Barcode Studio 15 Manual en
Barcode Studio 15 Manual en
Barcode Studio 15 Manual en
Barcode Designer
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User Manual
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1 Content
1 Content 2
1.1 Table of Figures 4
1.2 List of Tables 5
2 Disclaimer 7
3 Introduction 8
3.1 About 8
3.2 Supported Operating Systems 8
3.3 Restrictions of the Demo Version 8
4 Installation 9
4.1 Install Barcode Studio on Microsoft® Windows 9
4.2 Install Barcode Studio on Mac OS X® (10.8 or higher) 9
5 Quick-Start 10
5.1 Introduction 10
5.2 How to Create an EAN13 Barcode 10
5.2.1 Select Barcode Type (Symbology) 11
5.2.2 Enter Barcode Data 11
5.2.3 Select Output Resolution 12
5.2.4 Specify Barcode Dimensions 12
5.2.5 Fine-tune the Module Width 13
5.2.6 Set Font Style and Size 13
5.3 Barcode Templates 14
5.4 Export or Print the Barcode 15
6 Using Barcodes in Applications (Exporting Barcodes) 16
6.1 General 16
6.2 Resolution and Readability 16
6.3 Export to File 17
6.4 Copy to Clipboard (As Image) 17
6.5 Copy to Clipboard (As Metafile) 17
6.6 Export Data List 17
7 Barcode Studio User Interface 18
7.1 Main Window 18
7.2 Menu 18
7.2.1 File 18
7.2.2 View 19
7.2.3 Data List 19
7.2.4 Export 19
7.2.5 Tools 19
7.2.6 Help 20
7.3 Toolbar 20
7.4 Quality Watch – Status Section 21
7.4.1 Deviation 21
7.4.2 Quality 21
7.4.3 Character Count 21
7.4.4 Resolution 21
7.4.5 Rotation 21
7.4.6 Hint Box 21
7.5 Barcode Types and Templates 22
7.5.1 Barcode Type 22
7.5.2 Template 22
7.5.3 Filter 22
7.6 The Barcode View 23
7.7 Page General 23
7.7.1 Data 23
7.7.2 Appearance 27
7.7.3 Text Placement 29
7.8 Page Settings 30
7.8.1 Advanced Barcode Settings 30
7.8.2 Drawing 32
7.8.3 More Settings 34
7.9 Page Logos and Effects 35
7.9.1 Logos 35
7.9.2 Custom Display Settings 36
7.9.3 Effects 36
7.10 Page Captions 37
7.10.1 Text Position 38
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7.10.2 Text 38
7.10.3 Alignment 38
7.10.4 Text Distance 38
7.10.5 Font 38
7.10.6 Letter Spacing 38
7.11 Page Info 39
7.11.1 User Info 39
7.12 2D Settings 41
7.12.1 PDF417 / Micro PDF417 41
7.12.2 MaxiCode 43
7.12.3 Data Matrix 45
7.12.4 QR-Code / QR-Code 2005 / Micro QR-Code 46
7.12.5 Aztec Code 48
7.12.6 Codablock-F 49
7.12.7 Composite Symbology 50
7.12.8 DotCode 51
7.12.9 Han Xin Code 53
8 Data List 55
8.1 General 55
8.2 Data List View 55
8.2.1 List Content 55
8.2.2 Symbol Size / Module Width 56
8.2.3 Order 56
8.2.4 Editing 57
8.2.5 Error Status 57
8.3 File Import 58
8.3.1 Import Dialog 58
8.3.2 Data Mapping 59
8.4 Sequence Generator 62
8.4.1 Start Value / End Value / Increment 62
8.4.2 Mask 62
8.4.3 Help Button 63
8.4.4 Restrict Serial Numbers to Placeholders 63
8.4.5 Random Value Generation 63
8.4.6 Preview 63
8.5 Export 64
8.5.1 Export Settings 64
8.5.2 File Name Generation 65
8.5.3 Preview 65
8.5.4 Export 65
8.6 Save as CSV file 66
8.6.1 File 66
8.6.2 File Encoding 66
8.6.3 Field Separator and Text Qualifier 66
8.6.4 First Row Contains Column Names 66
8.6.5 Save Barcode Image Files with Full Path 66
8.6.6 Barcode Image Path 66
9 Label Printing 67
9.1 General 67
9.2 Templates 68
9.2.1 Brand 68
9.2.2 Label 68
9.3 Settings 68
9.3.1 Number of Columns/Rows 68
9.3.2 Start Column / Start Row 69
9.3.3 Unit 69
9.3.4 Column Width 69
9.3.5 Row Height 69
9.3.6 Column Spacing 69
9.3.7 Row Spacing 69
9.3.8 Print Order 69
9.3.9 Page Setup 69
9.4 Page Setup Dialog 69
9.4.1 Page Size 69
9.4.2 Orientation 70
9.4.3 Margins 70
9.5 Preview 70
9.5.1 Preview 70
9.5.2 Tool Bar 71
9.5.3 Settings 71
9.6 Printing 71
9.6.1 Check Before Printing 71
9.6.2 Printing… 72
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10 Options 73
10.1 Barcode Export 73
10.1.1 Default File Name 73
10.2 EPS Export 73
10.2.1 Add Preview (TIFF) 73
10.2.2 Font Substitution 74
10.2.3 Surrogate Font 74
10.3 Templates 74
10.3.1 Template Directory 74
10.4 URL Shortening 74
10.4.1 Proxy 74
10.4.2 Service 75
10.4.3 Service Specific Settings 75
11 FAQ 76
11.1 How can I encode the FNC1 character in EAN128? 76
11.2 How can I encode the FNC1 character in GS1/UCC/EAN Data Matrix? 76
11.3 Escape-Sequences are not encoded (and the scanner signals an error) 76
11.4 After saving the barcode to an image file, my barcode scanner cannot read the barcode! 76
11.5 What are the required steps to print labels on my thermal label printer? 77
12 Licensing 78
12.1 License Types 78
12.2 Entering your License Data 78
12.2.1 Online Activation using an Activation Key 78
12.2.2 Manual Licensing 79
12.3 Temporary Test Licenses 80
13 Contact and Support Information 81
Appendix A : Barcodes 82
A.1 Supported Barcodes 82
A.1.1 MaxiCode 82
A.2 Check Digits 82
A.3 Print Ratio 82
A.4 Format 82
A.5 Escape Sequences 82
Appendix B : Error Messages 83
Appendix C : Image Types 84
Appendix D : Command Line Parameters 85
D.1 Syntax 85
D.2 Examples 86
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2 Disclaimer
The actual version of this product (document) is available as is. TEC-IT declines all warranties which
go beyond applicable rights. The licensee (or reader) bears all risks that might take place during the
use of the system (the documentation). TEC-IT and its contractual partners cannot be penalized for
direct and indirect damages or losses (this includes non-restrictive, damages through loss of
revenues, constriction in the exercise of business, loss of business information or any kind of
commercial loss), which is caused by use or inability to use the product (documentation), even if TEC-
IT has been advised of or TEC-IT has pointed out the possibility of such damages.
We reserve all rights to this document and the information contained therein. Reproduction,
use or disclosure to third parties without express authority is strictly forbidden.
Für dieses Dokument und den darin dargestellten Gegenstand behalten wir uns alle
Rechte vor. Vervielfältigung, Bekanntgabe an Dritte oder Verwendung außerhalb des
vereinbarten Zweckes sind nicht gestattet.
© 1998-2018
TEC-IT Datenverarbeitung GmbH
Hans-Wagner-Str. 6
A-4400 Austria
t.: +43 (0)7252 72720
f.: +43 (0)7252 72720 77
www.tec-it.com
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3 Introduction
3.1 About
TEC-IT Barcode Studio is a tool for generating and printing barcodes.
Barcode Studio creates more than 100 different barcode symbologies: linear, 2D, postal and GS1
composite barcodes are supported. All barcode parameters are adjustable. The barcodes are created
as image files (e.g. for using it in your artwork), as high quality vector images (for graphics design or
pre-press applications), copied to the clipboard or printed directly with any printer. Batch barcode
generation with external or manual entered data is also supported.
Address: Hans-Wagner-Str. 6
AT-4400 Steyr
Austria/Europe
Phone: +43 / (0)7252 / 72 72 0
Fax: +43 / (0)7252 / 72 72 0 – 77
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.tec-it.com
► A demo marker across the barcode indicates that the demo version is active. The correctness
of the barcode is not affected.
► To obtain a license key for the full version (without the demo marker) please order Barcode
Studio online at www.tec-it.com/order/default.aspx.
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4 Installation
Please follow the steps as outlined below (administrator privileges are required).
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5 Quick-Start
5.1 Introduction
This chapter will guide you through the most important functions of Barcode Studio by showing you
how to create an EAN13 barcode. For more detailed explanation of the user interface and the
available functions and settings, please refer to the chapters 6 to 10.
► Starting with Barcode Studio version 11 pre-defined barcode templates are available. The
creation of standardized barcodes is simplified dramatically (see section 5.3).
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The EAN13 barcode needs exactly 12 digits (or 13 digits including the check digit). By default you will
see the sample data “123456789012” if the checkbox “Example Data” is checked.
If “Example Data” is not checked, the current input data may be invalid for the selected barcode (e.g.
wrong characters or a wrong number of characters). In this case you will see an error message like
the following:
For a list of the most common error messages, please refer to Appendix B.
► The 13th digit in the resulting EAN13 barcode (in this case the digit “3”) is the check digit. It will
be calculated automatically.
► If you enter 13 instead of 12 characters you need to provide the correct check digit yourself.
