Legacy medical and library systems
Codabar barcode generator
Create a Codabar symbol with explicit A–D start and stop characters for systems that still depend on this compact numeric format.
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Start and stop characters are data here
Unlike many barcode formats, Codabar requires the supplied value to begin and end with A, B, C, or D. The receiving application may use those characters to distinguish record types.
- Example: A40156B
- Body characters: digits and - $ : / . +
- At least one body character is required
Use it for an existing specification
Codabar remains present in some libraries, laboratories, and older medical workflows. New systems often choose a denser format, so confirm the required start/stop pair and scanner behavior before printing.
- Do not substitute T, N, star, or E aliases
- Preserve quiet zones at both ends
- Confirm whether software returns or strips start/stop characters
Codabar barcode generator FAQ
Why must the value start and end with letters?
A–D are Codabar start and stop patterns. They frame the body and can carry workflow meaning.
Can letters appear inside the value?
No. The body supports digits and a small punctuation set; A–D are only allowed at the ends.
Why did my scanner omit A and B?
Many scanners remove Codabar start and stop characters by default. This is scanner configuration, not lost barcode data.
Does Codabar require a checksum?
Not universally. This generator follows the basic format without adding an optional check character.