What is EN ISO 15415:2014?

EN ISO 15415:2014 is an international standard that provides guidelines for the print quality of barcodes. It was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). This standard establishes parameters for assessing the print quality of linear barcodes, specifically those with the symbologies of EAN/UPC, ITF, and Code 39. The purpose of EN ISO 15415:2014 is to ensure that barcodes are readable and scannable throughout their entire life cycle, from production to distribution and point-of-sale scanning.

Importance of Print Quality in Barcodes

A barcode's ability to be quickly and accurately scanned can greatly affect the efficiency of various industries such as retail, logistics, and healthcare. Poor print quality can lead to scanning errors, which can result in delays, mislabeled products, inventory issues, and customer dissatisfaction. EN ISO 15415:2014 serves as a crucial tool for manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers to maintain high print quality standards and prevent these potential problems.

Evaluating Print Quality

EN ISO 15415:2014 outlines a comprehensive set of parameters and performance criteria to evaluate the print quality of barcodes. These include measurements for reflectance, contrast, symbol modulation, defects such as voids and spots, and edge contrast. Various test methods and equipment specified in the standard can be used to assess individual barcode elements, such as bars, spaces, quiet zones, and check digits. By following the guidelines provided by this standard, organizations can accurately measure and quantify the print quality of their barcodes.

Benefits of Compliance

Adhering to EN ISO 15415:2014 offers several benefits to manufacturers and other stakeholders. Firstly, it helps ensure that barcodes are of sufficient quality to be scanned reliably across different scanning devices and environments. This decreases the likelihood of errors and improves overall productivity. Secondly, compliance can enhance supply chain visibility by minimizing issues related to inventory management and tracking. Lastly, it creates a standardized approach for barcode quality assessment, allowing organizations to compare their results against industry benchmarks and best practices.