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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

FieldDescription
Item TypeSpecifies the category of items for which the barcode will be generated (e.g., Raw Material, Finished Product).
PrefixOptional text added before the barcode sequence (e.g., PROD for production items).
SuffixOptional text added after the barcode sequence (e.g., -2025 to represent the year).
Date FormatAllows including the production or creation date in the barcode (e.g., YYYYMMDD).
Serial Number LengthDefines the number of digits in the sequential number portion of the barcode (e.g., 4 for 0001).
Last Serial NumberTracks the most recently generated serial number to ensure the next barcode is unique.

Checkbox Options for Barcode Generation

OptionDescription
Item Batch NumberWhen enabled, includes the batch number within the barcode for batch tracking.
Production DateWhen enabled, embeds the date of production or receipt directly into the barcode.
ChecksumWhen 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

FieldExample Value
Item TypeRaw Material
PrefixRM
Date FormatYYYYMMDD
Serial Length4
Suffix-IN
CheckboxesProduction Date ✅
Example OutputRM-20251028-0001-IN

Use Case:
Ideal for tracking incoming raw materials and ensuring traceability from warehouse to production.


2. Finished Product Barcode Example

FieldExample Value
Item TypeFinished Product
PrefixFP
Date FormatYYYYMMDD
Serial Length5
Suffix-FG
CheckboxesProduction Date ✅, Checksum ✅
Example OutputFP-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

FieldExample Value
Item TypeSemi-Finished Product
PrefixSFP
Date FormatYYYYMM
Serial Length4
Suffix-SF
CheckboxesBatch Number ✅
Example OutputSFP-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.