Choose the barcode system first
Identify the required symbology before selecting a font. IDAutomation’s Code 39 documentation explains a start character, the data and a stop character. Its documented example surrounds BARCODE39 with asterisks and applies the corresponding IDAutomation Code 39 font. Do not transfer that recipe to every barcode family.
Keep source data separate
In an Excel worksheet, keep the original identifier in one column and the encoded presentation in another. For a simple Code 39 example, the expression ="*"&A2&"*" surrounds the contents of A2 with the documented start and stop markers. Use this only with a matching font and supported input.
Distinguish standard from extended Code 39
IDAutomation documents separate extended fonts for lowercase and additional characters. Those fonts need matching scanner support and their own instructions. Do not assume that lowercasing an identifier or selecting a similarly named family preserves the intended encoded value.
Choose a licensed font resource
Read the font supplier’s license before distribution; a search containing free does not establish permission for every barcode product. Keep ordinary worksheet labels in a reading font and barcode output in its dedicated cells. The Excel default-font guide addresses a different task.
Your questions, answered.
Can I apply a barcode font directly to any number?
Encoding depends on the symbology and font. The cited Code 39 example requires start and stop characters.
Does the asterisk formula work for Code 128?
This guide’s formula illustrates the cited Code 39 workflow. It is not a Code 128 encoder.
Sources & background
Sources supporting this page’s explanations. Practical examples are our editorial suggestions.