The program supports a list of almost 100 different barcodes. All these barcodes can be generated dynamically based on any datasource or fixed text. The supported barcodes can be devided in tree groups:
Linear barcodes. These barcodes represent data by varying the widths and spacings of parallel lines. They are also referred to as 1 dimensional (1D) barcodes.
2-D barcodes. This group of barcodes use rectangles and other geometric patterns in 2 dimensions (2D) to represent data. Although 2D systems use a variety of symbols, they are generally referred to as barcodes as well.
Postal barcodes. This group of barcodes are used by the postal authorities on mail pieces to sort and track mail. They are often country specific. Some codes are especially developed for postal purposes, while others are variants of 1-D and 2-D barcodes with defined formats and contents.
The program will generate the barcode as a graphics image that can be printed on any printer. When used in conjunction with one of Flex Systems' printer drivers, the program also supports the use of the barcodes that are built in the printer. These barcodes can be recognized by the printer icon, that is displayed in front of the barcode name. In general these barcodes will print faster, but you will have less formatting options available. Some barcodes are also available as TrueType font. These barcodes can be identified by the TrueType icon.
To add a barcode to your design, click Barcode in the Insert group on the Designer tab. Click where you want to insert the barcode. The Barcode window will open were you can specify the contents and other options for the barcode.
In the Barcode type group you can select the barcode you want to add. A short description of the required contents for each barcode is displayed next to the barcode.
Some barcodes are used under different names. If the barcode you are looking for is not in the list, try to find it under an alternative name. Most postal barcodes are listed under the name if the postal operator, e.g. Deutsche Post Matrixcode, Royal Mail RMS4CC, USPS Intelligent Mail Barcode.
For each barcode you can show an extensive description about the required contents and all possible options by clicking the Help button.
In the Barcode datasource group you select the data contents of the barcode. This can be any of the defined datasources or fixed text. Please note that the data accepted depends on the barcode type you have selected. The description under the Help button contains an explanation for each barcode.
If the data you need for your barcode is not in the list of datasources, you can create a datasource by clicking the More button. Many postal barcodes require special and strictly defined formats. You can use a postal datasource to generate the contents of a postal barcode. For more information see Postal datasources.
In the Barcode options group you can set any of the available options for the selected barcode. At the bottom of the list there is a description of each available option.
Depending on the barcode type and the settings you have made, you can resize the barcode by dragging its corners. By default barcodes can only be resized between defined limits and only be rotated in steps of 90 degrees. For most barcodes you can override these setting by setting the Ignore size limits and Rotatable at any angle options of the barcode.
You can set a number of formatting options for barcodes like foreground (bar) and background colors, as well as an option for displaying of code text underneath the barcode using a font of your choice. To do so, make sure the barcode is selected and then make your choices on the Barcode tab.
Notes:
The thickness of lines in barcodes is important. Normally the program will create barcode images with a size that will print correctly. However, you may resize the image or may specify a printer whose resolution is not capable of printing the barcode image correctly. It is therefore essential that you check that a printed barcode is readable using an appropriate scanner or reader.
Due to the limited resolution of most screens, the program will not always be capable to display barcode images correctly on the screen. However, in most cases, the barcode image will print correctly.