Universal Product Code
Universal Product Code (UPC)
Universal Product Code (UPC) /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːrsəl ˈprɒdʌkt koʊd/ is a barcode symbology that is widely used in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and other countries for tracking trade items in stores. Its most common form, the UPC-A, consists of 12 numerical digits, which are uniquely assigned to each trade item.
Etymology
The term "Universal Product Code" was first coined in the early 1970s by a consortium of grocery industry trade groups. The "universal" in the name refers to the code's universal applicability in identifying products across different sectors and countries.
Structure
The UPC consists of a barcode and a 12-digit number. The barcode is made up of a series of varying width vertical lines that can be scanned and read by a barcode scanner. The 12-digit number is divided into several sections, each with a specific meaning. The first digit is the Number System Character, followed by a 5-digit Manufacturer Identification Number, a 5-digit Product Identification Number, and a final Check Digit.
Related Terms
- Barcode: A method of representing data in a visual, machine-readable form.
- Barcode scanner: An electronic device for reading printed barcodes.
- Manufacturer Identification Number: A unique number assigned to each manufacturer.
- Product Identification Number: A unique number assigned to each product.
- Check Digit: A form of redundancy check used for error detection.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Universal Product Code
- Wikipedia's article - Universal Product Code
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