In Microsoft Word, there is a feature that changes text from normal to BOLD if you place the asterisk around the text. This is an undesirable feature when you are working with barcodes. To disable this feature: 

1. In Microsoft Word, go to Tools>AutoCorrect 

2. Click on the "AutoFormat as You Type" tab. 

3. Uncheck *Bold* and _underline_ with real formatting. 

4. Click on the Autoformat tab. 

5. Uncheck *Bold* and _underline_ with real formatting. 

Fontware v5