Barcode X Dimension Dialog

Use the Barcode X Dimension dialog to set a specific X dimension for the selected barcode, set X dimension units, lock the X dimension at the target setting, specify Auto Fit parameters, and set manual bar and space adjustments.

To access the Barcode X Dimension dialog, click next to X Dimension on the Symbology and Size property page.

The available values for the X dimension depend on the resolution and type of printer that is being used. The options that are available for a 300 dots per inch (dpi) printer differ from those of a 2400 dpi printer, due to the size of the dots that are printed. This causes variances of the X dimension. By using the Barcode X Dimension dialog, you can set the X dimension that you want. BarTender then uses the X dimension that is closest to the target, based on the printer type and resolution. You can then change printers without significantly changing the X dimension of the barcode.

X Dimension

Units: Determines the units of measurement for the X dimension.
Lock the X Dimension at the target setting: Specifies that the same value for the Target X Dimension option is retained. BarTender automatically uses the X dimension that is closest to the target value. Consequently, the X Dimension option on the Symbology and Size property page is unavailable, and you cannot resize your barcode.
Target X Dimension: Specifies the X dimension of the barcode.
Actual X Dimension: Displays the actual X dimension of the barcode, which is calculated from the selected printer and printer resolution.

Auto Fit

Automatically fit barcode to specified width: Specifies the width of the barcode. BarTender automatically adjusts the barcode's X dimension so that it fits in the object.
Barcode Width: Defines the width of the barcode in the selected units. BarTender automatically sets the X dimension of the barcode based on the specified minimum and maximum values as defined in the following fields.
Minimum X Dimension: Specifies the smallest allowable width of a barcode's module.
Maximum X Dimension: Specifies the largest allowable width of a barcode's module.

When you select the Automatically fit barcode to specified width option, the barcodes will have a narrower X dimension when more data is used and a wider X dimension when less data is used. This may cause problems when the barcode is printed or scanned. Be sure to test with both the maximum data possible and the minimum data possible to ensure that the barcode is printed and scanned correctly under both of these conditions.

Manual Bar/Space Adjustment

None: Specifies that the width of the bars and spaces are determined by the X dimension of the barcode.
Reduce bar width and increase space width: Specifies that the width of each bar in the barcode is decreased by a specified number of dots. Additionally, the width of each space in the barcode increases by the same number of dots.
Increase bar width and reduce space width: Specifies that the width of each bar in the barcode is increased by a specified number of dots. Additionally, the width of each space in the barcode decreases by the same number of dots.

Related Topics

X Dimension