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Frequently
Asked Questions on Bar Code ID
The following is a list of commonly asked questions on bar
code identification. We at PDC are here to help with any questions
you may have about bar coding and/or PDC products. Don't hesitate
to call our knowledgeable Customer Care Department: +32 67 89 56 38 .
1. What bar code symbology should
we use?
For wristband applications, Code 128 is advised. It is alpha numeric and can usually be positioned to fit on the wristband without problems with the curvature of the wrist.
2. Does the curvature of the wrist interfere with the scanning
of the bar code?
It can, depending on the bar code symbology used. Too many characters contained within the bar code causes the bar code to be too long and the curvature of the wrist will interfere with the scanning. On infant or pediatric wrists, a form of 2 dimensional bar code, (Aztec) is recommended because information can be stacked in a small space and easily scanned by a dual (linear and 2 dimensional reader).
3. In which direction should I print the bar code?
You should print in the ladder (width) format to prevent interference from the curvature of the wrist, as seen in question 2.
4. What information should reside
within the bar code?
This depends on your particular hospitals policies and procedures. For example: Patient name, MRN, Admitting Date, Date of Birth.
5. What scanners should my facility purchase?
Any current laser or CCD scanner will scan all linear bar codes. There are also dual readers available which can scan both linear and 2 dimensional bar codes.
6. Will our bar code scanner accommodate
RFID technology when we are ready to upgrade?
The newer generation bar code scanners that are equipped to scan 2 dimensional bar codes will also scan linear bar codes. Future scanners will have the ability to read and write from the RFID chip, as well as scan all bar code symbologies.
7. What type of printer produces the best bar code, thermal
or laser?
This is mostly dependent on the quality and resolution of the thermal or laser printer. For high and medium density bar codes, a thermal printer will provide the highest quality bar code. A thermal printer in high density will allow you to print a 9 digit MR number on the wristband in the ladder (width) format.
8. What printer works best with the Precision Dynamics' CompuBand®
and ScanBand®?
All “wristband certified” thermal bar code printers will work with one of the specialty wound rolls of the Precision Dynamics' CompuBand® and ScanBand®. Any thermal or laser printer that generates label stock for wristbands will work with our SentryTM LabelBand®
9. Does Precision Dynamics Corp. offer a Total Bar Code System Solution for healthcare?
Yes, Precision has partnered with hardware certified wristband printer companies, as well as software and scanner companies to enable it to customize its total bar code system solution offerings to fit your healthcare organizational needs.
10. Does Precision Dynamics Corp. offer educational presentations on bar coding and or POS-ID/Patient Safety
Yes, we can customize a power-point presentation on bar code basics or how bar coding can enhance POS-ID/Patient Safety initiatives at your facility.
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