Product details are entered into the Sentry system either automatically via integration with the site production planning system (such as SAP, the site’s scheduling system or a spreadsheet import) if no site systems are available for integration an operator can manually input product, shelf life and barcode information. The details entered are usually specified on production/technical information sheets and will vary from just logo images to barcode reading and individual character verification on all printed text.

The Sentry system cameras will then gather a few images of the product and display them on the kiosk's touch screen. The system operator/manager can now highlight any areas of interest they wish the Sentry system to inspect by drawing a box around each logo region, printed date and/or traceability text and barcode. Once the areas requiring inspection have been selected Sentry is ready to begin the production inspection.

Whilst inspecting product, Sentry will identify the configured logos, characters and barcode areas to ensure the correct label is present. Logos will be identified with the defined areas to stop incorrect labels or old label stock from being used following customer artwork changes. Use by and/or display until dates will be read, checked for position and each character checked for print quality. The printed date will then be compared against the product’s offset days to verify that the correct date has been printed, is clear and legible and is in the correct format and position. Sentry has the ability to verify entire barcodes or check for elements within variable barcodes such as PLU, date, weight and price information.