In many cases, you can also use assigned codes by generating a correlation between the bar code and another significant value. For example, you could use a randomly numbered sticker or tag and have the user type in the corresponding invoice number, control number, or other information that goes with it. On-demand bar codes are used where the bar code must contain some information that is available only when the bar code is generated. PSC produces products to help with creating on-demand bar codes. On-demand bar codes can be produced in small quantities for less money than preprinted bar codes, and in less time.
Dedicated printers come in several varieties, including thermal and thermal transfer.
The best of them can produce bar codes that are not bothered by acids, rain, sunlight, or various other problems. These printers can also print a single tag or sticker easily and remove the label backing automatically. In fact, the print quality is almost as good as on preprinted bar codes. However, laser printers are not quite so rugged as dedicated label printers, and they print a full sheet of labels at a time. These printers may not be the best choice for high-volume printing.