This is not recommended. A wrong check digit may make the barcode unreadable!
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► Barcode Studio uses the selected resolution for computing the barcode images. Thus it is
essential to adjust a resolution which leads to readable barcodes (see also section 5.2.5).
► Usually higher resolutions lead to a better barcode quality. However, at the same time it is
important that the selected resolution accords to the resolution of the output device (or of the
image processing software).
► If you use barcode images in pre-press applications, please take care to avoid any scaling or
resizing of the generated barcode image. This may lead to inaccuracies and distortions
rendering the barcode unusable. Generate the barcode image in exactly the resolution and
size as required!
The barcode dimensions can be modified by changing width, height, and module width.
Most label or barcode specifications require specific barcode dimensions. The following values are
commonly used for EAN13:
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Yet the quality of the barcode is not perfect yet (see the Quality Watch at the top right corner of the
Barcode Studio application window):
To optimize the barcode quality we recommend fine-tuning the module width. You have the following
possibilities to do so:
The font properties are set via the “Select Font” dialog. You can open this dialog by clicking the
button in the “Text Placement” section (see Figure 1 ).
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The list of barcode templates contains a selection of frequently used barcode types including their
default settings.
► The templates which are part of the Barcode Studio installation comply with various bar
coding standards. By using these templates you create optimal barcodes and you save time
for an optional certification of the barcode.
In order to create an EAN 13 barcode with default settings please perform following steps:
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Export to clipboard:
The clipboard allows you to quickly insert the barcode into any application like Microsoft
Word or Microsoft Excel using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+V.
File export:
The file export creates an image file. Different bitmap and vector formats are supported.
List export:
In order to export multiple barcodes at once use the data list (see chapter 8). You can either
use the barcode data or a sequential number as file names.
Print:
With the print command you can print barcode labels (see chapter 9).
For further information on the barcode export, please refer to chapter 6. The data list and the label
printing are explained in the chapters 8 and 9.
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This chapter provides general instructions for using the created barcodes in applications. An
explanation of the user interface and of the available barcode settings can be found in the following
chapters.
6.1 General
You can export the barcodes created in Barcode Studio in the following ways:
Copy the barcode to the clipboard (as image) and paste it into your application.
Copy the barcode to the clipboard (as metafile) and paste it into your application.
(Available under Microsoft Windows only.)
Export the barcode to an image file.
Export a series of barcode images (batch job).
Before exporting a barcode you have to adjust the required barcode settings. The size of the resulting
barcode image can be controlled by changing the dimensions (width, height, and module width) and
the output resolution (DPI) – see also section 7.7.2 . These settings apply to all kinds of export
operations.
► Do not resize exported barcode images with image manipulation software (like Photoshop®)!
The quality and the readability might suffer!
► Whenever possible, let Barcode Studio create the barcode in the required size and resolution
to avoid resizing later on.
When exporting the barcode to a bitmap image (BMP, GIF, JPG, PNG, TIF), it must be converted
from its internal resolution (high) to a graphical pixel resolution (low). During this process (rasterizing)
the module width can vary due to rounding errors.
When exporting a barcode to a vector based image format (EPS) or as metafile to the clipboard, the
internal representation of the barcode symbol allows very high resolutions (which are independent of
the adjusted dpi). Thus it is recommended to use vector based image formats (EPS) whenever
possible. However, in the context of certain applications (e.g. web applications) it is inevitable to use
bitmap images.
The readability of a barcode can be estimated by considering the quality watch (see section 7.1, ).
The quality of a barcode depends on the selected output resolution, size and content. To ensure an
optimal readability check the option “Optimize”.
Larger module widths usually lead to a better readability of a barcode. In practice, for most linear
barcodes, the module width should never be less than 0.19 mm.
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The saved image can now be imported in your target application. (Example: In Microsoft® Word you
can insert the barcode image by selecting Insert ► Image ► From File… from the menu.)
► The exported barcode symbol will match the preview in Barcode Studio exactly.
► For a list of available image formats, please refer to Appendix C.
► If you export images with a bitmap based file format (see Appendix C), resizing of the imported
image is not recommended!
Then switch to your target application and paste the barcode (e.g. in Microsoft® Word) by pressing
Ctrl+V (or by selecting Edit ► Insert from the menu).
► Resizing barcode images may result in a loss of quality, in the worst case in unreadable
barcodes.
Then switch to your target application and paste the barcode (e.g. in Microsoft® Word) by pressing
Ctrl+V (or by selecting Edit ► Insert from the menu).
Data lists are used for exporting a series of barcode images and/or for label printing. Such a data list
can be imported, generated and edited. See also chapter 8 Data List and 9 Label Printing.
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7.2 Menu
7.2.1 File
New Creates a new document (with initial barcode settings).
Shortcut: Ctrl+N
Open… Opens an existing barcode settings file (*.bc).
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Shortcut: Ctrl+O
Save Settings Saves the current barcode settings (symbology, dimensions, module width, etc.) into a file.
Save Settings As… Barcode settings files have the extension .bc.
Shortcut: Ctrl+S (for Save)
Export Barcode… Exports the barcode to a picture file.
Shortcut: Ctrl+E
Save As Template… Saves the current barcode settings as template file.
Refresh Templates Refreshes the template list.
Shortcut: Ctrl+R
Print Barcode Info… Prints the barcode and the most important settings (size, resolution, etc.).
Print Labels… Prints the data list as labels (see also chapter 9).
Shortcut: Ctrl+P
Hints for Printing:
The output resolution, and therefore the values for quality and deviation, depends on the
printer settings.
Note: Inkjet printers sometimes produce better results if the bar width reduction is used
(see also section 7.8.2.4).
Exit Exits Barcode Studio.
Shortcut: Ctrl+Q
7.2.2 View
Zoom In Increment the zoom in the barcode view.
Shortcut: Ctrl++
Zoom Out Decrement the zoom in the barcode view.
Shortcut: Ctrl+-
Reset Zoom Zoom is turned off. The barcode is shown in its original size.
Auto Zoom Auto-Zoom mode is turned on or off. In Auto-Zoom mode the zoom factor is automatically
adapted to the window size.
Zoom Dialog Opens the zoom dialog.
Hint:
The zoom commands do not change the real size of the barcode, but only its view on the
screen.
7.2.4 Export
Export Barcode… Exports the barcode to a picture file.
Shortcut: Ctrl+E
Copy to Clipboard (As Copies the barcode as image to the clipboard.
Image) Shortcut: Ctrl+B
Copy to Clipboard (As Copies the barcode as metafile to the clipboard (not available on Mac OS).
Metafile) Shortcut: Ctrl+M
Export Data List… Exports the data list as a series of barcode images.
Shortcut: Ctrl+L
7.2.5 Tools
Options… Specifies the Application Options (see Chapter 10).
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7.2.6 Help
Help Opens the documentation.
Shortcut: F1
Barcode Reference Opens the barcode reference document in the web browser.
TEC-IT Website Opens the page www.tec-it.com in the web browser.
Advanced Label Printing Opens a suggestion for advanced label printing software in the web browser.
YouTube Opens a page with videos about Barcode Studio in the web browser.
Barcode Studio on Opens the Barcode Studio web site on Facebook.
Facebook
Twitter Opens the Barcode Studio Twitter page.
Google+ Opens the Barcode Studio Google+ page.
LinkedIn Opens the Barcode Studio LinkedIn page.
Blog Opens the TEC-IT Blog web site.
Buy Barcode Studio Opens the TEC-IT order form in the web browser.
License... Opens the dialog for entering your license data.
Check For Update… Checks for updates of Barcode Studio.
About Barcode Studio Displays information about the application, version number and copyright.
7.3 Toolbar
Figure 4: Toolbar
Save Saves the current barcode settings to your hard disk. Shortcut: Ctrl+S
Zoom Out Decrement the zoom in the barcode view. Shortcut: Ctrl+-
Reset Zoom Zoom is turned off. The barcode is shown in its original size.
Copy to Clipboard (As Image) Copies the barcode as image to the clipboard. Shortcut: Ctrl+B
Copy to Clipboard (As Metafile) Copies the barcode as metafile to the clipboard. Shortcut: Ctrl+M
Export Data List Exports the data list as a series of barcode images. Shortcut: Ctrl+L
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7.4.1 Deviation
The less the deviation the better are quality and readability of the barcode. The deviation depends on
the output resolution and the print ratio of the barcode. You can also improve the quality by changing
the module width to an appropriate value. As measurement unit select “Pixel” and set the module
width to an integer value (1, 2, 3, etc., 25, etc.).
7.4.2 Quality
The quality of the barcode – the higher the deviation, the lower is the quality.
7.4.4 Resolution
7.4.5 Rotation
The hint box displays information about the current barcode quality as well as recommended
actions for improving the readability.
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Select the required barcode type (= symbology) from the Barcodes list (see Figure 3, ). For a better
overview the list is divided into 1D Symbologies, 2D Symbologies, Postal Codes, GS1 DataBar, HIBC
Codes and SCANPAY Barcodes.
► For 2D codes like Aztec Code, Codablock-F, PDF417, MicroPDF, Micro QR-Code, MaxiCode,
Data Matrix, QR-Code, GS1-DataBar Stacked and variants, as well as for all symbologies
which are derived from these (HIBC, QR-Code 2005, etc.), and for all Composite Symbologies
you need a 2D license. For the other symbologies a 1D license is sufficient.
If you want to learn more about the selected symbology, please examine the Barcode Reference from
the Help menu.
If a filter is active the number of shown barcode types is displayed in the tab header.
7.5.2 Template
Select the required template from the Templates list. If you choose a template all previously adjusted
settings are overwritten with the template settings.
