Universal Product Code Key Terms

Become conversant with technical terms associated with the Universal Product Code

The Universal Product Code (UPC) is a specific type of barcode that is widely used in the United States and Canada for tracking trade items in stores. The UPC has only numerals, with no letters or other characters. The UPC is the most widely used and recognized of all barcodes.

In order to understand the basics of the Universal Product Code, you will need to be familiar with some key terms associated with it. This guide will explain some technical terms, such as UPC coupon code, check digit and quiet zone.

 

Barcode structure

A barcode structure represents a graphic codification of information about the product, on which the barcode is printed. A barcode comprises bars, spaces and quiet zones.
Try: You can read through the explanation for barcode structure at SensorCentral, an online information resource.

UPC coupons

UPC coupons are issued by manufacturers of consumer packaged goods or by retailers as a part of sales promotions. The coupon's bar code contains digit 5 as its prefix. Each section of coupon code is useful to help match coupons to products and determine the value of the coupon.
Try: You can read through the basics of UPC coupons at Gregg London (PDF), the UPC database website.   

Check digit

The last digit of the UPC is called a check digit. This digit assures the accuracy of printing and scanning the UPC.
Try: Advanced Barcode & Label Technologies, a supplier of custom labels, explains the procedure of finding the check digit.

Zero-suppressed numbers (or UPC-E)

Zero suppression is the removal of redundant zeroes from the UPC. It reduces the data length from 12 digits to six by compressing the extra zeroes. It is suitable for identifying products in small packages.
Try: TechnoRiver, a manufacturer of barcode labeling software and components, offers information on UPC-E barcode.

GS1 (Global Standard 1) standard

GS1 is a global organization dedicated to the design and implementation of global standards and solutions to improve the efficiency and visibility of supply and demand chains.
Try: Produce Marketing Association (PDF), a global trade association, explains the format of GS1 standards.

GTIN (Global Trade Identification Number)

A GTIN is useful for identifying any item (product or service), for which there is a need to retrieve pre-defined information.
Try: You can read through information about GTIN at Bar Code Graphics Inc., an information resource for barcodes.

X dimension

In a barcode, X dimension indicates the nominal width of narrow bars and spaces. This number can be used to determine the barcode density.
Try: Barcode4Less, a reputable supplier of barcode scanners and related accessories, offers a glossary of barcode terms.

Quiet zone

In barcode technology, a quiet zone is the blank margin on either side of a bar code. The purpose of a quiet zone is to prevent the reader from picking up information that is not a part of the barcode.
Try: wiseGEEK, a knowledge resource, offers detailed information on quiet zones.

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