Barcode and Label Software

Barcode Software – Print Labels & Generate Graphics

LATEST UPDATES

October 9, 2024 – Barcode Forge, Version 7.3
September 11, 2024 – Barcode-Lib4J, Version 2.0.1

Choose the Barcode Software for Your Needs

Barcode Labeling Software ➔ Barcode Labeling Software
  • Label software focused on barcode labeling, optimized for use cases such as warehousing, point of sale, inventory, logistics and healthcare. Continuous development based on user feedback provides a flexible solution for a wide range of barcode printing tasks.
  • An extensive set of features integrated into a streamlined and user-friendly interface allows for quick and intuitive onboarding.
  • Compatible with various types of printers and other output devices that have a Windows driver. Also suitable for use on terminal servers.
  • Supports printing on continuous and roll labels, label sheets (A4 pages with multiple labels) and other media. The software includes hundreds of templates for labels and stickers from manufacturers such as Avery, Herma, Dymo, Brother and Sigel. Custom templates can be created and shared with other users.
  • Generate serial numbers as well as numbers in ascending or descending order, with optional alphanumeric prefixes and/or suffixes, configurable step size and repeat counts. The generated numbers can be used in various ways, for example, in barcodes or text elements. Optionally, a Modulo-10 check digit can be appended, which is used in many barcode formats.
  • Support for batch and single label printing, as well as label reproduction, e.g., by scanning existing barcodes or entering data via keyboard. The single mode allows for instant printing after entering or scanning a key value.
  • Automatic adjustment of barcode elements to the respective printer resolution to optimize barcode quality and readability. This is particularly important for label printers, which typically operate at resolutions of 203 or 300 dpi.
  • Comprehensive validation of data integrity for GS1 barcodes (GS1-128, GS1 DataMatrix, GS1 QR Code) to prevent input errors, including verification of dates, check digits in SSCC and GTIN and format compliance for other types of information.
  • Integrated PDF feature with precision tailored for barcode printing, offering six decimal places of a millimeter, lossless compression of graphics and conversion of fonts into curves. Generated PDF files can be printed at another location without quality loss and are also ideal for sharing with printing companies, thanks to CMYK color support.

1D Barcodes

  • Barcodes are generated with the required margins ("quiet zones") on the left and right to ensure proper readability by barcode scanners. The margins comply with the specifications of the respective barcode type.
  • Automatic calculation of check digits. If a check digit is already included, it is verified for barcode types with fixed information lengths (e.g., EAN-13/8, UPC-A/E, PZN7/8).
  • The human-readable text line can be displayed above or below the barcode or omitted entirely. Font type, size and spacing from the barcode can be adjusted. The content of the text line can also be formatted to include additional characters or words.
  • The OCR-A and OCR-B fonts are automatically installed with the software. OCR-B is commonly used in professional applications for barcode types such as EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A, UPC-E, ISBN-13 and ISMN.

2D Codes

  • Barcodes are generated with the required margins ("quiet zones"), ensuring reliable scanning. The size of these margins can be adjusted as needed, as in some cases (e.g., QR Code), they may be smaller than the specification normally requires.
  • Simple data input for GS1 DataMatrix and GS1 QR Code. The software automatically inserts the FNC1 separator at the required positions in the code.

All Barcode Types

  • Customizable colors for barcodes and their backgrounds, with the option for transparent backgrounds.
  • Optional rotated display in 90° increments.
  • The size of barcode elements ("modules") can be manually set to match the printer's resolution for precise output.

Label Customization

  • Flexible label customization with an unlimited number of elements such as barcodes, text fields, graphics and geometric shapes (e.g., lines, rectangles, circles and ovals).
  • Support for labels with rounded corners and circular shapes (e.g., stickers for DVDs, labels for bottles), including the ability to set borders and background colors.
  • Up to three labels per project file, each independently designed and sized, while using the same data source.
  • Support for dynamic graphics that can vary from label to label and are stored as graphic files on a data medium.
  • Insert dates and times in various formats – long, medium, short – as well as partial information such as week, year or month.

Data Management

  • Management of print data in an internal table. New datasets can be manually added or imported from external data sources.
  • Direct data import from tables or table views (VIEW): MS Excel, MS Access, MS SQL, Oracle, MySQL, MariaDB and PostgreSQL. For the latter five, SQL query-based imports are also supported.
  • Import data from other sources using CSV files and ODBC interface. SQL queries are also supported for ODBC imports.
  • Datasets can be sorted in ascending or descending order by clicking a table column. Individual datasets or table sections can be moved up or down.
  • Specific datasets or groups of datasets can be selected for printing, ensuring only the selected ones are printed.
  • Each dataset can include a separate column specifying the number of label copies to print. Alternatively, a uniform copy count for all datasets can be entered during the printing process.
  • A selected dataset can be previewed immediately to display the label before printing, allowing the user to verify it beforehand.
Barcode Graphics Generator ➔ Barcode Graphics Generator
  • Generation of barcode graphics – individually or in batch mode (Pro Edition), designed for precision and strict compliance with relevant standards. Graphics are generated in vector formats (EPS, PDF, SVG) or raster formats (PNG, BMP, JPG) and can be used directly in DTP software such as Adobe Illustrator, InDesign or CorelDRAW or delivered to printing companies in the standard CMYK color model.
  • Includes templates for EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A, UPC-E, ISBN-13 and ISMN in standard sizes SC0 to SC9, precisely matching the specifications. The OCR-B font, commonly used for professional purposes, is automatically installed with the software for the human-readable text line.
  • Specially developed, optimized algorithms for generating high-quality vector graphics in PDF, EPS and SVG formats. Coordinates are stored with six decimal places of precision. Colors are defined precisely in both RGB and CMYK color models. PDF graphics comply with PDF/X-1a:2001 standards for CMYK and PDF/X-3:2002 standards for RGB.
  • EPS graphics with optional TIFF preview for display in graphic applications without an EPS interpreter.
  • Conversion of fonts into curves ensures that no fonts need to be provided when sharing the barcode graphic, e.g., with a printing company.
  • Ability to adjust barcode elements to a specific print resolution or export them as raster graphics (PNG, BMP or JPEG). This prevents issues like aliasing (stair-step effects) and ensures optimal quality and barcode readability.
  • Easy transfer of barcode graphics to Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, CorelDRAW and similar applications via Copy & Paste or Drag & Drop.
  • The software can be docked in a small format in a corner of the screen, making it easy to use alongside other applications.

Pro Edition

  • Batch mode for creating barcodes in series. Automatic generation of sequential numbers by the software or the option to use custom number lists.
  • Barcode API for generating specification-compliant barcodes from your own application as a background process. Compatible with any programming language that can call external processes via the command line (all high-level languages).