Codabar (NW-7)

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An early self-checking barcode symbology still used in blood banking, library systems, and some FedEx applications. Codabar uses four start/stop characters (A, B, C, D) that convey additional context about the encoded data's purpose.

Codabar (NW-7)

1D Linear

Type 1D Linear

Data Length variable

Character Set 0-9, - $ : / . +

Year 1972

Related Guides

Codabar: The Legacy Barcode in Blood Banks & Libraries

Codabar's encoding scheme, four start/stop characters (A-D), ISBT 128 successor in blood banking, and where it's still used today.

Blood Bank Barcodes: ISBT 128 & Transfusion Safety

ISBT 128 barcode standard for blood products — donation identification, component labeling, and the transition from Codabar to ISBT 128.

Related Terms

Codabar Self-Checking Blood Bank Barcode

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Codabar barcode?

Codabar is a variable-length numeric barcode introduced in 1972, encoding digits 0–9 and six special characters with four possible start/stop characters.

Where is Codabar used today?

Codabar is used in blood bank tracking (ISBT 128 predecessor), FedEx air bills, and some library systems, though newer symbologies are replacing it.

Does Codabar have a check digit?

Codabar has no mandatory check digit in the base standard, though some implementations add a Modulo 16 check character for verification.