Evolution of Industrial Coding and Marking: From Manual Printing to Advanced Inkjet Systems

Industrial coding and marking are essential processes to ensure traceability, accurate product identification, and production efficiency.

From manual printing to advanced inkjet systems, this technology has undergone a radical transformation that has optimized productivity and reduced errors across multiple industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, logistics, and industrial packaging.

In this article, we review the history of industrial coding, the evolution toward inkjet systems, their current advantages, and how United Barcode Systems (UBS) has led innovation with solutions tailored to every production need.

The Origins of Industrial Coding

Before the arrival of automated systems, coding and marking were performed manually. This method presented several limitations:

• Risk of human error.
• Low production speed.
• Difficulty in meeting international traceability standards.

With the expansion of industrial production in the 1970s and 1980s, the need arose for faster and more precise methods to print variable information such as expiration dates, batch numbers, and barcodes.

This is when the first mechanical and early printing systems appeared, laying the foundation for what we now know as inkjet coding systems.

The Consolidation of Inkjet Systems

During the 1990s, industrial coding began integrating with automated processes, allowing manufacturers to:

• Print variable information in real time.
• Apply codes and markings with higher precision and speed.
• Comply with GS1 and international traceability standards.

Industrial inkjet technology became the most versatile solution for various packaging formats —such as boxes or bags—, pallet blocks, and different surface types, both porous and non-porous.

This evolution also improved compatibility with ERP and MES systems, facilitating production data management and reducing operating times.

UBS Innovation in Industrial Coding and Marking

United Barcode Systems has played a key role in transforming industrial coding, developing high-resolution inkjet systems tailored to diverse production requirements. Among its main solutions are the APLINK series printers, designed to deliver precision, flexibility, and reliability in demanding industrial environments.

Highlighted APLINK Series Printers

• APLINK HRX: High-resolution flagship system, ideal for demanding industrial applications with fast and precise printing.
• APLINK MRXe: Versatile printer for production lines with medium coding needs.
• APLINK LCXe: Compact and efficient solution for limited spaces and standard processes.
• APLINK HRX BiColor: Enables two-color printing, ideal for highlighting critical product information.
• APLINK HRX Max: Designed for large-character printing (140 mm – 5.6″), offering maximum quality and precision in challenging environments.

To learn more about the differences between these models, visit the full comparison article on the United Barcode Systems (UBS) website: Differences between APLINK HRX, MRXe, and LCXe.

Current Advantages of Advanced Inkjet Systems 

Inkjet systems provide key benefits for modern industry:

• Real-time printing: Barcodes, expiration dates, and batch numbers with variable data.
• High precision and speed: Reducing errors and optimizing production lines.
• Flexibility: Ability to code different product formats, from boxes to pallets.
• ERP and management software compatibility: Easy integration with enterprise systems for efficient data flow.
• Reliability and low maintenance: Robust technology designed for demanding industrial environments.

The Future of Industrial Coding 

From manual printing to today’s advanced inkjet systems, industrial coding and marking have come a long way. Companies worldwide rely on these solutions to enhance productivity, ensure traceability, and comply with international standards.

With over 30 years of experience, United Barcode Systems (UBS) stands as a strategic partner in industrial coding, offering APLINK printers that combine innovation, stability, and efficiency.

If your company aims to optimize its industrial coding and marking processes, UBS inkjet systems are the ideal solution.

Discover the full APLINK range and see how they can transform your production line!

Contact our team for more information.