Frequently asked questions
What is a barcode?
A barcode is an image that contains information encoded by means of a special algorithm. This information can be a character string or specially formatted information such as an address card or a web address.
There are two types of barcodes: one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D). They differ mainly in size and in the number of characters that can be encoded in a barcode. The two barcodes in the image contain the same text.
The barcode types BarcodeOCR recognizes are listed under Supported barcodes.
What is OCR?
OCR stands for "Optical Character Recognition", the optical recognition of text and characters.
Which scanners are recommended for the best possible results?
In principle, all scanners are supported. To use BarcodeOCR to its full extent, we recommend high-quality scanners that can process several documents quickly and automatically in the network. The devices should save the scanned documents to the server in one piece as a PDF.
What matters for scan quality is described under Barcode design and scan quality.
How do I get and install updates?
With an active maintenance plan, you receive all new updates and extensions of BarcodeOCR free of charge. On the download page, enter your serial number to get the latest version and a version archive.
How to install an update is described in Install an update.
How do I process documents from a network folder?
The BarcodeOCR service needs a user account with access to the network folders. The setup is described in Process network folders.
How can I activate an old version of BarcodeOCR (version 4.17.1.1 and older)?
Online activation of these versions is technically no longer possible. On activation.barcode-ocr.com we offer a new license file and installation instructions to activate the license on Windows 8 or Windows Server 2012.
BarcodeOCR versions from 2017 and older are not compatible with newer operating systems.
We are happy to offer you a discount on the purchase of a new license. On the linked page you also receive a discount code that you can redeem during the online ordering process.
How do I activate BarcodeOCR after purchase?
When you purchase BarcodeOCR, you receive a license key (serial number) from us. You activate it in the software on your PC. The License menu also lets you deactivate the software so that you can use it on a different PC.
The individual steps are described in Activate your license.
How can I transfer BarcodeOCR to a new computer?
Download BarcodeOCR from the download page and install it on the new computer. Deactivate the license on the old PC and activate it on the new one.
A detailed guide, including how to transfer your configurations, is available under Move to another computer.
How do I change my edition or extend my license?
After changing the edition or extending the license, update the license in BarcodeOCR via Help → About this software and, if the information has not updated automatically, Update License. An internet connection is required. The guide is available under Change edition or extend your license.
I purchased my license from a reseller. Who should I contact with questions?
If you ordered BarcodeOCR from one of our partners, please contact them directly, both with questions about your order and with technical questions.