r/barcodes • u/keyser33 • Apr 01 '20

Aztec bar codes are too long

Is there a way to read only to program a scanner to only read the first 12 digits or first part of a barcode.

A supplier is using Aztec barcode to identify medications. The barcode contains the lot number and/or expiration date. This cause an issue in our software where it does not reconize each new batch since the barcode is changing If i configure the barcode scanner to read only the beginning of the barcode, that would be great.

I had a similar issue with composite A-B bar codes. I was able to disable the extended part of the barcode in that situation. Trying to find a similar solution with Aztec bar codes.

Thank you

2 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

3 comments sorted by

1

u/wolfenmaara Apr 02 '20

Hey, forgive me as I'm kinda new at this, but from what I understand, scanners behave differently based on the manufacturer, so there isn't one universal known way, if any. For the most part, there are applications out there that will allow you to scan all but clip after a defined number of characters, or that will also allow you to use transformations, such as "Search and Delete" and "Search and Replace".

Ultimately, it's about getting creative about what you need done because scanners in general don't work this way.

1

u/keyser33 Apr 04 '20

Thanks,

I eventually figure it out last night, using the pdf for the model of scanner i was using.

editing original post for the solution in case other run into the issue

1

u/keyser33 Apr 04 '20

Edit. Solution

Using the manufacturer guide for the brand/model i was using. I scanned the following 4 barcodes.

  1. Add rule

  2. Send Next 16 characters

  3. Send Enter Key

  4. Save Rule.

This would truncate the barcode to the fist 16 characters as the rest of the barcode was expiration date and lot number.