Difference Between ITF-14 Barcode and Other Barcodes

ITF-14 barcode, also known as the Interleaved 2 of 5 (ITF) barcode, is different from other barcode types in several ways. In this section, we will discuss the differences between ITF-14 barcode and other barcode types.

ITF-14 Barcode
V/S
Industrial 2-of-5 Barcode
  • Structure:

    One of the primary differences between ITF-14 barcode and other barcode types is its structure. The ITF-14 barcode consists of a 14-digit number that is encoded in a series of black and white bars. The bars are arranged in two interleaved rows, with each row representing a group of five digits. The bars in each row are of different widths, with the narrow bars representing zeros and the wider bars representing ones. In contrast, other barcode types, such as UPC and EAN barcodes, consist of a 12 or 13-digit number encoded in a series of bars of different widths.

  • Usage:

    ITF-14 barcode is primarily used to label and track products and assets in the supply chain, while other barcode types have more specific applications. For example, UPC barcodes are commonly used in the retail industry to label and track consumer products, while EAN barcodes are used in Europe and other countries outside of North America.

  • Print Quality:

    The ITF-14 barcode requires high print quality to be accurately read by a barcode scanner. This means that it must be printed using high-quality printing equipment, such as a thermal transfer printer or a high-quality label stock. Other barcode types, such as UPC and EAN barcode, can be printed using lower quality equipment and label stock.

  • Readability:

    The ITF-14 barcode is designed to be read using a barcode scanner that is capable of reading 2D barcodes. This makes it more reliable and efficient than other barcode types, which may require special scanners or additional equipment to read. The ITF-14 barcode is also capable of storing more information than other barcode types, making it more versatile and useful in various applications.

  • Length:

    The ITF-14 barcode is longer than various other barcode types, which allows it to store more extra information. This makes it useful for applications where additional information, such as batch or lot numbers, is required. In contrast, other barcode types, such as the UPC and EAN barcodes, have a fixed length and cannot store additional information beyond the basic product identifier.

  • Validation:

    The ITF-14 barcode includes a check digit, which is used to validate the accuracy of the barcode. This ensures that the barcode is correctly encoded and can be accurately read by a barcode scanner. Other barcode types, such as the UPC and EAN barcodes, also include a check digit, but the validation process is different.