Scanning barcodes in the GelatoConnect app is a key step in making sure the right printed products are packed and shipped. This guide explains what barcodes are, how they’re used in GelatoConnect, what kinds are supported, how to find them, and how to scan or manually enter them—even if you’ve never worked with printing or scanning before.
Understanding barcodes in GelatoConnect
Every product that’s printed using GelatoConnect comes with a unique barcode. These barcodes are used to:
Identify the exact print job
Track the product throughout the packaging process
Ensure the right item gets shipped
You’ll scan these barcodes using either a physical barcode scanner or a mobile device. You can also type them in manually if needed.
What is a print job ID?
A print job ID is a unique number that GelatoConnect assigns to every printed product. Think of it like an order number—it tells the system exactly which file was printed and where it’s supposed to go.
Example: 0123456789
What is a checksum?
A checksum is a special number added to the end of a barcode. It acts like a built-in accuracy check. When the barcode is scanned, the system uses the checksum to confirm that the code was scanned correctly and wasn’t damaged or mistyped.
Even though the checksum is part of the barcode, you won’t see it printed underneath the barcode—it’s only used behind the scenes.
Types of barcodes GelatoConnect can read
The app can recognize several different barcode formats. Here are the common ones you might see:
Basic print job ID
Example:0123456789Print job ID with copy number
If multiple copies were printed, they’re marked like this:
Example:0123456789.1,0123456789.2Print job ID with checksum
Includes a verification number at the end:
Example:123456789092Print job ID with copy number and checksum
Combines both elements:
Example:0123456789.0159Special markers for photobooks
Photobooks may include indicators for inner covers:
Example:0123456789I,0123456789CAdvanced customer formats with location info
Some barcode formats also include the print location and customer ID. These are used in specific, advanced setups.
Tips for successful scanning
Language settings
Make sure your barcode scanner is set to the same language as your GelatoConnect system. English is recommended to avoid scanning errors.Copy number and checksum
Only the main print job ID is used in the checksum calculation. The copy number is ignored when verifying the checksum.Viewing past scans
If you need to check what barcode was scanned for a job, go to the Machine Overview page and review the machine logs.
How to scan a barcode
There are two main ways to scan barcodes:
Physical barcode scanners
These are fast and reliable. Just point the scanner at the barcode and it should beep to confirm the scan.Mobile devices
If you don’t have a scanner, you can use a smartphone with a barcode reader app. Make sure the app supports scanning standard printed barcodes.
How to enter a barcode manually
If your scanner doesn’t work or isn’t available, you can still process a print job by typing in the barcode. This option is available for admin only.
To do this:
On the web, go to the Work Settings page at the top right profile menu.
Make sure both "Packaging test mode" and "Show scanner simulator" are active.
Then, under Dispatch Overview go to the print job details card.
Click Manual Barcode Input.
Click Start Packaging to begin processing.
What is a print plate and how do I find its barcode?
A print plate is a file used in the production process that contains the design to be printed. It also includes a barcode, usually in one of the corners of a page.
To find the barcode on a print plate:
In the Production UI, find the print job you’re working on.
Look for the related print plate.
Or, go directly to the Manage Print Plates section.
Download the print plate file. (These files can be large.)
Open the file and look for the barcode printed on one of the corners.
How to test if your scanner works
To make sure your scanner is correctly set up, go to the barcode troubleshooting page (Workflow>Configuration>Troubleshoot). There, you can scan 5 test barcodes and check if the system reads them correctly.
What to expect after scanning
Once you scan a barcode in the app, look for a section labeled Scanned barcode results at the bottom of the screen. This section shows you:
The print job ID that was detected
Any copy number (if included)
The checksum (if included)
If this information appears correctly, your scanner is working and the barcode was read successfully.
FAQ
What happens if I scan the wrong barcode?
The system will flag the error or won’t allow you to proceed until the correct one is scanned.
Do I need special hardware to scan barcodes?
Not necessarily. You can use a mobile phone with a barcode reader app or a standard barcode scanner connected to your computer.
Why can’t I see the checksum under the barcode?
The checksum is part of the data but isn’t printed visibly below the barcode. It’s used internally for validation.
When should I enter a barcode manually?
Use manual entry if your scanner isn’t working or if you don’t have one nearby.
Can I scan a barcode directly from a computer screen?
Yes, but scanning printed versions generally gives more reliable results.
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