You can add your current configuration to the templates by saving it with Save As Template… from
the File menu. To refresh the template list choose the menu item Refresh Templates.
If a filter is active the number of shown templates is displayed in the tab header.
7.5.3 Filter
In order to find the desired barcode type or template more easily, the user can add a filter text in the
field below the Barcodes / Templates list. Filters restrict the elements shown by the lists.
The user may switch between two filter options by Text or by Encodable Data, what can be done by
clicking the link with the opposite text.
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The Barcode View shows the barcode in its actual appearance (as it will be printed).
To change the size of the barcode, enter the required dimensions in the “Appearance” section (see
section 7.7.2). The quality of the barcode depends on the output resolution and on the module width.
You will find a quality watch in the “Status” section (see section 7.4).
Figure 8: Data Section
The barcode content is entered in the field “Barcode Data” or by using the “Data Input Assistant”
. The assistant allows the input of unstructured raw data as well as the comfortable input of special
data formats (e.g., the contact data for a business card). However such data formats are not
supported by all barcode types. The assistant may also be used for importing barcode data from a
text file.
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Please note:
► Each barcode type is able to represent a specified set of data-characters. Some barcode
symbologies can hold digits. Others may contain alphanumeric characters (digits + letters +
punctuation characters). Again, others may use the full ASCII character set.
The Data Input Assistant allows you to comfortably enter the barcode data in different formats.
Depending on your selection in a different input mask will be show in . E.g., if you have selected
a business card format in , then will show the corresponding input fields for first name, last name,
company, etc. If you have selected the GS1 format then will show a table for editing the single AIs
(Application Identifiers) in the barcode (see example below). Barcode Studio will do the correct
formatting for the particular barcode data automatically. The formatted data can be inspected in .
► The number of available data formats in depends on your current barcode selection. For
Code 128 the editing will be restricted to raw data. For other symbologies (like QR-Code) a
variety of data formats is available.
► Besides that Barcode Studio offers the possibility to specify your own data formats. If
required, please contact us!
Furthermore the assistant allows you to import barcode data from a text file (button Load File…). For
clearing all data fields, please use the Reset button.
The data input for the “Raw Data” format (pre-selection) is quite similar to the input in the main
window. However the assistant offers you the additional possibility to enter the data in a multi-line edit
control (use the button ).
Below you will find examples for editing different data formats:
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You can enter control characters directly in the edit field or use the context menu. Open the context
menu by right-clicking in the edit field and choose Add Control Characters. Then select the control
character to insert from the submenu.
Because control characters are represented by special character combinations (like \F for FNC1),
Barcode Studio activates escape sequences automatically (see section 7.8.1.2).
For more information on all available control characters, please refer to the “Barcode Reference”
available on www.tec-it.com or via the menu Help ► Barcode Reference.
Some barcodes with a predefined number of utilizable data characters (like all EAN, UPC, Postnet
and RSS-14 codes) contain a check digit on a fixed position in the barcode data.
Example:
► Note: If the barcode data already contains a check digit, the barcode is only valid if the check
digit is equal to the automatically calculated check digit.
► Only if the check digit method is set to None (see section 7.8.1.1), the correctness of a check
digit remains unchecked. Under normal circumstances you should not use this setting – we
recommend relying on the automatic calculation of the check digit(s) by Barcode Studio.
The Composite Data field () is only enabled if the selected barcode type supports composite data
(check if the Composite page is visible) and if a 2D Composite Component has been selected
(“Auto”, “CC-A”, “CC-B” or “CC-C”) on that page.
► You can also enter the composite data in the Barcode Data field by separating the composite
data from the linear barcode data by the vertical bar character "|".
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If this option is selected (see Figure 8, ) the barcode data is treated as hexadecimal data. This
property applies to the barcode data field and to the composite data.
Whenever Hex Data is enabled, Barcode Studio treats manually entered data as well as imported
data as a hexadecimal character sequence. This sequence is internally converted to a normal
character sequence before a barcode is generated.
If the option “Example Data” is selected (see Figure 8, ), Barcode Studio provides a valid example
data string for the currently selected barcode type. The data is adapted automatically if you change
the symbology.
7.7.2 Appearance
Figure 13: Appearance Section
7.7.2.1 Unit
Field specifies the measurement unit for displaying and/or entering the dimensions of the barcode.
Possible values are:
Millimeter
Inch
Mils (=1/1000 inch)
Pixel.
Use the settings and to change the width and the height of the barcode. The preview is updated
immediately.
Unit Description
Millimeter The width and the height of the barcode in millimeters.
The physical width (in pixels) can be calculated as follows:
width (pixels) = width (mm) / 25.4 * resolution (dpi).
Inch The width and the height of the barcode in inches.
The physical width (in pixels) can be calculated as follows:
width (pixels) = width (inch) * resolution (dpi).
Mils The width and the height of the barcode in mils.
The physical width (in pixels) can be calculated as follows:
width (pixels) = width (mils) / 1000 * resolution (dpi).
Pixel The width and the height of the barcode in pixels.
The width and the height are specified in pixels. The resulting dimension on the screen
depends on the adjusted resolution (dpi).
Point The width and the height of the barcode in points.
The physical width (in pixels) can be calculated as follows:
width (pixels) = width (pt) / 72 * resolution (dpi).
Micrometer The width and the height of the barcode in micrometers.
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Every barcode is divided into several "modules". A module is the smallest bar (or space) segment.
The module width is the fundamental measuring unit for barcodes. All bar and space widths base
on this setting. A change of the module width causes a change of the barcode width and vice
versa.
Exceeding the lower limit of the module width leads to unreadable barcodes (e.g., if the module width
is smaller than 1 pixel). The minimum limit depends on the resolution of screen, printer, or image.
► The module width should be 0.19 mm or greater, otherwise barcode readers will have
problems to scan the barcode.
► To increase the accuracy of the barcode symbol you can increase its resolution.
► Consider that the resolution set in Barcode Studio must fit to the resolution of the printer or
the target application.
► Image Export: Most applications show (and print) images (and therefore barcodes exported
as image) in screen resolution. If the resolution of the barcode image is higher than the screen
resolution, the output size will be displayed bigger than in Barcode Studio.
Example: If your screen resolution is 96 dpi and the exported image has a resolution of 300
dpi it will be displayed about 3 times as large as in Barcode Studio.
► However, only few professional layout applications consider the resolution correctly.
► The dpi value can only be stored in certain image formats!
E.g., when exporting an image as GIF file, the adjusted resolution (dpi) will not be stored. Only
the formats BMP, JPG, PNG, and TIF are capable of storing the resolution.
For detailed information, please refer to Appendix C.
7.7.2.5 Optimize
If the “Optimize” option is checked, the module width of the barcode will be set to a whole-numbered
pixel size (to the nearest lower value). Hereby the pixel deviation is reduced to a minimum or
eliminated completely.
In other words: The barcode is printed using whole-numbered pixel sizes only. This avoids aliasing
effects and guarantees an optimal scanning quality.
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► If the “Optimize” option is checked, the module width will be adjusted for optimum output quali-
ty.
► This setting can be very helpful especially for lower resolutions.
► The barcode view shows the barcode symbol in optimal quality only, if the resolution was set
to “Screen Resolution”. The preview is not detailed enough to display higher resolutions
correctly. More detailed output can only be achieved on the according output devices (printer,
image, etc.).
Use the link “Default Settings” to reset the barcode to its initial size.
This section describes the settings regarding the human readable text.
Choose whether and where the human readable text is shown. Allowed values are No Text, Below
Barcode (default), and Above Barcode.
Many barcode types, as for instance the 2D symbologies, do not have a human readable text. For
these types the option cannot be changed.
Above Barcode cannot be enabled in conjunction with barcode types like EAN 8, EAN 13, UPC A, or
UPC E.
7.7.3.2 Alignment
This property adjusts the alignment of the human readable text (Default, Left, Right, and Center).
This property adjusts the distance between the “human readable text” and the barcode (in mm).
7.7.3.4 Font
Click the button to select the font for the human readable text. The selected font is displayed in
text box .
This property adjusts the spacing between the letters of the human readable text (in pt.).
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This property specifies the check digit calculation method. In order to guarantee that the barcode data
is going to be read properly a check digit can be added at the end of the utilizable data. A comparison
of the barcode content with the check digit informs the scanning device (scanner) about incorrect
scans and forces the device to repeat or reject the scan. The check digit calculation method is
standardized for certain common barcodes types. Using check digits is mostly optional – but often
recommended for particular symbologies and standards.
When set to default the check digit is calculated according to the specification of the selected
barcode. Modifications are admissible for barcodes with selectable check digit methods or for special
applications only.
For additional information on check digit calculation, please refer to the “Barcode Reference” available
from www.tec-it.com or via the menu Help ► Barcode Reference.
With the fields Encoding Mode () and Code Page () the user can affect the interpretation of the
input data.
For a general overview about encoding and code pages, please refer to the “Barcode Reference”
available from www.tec-it.com or via the menu Help ► Barcode Reference.
► Data is always passed as UNICODE stream to Barcode Studio. Since UNICODE characters
always consist of more than one byte and most of the barcode types are only able to encode
one byte per character, it is not always clear how the input data should be interpreted. So we
give you the possibility to decide yourself.
► Per default the input data is converted to the selected Code Page (see below). If other kinds
of interpretations are needed, you have to change this property.
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Value Description
Selected Code Page Converts the input data to the code page, which is selected in the property Code Page.
(default)
Lo-Bytes only Considers only the lower bytes of the input characters, the higher bytes are ignored.
