Barcode Generator

What Is a Barcode Generator?

A barcode generator is an online tool that converts text or numbers into a machine-readable barcode. Barcodes encode information using a sequence of printed bars and spaces that can be read by compatible barcode scanners and imaging systems.

The YesTools Barcode Generator supports several commonly used one-dimensional barcode formats, including Code 128, Code 39, EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A and ITF-14. It can be used to create barcodes for testing, demonstrations, internal identification, product-related work and other applications where a barcode image is required.

Why Use the Barcode Generator?

The generator provides a straightforward way to create barcode images without installing specialist software. Barcode generation takes place directly in your browser, allowing you to enter a value, select a format and immediately produce the corresponding barcode.

How to Use the Barcode Generator

Creating a barcode takes only a few steps. Select the appropriate standard and enter a value that conforms to that standard.

1. Select a barcode format — Choose Code 128, Code 39, EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A or ITF-14.
2. Enter your value — Type the text or numbers you want to encode.
3. Generate the barcode — Click Generate Barcode to validate the value and create the barcode.
4. Download or print — Download the barcode as PNG or SVG, or use the print option to produce a physical copy.

Online Barcode Generator for Code 128, EAN and UPC

Different barcode standards are designed for different types of information. Code 128 is a compact, high-density format that can represent letters, numbers and a range of special characters, making it suitable for many general-purpose identification requirements. Code 39 is another widely recognised format and supports uppercase letters, numbers and selected symbols.

EAN-13 and EAN-8 are numeric retail barcode formats, while UPC-A is commonly associated with product identification in North America. ITF-14 is designed for 14-digit trade item numbers and is commonly associated with product packaging and distribution environments.

Code 128 and Code 39 Barcodes

Code 128 is useful when a barcode needs to contain a mixture of numbers and letters while remaining relatively compact. The generator uses Code 128 subset B for general alphanumeric input. Code 39 supports uppercase alphanumeric values and selected punctuation characters, with start and stop characters included automatically.

EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A and ITF-14

EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A and ITF-14 are numeric formats with specific data requirements. The generator calculates the appropriate check digit when the required number of base digits is entered. If a complete value containing a check digit is supplied, the check digit is validated before the barcode is generated.

Barcode Formats and Validation

Barcode standards have precise encoding and validation requirements. Code 128 accepts printable ASCII characters supported by the selected subset, while Code 39 accepts uppercase letters, digits, spaces and a defined set of symbols. Retail-oriented formats such as EAN-13, EAN-8 and UPC-A accept numeric data with fixed lengths.

The generator validates the entered value before producing the barcode. For EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A and ITF-14, the check digit is calculated using the relevant weighted-digit algorithm. This helps identify incorrectly entered values, but generating an image does not itself assign an official product identifier or guarantee that a barcode is registered with a particular standards organisation.

Frequently Asked Questions