The Latest in Coding: Technologies That Make the Difference

Innovative solutions for more efficient traceability, advanced coding technologies, and blockchain at the service of Industry 4.0

1. Blockchain in the supply chain: enhanced traceability

Ensuring the security, transparency, and traceability of products from their origin to the final destination is essential. Traditional technologies can be vulnerable to errors, fraud, or lack of synchronization between supply chain actors.

Blockchain technology acts as a decentralized, secure, and immutable digital ledger that makes it possible to record every stage of the product’s journey. United Barcode Systems enhances this traceability by integrating its coding solutions (inkjet, GS1 codes, QR, Datamatrix, GS1 Digital Link) with blockchain, ensuring that every print or label is part of a transparent record. In addition, by linking these systems with ERP, WMS, or MES through middleware, every logistical movement is digitized in real time.

This approach not only strengthens consumer trust and security in the sector (such as food), but also optimizes logistics, detects incidents almost instantly, and positions companies at a new level of efficiency and traceability in line with the principles of Industry 4.0.

➡️ Discover how blockchain is transforming industrial traceability
https://ubscode.com/en/news/blockchain-supply-chain-traceability-coding/

2.Industrial traceability without scanners

In increasingly automated industrial environments, relying solely on visual systems and optical readers can be a limitation. In addition, in some production or logistics lines, the use of scanners can slow down the flow or require complex adaptations, especially when operating in harsh environments or with mobility.

United Barcode Systems, as the first certified partner, integrates e-CIB (Electronic Code Information Box) technology into its APLINK Series printing and APL Series labeling equipment. This technology allows the generation of unique four-character alphanumeric codes that can be entered manually or through voice commands from any smart device, printing them directly onto products or packaging, without the need for traditional readers.

It enables more accessible, secure, and efficient traceability, eliminating dependence on scanners and driving automation and connectivity between the physical and digital world.

➡️ More about this scanner-free traceability solution
https://ubscode.com/en/news/ubs-e-cib-industrial-traceability-without-scanners/

3.Piezo Inkjet (APLINK LCXe) vs. Thermal Inkjet

For real-time ink coding, it is essential to select the right technology according to the type of production: volume, required precision, costs, and operating environment.
Piezoelectric technology (APLINK LCXe): uses piezoelectric crystals to eject ink drops with micrometric precision, features a permanent printhead and independent reservoirs, which allow greater autonomy, lower cost per print, and consumable replacement without stopping the line.

In addition, the large and modular tanks reduce waste and the system supports oil-based or UVLED inks, clean and fast-drying. Ideal for medium to high production with high quality standards.
Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) technology: generates drops through ink bubbling, with lower initial cost and more compact, being suitable for low-volume lines where simplicity and portability are key.

Piezoelectric technology (APLINK LCXe) offers a more cost-effective, robust solution with higher operational performance in demanding industrial environments, while TIJ is an effective alternative for simpler or smaller-scale applications.

➡️ Learn more about the differences between piezo inkjet and TIJ
https://ubscode.com/en/news/piezo-vs-thermal-inkjet-industrial-printing/