how can we read data from barcode labels in VFP

[kosta]

how can we read data from barcode labels in VFP
and how can we create barcode from VFP for exp. we have stock such as IDname 869033123456

 

[fluteplr]

most bar code readers I have used, will return the 'read' barcode as if it was typed in from the keyboard. So all you need to do is set focus to the correct field and swipe the br code reader and you should be ok.

As to barcode fonts a quick search on hotbot gave me a lot of hits you should be able to purchase a windows barcode font for less than 50$, there are also probably some freeware ones around if you search hard enough.

One other hint, if at all possible print your bar codes with a laser printer, it is very hard to get good consistantly readable barcodes with a dot-matrix printer.

 

[kosta]

thanks for the answer would you like to send me source code about this for exp. I want read it one the form how can we read the code to show in the textbox..

 

[Diederik]

See also post "How to read a bar code into VFPPRO" in this forum (posted something like 2 weeks ago).

As for printing bar codes, I have a discussion on hand on how to implement that, so also curious about the thoughts of others.
Anyway, so far found the following possibilities:
1. Using bar code fonts
Seems the simplest solution. However, it does mean that the program (eg. you) are responsible for generating the correct code (fe. the correct control numbers). And of course giving the end-users the possibilities to generate different kind of labels. How will this work on (high-speed) bar code printers? Also: for different bar codes (EAN, Interleave, Code32 etc) you'll probably need different fonts.
2. Using external tools
There are some programs available with an ActiveX/COM interface, which will handle the creation of/printing of bar codes. Just hook in and make the correct calls and you're done (check out

http://www.strandware.com/prod/barcode.html

for example).
It does mean an investment and you'll be depend on that product.
Once again, how will it work in combination with (high-speed) bar code printers? Most of these programs send the bar code (label) as a graphic to the printer. Which is fine for just a few labels, but what if the user wants to print a high-quantity?
3. Create a (simple) bar code label program
Big advantage: by using the printer codes, this will give the best performance of the (bar code) printer. And,using a bar code printer, one can use the bar code handling of the printer (eg. creation of the control digits etc).
Major drawbacks: you'll have to write EVERYTHING, from handling the creation of the labels/bar codes to the actual printing.

In my case, I'll have to consider the following:
- the number of bar code types we'll have to print
- Printing speed

Anyway, I'm still researching the possibilities so I can't offer real support right now.
Diederik Vermeeren
verm1864@exact.nl