Zbar: QR Code Reader for PC & iPhone

Decoding Barcodes and QR Codes with ZBar

Both barcodes and QR codes are capable of containing substantial amounts of data. Just as information can be encoded within these codes, it can also be retrieved from them. ZBar serves as a valuable tool for this purpose, enabling the reading of both barcode and QR code formats.

ZBar: A Versatile Decoding Tool

This software is freely available and offers compatibility across multiple platforms, including Linux, Windows, and iPhone. Furthermore, ZBar provides access to its source code, along with an iPhone SDK and pre-compiled Linux binaries for developers and advanced users.

The primary function of ZBar is to decode barcodes either directly from a device’s camera feed or from image files stored locally. While the iPhone version offers a straightforward user experience, the Windows and Linux implementations operate through a command-line interface, with installation instructions readily available.

Supported Barcode Types

ZBar supports a wide range of barcode symbologies. These include EAN-13/UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, Code 128, Code 39, and QR Code. The software is designed to recognize barcodes regardless of their orientation.

On the iPhone, barcodes can be detected whether they are presented horizontally, vertically, or at any angle within the camera's view.

Practical Applications

This program can be utilized to digitally record the barcodes of various items. This functionality allows users to maintain a detailed log of their purchases and inventory.

Key Features of ZBar

Intuitive and easy-to-use interface.
Efficiently scans and decodes barcodes.
Comprehensive barcode support, including EAN-13/UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, Code 128, Code 39, and QR Code.
Cross-platform compatibility with Windows and iPhone.
Open-source availability with source code, Linux binaries, and iPhone SDK.
Alternative tools include: Zxing Decoder Online, Qrnote, QR-Code Business Cards, BeQRious, QRcore, JumpScan and Likify.

Further information and download links for ZBar can be found at zbar.sourceforge.net/download.html.