Abstract: An apparatus for inspecting the print quality of a series of barcodes positioned on at least one side of a high speed moving web. The apparatus includes a synchronization element having a light source and a photocell; a laser scanning element; a microprocessor, and means for generating decoded barcode data. Also included is a means for comparing the contrast value of the print on either side of the web material, whether black or multicolored. The apparatus includes an objective means of inspecting print quality which is more efficient than subjective means of visual inspection. If erroneous scanned data is found, the web is stopped until the problem is corrected.