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Numbers

Glossary "B"

Balloon rate A rate charged for Priority Mail and Parcel Post items that weigh less than 15 pounds and measure between 84 and 108 inches in combined length and girth.

Bandwidth The amount of data that can be transmitted through a connection or channel. Usually represented digitally in bits-per-second or in analog in terms of frequencies.

Barcode clear zone A rectangular area in the lower right part of a letter-size mailpiece that must be kept free of printing and symbols, except for the barcode itself. This requirement allows automated processing machines to read or apply a barcode.

Barcode read area A small area within the barcode clear zone in which the barcode must be printed. This area is defined by the position of the leftmost bar of the barcode and the bottom edge of the bar.

Barcode reader A component in certain mail processing equipment that reads and interprets the barcode applied to a mailpiece.

Barcode A series of vertical bars and spaces that represent any numerical series, most often a correct ZIP Code for the delivery address on a mailpiece. The barcode facilitates automated processing by barcode readers and scanners. A barcode also can be used to convey information for Delivery Confirmation and Signature Confirmation services. Barcodes that may be used for postal processing are POSTNET, Interleaved 2- of-5, Code 39, Code 128, and UCC/ EAN Code 128. Also see delivery point barcode and Postal Numeric Encoding Technique.

Barcoded container label A tray or sack label that has a barcode that can be read and processed by an automated tray or sack handling system.

Barcoded discount A postage discount available for certain Standard Mail and Package Services machinable parcels and Bound Printed Matter flats that bear a correct barcode and meet other size, shape, and volume requirements.

Betacam Broadcast format developed by Sony also used as a master format in production and duplication facilities.

Betacam SP High-grade version of Sony’s Betacam format trademarked “Superior Performance” utilizing more expensive metal particle tape.

Bit Budgeting The process of pre-calculating the storage demands for a DVD

Black Level In an NTSC composite signal, 7.5 IRE units, which creates a completely dark appearance on the monitor. Also know as setup level.

Bleed Setting up the image area to be greater than the finished print job, so that when the piece is printed it can be trimmed and it looks like the print image is running off the page

BLER Block Error Rate This is the "raw" digital error rate before any error correction.

BLER max The maximum number of BLERs allowed on a disc. According to the industry standard, a CD-ROM is allowed a BLER of up to 220 before it is considered a "bad" disc.

Block A segment of data. On CD’s, data are arranged in Blocks which contain header and sync, user data, error detection, and control information. Same as a Sector.

Booklet Paper graphic seen through the front of the jewel case. It usually contains installation instructions and sell copy.

Bound Printed Matter (BPM) A subclass of Package Services that consists of permanently bound sheets of which at least 90% are printed with advertising, promotional, directory, or editorial matter (or a combination of such matter).

Bulk mail center (BMC) Presort rate A rate available for Parcel Post that is properly prepared and entered by the mailer at a BMC or other designated postal facility.

Bulk mail center (BMC) A highly mechanized mail processing plant that distributes Standard Mail and Package Services in piece and bulk form. Also see auxiliary service facility.

Bulk Parcel Return Service (BPRS) A service by which high-volume mailers may have undeliverable-asaddressed Standard Mail machinable parcels returned to the mailer.

Business mail entry unit (BMEU) The area of a postal facility where mailers present bulk, presorted, and permit imprint mail for acceptance. The BMEU includes dedicated platform space, office space, and a staging area on the workroom floor.

Business reply mail (BRM) A service that allows a permit holder to receive First-Class Mail and Priority Mail back from customers and pay postage only for the returned pieces. These pieces must have a specific address and format. Postage and per piece charges are collected when the mail is delivered back to the permit holder.