Barcodes
Barcodes provide machine-readable data encoding on printed materials, enabling automated identification and tracking throughout disk processing workflows. On certificates and labels, barcodes encode critical information such as drive serial numbers, erasure completion codes, processing dates, and batch identifiers.
The primary advantage of incorporating barcodes into printed outputs is workflow automation. Scanning barcodes eliminates manual data entry, accelerates inventory management, and ensures accurate correlation between physical drives and their digital processing records. For high-volume operations, barcode integration enables rapid verification of erasure status, streamlined chain-of-custody documentation, and efficient integration with enterprise asset management systems. The Active@ KillDisk supports multiple barcode formats to accommodate various scanning infrastructure and compliance requirements.
- QR code
- Two-dimensional barcode that encodes complex, structured text into high-capacity, machine-readable data, supported by error-correction algorithms that enable reliable scanning even when the code is partially damaged or obscured. Supports encoding and error correction level.
- Aztec 2D barcode
- High-density, two-dimensional matrix symbol that stores structured data in a compact, machine-readable format using a central “bullseye” locator pattern, enabling fast decoding, high data capacity, and reliable reading even when printed small, displayed at low resolution, or partially degraded. Supports encoding and error correction level.
- Code 39, Code 93, and Code 128 1D barcodes
- These are one-dimensional (1D) linear barcode symbology that represents data using variable-width bars and spaces to encode alphanumeric characters, including letters, numbers, and select symbols. It is self-checking, easy to print, and widely used for labeling, inventory, and industrial applications due to its simplicity and broad scanner compatibility.
- Data Matrix 2D barcode
- High-density, two-dimensional matrix symbol that encodes large amounts of alphanumeric or binary data within a compact square or rectangular pattern, using built-in error-correction (ECC 200) to ensure reliable decoding even when the symbol is partially damaged, poorly printed, or displayed at very small sizes.
- PDF417 barcode
- This barcode is a stacked, linear 2D symbology that encodes large volumes of alphanumeric or binary data across multiple rows using high-density patterns and robust error-correction, enabling reliable decoding for applications requiring compact storage of complex information such as identification documents, transport tickets, and logistics labels. Supports encoding and error correction level.
Encoding
Each barcode symbology (Code 39, QR Code, Data Matrix, etc.) has its own encoding rules as it determines how data is translated into the visual structure of the barcode to ensure that any compliant scanner can read the symbol, regardless of printer, device, or system.
Here the list of supported encoding by Active@ KillDisk:
- ASCII;
- ISO8859-(1 - 16);
- Cp437;
- Cp1250;
- Cp1251;
- Cp1252;
- Cp1256;
- Shift JIS;
- Big 5;
- GB2312;
- GB18030;
- EUC JP;
- EUC KR;
- Unicode Big endian;
- UTF8;
Error Correction Level
Error Correction Level is the amount of redundancy built into a barcode that determines how much damage or distortion the symbol can withstand while still being accurately decoded even if parts of it are damaged, dirty, distorted, or missing. Different barcode types use different error-correction methods (e.g., Reed–Solomon for QR Code, ECC200 for Data Matrix, check digits for 1D codes), but the concept is the same. In Active@ KillDisk error level from 0 (none) to 8 (maximum) can be specified.
Default barcode attributes can be specified in application Preferences or defined inline when needed for printed material if applicable.