• Product Identification Standards
• Automated Data Capture
• E-Commerce
• Data Synchronization
• Traceability

Technology & Standards: GS1 DataBar

The GS1 DataBar (formerly known as RSS, Reduced Space Symbology) on its own is very similar to the linear Universal Produce Code (UPC) barcode that is found on items in a traditional grocery store, except smaller in size. As this component of the GS1 DataBar is a “linear barcode,” most linear scanners after 2002 are able to read these barcodes.

Traditional UPC Linear Barcode

It also has the capability to be used with a two-dimensional barcode called a 2D Composite Component. Two-dimensional barcodes have the ability to store a significant amount of data; however, they require a different reader than a traditional linear barcode reader. Therefore, if one of the GS1 DataBar barcodes is used, which include both the linear and two-dimensional barcodes, a scanner would have to be equipped with the ability to read both linear and two-dimensional barcodes. If a linear scanner (traditionally found in grocery stores) encounters a GS1 DataBar barcode, it will read the linear portion and ignore the two-dimensional portion. This would allow for a transition for companies to begin equipping their scanners to read both symbols if they so choose.

GS1 DataBar is transforming the way retailers, wholesalers and grower-shippers identify and track bulk produce at the item level. If you are new to GS1 DataBar technology, or are preparing to implement GS1 DataBar barcodes, be sure to download the informative Webinar, Preparing for Item-Level Barcodes: Are You Ready?, brought to you by PMA and CPMA.

Related Documents (PDF)

DataBar (RSS) Overview Presentation   -  09/13/2006
This PowerPoint presentation from GS1 US gives an overview of reduced space symbology.

North American Retailers Piloting DataBar (RSS)   -  09/12/2006
GS1 US is conducting a Reduced Space Symbology pilot with North American retailers. As part of PMA's participation in the pilot, PMA is letting its retail membership know in advance - in the event retailers not participating in the pilot program see product come into their distribution centers or stores with a RSS bar code on the label.