Why is the product description not stored on a bar code?

The bar code on a product identifies that product which has its unique product number it the code normally the second group of six on a standard code. The back office computer (the main server for a scanner and/or epos system) holds the whole barcode number that you see and attached to this number is a range of data that is used, most of which you never get to see as a customer. The system in effect is a huge database attached to a barcode reader.

Rational;

Code is read

Passed to back office to data

Information such as the descriptor is then passed forward to the viewing area for the user/customer

In hospitals for instance the same process is used, patient has barcode with their Health service number in it. Scanned, - name, date of birth (age) address and Doctor is brought forward. Then if the user needs more information i.e. X-Rays results then the user will scroll through for that information all of which is held on the back office system