Researchers:Samantha Michel, Sven Larson, Lee Murphy
Problem Statement:
How would the string CSE370 be represented at = the physical level in one of the following media: CD-ROM, Bar code, Magnetic = tape, 56KB modem, Fluorescent lights?
Refined Problem Statement:
How would the string of alphanumeric = characters CSE370 be represented as an image in Code 39 Barcode?
Assumptions:
(1) A string is defined as a series of =
alphanumeric characters.
(2) A single layer of encoding is to be used
(3) The simplest bar coding scheme should be used.
(4) The chosen barcode should be relatively common and be able =
to represent
the full alphanumeric character set (A-Z, 0-9).
Our Answer:
The following image represents the string of = alphanumeric characters CSE370 as a replicable image in Code 39 Barcode:
Conclusions & Comments:
Out of over 400 barcode symbologies currently = in use, we chose to use Code 39 (or Code 3 from 9) because it contains = the entire basic alphanumeric character set including a few special = characters, unlike UPC barcodes that are limited to numbers. This provided a = direct, single level of encoding of the string CSE370. Also Code 39 supports = both modulo 43 check digits and the ability to append shorter barcodes into = longer barcodes. Code 39 also has an extended form, called Extended = Code 39, which supports the entire ASCii index. Code 39 is a discrete = barcode where each letter and number is made from 9 bars, 3 wider than others. = These bars alternate black and white, with 5 black bars and 4 white. = Code 39 is one of two standard barcode symbologies widely used in = American industry, the other being Code 128.
References:
Wasp Bar Code: developer of barcodes, barcode =
fonts, barcode
software and hardware
(general info on barcode symbologies)
http://www.was=
pbarcode.com/autoid_symbologies.asp
Oct 19 2001
Code 39 Specification Page
(code 39 barcoding)
http://www.adams1=
.com/pub/russadam/39code.html
Oct 19 2001
Code 39 Barcode Specification
(more code 39 barcoding w/ 0's and 1's and actual bars)
http://www.barcodeman.=
com/info/c39_1.php3
Oct 19 2001