| What is the difference between barcode labels and | | | | asset might include the name and a description, its |
| asset tags? | | | | location and condition, purchased date, warranty and |
| Barcode labels are a broad category which | | | | service records, annual depreciation figures, and whom |
| encompasses many ubiquitous products. They belong | | | | the asset is assigned to. An asset tag may or may |
| to the heavyweight class and pack a wallop based on | | | | not feature a bar code. Often a number is sufficient. |
| sheer market presence. | | | | While labels are usually pressed flush to an object, |
| The asset tag is a specialized application which | | | | tags can dangle loose as illustrated by luggage tags |
| overlaps into the barcode labels category. | | | | and dog tags. However, asset tags are usually |
| Barcode labels feature a bar code and are affixed | | | | pressed firmly to a surface as flush as the sturdy |
| some object. Bar codes are a fast, machine-readable, | | | | substrate allows. Asset tags are a form of label and |
| mostly error-free method of communicating data. The | | | | are also called asset labels. |
| bar code symbol translates into an alphanumeric data | | | | Economy and efficiency dictate that most barcode |
| set or references content in a database. The label is | | | | labels be lightweight and inexpensive. Labels attached |
| just the substrate between the data and the subject. | | | | to documents and folders around the office are |
| Barcode labels are often employed to -- | | | | commonly printed on adhesive paper. They're not |
| - track parcels, envelopes, pallets and containers | | | | intended to outlast their host. Barcode labels on |
| - organize rack, shelf and floor inventory in | | | | shipments have a limited lifespan and need only |
| warehouses | | | | survive transit. |
| - systematize files and folders in an office | | | | Since asset tags are often permanently attached to |
| - expedite sale of retail and commercial products | | | | property they must be durable and resistant to |
| Asset tags are generally limited to valuable property | | | | environmental conditions. While a computer may sit in |
| which must be secured or tracked through an asset | | | | an air conditioned office, the tag attached to an earth |
| management system. Commonly tracked assets | | | | mover may experience brutal outdoor conditions for |
| include -- | | | | many years and still provide optimal bar code read |
| - fixed machinery and infrastructure | | | | rates. |
| - medical equipment, computers and electronics | | | | Barcode labels can be created with software as |
| - vehicles and construction machinery | | | | simple as a word processing program using the widely |
| - office furniture | | | | available Code 39 font. More sophisticated applications |
| - tools | | | | output Code 128 and Data Matrix bar codes. Blank |
| Companies use asset tags to access a wealth of | | | | label sheets can be found at most office supply |
| information about the property. Data related to an | | | | stores. |