A Comprehensive Guide to Generating and Customizing Bar Codes
LightBurn's Create Bar Code tool allows you to generate Bar Codes for your laser projects, storing data that is readable when scanned. With support for a wide variety of formats, including QR Codes, the tool is versatile and customizable to meet different needs.
How to Create a Bar Code
- Activate the Tool: Go to Tools → Create Bar Code.
- Define the Size: Click, hold, and drag in the Workspace to set the Bar Code's size. Release to create it. Resizing can be done later.
- Bar Code Properties Window: This opens automatically. Use it to:
- Select a Bar Code Type.
- Enter data in the Raw Content field.
- Adjust options like error correction and spacing.
As you make changes, the Bar Code live-updates in your Workspace. Click OK to finalize or Cancel to discard.
Editing Bar Codes
You can reopen the Bar Code Properties window by:
- Double-clicking the Bar Code.
- Right-clicking the Bar Code (when only one is selected) and choosing Edit Bar Code from the context menu.
Bar Code Properties Overview
Bar Code Types
Choose from a wide variety of formats, including:
- QR Code, Data Matrix, Aztec, Code 128
- ISBN, UPC, EAN, VIN, and more
The default format is QR Code or the last selected type.
Data Entry Options
- Enter data in the Raw Content field.
- For QR Codes, additional tabs allow entry for WIFI credentials or Contact information, which auto-fill the Raw Content field.
Character Limit
A live counter displays the maximum supported characters for the selected Bar Code type.
Advanced Features
Text Evaluation and Variable Offset
- Use the Text Evaluation dropdown to substitute data dynamically using Variable Text formatting.
- Add a Variable Offset to display different Serial Numbers or rows from a CSV for multiple Bar Codes.
Process Control Characters
Enable this feature to convert formatted characters (e.g., <RS>
) into non-printable ones for GS1-compliant systems. Converted characters appear in red in the Evaluated Text field.
Error Correction
Error correction ensures the Bar Code remains readable even if damaged or obscured. Adjust the Error Correction slider to balance resilience and visual complexity.
Supported Formats: QR Code, Aztec, PDF417, Grid Matrix, and more.
Additional Options
Show Bar Code Text
For certain types, enable this switch to display the text stored in the Raw Content field below the Bar Code.
Extra Data Spacing
If a "+" symbol separates extra data, control the spacing between primary and secondary Bar Codes.
Supported Formats: ISBN, UPC, EAN.
Force Square
When using the Data Matrix format, this option ensures the Bar Code remains square.
Error Messages
If the entered data is invalid for the selected Bar Code type, an error message will appear in the Properties window, and an "X" will display in the Workspace.
Conclusion
With LightBurn's Create Bar Code tool, you can easily generate and customize Bar Codes for laser projects. From QR Codes to advanced error correction, the tool provides flexibility and precision for any application.