Roche cobas p 512 User Manual

Part A - General information cobas p 512
1-22 Operator's Manual - Version 1.6 - 10/2015
1.6. Preconditions for scanning a barcode
In order for the system to process the sample tube, the barcode must be placed correctly on
the tube and it must be easily readable. Therefore there are basic prerequisites which must be
met.
1.6.1 Barcode quality, printing and labeling material
In general: The readability and first-read rate will improve with improved print quality.
Likewise, better print quality leads to a reduced risk of reading errors by the substitution of
another line-gap sequence. Good code quality is characterized by sharp black-white contrasts
(non-blurry edges), and by clean gaps which are not contaminated with small dots (e.g., from
sprayed toner). Moreover, the lines should not be interrupted by white spots, but should be
deep black. High-quality printing methods include:
• Laser and thermal printing
• Offset printing, gravure printing
Quality of the
printing ink
The ink for the barcodes should be coordinated with the PCS (print
contrast signal) value
PCS (Print
Contrast Signal)
The phrased used for the quality of a barcode related to the contrast
value of the barcode scanner. The value indicates the contrast
between the reflected signal of the empty white space and the
barcodes. It is expressed in percent.
Uniformity of the
printed image
Uniformity of printing ink in a barcode should be less than or equal
to 5% of the PCS value.
Contrast In order for a barcode to be detected, it is necessary to have a certain
contrast between the lines and gaps. With dark lines, you should use
only very bright paper or other data storage medium. The best
contrast is achieved with a black code on a white background.
Rest zone The white fields in front and behind of a barcode (the rest zone) are
very important and absolutely necessary for readability. Their
dimensions must be at least fifteen times larger that the module width
X. The module width X is the thinnest element in the barcode (a line
or gap).
Check digit With poor-quality codes or printings, it is recommended to use a
barcode with a check digit.
White overflow The overflow is smaller when the barcode is smaller (thinner) and
further away.
The overflow is larger when the bars (columns) are wider and nearer.
Labeling material The barcodes should be printed on labels which fulfill the following
requirements:
• Only pure white barcode labels should be used.
• The outer side of the label must have a matt surface so that it
does not cause any reflections.
•
The labels must be smudge-proof.

Roche cobas p 512 Specifications

General

Brand	Roche
Model	cobas p 512
Category	Analytical Instruments
Language	English