OCR

Software - Optical Character Recognition

OCR of Banknote Serial Number, Check MICR, Ticket Barcode

Optical Character Recognition (OCR) converts images of typed or printed text into machine-readable data — enabling automated reading of banknote serial numbers, cheque MICR codes, ticket barcodes, and more.

Check with MICR code
Check MICR
Ticket barcode reading
Ticket Barcode

Techniques

1. Pre-processing

OCR software often "pre-processes" images to improve the chances of successful recognition. Techniques include De-skew, Despeckle, Binarisation, Normalise aspect ratio and scale, and so on.

2. Character Recognition

OCR algorithm produces a ranked list of candidate characters.

3. Post-processing

OCR accuracy can be increased if the output is constrained by a lexicon — a list of words that are allowed to occur in a document.

4. Forcing Better Input

Special fonts like MICR fonts, with precisely specified sizing, spacing, and distinctive character shapes, allow a higher accuracy rate during transcription. These should be used in handling checks and tickets with MICR.

Transfer of OCR Info

After capturing and extracting the desired information, the banknote counter can output the data in two ways. One option is a printer — images and text data can be printed instantly. The other is a PC — images and text data are stored digitally and can be searched later as needed.

Comparison of Serial Number

A composite note is a counterfeit made by joining pieces of different genuine notes. Because it is constructed from genuine material, traditional counterfeit detection technology may not detect it. SNC (Serial Number Comparison) detects composite notes by comparing the serial numbers printed on different areas of the same banknote — if they don't match, the note is flagged.

Composite note made of pieces of genuine banknotes
Composite note — counterfeit made by joining pieces of genuine notes

Barcode Reading (TITO, Voucher)

Many businesses — including casinos, theatres, and bus terminals — are required to store electronic copies of tickets. Combined with management software, a banknote counter capable of reading barcodes, MICR codes, and more can dramatically improve processing efficiency.

TITO management system UI showing barcode reading results
TITO Management System UI
Serial number reading from banknotes
Banknote serial number reading

ATM Manufacturers

Are you manufacturing ATMs or other products that require a banknote serial number OCR solution? We can help. Contact us.

Case Studies

Products with OCR

Videos

Question? Let us know.