Welcome to the Luhn Algorithm Tool! This tool provides an interactive way to validate numbers using the Luhn algorithm, generate check digits, and view step-by-step explanations of the algorithm’s validation process. With its menu-driven interface and enhanced visual feedback, it’s designed to be educational, user-friendly, and feature-rich.
The Luhn algorithm is commonly used in:
- Credit card numbers (like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express).
- Debit card numbers.
- IMEI numbers (for identifying mobile devices).
- Canadian Social Insurance Numbers (SIN).
Here are some links to resources and research materials about the Luhn Algorithm:
-
Wikipedia - Luhn Algorithm
Wikipedia Luhn Algorithm
A comprehensive overview of the algorithm, its history, and applications. -
IBM - The Check Digit Algorithm
IBM Luhn Algorithm
An explanation of the check digit algorithm as implemented by IBM, highlighting its use in financial and identification contexts. -
Khan Academy - Check Digits and the Luhn Algorithm
Khan Academy Luhn Algorithm
A clear, educational explanation of check digits and the Luhn algorithm with examples. -
The Luhn Algorithm in Credit Card Validation
Credit Card Validation using Luhn
This article explains the role of the Luhn algorithm in credit card validation, including practical insights. -
NIST - Algorithm Specifications for Digital Signatures
NIST - Digital Signature Algorithm
While not solely focused on the Luhn algorithm, this document from the National Institute of Standards and Technology discusses digital algorithms and provides broader context. -
Medium - Understanding the Luhn Algorithm
Medium Article on Luhn Algorithm
An easy-to-follow guide explaining the Luhn algorithm in a modern context, with example implementations.
The Luhn Algorithm Tool is a Python-based program designed to help users work with the Luhn algorithm in a convenient and visually appealing way. The Luhn algorithm is widely used for validating identification numbers, like credit card numbers, and is a crucial tool in financial and security-related applications. This tool goes beyond basic validation by offering features such as check digit generation, step-by-step explanations with progress tracking, and the ability to validate multiple numbers at once.
- Number Validation: Check if a number is valid according to the Luhn algorithm.
- Check Digit Generation: Calculate the correct check digit for a given partial number.
- Detailed Explanation: View a step-by-step breakdown of the validation process, with each stage clearly explained.
- Multiple Number Validation: Validate multiple numbers at once by entering them as a space-separated list.
- Result Saving: Optionally save all validation results to a text file (
luhn_results.txt). - Professional Styling: Uses the
richlibrary for polished, colorful output and thepyfigletlibrary for a striking ASCII banner at the start. - Interactive Menu: A user-friendly interface that guides users through each feature.
To get started, clone the repository and install the necessary Python libraries.
pip install rich pyfiglet
git clone https://github.com/rkstudio585/Luhn-algorithm.git
cd Luhn-algorithmTo launch the tool, run the following command:
python luhn_tool.pyYou’ll see an ASCII banner welcoming you, followed by an interactive menu with several options.
Upon starting, the tool provides a menu where you can select from the following options:
- Validate a Number: Checks if a single number is valid according to the Luhn algorithm.
- Generate Check Digit: Calculates the check digit for a given partial number.
- Step-by-Step Validation Explanation: Provides a detailed breakdown of each calculation step in the Luhn algorithm, including a progress bar to visualize the process.
- Validate Multiple Numbers: Enter multiple numbers separated by spaces, and the tool will validate each number in sequence.
- Save Results to File: Saves validation results to a file called
luhn_results.txtfor easy reference. - Exit: Closes the tool.
If you select option 1, enter the number you want to validate. The tool will display whether the number is valid.
Example Output:
Enter the number to validate: 79927398713
Validation Result: ValidSelect option 2 and enter the partial number (without the check digit). The tool will calculate and display the check digit.
Example Output:
Enter the partial number (without the check digit): 7992739871
Generated Check Digit: 3Choose option 3 to get a detailed breakdown of the validation process, including calculations for each step in the algorithm. This option is helpful for understanding how the Luhn algorithm processes each digit.
To validate multiple numbers, choose option 4 and enter each number separated by a space. The tool will validate each one and display the results in sequence.
Example Input:
Enter multiple numbers separated by spaces: 79927398713 1234567812345670Example Output:
79927398713: Valid
1234567812345670: InvalidAfter validating numbers, choose option 5 to save all results to a file named luhn_results.txt. You’ll see a confirmation message once the file is created.
- LuhnTool Class: The main class that houses all functions related to validation, check digit generation, and explanations.
- validate(): Checks if a number is valid according to the Luhn algorithm.
- generate_check_digit(): Calculates the correct check digit for a partial number.
- explain_validation(): Provides a step-by-step explanation of the validation process.
- save_results(): Saves the validation results to a file.
- Menu Logic: The interactive menu allows users to choose from various options, directing them to the appropriate functionality.
Contributions to this project are welcome! If you have ideas for new features, improvements, or bug fixes, feel free to submit a pull request.
Thank you for using the Luhn Algorithm Tool! If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to reach out through GitHub issues or submit a pull request to help improve the tool.