs, fingerprints, and signatures.
  • Platen Roller
    A platen roller is a vital printer component that helps create the optimum amount of pressure to drive labels through the printer, ensuring clean and crisp printouts. Replacing a worn or damaged platen roller immediately will help ensure continued top-notch printer performance and avoid costly downtime.
  • Point of Sale (POS)
    Commonly referred to as the "checkout," the POS is where a retail transaction is completed when a customer makes a payment to a merchant in exchange for goods or services. POS systems consist of these 7 core components - a PC, software, display (a customer dipsplay in addition to a typical monitor), barcode scanner, credit card reader/payment terminal, cash drawer, and receipt printer.

• Q

  • QR Code
    A Quick Response (QR) code is a popular type of 2D barcode embedded with information related to an item it is printed on or attached too, commonly seen on billboards and ads. QR codes have faster readability and greater storage capacity than standard barcodes. The code typically consists of black modules arranged in a square grid on a white background (or any other combination of contrasting colors). The information encoded may be made up of four standardized types of data including numeric, alphanumeric, byte/binary, and Kanji. A QR code is read by an imaging device and formatted algorithmically by underlying software. Data is extracted from patterns present in both horizontal and vertical components of the image. A variety of industries use QR codes to run different applications such as product tracking, item identification, time tracking, document management and general marketing purposes.
  • QWERTY
    This is the most common keyboard and keypad layout. Its name is derived from the first six letters on the top letter row of the keyboard.

• R

  • Resin Ribbon
    This ribbon type is designed to print onto plastic labels by dissolving into the plastic surface of the label, creating a high degree of adhesion and durability. Resin printed plastic labels are scratch-resistant and can withstand sunlight, water, chemicals, and oils.
  • RFID
    Radio-frequency identification (RFID) is the wireless use of radio-frequency electromagnetic fields to transfer data automatically in order to identify and track tags attached to objects. Some tags do not require batteries and are powered and read through magnetic fields, while other tags use a local power source and emit radio waves. Unlike a barcode, an RFID tag can be read from up to several meters away, multiple tags can be read simultaneously, and they may be embedded within a tracked object. RFID tags can be attached to many items such as clothing, automobile parts, and pharmaceutical items. Many pets and livestock may have RFID tags injected, which allows them to be easily identified.
  • ROM
    ROM is an acronym for read-only memory. Data on a ROM device, such as a disk or chip, cannot be removed or modified. Most computers contain some ROM that stores critical programs. ROMs are also used in other devices such as mobile computers and some printers.
  • RS-232C
    Short for recommended standard-232C, this is a standard interface approved by the Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA) for connecting serial devices, such as older label printers, to other devices such as a computer. RS-232 describes the physical interface and protocol for low-speed serial data communication.

• S

  • Scan Gun
    Another term for a handheld barcode scanner or mobile computer with a gun grip, a scan gun is used in conjunction with a PC to read barcodes.

• T

  • Thermal Transfer
    The digital printing process in which material is applied to paper (or some other material) by melting a coating of ribbon so that it stays glued to the material on which the printed image is applied. It produces longer lasting labels than direct thermal printing and differs from it since no ribbon is present in the direct thermal process.
  • Thermal Transfer Paper
    This type of label paper is made of heat-sensitive material used in thermal printers consisting of four layers: a yellow sheet, a protective sheet, a white sheet, and the carbon layer. The paper changes colors when it is coated with a chemical and heated.

• U

  • UPC
    Universal Product Codes (UPCs) were originally adopted by grocery stores to expedite the checkout process and track inventory, but they are now used among many types of retail products at the point of sale, most of which adhering to GS1 specifications. UPC codes contain two parts: a machine-readable barcode and a human-readable 12-digit UPC number. The manufacturer identification number is the first six digits of the UPC number, and the next five digits are the item number.
  • USB
    Universal Serial Bus (USB) is a standardized means of physical connection between devices for purposes of communication or connection to a power supply. A USB cable can connect a computer to scanners, keyboards, digital cameras, printers, smartphones, and much more.

• V

• W

  • WAN
    A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a telecom network that uses private or public network transports and spans across metropolitan, regional, or even national boundaries. Businesses and government entities use WANs to relay data among employees, clients, buyers, and suppliers regardless of location. The Internet is the most popular WAN.
  • Wax Ribbon
    This is used for printing either matte or semi-gloss paper labels. These labels can last for years, although exposure to water, chemicals, oil, or abrasions can destroy the wax image.
  • Wax/Resin Ribbon
    A wax/resin ribbon produces a finer image on smooth or coated label paper and it is more durable than wax. It can withstand minor exposure to water or moisture.
  • Windows CE
    Microsoft Windows CE, known as Windows Embedded Compact, is a distinct operating system for embedded systems. Microsoft licenses Windows CE to OEMs and device makers who can modify and create their own user interfaces and applications within the program. Windows CE is compatible with Intel x86, MIPS, and ARM processors.
  • Wireless
    Wireless communication allows for the transfer of information between multiple points without the need for a physical connection between those points. In data collection, wireless options exist in scanners, mobile computers, tablets, etc.

• X

• Y

• Z

  • ZPL/ZPL II
    Zebra Programming Language (ZPL) is a printer control language, primarily used for labeling applications. ZPL is the original language, which was later advanced by ZPL II and eventually by ZBI, which avoids refactoring of code when changing the printer.