Barcode Template
The Barcode Template Configuration defines how barcodes are generated for items within the MES.
This ensures that each item—whether a raw material, semi-finished, or finished product—is uniquely identifiable and traceable throughout the manufacturing process.
Barcode Template Setup
The barcode template setup allows administrators to define the format and logic used to create barcodes.
These barcodes are typically printed and affixed to products, packaging, or components, enabling quick scanning and data retrieval during various MES operations such as production, material handling, and stock transfers.
Fields in Barcode Template
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| Item Type | Specifies the category of items for which the barcode will be generated (e.g., Raw Material, Finished Product). |
| Prefix | Optional text added before the barcode sequence (e.g., PROD for production items). |
| Suffix | Optional text added after the barcode sequence (e.g., -2025 to represent the year). |
| Date Format | Allows including the production or creation date in the barcode (e.g., YYYYMMDD). |
| Serial Number Length | Defines the number of digits in the sequential number portion of the barcode (e.g., 4 for 0001). |
| Last Serial Number | Tracks the most recently generated serial number to ensure the next barcode is unique. |
Checkbox Options for Barcode Generation
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Item Batch Number | When enabled, includes the batch number within the barcode for batch tracking. |
| Production Date | When enabled, embeds the date of production or receipt directly into the barcode. |
| Checksum | When enabled, adds a checksum digit to validate the barcode during scanning and prevent errors. |
Example Barcode Template Configurations
Below are sample configurations showing how different barcode templates can be designed based on item type and operational needs.
1. Raw Material Barcode Example
| Field | Example Value |
|---|---|
| Item Type | Raw Material |
| Prefix | RM |
| Date Format | YYYYMMDD |
| Serial Length | 4 |
| Suffix | -IN |
| Checkboxes | Production Date ✅ |
| Example Output | RM-20251028-0001-IN |
Use Case:
Ideal for tracking incoming raw materials and ensuring traceability from warehouse to production.
2. Finished Product Barcode Example
| Field | Example Value |
|---|---|
| Item Type | Finished Product |
| Prefix | FP |
| Date Format | YYYYMMDD |
| Serial Length | 5 |
| Suffix | -FG |
| Checkboxes | Production Date ✅, Checksum ✅ |
| Example Output | FP-20251028-00001-FG-9 (where 9 is the checksum) |
Use Case:
Used for final goods labeling, shipment tracking, and stock transfer to warehouses.
3. Semi-Finished Product Barcode Example
| Field | Example Value |
|---|---|
| Item Type | Semi-Finished Product |
| Prefix | SFP |
| Date Format | YYYYMM |
| Serial Length | 4 |
| Suffix | -SF |
| Checkboxes | Batch Number ✅ |
| Example Output | SFP-202510-0001-SF |
Use Case:
Applied to intermediate goods between production stages, aiding internal tracking and process monitoring.
Benefits of Barcode Template Configuration
- ✅ Traceability: Every item has a unique barcode that can be tracked across production and inventory systems.
- 🔒 Error Reduction: Checksum validation ensures barcodes are scanned accurately.
- ⚙️ Automation: Barcodes streamline production updates, stock movements, and quality checks.
- 📦 Scalability: Different templates can be configured for various item types and departments.
Example Use in MES
- When a new Item Master record is created, the system automatically generates a barcode based on the configured template.
- During production, scanning the barcode allows the MES to retrieve item details instantly, improving accuracy and speed in material handling and reporting.
- Barcodes are also integrated into printing modules for physical labeling.
✅ Tip:
Keep barcode templates simple but consistent across departments. Including date and serial helps prevent duplication and supports audit tracking.