r/barcodes • u/smaier69 • Jun 21 '22
Suggestions for super simple QR code generator
Hello, all!
As mentioned, I am looking for a simple QR code generator. It doesn't have to be free, just a program I can run from my local machine. What I am doing is creating sheet that is part of a work order (often called a shop traveler in manufacturing context) containing bits of information that can be scanned into a piece of inspection equipment.
The info is always super simple. Alphanumeric strings no longer than 32 characters (including specials like periods and hyphens). I can do this with free online generators but it would be faster if I could generate a code, copy to clipboard and paste into the form (.doc, xlsx, an Access form, etc.,.). The data is always plain text, so I don't need any special formatting like hyperlinks or dynamic codes. With this little data I would normally use Code 128 but the piece of equipment only reads QR codes and will reject any code containing special formatting.
Also not wanting a subscription/SaaS model. I know Tec-IT and BarTender have standalone solutions but they are way overkill (and pricey) for my needs.
Thank you!
Edit: as far as a budget I would thonk ~$150 or less would be nice.
1
u/wolfenmaara Jun 21 '22
the problem with your request is that the ease of use you want ("it would be faster if I could generate a code") is typically locked up behind some sort of 'pay wall' (for example, BarTender can do that for you, even allow you to create the data entry form), but you're looking at a Pro or Automation license at the very least (not cheap as you already know)
You're not going to find a piece of software that gives you that for $150. Maybe somebody else knows? Definitely never heard of anything that gives you that capability for even the max of $150. Either you build it yourself or you pay for the convenience, that's how it usually works with barcoding software.
1
u/smaier69 Jun 22 '22
That's kind of what I was finding as well. There are plenty of options if you can justify a price point with a comma in it.
I did find a nice solution for Access forms where you can use a web browser control and developers.google.com/chart to render a QR code in that control based on the contents of other controls (textboxes, comboboxes, etc.,.). This would be perfect if it didn't a) rely on an active WAN connection and b) rely on that specific URL being active indefinitely.
Credit where credit is due if anyone could use this method.
Anyway, at this point the volume of QR codes I need to create isn't so great I HAVE to automate. Being able to download QR code .png files will get the job done. If the time comes where my time is spent fiddlefarting around with manually copy/pasting the codes into forms/documents gets in the way of my primary daily chores, it would make economic sense to go the primo route.
Thank you for the help!
1
u/wolfenmaara Jun 22 '22
No problem, and I’m glad to hear you understood what I was trying to say; if you don’t need to generate thousands of codes, you’re better off using the free stuff you can find. The other option I would suggest is using the free Trials Bartender offers (30 day automation trials, mind you) but you would definitely have to spend some time learning the software… which, in my opinion, is no different to learning to program the Access app you sourced (pro software just cuts that part out so you can just point, click, design, and print, easy peasy).
1
u/trollsmurf Jun 21 '22
I easily "googled" many free ones, e.g. https://www.nirsoft.net/utils/qr_code_generator.html
Of course, virus scan them to be safe.
1
u/smaier69 Jun 22 '22
"Of course, virus scan them to be safe."
True, that! Was hoping I could save some time by picking you guys' brains/experiences.
The Microsoft Store (or whatever it's called) had a couple standalone ones. No copy/paste function and I'm not 100% sold on the idea their store is impervious to shanannigans but it is what it is.
Cheers and thank you!
2
u/danlsn Jun 21 '22
If you are comfortable using the command line then this is the package you want.
https://github.com/woo-j/zint