How to generate and read barcodes such as JAN, EAN, Code 128, etc.

When this guide is useful

This is for users who want to create barcodes, generate JAN codes, create Code 128, read barcode images, and calculate check digits using a browser.

• Convert product/equipment/shelf management numbers into barcode images
• Check the check digit of JAN/EAN/UPC
• Check the value and format of received barcode images without opening them

How to use the main barcode formats

• Code 128 is easy to use for control numbers and logistics labels containing alphanumeric characters.
• JAN, EAN, and UPC are used for product codes with a fixed number of digits.
• ITF/ITF-14 is used for logistics and packaging codes with only numbers.
• Codabar/NW-7 handles values that include start and end characters from A to D.

Steps to generate and check barcodes

1. Input
2. Settings
3. Save as PNG or SVG and return the on-screen image to the reading function to match the values.
4. When printing, print it out at actual size and read it with the scanner you will actually use.

Notes on image/camera reading

Images that are blurry, reflective, have low contrast, lack left and right margins, or have bars that are too thin are more likely to fail to read. Use the camera to display the entire code within the frame, and hold the device still.

Just because it can be generated does not guarantee that it can be read by a cash register or handheld scanner. Please check the actual machine and actual printing conditions before using it for business.

Specific example: Creating a JAN-13 image from a 12-digit JAN code

JAN-13 consists of a 12-digit body value and a 1-digit check digit. If you input 12 digits, calculate the end and check the output value of 13 digits.

After saving the created image, read it again, confirm that the 13-digit value matches, and then place it on the label.

1. Select JAN-13/EAN-13 and enter the 12-digit value.
2. Check the check digit and output value added after generation.
3. Save the PNG or SVG and return it to image reading to match the values.
4. Print it on the label and check it with the scanner you plan to use.

Please check the business code and product code assignment rules before using the official JAN code used for product distribution.

Frequently asked questions

What is a check digit?

Input

Is the generated/read data sent to the server?

Generation, image analysis, and camera video analysis are done within the browser and are not sent to the Develop Tools server or external API.