Bar Code Label Software Terms and Definitions
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Several unique terms and phrases describe the features of software we review on this site, some easier to grasp than others. This list briefly defines terms relevant to Bar Code Label Software.
Ratings Bar CodesThis is the collection of barcodes included in the program; although most small retailers only need a few barcodes we rated the programs that included more barcode choices higher. Compatibility We looked at whether the barcode program can import data from other programs and export barcodes to other programs. We also evaluated what printers the program can print to and noted if the barcodes can be saved as images rather than just as fonts. Label Design Tools Many of the programs we looked at not only generate barcodes but also can be used to create labels. The design tools support barcode editing such as color, size and orientation as well as label features like image support and text options. Ease of Use Barcode software can range from simple bar code generators to complex database versions. Since this review is for small businesses, we felt that this type of software should be extremely easy to use and should not require extra training to install or utilize. Help/ Support Product support is important; at the minimum, software providers should offer technical support by email. It is also convenient if they offer free telephone support, embedded help and online information such as FAQs and tutorials. Compatibility Prints to Windows Compliant PrintersNearly all barcode programs can print to printers that are Windows compatible. Copies to Microsoft Office Suite Created barcodes can be copied and pasted into Word or other Microsoft office programs. Imports Data from Microsoft Office Suite Program can receive data from csv files or Microsoft programs like Excel. Exports/ Saves as Image Barcode program has the ability to save and or export a barcode as an image file, like eps, gif, tif or bmp rather than a font. Label Design Tools Background ColorThe color behind the barcode bars can be changed. Barcode Color The color of the barcode bars can be altered Orientation The angle of how the barcode is presented can be changed either from horizontal to vertical or to a chosen angle. Include Text Text can be included with the barcode, either as human readable text or as text in the label design. Barcode Width The width of the individual bars in the bar code or the entire barcode's width can be changed. Quiet Zone An area surrounding the barcode reserved white so that bar code scanners can read the code more easily. Text Font Choices The program allows users to choose the style of font in their label text or in the human readable text included in the barcode. Full Color Support Labels can be created with full color images, boxes, text and more. Import Images Label can incorporate imported images into their design. Grid Options The label designer supports an optional grid view that can be used to guide placement of label components. Shapes Label designer has a tool that can add shapes like circles, ellipses, squares and so on. Metric and US Measurement Systems The barcode creator and label designer have the ability to switch between the metric and US measurement or Imperial measurement system. Help/ Support Telephone SupportThe barcode software provider offers technical support by telephone. Email Support Software technical support can be contacted by email. Online Help/ Tutorials The software provider offers support online through FAQs, tutorials, a searchable knowledgebase or other documentation. User Manual/ Embedded Help The program comes with a user manual or embedded support ©2003 – 2008 TopTenREVIEWS, Inc. |
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