Lo- before Hi-Byte The data is passed as it is. No conversion is done. All bytes are considered. A lower
byte is passed before the higher byte.
Hi- before Lo-Byte Consider both bytes but change the order of lower and higher byte. That means a higher
byte is encoded before the lower byte.
Table 5: Compression
The code page is related to the property Encoding Mode. It is only considered if the encoding mode
is set to Selected Code Page. You can choose between several pre-defined code pages (e.g. ANSI,
ISO 8559-1 Latin I, UTF-8, Shift-JIS…) or add the ID of a custom code page by selecting Custom
Encoding… and by entering the ID in the edit field aside.
The use of escape sequences is appropriate if you need to encode control characters like carriage
return or FNC1 into the barcode.
This option specifies, whether escape sequences (like “\n”) shall be translated or not (default: no).
Each escape sequence starts with a backslash (“\”) and is followed by one or more characters. For a
list of recognized escape sequences, please refer to the additional document “Barcode Reference”
available via the menu Help ► Barcode Reference or from www.tec-it.com.
► If escape sequences are activated, the backslash character can’t be used directly in the bar-
code data. It must be replaced by a double back-slash “\\” in order to be encoded correctly.
Select the kind of bearer bars you want to use. Bearer bars help a decoder to detect the full width of
a barcode and reduce the possibility of partial scans (decoding only a part of the symbol). You can
change the width of the Bearer Bars in .
This property adjusts the height at which the synchronization bars (e.g. the double lines in EAN on
the left, center and on the right side) extend the regular barcode height.
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7.8.2 Drawing
Click the Adjust Quiet Zones… button to open the Quiet Zones dialog.
This property adjusts the sizes of the quiet zones around the barcode. The sizes can be given in
several units like number of modules, Millimeters, Inches, Mils, and Pixels.
You can configure the quiet zone for all four sides of the barcode independently from each other. By
clicking Reset Values all values are reset to zero.
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Click the button beside the color that you want to change. Then select the desired color in the
appearing dialog.
Fore Color The foreground color of the barcode (color of the bars).
Back Color The background color of the barcode (color of the spaces).
Text Color The color of the “human readable text”.
Back Style Mode for drawing the background of the barcode. The background can be set either to transpa-
rent (background shines through) or opaque (= default; background is overwritten with the
background color). This setting is also relevant if you use copy and paste (clipboard).
Because Microsoft Windows does not offer to select colors from the CMYK model by default, Barcode
Studio offers a dialog where the user may choose between the color models RGB or CMYK. Change
the color by selecting the color shades directly or click the button to open the system color dialog.
7.8.2.3 Rotation
This property defines the barcode rotation. Possible values are 0°, 90°, 180°, and 270°.
When printing on inkjet printers, the ink that is absorbed by the paper tends to diffuse. Setting the bar
width reduction allows you to work against this spreading of ink. This property is also useful for laser
printers with high toner saturation.
The bar width reduction can be specified in several measure units like percent of the module width,
mm, Inch, and Mils. For instance, if the unit is set to percent and the value is set to 20 all bars will be
narrowed by 20 percent of the module width.
► Be careful: When using this feature we recommend you to do several test scans to make sure
that the barcode can be scanned correctly. A common value to start with is 15%. Setting the
bar width reduction to more than 50 percent might leave the barcode unreadable!
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7.8.3.1 Format/Subset
The format string is used for formatting the utilizable data of the barcode according to defined rules.
It operates with substitute symbols to indicate how the data shall be structured.
With the format string it is possible to insert constant characters to the barcode data. Control
characters make it possible to change the Subsets for Code 128, EAN 128 and UCC 128 or to define
the desired start/stop character of CODABAR.
For more information on format strings, please refer to the “Barcode Reference” available from
www.tec-it.com or via the menu Help ► Barcode Reference.
Via the field Options you can change predefined barcode settings. You can find a list of valid options
in the description of the function BCSetOptionsA on
www.tec-it.com/Documentation/TBarCode11_Library_Reference/group___options.html.
The print ratio describes the relationship between the different bar- and space-widths of a barcode
(do not mix this up with the width/height ratio of a symbol!). It is specified by a list of colon-separated-
values. The list starts with n bar widths, followed by m space widths. The numbers n and m depend
on the barcode type.
You can use the Default Print Ratio as a template for a customized Print Ratio value. It shows
how many different bar and space widths are used for the selected barcode type. The absolute width
of a bar (or space) is calculated using the values of the print ratio multiplied with the module width.
Example: If a barcode element has 4 different bar widths and 4 different space widths, the print ratio
could look like this (e.g. for Code 128): 1:2:3:4:1:2:3:4.
The first 4 numbers ("1:2:3:4") stand for the bar widths, the last 4 numbers for the space widths (in
this case, they are the same). The smallest bar is "1" module wide, the next larger is "2" (thus twice
as wide as the smaller bar) and so on.
► Modifications of the print ratio make only sense for special applications! E.g., for the Code
2OF5 interleaved the print ratio can vary from 1:2 to 1:3.
► Use this option with care! Barcodes may become unreadable when using wrong print ratios.
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For additional information on print ratios, please refer to the “Barcode Reference” on www.tec-it.com.
7.9.1 Logos
If checked the logo is stretched to the full size of the barcode (). In order to gain a useful result, you
should also choose a suitable display mode.
7.9.1.3 Alignment
Defines the alignment and so the position of the logo within the barcode ().
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7.9.1.4 Offset
The offset specifies the relative horizontal and vertical distance of the logo from the position given by
the alignment ().
This setting defines the width and the height of the logo (). If “Lock Ratio” is checked, the ratio
between width and height is retained when the size changes.
The display mode () specifies, how the logo shall be embedded into the barcode. You can choose
among following options:
This setting defines the transparency of the logo in the range between opaque and invisible.
Choosing of a single transparency color. If the selected color occurs in the logo, it is drawn
transparently. (See also in Figure 22 – white was chosen as transparency color ).
7.9.3 Effects
► Attention: For average use we strongly recommend to use only Draw Mode Rectangles.
Using another mode can endanger readability.
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► A change does make only sense for special applications like advertisements, fun barcodes,
etc., that do not enforce the readability of the barcodes.
The draw mode () specifies which shape the bars should have. Usually bars are drawn as
rectangles – only this selection applies to the barcode standards. For special applications (like
advertisements, etc.) you can also choose other shapes.
If the user selects the drawing method Image, he has to enter the name of the image file (.bmp, .jpg,
.gif, .png, .tif) here.
The texts which are specified here are printed above and below the barcode. Currently two captions
above and two captions below the barcode are supported.
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In order to print a caption, it must be activated. For each caption you can specify the content, the
alignment, the text distance, and the font style.
The checkboxes in allow you to activate one or more captions. The caption texts are printed in the
following order (from top to bottom): Caption Above, Caption Above 2, barcode, Caption Below,
Caption Below 2.
7.10.2 Text
7.10.3 Alignment
This property adjusts the alignment of the human readable text (Left, Right, and Center).
This property specifies the distance to the next inner element: either to the barcode or to the next
inner caption.
If the caption is adjacent to the barcode, then the Distance describes the space between the caption
and the barcode. If an additional caption is located between the caption and the barcode, then the
Distance describes the space between these two captions.
The distance may also be less than 0. So you can print captions within the barcode or on the same
line with another caption.
7.10.5 Font
Click the button to select the font for the caption text. The selected font is displayed in the text box
.
This property specifies the distance between two letters in points. The default value is 0.
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Users can enter a title and a comment in HTML-Format. If specified, the title and the comment are
displayed as info text below the barcode. The info text can be used to provide other users with
important information.
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The template category is used for categorizing templates in the Templates tree.
7.11.1.3 Keywords
The field Keywords contains information related to a template. It can be used as additional
information for filtering the templates list.
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7.12 2D Settings
7.12.1 PDF417 / Micro PDF417
The PDF417 / Micro PDF417 page is used for modifying the standard behavior of the 2-dimensional
barcode types PDF417, Micro PDF417 and for all derived barcodes (PDF417 Truncated, etc.).
PDF417 divides the data content into rows and columns. It is a so called “stacked symbology” with
error correction capabilities.
► Be careful when modifying these adjustments. Always make a test scan in case of doubt!
Determine whether to enforce binary encoding. In Binary Encoding mode the encoding algorithm
does not try to calculate the smallest possible symbol, but it uses binary encoding for all characters.
This is recommended for binary input data and for barcode generation with optimal speed.
Default: The number of lines is calculated automatically based on the number of input characters.
The number of columns. The value must be between 1 and 30. Start-, stop- and line-indicator columns
are not taken into account.
Default: The number of columns is calculated automatically based on the number of input characters.
The height of an individual row in millimeters. If specified, the barcode height will remain locked at
the specified value. (Modifying the barcode dimensions will only affect the barcode width.)
Default: The row height is calculated automatically based on the number of input characters.
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The error correction level. The value can be between 0 (only error detection) and 8 (highest
correction).
Default: The level is calculated automatically according to the number of input characters (minimum
2, maximum 5).
7.12.1.6 Mode
Specifies how data is encoded as Micro PDF417. In most cases the “Default” mode is the best choice.
► Note: Often the scanner hardware does not support all modes listed below. – Please, check
with your scanner first.
7.12.1.7 Version
Specifies the “size” of the symbol in terms of code word-columns and Micro PDF417 rows.
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PDF417 allows the user to spread the data across several symbols. This might be done if the data is
too large to fit into a single symbol or for reasons of appearance and geometry.
The so called “Macro PDF Control Block” carries information that relates its contents to the overall
data. The properties described below are mandatory for the Macro PDF functionality.
