Automatic Data Capture Standards
    Standards

    Capture

    How you turn GS1 identifiers into information that can be scanned and processed automatically.

    WHAT IS AUTOMATIC DATA CAPTURE?

    The link between GS1 identifiers and digital systems

    GS1 standards for Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) enable the fast and accurate identification of products, locations, assets and logistics units, without manual data entry.

    These standards turn GS1 identifiers into carriers that can be scanned and processed automatically by equipment and IT systems.

    GS1 Flow

    The role of capture in the GS1 system

    In the GS1 ecosystem, information follows a simple flow, from identification and capture, to sharing.

    01

    Identification

    Products, locations and assets receive unique GS1 identifiers.

    02

    Capture

    Identifiers are represented in barcodes, 2D symbols or RFID and are read automatically.

    03

    Sharing

    Data is distributed between partners, systems and applications through common, globally recognized standards.

    Benefits

    Why does it matter?

    Eliminates manual data entry

    Fewer errors generated by manual processes.

    Increases operational speed

    Automatic scanning speeds up receiving, inventory and delivery.

    Improves traceability

    Products and logistics units can be tracked throughout the supply chain.

    Creates the basis for automation

    Retail, logistics, manufacturing, healthcare and digital commerce use AIDC standards for rapid access to information.

    Technologies

    GS1 standardized technologies

    Two complementary families of AIDC standards, adapted to each type of process.

    Barcodes and 2D codes

    Turns GS1 identifiers into symbols that can be scanned with dedicated readers or mobile devices.

    Examples

    • EAN/UPC
    • GS1 DataMatrix
    • GS1 QR Code
    • GS1-128
    • ITF-14

    Ideal for: retail, logistics, healthcare, e-commerce and the Digital Product Passport.

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    RFID and EPC

    Enables automatic identification and reading via radio frequency, without direct line of sight.

    Benefits

    • Simultaneous reading of multiple items
    • Rapid stocktaking
    • Real-time visibility
    • Automation of logistics processes

    Ideal for: logistics, transportation, manufacturing and asset management.

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    The essence

    The foundation of modern commerce

    Whether it's scanning products at checkout, tracking pallets in a warehouse, the Digital Product Passport or medical device traceability, automatic data capture is the link between the physical and digital worlds.

    Scanning a GS1 barcode in a modern warehouse

    Get started with GS1 standards

    Become a GS1 Romania member and access the global standards for identification and automatic data capture.