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Barcode Generator

A barcode encodes data as a pattern of bars (1D), a matrix of squares (2D), or marks (postal) that machines read optically. Common formats: Code 128 (general-purpose alphanumeric), EAN-13 (retail products, 13 digits), UPC-A (US retail, 12 digits), and 2D codes like Data Matrix, PDF417, Aztec, MaxiCode and QR that pack far more data into a small square. The ZTools Barcode Studio runs entirely in the browser on the bwip-js (BWIPP) engine, supports 30+ symbologies across 1D, 2D, and postal families, and exports SVG (vector, scalable), PNG, or PDF. Useful for inventory, retail, ticketing, logistics, and asset tracking.

Use cases​

Small business; need EAN-13 codes for products. Generator produces print-ready SVG with check digit.

Track assets with internal codes​

Code 128 for inventory: any alphanumeric ID. Print on labels, scan with phone.

Generate QR codes for URLs​

Restaurant menu QR pointing to a URL. Generator handles encoding + error correction.

Event tickets​

Code 128 with ticket ID. Scanner at door verifies validity.

How it works​

  1. Pick symbology — Code 128/39/93, EAN/UPC, ITF-14, MSI, Pharmacode, plus 2D (Data Matrix, PDF417, Aztec, MaxiCode, QR, DotCode) and postal codes.
  2. Type data — Format-specific validation — EAN-13 needs 12 digits + check, Code 128 accepts almost anything.
  3. Configure — Width, height, margin, foreground / background colors, optional human-readable text below code.
  4. Save — SVG (vector) or PNG (raster).

Examples​

Input: Code 128, "INV-2026-001"

Output: A bar pattern encoding the alphanumeric value. Decodes back to "INV-2026-001".

Input: EAN-13, "123456789012"

Output: Tool computes check digit (8) and produces the 13-digit barcode "1234567890128".

Input: QR code, URL https://example.com

Output: Square QR pattern. Phones decode in <1 second to the URL.

Frequently asked questions​

Which format for retail?

EAN-13 (worldwide) or UPC-A (US/Canada). Both are GTIN-12/13 — register with GS1 for unique manufacturer codes.

What if my data has special chars?

Code 128 handles alphanumeric + most ASCII. QR codes handle anything (Unicode supported).

Will scanners read my code?

Generated codes follow the format spec. Test with a scanner before printing 1,000 labels — printer DPI / contrast matters.

Privacy?

All generation in browser.

Tips​

  • For retail, use registered GS1 codes — random digits look like barcodes but won't scan in retail systems.
  • For QR codes, use error correction level Q or H — scanning still works with up to 25-30% damage.
  • For asset tracking, Code 128 supports alphanumeric — easier to type into systems than digit-only formats.
  • Always test print at production size — too small can't be scanned reliably.

Try it now​

The full Barcode Generator runs in your browser at https://ztools.zaions.com/barcode-generator — no signup, no upload, no data leaves your device.

Open the tool ↗

Last updated: 2026-05-06 · Author: Ahsan Mahmood · Edit this page on GitHub