Index of the actual data segment in the symbol chain. It starts with 1 and is increased for each
additional symbol in the data chain. Value range = 1…99999.
Note: when reading the encoded data with a scanner, the index will be zero-based.
Identifies the last symbol in the data chain. If set to true, the “Last Segment Indicator” is put at the
end of the Macro PDF control block.
7.12.1.11 File ID
The file id identifies all symbols, which belong to the same data chain. For reassembling, all data
blocks having the same File ID are concatenated in the order of increasing segment index.
These fields are optional and may be encoded into the Macro PDF417 control block on demand.
7.12.2 MaxiCode
MaxiCode represents data, by drawing hexagonal items, which are arranged around a circular center
(a so called "Bull's Eye"). The internal data structure is regulated by different "modes". The mode
"Structured Carrier Message" was defined by the parcel transport service UPS ®. Data can be encoded
in two different error correction levels (SEC = Standard Error Correction and EEC = Enhanced E.C.).
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With “Structured Append” you can divide larger quantities of data into several MaxiCode symbols –
they are joined by the scanner. The maximum data capacity of one symbol is 93 characters. The
actual quantity of the utilizable data depends on the selected mode, on the amount of special
characters, on whether compressible numeric sequences are used and on the level of error
correction.
7.12.2.1 Mode
Mode (Enumeration) Description
4 – Standard Symbol For numeric and alphanumeric character sequences (incl. standard error correction).
2 – SCM (Numeric) Structured Carrier Message, up to 9 digits (postal code consist of digits only).
3 – SCM (Alphanumeric) Structured Carrier Message, up to 6 characters (postal code consist of alphanumeric
characters).
5 – Full EEC Like mode 4 but with enhanced error correction (safer, but fewer utilizable data possible).
Table 8: MaxiCode – Modes
The undercut influences the diameter of the hexagonal barcode elements. In new applications it is
recommended (according to the AIM standard) to use an undercut setting of 75% (default).
Used particularly in “Open System Standards”. Under “Preamble Date” the last two digits of a year
can be entered. They are inserted automatically into the data stream in a predefined place.
If you want to encode large quantities of data you can “connect” several MaxiCode symbols by the
use of “Structured Append". For each MaxiCode symbol an identification number must be assigned.
This number is entered in the field “Index of this Symbol” and can range from 1 to 8. The index
indicates the order, in which the data is joined after the reading/scanning process. The total number
of arranged MaxiCode symbols must be entered in “Number of all symbols”.
MaxiCode was originally developed by UPS® (United Parcel Service). The operating mode
"Structured Carrier Message" (mode 2 and 3) supplies special data fields for UPS®-purposes:
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”Service Class”, ”Country Code”, and ”Postal Code”. In “Mode 3” you can use digits as well as
alphanumeric characters for the “Postal Code”.
By using escape sequences it is possible to insert the values for date, preamble, service class,
country and postal code directly into the barcode data (text property). To learn more about this feature,
please refer to the additional document “Barcode Reference”, which is available from www.tec-it.com
or via the menu Help ► Barcode Reference.
► Please note, that Barcode Studio always uses ECC 200 error correction.
The size of the symbols in number of rows and columns. Possible sizes are "10 x 10" to "144 x 144"
modules for square symbols and "8 x 18" to "26 x 64" for rectangular symbols. If set to default, the
minimal possible square size is used (depending on the input data).
Determine whether to enforce binary encoding. In Binary Encoding mode the encoding algorithm
does not try to calculate the smallest possible symbol, but it uses binary encoding for all characters.
This is recommended for binary input data and for barcode generation with optimal speed.
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Determines if the Data Matrix symbol should be displayed as rectangle (checked) or as square
(unchecked; default).
If you want to encode large quantities of data you can “connect” several Data Matrix symbols by the
use of “Structured Append". For each Data Matrix symbol an identification number must be assigned.
This number is entered in the field “Index of this Symbol” and can range from 1 to 16. The index
indicates the order, in which the data is joined after the reading/scanning process. The total number
of arranged Data Matrix symbols must be entered in “Number of all symbols”. The “File ID” has to be
the same for all symbols within such a chain.
The QR-Code symbology is a 2-dimensional matrix symbology (similar to Data Matrix). Remarkable
is the large data capacity (up to 3000 ASCII characters or 7000 digits). QR-Code means Quick
Response code – it was originally designed to read and decode symbols with high amounts of data
within a minimum of time. The only difference between QR-Code and QR-Code 2005 is the default
code page. Whereas QR-Code uses Japanese Shift-JIS, QR-Code 2005 uses ISO 8859-1 Latin I.
The Micro QR-Code symbology is based upon QR-Code, but is adapted to encode only small
quantities of data. It produces less overhead and smaller symbols.
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The version (= size) of the symbol is specified by a version number, the number of rows and the
number of columns. The range for QR-Code symbols is from (1) 21 x 21 up to (40) 177 x 177 modules.
The range for Micro QR-Code symbols is from (M1) 11x11 to (M4) 17x17.
If the property is set to default, the size is computed automatically based on the data to be encoded.
Defines the error correction level. You can choose from the following values:
► Not all versions (sizes) of the Micro QR-Code support all levels of error correction. If you have
selected a level, which is too high for the given symbol version, Barcode Studio automatically
uses the highest possible level.
Specifies the mask pattern that is applied to the symbol to improve the readability of the code.
7.12.4.5 Compaction
The multi-byte compaction mode. QR-Code provides code compaction for various Multi Byte
character encodings (Kanji, Chinese). This compaction can help to produce smaller barcodes.
QR-Code supports compaction of Kanji characters (if present in the Multi Byte character set Shift JIS
X 0208). The Kanji characters are compacted into a 12-Bit code word (instead of a 2 Byte / 16 Bit
code word) – so they need less space in the symbol. It is recommended to enable this compaction
only if you have Kanji characters in your input data. This mode should not be enabled for binary data!
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If you want to encode large quantities of data, you can “connect” several QR-Code symbols by the
use of “Structured Append”. For each QR-Code symbol you have to assign a symbol identification
number which is entered in the field “Index of this Symbol”. Its value can range from 1 to 16. This
index indicates the order, in which the data is joined after the reading/scanning process. The total
number of arranged symbols must be entered in “Number of all Symbols”.
Chained QR-Code symbols are identified by the parity byte. The parity byte must be identical in all
symbols. The value can be calculated using the method „QR_StructAppParity“, which is part of
TBarCode API.
Defines the size of the symbol in rows and columns. Possible values range from „15 x 15" up to „151
x 151" modules. If the property is set to default, the size is computed automatically based on the data
to be encoded.
Specifies whether to enforce binary encoding. In Binary Encoding mode the encoding algorithm
does not try to calculate the smallest possible symbol, but it uses binary encoding for all characters.
This is recommended for binary input data and for barcode generation with optimal speed.
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Enables the Aztec Runes mode. Aztec Runes are a special kind of Aztec Code symbols and are used
to generate small and very fast readable markers. Aztec Runes can only encode integer values from
0 to 255.
Defines the error correction level in percent. You can enter a value between 1 and 89 percent. The
value “Default” is equivalent to 23 percent.
If you want to encode large quantities of data you can “connect” several Aztec Code symbols by the
use of “Structured Append". For each Aztec Code symbol an identification number must be assigned.
This number is entered in the field “Index of this Symbol [A..Z]” and can range from “A” to “Z”. The
index indicates the order, in which the data is joined after the reading/scanning process. The index of
the last symbol must be entered in “Number of all Symbols [A..Z]”.
Chained Aztec Code symbols are identified by the “Message ID”. The “Message ID” must be identical
in all symbols.
7.12.6 Codablock-F
The Codablock-F property page is used to adjust symbology specific parameters. Similar to PDF417
the data content is divided into rows and columns. Codablock-F is a stacked symbology with
additional internal checksums for error recognition.
Codablock-F is based upon the Code 128 symbology – one data row consists of a single Code 128
barcode, which is extended by a row identifier and a column check sum.
► Have caution when modifying these adjustments. Always make a test scan in case of doubt!
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Default: the number of lines is calculated automatically based on the number of input characters.
The number of columns (in data words). The value must be between 4 and 62. Start-, stop- and line-
indicator columns are not taken into account.
Default: the number of columns is calculated automatically based on the number of input characters.
The height of an individual row in millimeter. If specified, the barcode height will remain locked at the
specified value. (Modifying the barcode dimensions will only affect the barcode width.)
Default: the row height is calculated automatically based on the number of input characters.
Default: the line width is equal to the module width (calculated automatically based on the symbol
size).
EAN8
EAN13
GS1-DataBar / RSS14
GS1 DataBar Stacked / RSS14 Stacked
GS1 DataBar Stacked Omnidirectional / RSS14 Stacked Omnidirectional
GS1 DataBar Truncated / RSS14 Truncated
GS1 DataBar Expanded / RSS Expanded
GS1 DataBar Expanded Stacked / RSS Expanded Stacked
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Auto Automatically choose CC-A, CC-B or CC-C Symbology depending on the length of the composite
data.
CC-A CC-A is a variant of the MicroPDF417 Symbol with a unique combination of row address patterns
(RAP). CC-A is the smallest variant of the 2-dimensional composite component. Up to 56 digits of
alphanumeric data can be coded with 3 to 12 rows and 4 columns.
CC-B CC-B is a subset of the MicroPDF417 Symbol, which is identified by the code word 920. The encoding
algorithm chooses CC-B automatically when CC-A has not enough capacity (Auto-mode). CC-B
encodes up to 338 digits of alphanumeric data in 3 to 12 rows and 2 to 4 columns.
