Skip to content

COBie.Component.BarCode -- Expected Values

The COBie.Component.BarCode parameter stores the machine-readable asset identifier assigned to a component, typically in the form of: - Barcode (1D or 2D), - QR code, - RFID tag identifier, - or any other digital scanning ID used for FM systems.

This value enables facility managers and maintenance personnel to scan an asset on-site and directly retrieve the corresponding COBie or FM system record.

Validation Rules (DAQS)

  1. Mandatory where barcodes or QR codes are used\ Components that receive a physical barcode, QR label, or RFID tag shall have this parameter populated.

  2. Allowed content\ The field may contain:

    • Alphanumeric codes\
    • Hyphens -\
    • Underscores _\
    • Periods .\
    • Manufacturer or FM system scanning formats

    The value shall not include:

    • Spaces (unless explicitly part of the barcode standard)\
    • Special characters not supported by scanning systems\
    • Comments or descriptive text

  3. Exact match to the physical label\ The value shall match the machine-readable data encoded on the actual tag affixed to the asset.

  4. Uniqueness\ Barcode identifiers shall be unique per component.

  5. No placeholders\ The following are not permitted:

    • TBD, N/A, UNKNOWN, ---, empty values for assets that have a barcode.

  6. Responsibility\ Barcodes are typically assigned by:

    • Contractor,\
    • Commissioning team, or\
    • Client FM department.

    Designers shall not invent or prefill barcode values.

Good Examples

Component Type Valid COBie.Component.BarCode Example

Pump BC-20240318-001A VRF Outdoor Unit VRF_QR_88472A19 Electrical Panel ASSET.993-447-22 Fire Alarm Device FDX_0099217712

Common Mistakes

Incorrect Value Issue

12345 Generic number; not a verified asset barcode

See tag External reference; not allowed

Pump 01 Descriptive text, not machine-readable

--- Placeholder value

Empty Missing barcode where required

Relationship to Revit

Autodesk's COBie Extension typically maps this parameter from:\ Revit → Instance Parameter "Bar Code"\ (or an equivalent shared parameter defined in the COBie template).

To ensure correct export: - Barcodes must be entered on the instance level.\ - The value must match the physical tag applied on-site.\ - Commissioning teams should verify consistency before COBie export.

Best Practices

  • Use the exact machine-readable value printed on the barcode or encoded in the QR/RFID tag.\
  • Coordinate tagging strategy with client FM system requirements.\
  • Scan-test barcodes before COBie delivery to ensure accuracy.\
  • Maintain a central asset register linking BarCode → TagNumber → SerialNumber → Space.\
  • Avoid modifying the barcode format unless required by the client's FM system.