# Barcode > A machine-readable code on a product or label, scanned to identify items without typing. Also known as: barcode reader, barcode scanner. Category: E-commerce and workflow. A barcode is a machine-readable pattern, linear or two-dimensional, that encodes an identifier such as a product number. Scanning it with a barcode reader identifies the item instantly and without typing errors. ## How PhotoRobot uses it PhotoRobot Controls supports barcode readers in every part of the application: scanning marks items as received, finds them in the item list, loads preset sequences and prepares capture. Unknown codes can create new items automatically (the minimum code length is configurable), shelves and SmartCodes are barcodes too, and PhotoRobot Touch and PINK use scanning to start work. ## See on photorobot.com - [Studio workflow: barcode reader support](https://www.photorobot.com/software/studio-workflow) ## Related terms - [QR code](https://www.photorobot.com/glossary/qr-code): A two-dimensional barcode that stores text or a URL and can be read by phone cameras. - [SmartCodes](https://www.photorobot.com/glossary/smartcodes): Printed PhotoRobot trigger codes that start software actions when scanned, such as starting a capture sequence. - [Product ingestion](https://www.photorobot.com/glossary/product-ingestion): Receiving and registering products in the studio before photography: scanning, measuring, sorting. - [SKU (stock keeping unit)](https://www.photorobot.com/glossary/sku): A retailer's internal code for one distinct product variant. - [GTIN](https://www.photorobot.com/glossary#gtin): GS1's globally unique product number behind EAN and UPC barcodes. - [Sort to shelves](https://www.photorobot.com/glossary/sort-to-shelves): PhotoRobot Controls feature that assigns workspace and preset to an item by scanning a shelf code. ## Where this term appears on photorobot.com Mentioned on 59 pages. Most relevant: - [Capturing Images with PhotoRobot - User Support Manual](https://www.photorobot.com/manuals/capturing-images): Note: If the new item has a barcode, it is possible to input or scan the item barcode into the system when manually creating a new item: Adding an item barcode to the item will enable the display of… - [System Requirements for PhotoRobot - Support Manual](https://www.photorobot.com/manuals/system-requirements): This includes information on computer compatibility, USB cables, and suitable barcode scanners. - [Getting Started - A PhotoRobot User Support Manual](https://www.photorobot.com/manuals/getting-started): …in the General Settings in the local desktop version of CAPP, there are the Barcode Scanner settings which enable configuration of advanced options for the barcode reader. - [Editing Images with PhotoRobot Post-Processing Software](https://www.photorobot.com/manuals/editing-images): It is possible to assign a shelf to an item by configuring its settings in the app, or, alternatively, by CAPP integration of barcode reader support. - [Studio Workflow](https://www.photorobot.com/software/studio-workflow): Deploy item tracking features at the scan of a barcode to automatically update item statuses and generate timestamps. - [PhotoRobot PINK User Guide & Instructions for Operation](https://www.photorobot.com/manuals/photorobot-medical-pink): Machine Floor (1) Rotary Platform (2) Operator’s Column (3) Operator’s Computer (4) – with barcode scanner, keyboard, trackpad Patient’s Screen (5) – with camera and speakers Power Socket, LAN Socket… - [Automated iPhone Product Photography](https://www.photorobot.com/photorobot-touch): Capture with PhotoRobot Touch while separately or simultaneously operating any PhotoRobot workstation, with user-friendly software and barcode reader integration. - [PhotoRobot Touch - iPhone App User Manual](https://www.photorobot.com/manuals/photorobot-touch-iphone-app-user-manual): …images of photos to capture) Additionally, PhotoRobot Touch functions as a powerful barcode and QR scanner, with selection or deselection of codes for faster recognition. - [Weighing and Measuring Products with CubiScan](https://www.photorobot.com/manuals/weighing-and-measuring-products): In addition to CubiScan, PhotoRobot also supports barcode readers to identify items in the system before weighing and measuring. - [Experience the Standard PhotoRobot Controls App Workflow](https://www.photorobot.com/blog/photorobot-controls-app-workflow): The standard workflow integrates barcode reader technology to scan items and preset codes.