A GS1 system composite symbol consists of a
linear component (encoding the item's primary identification) associated with
an adjacent Composite Component (encoding attribute data, such as a batch
number or expiration date). The composite symbol always includes a linear
component so that the primary identification is readable by all scanning
technologies, and so that imager scanners can use the linear component as a
finder pattern for the adjacent 2D Composite Component. The composite symbol
always includes one of three multi-row 2D Composite Component versions (e.g.,
CC-A, CC-B, CC-C) for compatibility with linear- and area-CCD scanners and with
linear and rastering laser scanners.
