Barcodes are simple to represent as black rectangles separated by white spaces, but they have proved to be difficult to generate accurately. Bar and space widths are often computed in a complex manner and check digits complicate the picture. Our approach uses XSLT to implement the computational part and SVG to draw the image. Using this technique, it becomes possible to integrate barcodes into XSL-based workflows in a natural way.

The following barcode types are available:

UPC/EAN
Code 3 of 9
Code 2 of 5 (i)
Code 128
Codabar
AU Post

Barcode generation templates can be called directly from within XSL stylesheets with no need for special barcode fonts or third-party image-drawing software. Compared to other methods of producing bar codes in XSL FO, this technique has obvious advantages:

printed output is the sharpest possible since it is a vector graphics;
image size is reduced;
every aspect of the barcode pattern can be controlled - stroke widths, colors, lengths, etc.