| Standard bar codes are like a social security number or
car's license plate number, acting as a reference number
that a computer uses to look up associated descriptive
data and other pertinent information.
The process requires conversion of a bar code that
can be printed on or affixed to an item, and subsequently
read by a light source and fed into a computer. When
a bar code scanner is passed over the bar code:
| 1. |
The light source from the scanner is absorbed
by the dark bars and reflected by the light spaces.
|
| 2. |
A photocell detector in the scanner receives the
reflected light and converts the light into an electrical
signal. |
| 3. |
As the bar code is scanned, a low electrical signal
for the spaces (reflected light) and a high electrical
signal for the bars (though the bars are not reflected)
is created; the duration of the electrical signal
determines wide vs. narrow elements. This signal
can be "decoded" by the bar code reader's
decoder into the characters that the
bar code represents. |
| 4. |
The decoded data is then passed to the computer
in a traditional data format. |
The use of bar code technology
brings a number of valuable advantages to healthcare.
Outstanding Speed and
Accuracy
Bar Code scanners are faster than the human eye and
far more accurate. Based on tests, bar code information
has an accuracy rate of 1 error per 10,000,000 characters.
Compare that to keyboard error rates of 1 error per
100 characters.
This form of "automatic identification" can
help prevent misidentification errors, which can help
save lives and money. For more information on the importance
of bar code technology in healthcare, see Why
Bar Code ID is Critical.
Ease of Use
Bar coding's ease of use makes it a highly convenient
technology. The equipment can be mastered in minutes.
Code Structure
Long Lasting Value
The standardization of bar codes and well-developed
technology ensures that bar code equipment purchased
today will not likely become obsolete in the near future.
For information on bar code technology, its critical
role in healthcare, and PDC's market-leading bar code
products, please view the multiple web pages in this
section. For additional information or product samples,
please call PDC Customer Care at +32 67 89 56 38.
Or inquire online at Contact
PDC.
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