CC-C The CC-C structure is a PDF417 Symbol, which is identified by the internal code word 920 (920 is the
first code word after the symbol length indicator). The CC-C structure can be used as a 2 dimensional
composite component of a UCC/EAN-128 Composite Symbols. It has the largest data capacity of
EAN.UCC Composite Symbols. It can encode up to 2361 alphanumeric characters in 3 to 30 rows and
up to 30 Data-Error-checking-Code-Columns.
This property adjusts the number of (graphical data) segments per row in the GS1 DataBar
Expanded Stacked (RSS) Symbol. This parameter influences the width of the barcode. “Default”
means that each row contains at least 4 segments.
► This property is only used by the GS1 DataBar Expanded Stacked (RSS) barcode symbol-
ogy.
7.12.8 DotCode
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The combination of the fields Size Mode and Size specifies the number of rows and columns of the
barcode. The name of the Size field changes in dependence of the size mode.
The generation of a DotCode symbol can be optimized for the print direction of a printer, with the
moving direction of the printer head understood. This makes sense when a poor printing quality can
be expected. Otherwise we suggest the user to set this field to Don’t Care.
► This setting is applied only if neither the number of columns nor the number of rows of the
symbol is fixed.
Specifies whether to enforce binary encoding. In Binary Encoding mode the encoding algorithm
does not try to calculate the smallest possible symbol, but it uses binary encoding for all characters.
This is recommended for binary input data and for barcode generation with optimal speed.
7.12.8.5 Mask
Specifies the mask pattern that is applied to the symbol to improve the readability of the code. By
default the mask is calculated automatically but it would make sense to specify this setting directly if
you have to optimize the computation time.
With the values Mask 0 to Mask 3 you choose the appropriate mask pattern.
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If you want to encode large quantities of data, you can “connect” several DotCode symbols by the
use of Structured Append. For each DotCode symbol you have to assign a symbol identification
number which is entered in the field Index of this Symbol. Its value can range from 1 to 35. This index
indicates the order, in which the data is joined after the reading/scanning process. The total number
of arranged symbols must be entered in Number of all Symbols.
The version (= size) of the symbol is specified by a version number, the number of rows and the
number of columns. The range for DotCode symbols is from (1) 23 x 23 up to (84) 189 x 189 modules.
If the property is set to default, the size is computed automatically based on the data to be encoded.
Specifies whether to enforce binary encoding. In Binary Encoding mode the encoding algorithm
does not try to calculate the smallest possible symbol, but it uses binary encoding for all characters.
This is recommended for binary input data and for barcode generation with optimal speed.
Defines the error correction level. You can choose from the following values:
Specifies the mask pattern that is applied to the symbol to improve the readability of the code. By
default the mask is calculated automatically but it would make sense to specify this setting directly if
you have to optimize the computation time.
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With the values Mask 0 to Mask 3 you choose the appropriate mask pattern.
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8 Data List
8.1 General
In order to administrate series of barcode data, you can use the data list feature.
After performing the barcode settings (chapter 7 Barcode Studio User Interface) you can produce a
series of barcode images (chapter 8.5 Export) or print barcode labels (chapter 9 Label Printing).
Figure 36: Data List View
The data list contains a list of barcode data, which can be used for exporting a series of barcode
images or for printing labels. The data can be inserted, updated or deleted (), imported from a text
file or generated automatically by a sequence generator (). The image export is done via the button
. For more information on label printing please go to chapter 9 Label Printing.
8.2.1.1 Generate
The column “Gen.” (for Generate) determines whether a data row shall be exported or not. This value
is checked by default.
8.2.1.2 Status
The column “Status” informs the user whether a barcode can be created successfully ( – the data
is valid for the given settings) or not ( ).
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To get a detailed error message select the data row with the error icon. The error message is shown
in the Barcode View above.
8.2.1.3 Data
This column contains the barcode content. This value is mandatory for barcode generation. Values
can be edited manually, imported from a file or generated with the sequence generator.
“Composite Data” contains the content of the composite part of a barcode. It is only used in connection
with composite barcode types. So the column is only visible if a composite barcode type is selected.
The data can be edited manually or imported from a file.
8.2.1.5 Captions
The caption columns contain those texts that are printed above or below the barcode. The columns
are only visible if the according caption field is activated in the caption tab (on page Barcode). The
following caption fields are available: Caption Above, Caption Above 2, Caption Below, and
Caption Below 2. The captions can be edited manually or imported from a file.
This column contains the name of the exported file. The file names can be edited manually, imported
from a file, or generated automatically during export.
Here you can set, how many labels are printed for this data row. This value effect on exporting images.
8.2.1.8 Exported At
The column “Exported At” contains the time when the barcode was successfully exported last time. It
is generated automatically during export and cannot be changed by the user.
8.2.1.9 Comment
The user may enter comments for the data list here.
By default all barcodes in the data list have the same module width. That means barcodes with
different contents may vary in size but the minimum bar width (= the module width) and the quality
will be the same for each barcode.
The user also has the possibility to generate barcodes with (nearly) the same symbol size (but
different module width). He can do this by checking the field Lock Symbol Size .
8.2.3 Order
You can order the data list by clicking on one of the header columns. With the first click the list will be
sorted in ascending order by the content of the respective column, when clicking again the order is
changed to descending. When clicking the button Reset Order the order is reset.
The actual order is used for label printing, too. See also chapter 9 Label Printing.
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8.2.4 Editing
The user can append new barcode entries by clicking the button Add. All columns are filled with the
actual settings from the Barcode page.
The data in the list can be edited directly by mouse click (or by pressing F2). The user may change
the content of the columns Data, Composite Data, Text Above (1/2), Text Below (1/2), File Name and
Comment. The column Data is a mandatory field, for all other the input is optional.
By clicking the Delete button the user can delete one or more selected data list entries.
8.2.4.4 Refresh
The Refresh button updates the error status of the data list entries.
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The status icons in inform the user whether the data content of each row is valid for the actual
barcode settings.
In order to avoid long update times, the error status is not kept up-to-date. The user has to click
Refresh to see the real error status.
If one or more data rows produce an error, the user is informed about the number of invalid data rows
through a warning box (see ).
8.3.1.1 File
Enter or choose the name of the import file in . The file must be a text file with character-separated
values (*.csv, *.tsv, etc.). The data rows are separated by line breaks and the columns by a specified
separator character.
The file import supports 3 kinds of file encodings (): ANSI, UTF-8, and UTF-16. Default for MS
Windows is ANSI, default for Linux and Mac OS is UTF-8.
The field separator () divides data rows into several columns. Frequently used separator characters
are comma (,), semicolon (;), and tabulator, but the user can specify any character he likes.
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If the import data contains separator characters within a single column, the user has the option to
specify a text qualifier character (). All characters between two related text qualifiers are handled
as unit. Often used text qualifiers are quotes (‘) and double quotes (“). If the imported data contains
text qualifiers, they have to be escaped by either doubling them (““”) or by prepending a backslash
(\” “).
To import date fields correctly, the user may choose a date format which is used in the import file.
Currently only one date format can be specified.
If the setting is checked the first row is assumed to contain the column names.
As soon a valid file name has been specified the preview shows the first lines of the import file.
Analogical to the data assistant when used for editing the data, the input assistant offers a comfortable
way to import various data formats by choosing a suitable import format .
Each column of the import file can be mapped to one of the columns Data, Composite Data, File
Name, Caption Above (1/2) and Caption Below (1/2) in the data list. The selection of a Data column
is mandatory, for all other columns the assignment is optional.
If you choose another import format, the fields according to the format are listed below (see below for
examples).
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It is recommended to check the field Check the Imported Data in order to keep data consistence as
high as possible. It should be unchecked only if performance problems occur.
Example vCard:
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Example Email:
Imported URLs can be shortened by clicking the Shorten URL checkbox (). To enable this feature
you have to choose a URL Shortener service in the Options dialog (see chapter 10.4 URL
Shortening).
► URL shortening means squeezing a long URL into a shorter one. This is important when
creating mobile tagging QR-Codes for vCards, MeCards, SPARQCodes, etc. With URL
shortening you reduce the amount of data to be encoded. Smaller, better readable, easier-to-
share QR-Codes are the result.
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► Shortened URLs provide an easy way to analyze the usage of the codes. Whenever a
shortened URL is used to visit a web-page the shortening provider tracks this event. It does
not matter if the user scanned the code with a smart phone, simply clicked on it in a twitter
status message or entered the shortened URL manually into the address bar of the browser.
At the time being both providers offer publicly visible tracking statistics for free.
By clicking Sequence… the user opens the Sequence Dialog with the sequence generator. The
sequence generator allows the user to fill the data column in the data list with formatted serial
numbers.
The range of a sequence is specified by the Start Value, the End Value, and the Increment (see ).
The start value defines the lower bound of the range, the end value the upper bound, and the
increment the step size between consecutive list items.
► The last value of the sequence will never exceed the number specified in End Value.
8.4.2 Mask
The Mask defines the pattern, which will be applied to the items of the sequence. The mask string
may contain 4 kinds of placeholders, which are replaced by the digits of a serial or random number
during generation. All other characters are left as they are.
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Character Description
# Barcode Studio inserts leading blanks instead of the placeholders, if the serial number has fewer digits
than the Format string.
$ Like “#” but insert leading zeroes instead of blanks.
* Like “#” but insert leading stars instead of blanks.
? Each ‘?’ is replaced by a random character (see 8.4.5 Random Value Generation).
All other characters are used literally.
Table 19: Format – Characters
► If you enter “$$$” and create a sequence containing numeric values higher than 999, the
barcode data will be truncated. In this case change the format string.
