Strekkoder

Strekkoder is the Norwegian term commonly used to refer to barcode systems—machine-readable representations of data that identify products, batches, or assets. In everyday use, strekkoder come in one-dimensional (1D) formats, such as UPC/EAN, and two-dimensional (2D) formats, such as QR codes and Data Matrix. The plural form Strekkoder is used when speaking of barcode systems in general.

Origins and standards: The concept emerged in the mid-20th century, with later standardization by GS1. In Norway and other markets, strekkoder enable automatic identification, inventory control, and point-of-sale data capture. Common standards include GTIN, which appears in 1D barcodes, and 2D codes that can hold more data.

Technology and reading: Barcodes are read by optical scanners that convert the pattern into a digital value. Quality and accuracy are ensured with error-correcting codes and printing guidelines; for 2D codes, background contrast, quiet zone, and module size matter to reliable scanning and data integrity.

Applications: Strekkoder are widely used in retail and logistics to track products through the supply chain, enabling faster checkout and inventory management. They also play roles in healthcare for patient and medication safety, in libraries for item management, and in manufacturing and packaging for process control and traceability.