French Pharmacies Get Ready for Data Matrix Codes

Pharmacies across the entire European Union (EU) will be required to read Data Matrix codes on pharmaceutical and drug packaging starting January 2011 and many have already started to get ready for the new standards. To simplify and ease the challenges of this transition, Datalogic Scanning developed the Magellan® 1000i imager, designed specifically for use in pharmacies, while also supporting general retail scanning applications.

Traceability is the Key to Improving Consumer Healthcare

Data Matrix codes support both encrypted and non-encrypted data. The new codes contain more data than the current CIP codes being replaced, including the “AMM” code, batch number and expiration date. Data Matrix codes ensure reliable traceability throughout the supply chain to the final Point-of-Sale (POS) in the pharmacy. The results are increased safety, security and reliability in the distribution of pharmaceutical drugs and medicines for the consumer.

Magellan® 1000i Imager was Designed to Read 2D codes in Pharmacies

To decode 2D Data Matrix symbols on pharmaceutical labels, intelligent imaging readers are required. To support this requirement, Datalogic Scanning developed the Magellan 1000i imager, which can read multiple 1D and 2D codes in a single presentation, or scanning motion. Using a unique combination of software and firmware, the Magellan 1000i imager can sort and relay data contained in the code in a predefined order. The new Data Matrix codes are already being printed on many medicine and drug packages to smooth and ease the transition from the current bar code system.

To support the needs and requirements specific to pharmacies, the Magellan 1000i imager features best-in-class reading of all common 1D and 2D bar codes—even on hard-to-read, poorly printed and damaged labels, in poor lighting conditions, through a counter window, or with direct contact. Datalogic Scanning offers high-performance, industry-leading quality; the Magellan 1000i imager is compact, durable, and robust.

Developed in Partnership with Major Pharmacy Software Providers

Datalogic Scanning, worldwide leader in POS scanning for over 30 years, is known for offering the most complete range of bar code readers available today. As a result of Datalogic’s established partnerships with major industry software providers, pharmacies benefit from the leading pharmaceutical suppliers’ experience. Datalogic Scanning delivers best-in-class solutions, making it easy to migrate to the new technology standards.

Datalogic and the Datalogic logo are registered trademarks of Datalogic S.p.A. in many countries. Magellan is a registered trademark of Datalogic Scanning Inc. All other brand and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.