With the help button (“?”) you can show and hide a short description of the mask pattern.
This flag lets you decide whether the generated serial number is restricted to the number of
placeholders. If yes the excessing digits in the front are cut off. If not all digits of the serial are shown.
You can use these flag to generate serial values without leading padding characters.
If the mask contains at least one ‘?’, random value generation is enabled. Each ‘?’ is replaced by
a random value taken from the list of Allowed Characters.
If you choose Generate unique values, the resulting sequence is checked whether it contains multiple
identical values. If so an error message is shown when clicking Ok. The user may try again or change
the sequence parameters to be more successful.
8.4.6 Preview
Click Preview to create the sequence based on the settings specified above. The list shows a
preview of the generated data.
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8.5 Export
By clicking Export… the Export dialog opens. Here the user can specify a destination directory (),
a rule for the automatic generation of file names (), and other parameters.
The destination path specifies to which directory the export images shall be saved.
Specifies the file format of the export file. For a description of the different file formats, please refer to
Appendix C.
If this field is checked, the barcode data is checked before the export. If the data list contains invalid
data the user will be informed.
If this field is checked, a TIFF preview is added to the generated EPS files. The check box is only
available if one of the EPS file formats is selected.
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The user has the possibility to choose between following file name generation methods:
8.5.2.3 URL-Encoding
If checked, the file names are URL-encoded. That means that characters that are not allowed in file
names are escaped by a percent sign followed by the hexadecimal ASCII code.
If checked, the file names, which are already defined in the data list, are kept. If unchecked all file
names are overwritten by the file generation.
8.5.3 Preview
The preview demonstrates how the generated file names will look like.
8.5.4 Export
The property specifies whether the data list shall be exported as CSV file. If enabled the dialog
Save as CSV File opens after clicking OK (See 8.6 Save as CSV file).
If one or more of the image file cannot be generated, an error message will be shown. This may have
one of the following reasons:
An item of the sequence list cannot be encoded with the actual selected barcode type (e.g.:
The symbology 2of5 IL is used, but the barcode data does not contain only digits, but also
characters.)
An invalid file name has been generated (e.g.: A file name contains a backslash, but the
option “URL Encode the File Names” was not selected).
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Keep in mind that exporting many data list items can take a lot of time and hard drive space!
8.6.1 File
The export supports 3 kinds of file encodings: ANSI, UTF-8, and UTF-16. Default for MS Windows is
ANSI, default for Linux and Mac OS is UTF-8.
The field separator divides data rows into several columns. Frequently used separator characters are
comma (,), semicolon (;) and tabulator, but the user can specify any character he likes.
If the export data contains separator characters within a single column, the user has the option to
specify a text qualifier character. All characters between two related text qualifiers are handled as
single unit. Often used text qualifiers are quotes (‘) and double quotes (“). If the exported data
contains text qualifiers, they are escaped by either doubling them (““”) or by prepending a backslash
(\” “).
If the setting is checked the first row contains the column names.
Determine whether to save the barcode image file names with the full export path.
The destination path for the barcode images. This path is used to generate the full path names in the
CSV file.
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9 Label Printing
9.1 General
Barcode Studio offers a simple solution for printing barcodes on labels. Therefore the following steps
are required:
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9.2 Templates
9.2.1 Brand
By selecting a brand the list of label definitions can be filtered. The item [All] displays the complete
label list.
9.2.2 Label
The settings for the selected label are shown in (see also section 9.3). These values can be
adapted manually if required.
The preview window shows the label outlines (see also section 9.5).
9.3 Settings
Defines the number of label columns and label rows per page.
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Defines the position of the first label to be printed on first page. Label positions before the given
position are skipped. The effect of this setting depends on the printing order.
9.3.3 Unit
Defines the width of a label. All labels have the same width.
Defines the height of a label. All labels have the same height.
Defines the order, in which the labels are printed (Down, then Across or Across, then Down).
A click on Page Setup… opens the Page Setup dialog. There you can change the page settings,
including the page margins.
Select either a predefined (A3, A4, Letter, etc.) or custom page size with a given Width and Height.
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9.4.2 Orientation
9.4.3 Margins
Define the page margins from the top, the bottom, the left, and the right side.
9.5 Preview
The label preview consists of a tool bar () and a preview window (). The preview window shows
the label outlines including the barcodes generated from the data list.
9.5.1 Preview
The preview gives you an idea how the print-out will look like. The barcodes are generated from the
data in the data list. The dashed blue lines outline the label shapes. These are shown in the preview
only, but not on the print-out.
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If the barcode exceeds the size of the label, the label will be marked with a red frame. The user will
be informed with an appropriate warning message.
The tool bar gives the user the possibility to zoom in or out. Furthermore it allows the user to turn
pages if the print job consists of multiple pages.
9.5.3 Settings
The user specifies whether only the first page or all pages are shown in the preview.
► The setting Show All Pages can decrease the performance of the preview rendering dra-
matically. Especially for a large number of data rows we recommend the setting Show Only
First Page.
9.6 Printing
If this option is activated all barcodes will be checked before they are printed. If one or more barcodes
cannot be created or if they are clipped, the user will be notified by an appropriate error message.
The user may cancel or continue at his risk.
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9.6.2 Printing…
By clicking Print… the print dialog is opened. In this dialog you can select the printer, and you can
specify the page range and the number of copies. The Print button confirms the dialog and starts the
print job.
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10 Options
In the Options dialog you can change general settings for the application. You can open the Options
dialog via the menu Tools ► Options…
The settings in this dialog are saved into the file bcstudio.bcopt, which is located in the Application
Data/Program Data directory (e.g., C:\ProgramData\TEC-IT\BCStudio\15.9\examples). They are
loaded automatically each time Barcode Studio is started.
The user may choose which file name is proposed for barcode export. Possible values are Last used
name and Like data.
Many applications are not able to process Postscript. In this case the embedded EPS documents are
displayed as placeholders only (e.g., empty rectangles). To give the user a chance to see the content
of the embedded document in the preview or in the design mode, the EPS generator offers the
possibility to add a TIFF preview image to the EPS file.
The preview in TIFF format is supported by many applications (unfortunately not by all).
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► If the preview mode is enabled, the size of the generated EPS files grows by a multiple of
the original file size. So the preview mode should be disabled for printing a large number of
documents.
Font Substitution is only used when exporting the barcode to an EPS file. This is an advanced option
and should only be changed for special applications.
Specifies the font for EPS exports. This property overrides the “Font” property on the “General” tab,
but only if “Font Substitution” () is set to “Fixed Font”.
Please note that you have to specify the “internal font name” (may not contain any spaces).
10.3 Templates
10.3.1 Template Directory
All template files (*.bc), which are listed in the template tree in the main window, are read from this
directory. The template directory path is preset by the setup routine, but it may be changed afterwards
if required (e.g., if the user wants to use a custom set of templates).
10.4.1 Proxy
In order to be able to access network or internet, you often have to change the proxy settings.
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Use the system settings for the proxy. In most cases this will be the correct decision.
If you cannot use the system-proxy, you are able to set the address and the port of the proxy directly.
10.4.2 Service
► If the preconfigured account returns an error message, we recommend you to use your own
account (for instance at Google) and activate the “URL Shortener Service” for it.
► Then choose the suitable personal account in the options dialog and enter the account data
(application key etc.).
Each service uses specific settings (), for instance API Key, user name, request delay, etc.
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11 FAQ
► For more information on the barcodes and their parameters, please check out the TEC-IT
Barcode Reference on www.tec-it.com/download/PDF/Barcode_Reference_EN.pdf
► More Information can be found on our website
www.tec-it.com/support/faq/Default.aspx
► In case of problems, please contact our support team: [email protected].
Enable the option “Escape Sequences” (page Settings) and insert the following escape code into the
data:
11.2 How can I encode the FNC1 character in GS1/UCC/EAN Data Matrix?
Set the “Code Format” (page Data Matrix) to GS1/UCC/EAN, enable the option “Escape Sequences”
(page Settings) and insert the following escape code into the data:
11.3 Escape-Sequences are not encoded (and the scanner signals an error)
Escape sequences are used for encoding special characters. An escape sequences consists of a
backslash “\” followed by a character or a hex value. For example, the escape sequence “\t” is used
for printing a tabulator character.
Escape sequences are only translated if the checkbox “Escape Sequences” (page Settings) is
enabled (see section 7.8.1.3)!
11.4 After saving the barcode to an image file, my barcode scanner cannot
read the barcode!
The bars and spaces in the symbol must have precise widths. By creating a bitmap image from the
barcode, the widths are adapted to the matrix of the bitmap. Depending on its resolution more or less
deviations can occur. The lower the resolution, the more differences in the width of the bars/spaces
will usually appear.
There are different strategies to overcome these problems – please check out the section “Resolution
and Readability” in the Barcode Reference for more information.
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11.5 What are the required steps to print labels on my thermal label printer?
The steps for setup Barcode Studio for thermal label printing are as following:
Adjust the label size correctly in the Windows printer driver (most important step)
Set your label printer as the default printer (under Windows1), otherwise the label size is not
recognized correctly.
Open Barcode Studio and change to the Labels tab, adjust the following label settings
The column width and row height you enter must match the label size
Open the print menu and click Preferences and verify the label size + click Apply
Click the Page Setup button (see screenshot above)
Select the label size you have adjusted in the printer driver – if it is a custom size you should
see “Custom”
After that the preview should change and you see one bar code on one label only.
1
Under macOS® the first printer in the list is your default printer
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12 Licensing
Please check out www.tec-it.com/order/Default.aspx for available license types and pricing.
