Zetes updates Visidot barcode reading systems

Belgian automation technology firm Zetes has updated its Visidot image and barcode-scanning system to handle the GS1 DataBar, a new barcode officially introduced at the start of 2010 designed for small and hard-to-mark products like fresh foods, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

The 14-digit GS1 DataBar is a 14-digit code symbology that can hold more data than traditional EAN/UPC barcodes, such as serial numbers, lot numbers, and expiration dates. The standard was adopted in 2005 and has already rolled out on some products, although it is not scheduled to become an open, global standard until 2014.

Zetes' Visidot system can instantaneously scan and identify hundreds of barcodes, detecting missing or faulty items and even checking other information such as expiry dates.

Gerrit-Jan Steenbergen, vice president of Zetes' 3i Innovation Centre, said: "Because of the advantages DataBar offers in terms of amount of information stored, we expect a growing number of companies, which use laser scanners in their logistics for instance, to shift to this new identifier."

DataBar support is included in the new Visidot Reader version 4.5.1, while existing users of the system can be upgraded to support the new barcode.


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