Chapter 3: Barcode Reader Option 49
Barcode Symbologies
Although data entry using barcodes is generally more reliable than manual data
entry, it is not guaranteed to be 100% accurate. To increase accuracy when using
the barcode reader, enabling checksums is recommended.
1D Barcode Symbologies
BD Biosciences has evaluated the following 1D barcode symbologies for use with
the BD FACSCanto flow cytometer, and has these recommendations:
Using barcode symbologies without checksums increases the likelihood of
incorrect information transfer, including sample ID assignments. This can
result in a mismatch of sample IDs and sample results.
By default, the barcode reader has checksums enabled. We recommend you
do not disable checksums, or use barcode symbologies without checksums.
Barcode Symbology Recommendation
Code 128 Preferred.
Code 39 Acceptable if barcode labels are printed with the checksum
digit. By default, the barcode reader recognizes the checksum
digit when reading the Code 39 symbology. However, if labels
are printed without a checksum digit, contact your BD service
representative for instructions on disabling the checksum
feature.
Codabar The barcode reader does not support the checksum feature
when reading the Codabar symbology.