Where Is Pharmacode (Laetus) Used? Common Locations, Surfaces and Systems

Pharmacode is a practical production-line tool, and its usefulness depends on placing it where readers can reliably scan the symbol without interfering with patient-facing information. This article explains the typical physical locations, production environments, systems, and contexts where Pharmacode is applied and read, and offers tips for selecting the best placement for your operation.

Primary physical locations for Pharmacode

• Carton flaps and inner flaps — One of the most common placements is on the inside of carton flaps or tuck-in panels. This keeps the code out of public view while making it accessible to in-line scanners at the final closure station.
• Leaflets and package inserts — Small codes printed on the edge of a leaflet or on a non-visible margin help verify the correct leaflet language or regional variant during assembly.
• Blister backing and strip edges — Pharmacode can be printed near the edge of blister strips or on the backing foil. Its compact size works well where space is limited.
• Labels and adhesive elements — On labels that are applied inside the package or on non-user-visible areas of an outer label, Pharmacode is used to confirm label-to-carton matching.
• Inner packaging components — Items such as sachets, ampoule trays, or dosing devices may carry a code for verification before insertion into the primary package.

Production-line and equipment locations

• At the end-of-line carton closer/packer — Readers are often mounted at the station where the final carton is closed and sealed so the code can be scanned just before the product leaves the line.
• Before leaflet insertion or leaflet folder — Scanners here confirm the leaflet is the expected language or version before it is folded and inserted.
• At label applicators and vision stations — Inline vision systems or dedicated sensors check that the right label bearing the correct Pharmacode has been applied to the item.
• Before case packing and palletizing — For complex pack configurations, a check prior to case packing ensures correct grouping of variants.

Surfaces and substrate considerations

Pharmacode is typically printed on a variety of materials. The code's design is tolerant of low contrast and minor surface distortion, which means it can be used successfully on:

• Cardboard and folding cartons
• Coated or uncoated paper for leaflets
• Aluminum or foil blister backing
• Self-adhesive labels with various finishes

However, finish and texture matter. High-gloss varnishes, reflective foils, heavy embossing, or deep embossing can interfere with scanning if not properly tested. Always test the code on the exact substrate and finish used in production.

Systems and software locations

Pharmacode readings feed into automation and control systems that act on the decoded integer. Typical system touchpoints include:

• PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) — The PLC can trigger stops, rejections, or alarms based on code mismatch logic.
• Vision systems — Integrated vision equipment often performs both Pharmacode reads and additional checks like print quality or label presence.
• MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems) — MES can record reads for traceability and link codes to batch or lot runs.
• Back-office mapping — A central mapping database or documentation defines how each numeric value corresponds to product variants, enabling coordinated control across shifts and sites.

Where Pharmacode should not be used

Because it is intended for in-line verification only, Pharmacode is not a substitute for supply-chain or regulatory barcodes. Avoid using it where full product identification, serialization, or regulatory data carriers are required. Additionally, do not place Pharmacode where it could confuse consumers or be mistaken for a retail barcode.

Where to source specifications and support

For implementation details such as minimum size, quiet zone, and reader setup, manufacturers typically consult Laetus documentation and equipment suppliers. Integrators and suppliers also test on-site to refine placement, reader angle, and lighting conditions specific to each production environment.

Practical placement tips

• Choose a non-user-facing location where the code is protected from damage but still accessible to the reader.
• Ensure a stable, repeatable read environment — fixed mounting, consistent lighting, and minimal vibration help reliability.
• Document exact placement, size and orientation so changes during printing or packaging do not inadvertently move or distort the code.
• Run test prints and dry runs with the actual product and packing line speeds; what reads on a bench may fail on a live line.

In summary, Pharmacode (Laetus) is best used where rapid, reliable verification is required on the production line and can be placed on non-visible packaging areas such as inner flaps, leaflets, blister edges, and labels. Placement decisions should be driven by accessibility for scanners, substrate compatibility, and integration with control systems.