If you have received an activation key from TEC-IT, please use the online product activation .
Internet access is required.
A message will inform you about the successful activation. In case of problems or errors, please
contact TEC-IT.
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Manual licensing is the alternative method for licensing if your system has no internet connection.
Select manual licensing and enter the license data as provided by TEC-IT.
► Please enter the license data exactly as you received it from TEC-IT!
Spacing and upper/lower case letters are to be considered. To avoid typographical errors,
please insert the data using “copy and paste” from the email containing your license data
whenever possible.
► Single licenses
If you purchased a single (workstation) license, you need to provide the so-called "System ID”
(or hostname on LINUX and MAC) of the target computer. You can find the System ID (or
hostname) in the licensing dialog (see below).
1. On the top of the dialog you find the System ID2 () of your computer.
For single licenses we will ask you to send us the System ID of the target computer.
2. In the field "Product” please choose between “Barcode Studio 1D (Linear Codes)” and
“Barcode Studio 2D (1D + 2D Codes)”.
3. In the field "Licensee” enter the name of the license holder.
4. In the field "Kind of License” select the kind of license that you have purchased. Possible
license types are:
- Single
- Site
- Enterprise
5. In the field "Number of Licenses” enter the number of licenses that you have purchased.
6. In the field "Your License-Key”, enter the license key exactly as received from TEC-IT.
7. Confirm the dialog with OK.
A message will inform you about the successful activation. In case of problems or errors, please
contact TEC-IT.
2
On UNIX, Linux or Mac OS X the hostname of the system is used as System ID (relevant only for Single licenses)
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For a restricted period of currently 10 days, you have the possibility to gain a temporary, but otherwise
unrestricted test license for one time.
When opening Barcode Studio you see a dialog, which allows you to request a test license online.
Please click the button Request a FREE test license online…. The license data is transmitted auto-
matically. In the case of an error please contact TEC-IT.
If you have received the test license successfully, you are informed about the remaining test period
with every application start.
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Address: Hans-Wagner-Str. 6
AT-4400 Steyr
Austria/Europe
Phone: +43 / (0)7252 / 72 72 0
Fax: +43 / (0)7252 / 72 72 0 – 77
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.tec-it.com
All other products mentioned are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. If any trademark on our web site or in this
document is not marked as trademark (or registered trademark), we ask you to send us a short message ([email protected]).
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Appendix A: Barcodes
Please refer to the additional document “Barcode Reference” available from www.tec-it.com.
This document contains an overview of the supported barcodes, enumeration values (for developers
using TBarCode OCX), the standard print ratio and the standard check digit methods.
A.1.1 MaxiCode
The method for the check digit(s) calculation depends on the respective barcode type. A standard
method for each barcode type is supplied.
See section 7.8.1.1 for adjusting the check digit in Barcode Studio.
For more information please refer to the “Barcode Reference” available at www.tec-it.com.
The Print Ratio is the relationship between the widths of the bars and the widths of the gaps of a
barcode. Each barcode symbology should be generated with certain print ratios only.
See section 7.8.2.1 for adjusting the print ratio in Barcode Studio.
For more information please refer to the “Barcode Reference” available at www.tec-it.com.
A.4 Format
Format is like a "mask”, which is used for formatting the barcode data before encoding (please do not
mix up the Format with the Ratio Format). Placeholders in the specified format string can be mixed
with constant data characters to build a final barcode data string. Also control characters are
supported.
See section 7.8.3.1 for adjusting the format string in Barcode Studio.
For more information please refer to the “Barcode Reference” available at www.tec-it.com.
See section 7.8.1.2 for enabling or disabling the translation of escape sequences in Barcode Studio.
For more information please refer to the “Barcode Reference” available at www.tec-it.com.
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Choosing Export ► Export Barcode… the barcode can be converted to a bitmap or image format.
The following image types are available. Please keep in mind that the barcode might get unreadable
if the resolution of the generated bitmap is too low (does not apply for vector based image formats).
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Barcode Studio can also be started from the command line. It supports various parameters which
allow the user to automate the barcode-generation process.
D.1 Syntax
1) BCStudio -d=<data> -out=<outputfile> [[-s=]<settingsfile>] [-h=<height>] [-w=<width> |
-m=<modulewidth>] [-u=<unit>] [it=<imagetype>] [-r=<dpi>] [-o]
[-rot=<rotation>] [-fs=<fileseparator>] [-log=<logfile>]
[-cancel=<cancelfile>] [-q]
2) BCStudio -datafile=<datafile> -out=<outputfile> [[-s=]<settingsfile>] [-h=<height>]
[-w=<width> |-m=<modulewidth>] [-u=<unit>] [it=<imagetype>] [-r=<dpi>] [-o]
[-rot=<rotation>] [-fs=<fileseparator>] [-log=<logfile>]
[-cancel=<cancelfile>] [-q]
3) BCStudio -datalist=<datalistfile> [-skipheader=<numlines>] -outlist=<outputlistfile>
[[-s=]<settingsfile>] [-h=<height>] [-w=<width> |-m=<modulewidth>] [-u=<unit>]
[it=<imagetype>] [-r=<dpi>] [-o] [-rot=<rotation>] [-fs=<fileseparator>]
[-log=<logfile>] [-q]
4) BCStudio -datalist=<datalistfile> [-skipheader=<numlines>] -out=<outputfile>
[[-s=]<settingsfile>] [-h=<height>] [-w=<width> |-m=<modulewidth>]
[-u=<unit>] [it=<imagetype>] [-r=<dpi>] [-o] [-rot=<rotation>]
[-fs=<fileseparator>] [-log=<logfile>] [-q]
5) BCStudio <settingsfile>
6) BCStudio -g [[-s=]<settingsfile>] [-d=<data> | -datafile=<datafile>] [-h=<height>]
[-w=<width> | -m=<modulewidth>] [-u=<unit>] [-o] [-state=<statefile>]
[-defaultsave=<defaultsavedir>]
7) BCStudio [-? | -help]
-d=<data> Specifies the barcode data. Can be used alternatively to -datafile=<datafile> and
-datalist=<datalistfile>.
-datafile=<datafile> Specifies the barcode data through a data file. Can be used alternatively
to -d=<data> and -datalist=<datalistfile>.
-datalist=<datalistfile> Specifies the file that contains a list of data strings (separated by line breaks). Can
be used alternatively to -d=<data> and -datafile=<datafile>. You can use -datalist
together with:
-outlist: each barcode is generated into a separate output file.
The number of entries in data and output list should be equal.
-out: all barcodes are generated into a single output file (PDF only).
Exception: If output list file only contains one file name, all barcodes are exported
to this file (equivalent to parameter -out, PDF only).
-skipheader=<numlines> Specifies the number of lines of the data list that should be handled as header lines
and so skipped. This argument can only be used in conjunction
with -datalist=<datalistfile>.
-out=<outputfile> The name of the output file (image file). The filename extension may be one of the
following: JPG, GIF, TIF, BMP, PNG, EPS, and PDF. The filename extension must
be specified! Can be used alternatively to –outlist=<outputlistfile>.
-outlist=<outputlistfile> The name of the file that contains a list of output file names (separated line breaks).
Can be used alternatively to –out=<outputfile>. If this argument is used you must
also specify -datalist=<datalistfile>. The number of entries in both lists should be
equal.
[-s=]<settingsfile> Settings-Files are *.bc files which have been created with Barcode Studio. By
passing command line arguments you can override values of the settings file.
If you pass only the settings file without an argument name and no other argument,
the application is opened in graphics mode.
-h=<height> Height of symbol, measured in 1/1000mm.
-w=<width> Specify either the total width of the symbol or the module width (dimension X or
-m=<modulewidth> narrow bar width); values are measured in 1/1000mm.
E.g.: -w=50250 … barcode is 50.25 mm wide
-u=<unit> The measure unit used for the barcode sizes (width, height, and module width).
Possible values: MICM (Micrometer), MM (Millimeter), MIL (Mils), IN (Inch), PX
(Pixel), PT (Point). See also usage dialog.
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-it=<imagetype> The type of the output file. It may have the same values as the file name
extensions.
-r=<dpi> The resolution of the output file in dpi (default = 600 dpi).
-o Optimal resolution: adapt module width to pixel width; recommended for low
resolution devices.
-rot=<rotation> The barcode rotation in degrees. Valid values are 0, 90, 180, and 270 (default =
0).
-fs=<fileseparator> A custom file separator that can be used for separating file names of command
line arguments and for the list of file names in the output file names list.
-log=<logfile> The name of the log file. If this argument is not set, no log file is generated.
-cancel=<cancelfile> The name of the cancel file. As soon the cancel file exists, the execution of the
image generation is stopped (does not work in graphics mode).
-state=<statefile> The name of the state file. The state file is generated after Barcode Studio has
been finished (graphics mode only). It contains information about last saved
settings file.
-defaultsave=<defaultsavedir> The default directory for “Save Settings As…” (graphics mode only)
-q Activates the “Quiet Mode”. The program does not interact with the user. This
setting is useful, for instance, to run Barcode Studio on servers.
If an error occurs, a message is logged to file error.log.
-g Starts the application in "Graphics Mode". This setting is needed to pass a settings
file to Barcode Studio and start it in graphics mode.
-? Display the help screen.
-help
D.2 Examples
Generate a barcode image (JPG) with 300 dpi and 0.330 mm module width:
bcstudio -d="12345" -out=barcode.jpg -h=30000 -m=330 -r=300
Opens a settings file in graphics mode with given width and height: 50x30mm:
bcstudio –g -s=bcsettings.bc -w=50000 -h=30000 – u=MICM
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