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Introduction to Barcodes

Barcoding Guide
Barcodes

Introduction to Barcodes

This chapter introduces barcode technology as it applies to asset tracking in xAssets -- what barcodes are, which types are supported, the three scanning models (Keywedge, Camera, Intelligent), and how RFID compares.

What is a Barcode?

A barcode is an optical, machine-readable representation of data, displayed as a series of vertical bars of varying widths and spacings. In asset tracking, each barcode encodes a unique identifier -- a number or alphanumeric code -- assigned to a single asset. This identifier is stored in the Barcode field on the asset record in xAssets.

An asset's Serial Number can also serve as a barcode identifier when the manufacturer provides a scannable barcode on the physical asset.

When a barcode is scanned, xAssets looks up the matching asset record and presents it to the user. This enables fast, error-free identification during audits, check-outs, and search operations.

Why Use Barcodes?

Barcodes provide a fast, accurate way to identify assets during audits, check-outs, and everyday lookups. Scanning a barcode eliminates manual data entry errors and speeds up processes that would otherwise require typing asset numbers or searching by description.

A barcode contains only an identifier -- it does not store details such as make, model, or type. All asset information is held in the xAssets database and retrieved when the barcode is scanned.

Considerations Before Adopting Barcodes

Before rolling out barcoding, plan for the following:

  • Scanning model -- xAssets supports three scanning models. Camera scanning needs no extra hardware -- users scan with the camera in their phone, tablet, or laptop, via the xAssets web app. Keywedge scanners are inexpensive USB or Bluetooth devices that act like a keyboard, and need minimal setup at a desk. Intelligent scanners cost more but offer offline operation and richer data collection on the device. See Barcode Scanner Types for a comparison and Configuring the Barcode Input Mode for switching between models.
  • Labels -- Barcode labels must be printed and applied to the correct assets before scanning begins. xAssets can generate printable labels, but you will also need a suitable printer and durable, tamper-resistant label media.
  • Training -- Staff conducting audits or check-outs need brief training on the scanning workflow. The training is lightest for camera scanning (most users already know how to use their phone camera) and Keywedge (point-and-shoot at a focused field). Intelligent scanners take more orientation since they collect data offline.

What's in This Chapter

The following pages cover the details of barcode technology as it is used in xAssets:

  • Barcode Types -- the 1D and 2D barcode symbologies supported by xAssets
  • Barcode Scanner Types -- Keywedge, Camera, and Intelligent scanners, and when to use each
  • RFID -- how Radio Frequency Identification relates to barcode-based asset tracking

For an overview of how barcodes fit into the broader xAssets workflow, see Barcoding Overview.