Follett VERSION 6.00 - Manual (Page 647)

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Appendix D Barcode symbologies
If your site uses any barcode symbology other than Follett Classic, you must
define the barcode symbology. This appendix contains the following information:
an overview of barcode composition; basic barcode terminology; a listing of your
barcode symbology options; instructions for defining your barcode symbologies;
and a description of how to assign barcodes to items and patrons.
What does a barcode contain?
A barcode contains two primary parts: bars and spaces. A row of numbers
beneath the barcode, called the eyeĆreadable line, is an interpretation of what the
bars and spaces represent.
As shown in the figure below, the bars and spaces can be broken down even
further into the following components:
S Type identifier
S Location code
S Item number
S Check digit
Type identifier Location code Item number Check digit
3 1234 00001006 4
CODE 39 MOD 10
In this example, the components begin in the following positions:
Position 1
Length = 1
Position 2
Length = 4
Position 6
Length = 8
Position 14 (last)
Length = 1
The order of the components may vary except for the check digit, which always
remains in the last position if it is part of the symbology.
Not every barcode symbology will contain all of the components. For example,
your site might not use location code.
Important: If you will be using a PHD to collect barcodes, your barcodes must
include a Type Identifier regardless of the symbology you choose.
Follett Classic symbologies assume a Type Identifier of P" for patron
barcodes and a T" for library material barcodes.