|
|
Tech Specs: Barcode SoftwareLabel Design Software FeaturesBarcode Support
Barcodes come in one dimensional (a.k.a. 1D) and two dimensional (a.k.a. 2D) formats. (For more information on these barcodes, click here.) If you want to use a particular barcode symbology, be sure your software supports the use and printing of your preferred font. You will also need to make sure your printer can handle the fonts, and your scanner can read them. WYSIWYGAcronym for "What You See Is What You Get." A design interface that shows the various design elements as they would appear on a finished label. Usually, such an interface shows each element - whether it's a barcode, a picture, or text - in a way that scales it to proportionally fit on the finished label so the designer can see how it all "fits together." Drag and DropThe capability for a designer to click the mouse cursor on a common element from a list or grouping of pictures or icons, drag the element to a badge design display, and release the button to place the image on the label design. FontsFonts are the different styles of letters that can be printed. Most Microsoft Windows-based software uses "True Type" fonts, which are easy to install, use, and print in a standard way on printers. Here are examples of different font styles and sizes:
GraphicsGraphics are pictures - simple! Most computer graphics are rendered in such a way that they display very well on a computer screen. However, in barcode printers, the capability exists to print at a much higher resolution, so the graphics you see on a computer screen may not print well onto a label. Here are some common graphics terms you may hear:
Export/ImportMany label design applications will allow you to import files (graphics, text, or even entire badge design files) into the program for use in your badge design, and many will allow you to export the finished badge design into a number of common formats for use in other software applications. International Languages and Characters
Positioning and AlignmentOne important feature for label design software is the ability to precisely place a design element where you want it, and to align it in relation to other design elements. In addition, some software packages will allow you to rotate text or graphics for more customized designs that utilize the label space more efficiently. System Campatibility
Common operating systems include:
Text EditingOnce a text design element is placed on the label, some software packages will allow you to edit the text in place to make spelling corrections, change whole words, or change font sizes and styles. If you need anticipate a need for such editing, make sure the software package you're considering allows that. ThumbnailsMany software packages will display files in "thumbnail" format, which is a small picture of a file that allows the user to pick based on the picture. This feature is handy if you need to frequently switch between designs to print, and you need to select the different designs quickly and accurately. Undo/RedoLabel design software will usually allow you to undo an action or redo a repeated action easily. Some designers need a "deep" undo capability, allow you to trace your steps back many times and undo each one in turn. Some designers only need to undo the last action, and don't need that capability. Same with redo actions. Just make sure your prospective software allows you to do what you need it to. Label Printing Software FeaturesPrinter DriversPrinter drivers are small software programs written so the software you use will work to print the exact label you design on the specified printer. Different printers handle different design elements - like fonts, barcodes and graphics - differently, and the drivers are written to make sure the output is standardized. Print PreviewA print preview allows you to see a representation of the label to be printed on the computer screen, so labels and ribbons aren't wasted by printing numerous test labels. Typically, a print preview will allow you the option of printing if it looks OK in the preview, or returning to an editing mode if something isn't quite right. Local and Network Printer Support
SerializationSome labels need to have sequential numbering in the barcode, either incrementing or decrementing. In addition, some software allows you to print with intervals in the numbering used, (i.e. printing barcode labels with each new label incremented by 10 instead of 1). Some software also allows you to "roll over" when a certain target number is reached in the printing process. Database OperationsSome barcode labels will need to pick data for printing from databases, and many software applications will allow you to connect to a variety of databases. Here are a few acronyms you may run across:
Management Software FeaturesReports, Forms and Queries
Handheld Scanner Support for Inventorying ItemsYou should be sure the management software you choose supports the barcode scanner or data acquisition device you'll be using to capture the scanned data on your barcode labels. TrackingMake sure your management software allows you to track aspects of your products, operations or processes, such as:
Import/Export of DataYour management software may allow you to import or export data for use in other applications. Security Levels
Multiple Sites, Locations and ItemsIf you have multiple work sites, or locations where similar products are produced or used, or even similar items, make sure your management software allows you to differentiate between these entities. Receiving and Picking OperationsMake sure your software enhances your ability to accurately receive and store items, and to accurately pick and send items. Errors in receiving or picking can be costly unless properly managed, and you should make sure your software allows you to be as efficient as possible. Customer and Vendor DatabasesMany management software applications will allow you to track your customers and vendors so you have control over your entire "supply chain." Interfacing with:
|
You
first of all need to make sure your design software supports the
use of barcodes on your labels. This may sound strange, because
of course it should! But, some software supports some barcode symbologies,
and other software supports others, so you need to make sure the
software you choose supports the symbology you desire.
Many
barcode labels require the use of foreign character sets, or the
use of special symbols for labels which will be viewed in foreign
markets. If you have a need for this, make sure the software you
choose can support these types of fonts. For example, the label
design at left shows a printed barcode, with the Russian word for
"Attention!" You will probably need to install foreign
character sets on your computer to be able to use them as part of
your label designs.
Make
sure the software package you're considering will work with the
computer or network you're using. Most Windows software will work
with various versions of Microsoft Windows, but be sure to check
that the prospective software will work with your current operating
system by matching them EXACTLY. 
Most
software packages are written to work with a local printer - one
that's attached directly to the machine where the labels are being
designed - or remote or network printer - one that's connected to
the computer where the labels are designed via network connections.
If you don't have a network, be sure your software supports local
printing. If you have a network, be sure your software supports
networking operations.
Your
management software should allow you to generate reports based on
inventory, manufacturing processes or delivery operations. Often
the reports will be from database information culled from the attached
databases, but may also be derived from statistics generated by
the software. Reports can be in standard formats, but you may also
be able to generate custom reports, complete with custom layout
for printing.
To
make your operations more secure, your management software may allow
you to set access levels for using the software, and performing
certain tasks. For example, you may want to limit deleting products
from the database to managers only.
Communication
with your entire company, as well as your suppliers and customers,
may be a priority for your management software. In addition, you
may want your management software to "tie in" with other
software packages you use. Make sure your management software will
interface with necessary business operations software applications,
such as: