Code 128 is a high-density linear barcode symbology that is widely used in various industries for encoding alphanumeric or numeric-only data. Introduced in 1981, Code 128 has become a standard in many applications where a compact and versatile barcode is essential. It is celebrated for its efficiency, as it allows for the encoding of a substantial amount of data within a relatively small space. This makes Code 128 particularly favored in the logistics and healthcare sectors, among others, where both space and precision are commonly at a premium.

Code 128 supports all 128 ASCII characters, hence its name, which means it can represent any character found on a standard keyboard. This functionality includes upper and lower-case letters, numerals, punctuation marks, and special characters, providing broad usability across different fields and applications. Code 128 is divided into three subsets: Code 128A, Code 128B, and Code 128C, allowing for various types of data to be efficiently encoded. Subset A includes standard ASCII characters, numbers, and control characters. Subset B includes all standard ASCII characters, providing flexibility for encoding text. Subset C is optimized for encoding numeric-only data, allowing for more compact barcodes when representing long sequences of numbers.

What sets Code 128 apart, besides its comprehensive character compatibility, is its built-in error detection. Each barcode includes a check character, enhancing the accuracy and integrity of scanned data by allowing errors to be detected and corrected. Additionally, Code 128 uses a system of start and stop characters, ensuring scanners recognize where the barcode begins and ends, facilitating its high readability rate. This symbology's efficiency, versatility, and reliability have made it a preferred option for many businesses and organizations looking to streamline their processes through the use of barcodes. Overall, Code 128 represents a pinnacle in barcode technology, marrying compactness with a robust range of features that cater to a wide array of data encoding needs.