Help & Documentation

Learn how to use the Barcode Validator app effectively

Getting Started
Welcome to Barcode Validator!

This app helps grocery packers validate barcodes according to FSSAI standards using AI-powered analysis.

Quick Start Guide:
  1. Configure API Key: Go to Settings → General and add your OpenAI API key
  2. Add Product Data: Go to Settings → EAN Codes to add your product database
  3. Start Scanning: Use the camera on the home page to scan barcodes
  4. Review Results: Check the validation results and compliance status
  5. View History: Access your scan history for tracking and reporting
Tip: The app works offline for basic validation, but requires internet for AI-powered analysis.
Barcode Scanning
How to Scan Barcodes:
  1. Click the "Scan Barcode" button on the home page
  2. Allow camera permissions when prompted
  3. Point your camera at the barcode
  4. Wait for the green frame to appear around the barcode
  5. The scan will automatically complete and show results
Scanning Tips:
  • Ensure good lighting for better scan accuracy
  • Hold the camera steady and at the right distance
  • Make sure the entire barcode is visible in the frame
  • Clean the camera lens if scans are not working
Supported Barcode Types:
  • EAN-13 (most common for retail products)
  • EAN-8 (smaller products)
  • UPC-A (North American products)
  • Code 128 (batch codes and internal tracking)
Settings & Configuration
EAN Code Management:

Add product information to enable automatic validation:

  • EAN Code: 13-digit product identifier
  • Product Name: Full product name
  • Brand: Manufacturer or brand name
  • Net Weight: Product weight with unit
  • MRP: Maximum Retail Price in ₹
  • Expiry Days: Shelf life in days
  • Category: Product category for organization
Batch Code Management:

Track production batches for quality control:

  • Link batch codes to specific EAN codes
  • Set production and expiry dates
  • Track quantities and locations
Company Information:

Configure packer and marketer details for compliance:

  • Company names and license numbers
  • Contact information and addresses
  • FSSAI registration details
Data Management
Import/Export Data:
  • Import JSON: Upload product data from external systems
  • Export Data: Download your configuration for backup
  • Bulk Operations: Manage multiple products at once
Data Storage:

All data is stored locally in your browser:

  • Product configurations are saved automatically
  • Scan history is preserved between sessions
  • Settings are backed up in browser storage
  • No data is sent to external servers (except AI analysis)
Sharing Results:

Share scan results using native mobile sharing:

  • Text format for quick sharing
  • Image reports for detailed documentation
  • Export to messaging apps, email, or cloud storage
Troubleshooting
Camera Issues:
  • Camera not working: Check browser permissions and reload the page
  • Poor scan quality: Improve lighting and clean camera lens
  • Barcode not detected: Try different angles and distances
Data Issues:
  • Settings not saving: Check browser storage permissions
  • Data lost: Avoid clearing browser data or use export/import
  • Sync problems: Data is stored locally, no sync required
Performance Issues:
  • App running slowly: Close other browser tabs and restart
  • AI analysis timeout: Check internet connection and API key
  • Memory issues: Clear old scan history periodically
Frequently Asked Questions

The app works offline for basic barcode scanning and validation against your configured product database. However, AI-powered analysis requires an internet connection and OpenAI API key.

Yes! All your product data and scan history is stored locally in your browser. Only barcode images are sent to OpenAI for AI analysis when you use that feature. No personal data is stored on external servers.

Each device stores its own data locally. To sync data between devices, use the Export/Import feature to transfer your configuration and history manually.

The app supports EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A, and Code 128 barcodes. EAN-13 is the most common format for retail products in India and follows FSSAI standards.

Visit OpenAI's API page, create an account, and generate an API key. Add credits to your account to use the AI analysis features. The key should start with "sk-".
Need More Help?

Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch with our support team.