Sep 27, 2005
Conversion of Linear to 2D symbols
By Fraser Ross
Question: How do I convert my existing barcode use to 2D barcodes?
Answer:Converting a linear barcode to 2D code is really not complicated.
In projects I have been involved with, the more time-consuming task in the conversion of the hardware. Since most of the post-processing vendors that offer inserting devices have the ability to upgrade, or retro-fit, their hardware with 2D camera from linear barcode scanners, that could well be the biggest task.
COPI’s application of 2D uses fonts so your data to be produced into 2D only involves an encoding subroutine. COPI has worked with software vendors and users to make conversion relatively easy. You can call our subroutine, and pass the data to be encoded, or use ‘user functions’ in your document creation software like CSF from Metavante, or StreamWeaver from Pitney Bowes.
The output of our subroutine is text and print is performed using supplied fonts. Since the output is text, you can store it in a database for future use. Many of our customers are producing 2D symbols within days or hours of installation of the subroutine. COPI’s latest versions of DataMatrix and PDF417 2D ‘Professional Edition’ barcodes also have many enhancements not available in the ‘Lite’ versions that we have noticed on the market.
You can read more about 2D symbologies by reading my archives by pressing here.
For more information on the exciting technology, please call Fraser Ross at 888-999-COPI ext ‘FR’.