Don’t you feel that QR codes are omnipresent, from grocery stores to product labels and billboards? The field of data collection processes is evolving, which comes up with these revolutionaries. Isn’t it surprising how a tiny square filled with enigmatic patterns could unlock a world of information with just a swift scan?
Besides tracking information, QR codes are also used to manage inventory, track assets, etc. Did you know that QR codes are actually a type of 2D barcode? Now, you might wonder, what’s a 2D barcode?
In this blog, we’ll explore the nitty gritty about 2D barcodes! Let’s get set to explore!
What Is a 2D Barcode?
A 2-Dimensional (2D) barcode is a barcode that stores information both horizontally and vertically. The product labels you see on every product are also an example of 2D barcode.
You must be quite familiar with 1D barcodes, which are represented in the form of a series of parallel lines with some spaces between them. However, a 2D barcode is represented as a square or rectangle grid filled with encoded data.
The grid contains encoded data in various two-dimensional patterns such as circles, dots, squares, hexagons, etc. Now, you must wonder how a 2D barcode differs from a 1D barcode.
Well, the most basic and crucial difference is their storage capacity. While 1D barcodes can store not more than a few dozen characters, 2D barcodes have a storage capacity of 7,089 characters. Moreover, you can scan a 1D barcode using any laser or camera-based imaging scanner. At the same time, you need an image for scanning a 2D barcode.
Besides the high storage capacity, 2D barcodes are more versatile and can store various types of data, such as images, videos, etc. On the contrary, 1D barcodes can only store alphanumeric data only. Not just this, 2D barcodes are more secure and have better error-checking algorithms in comparison to 1D barcodes.
Types of 2D Barcodes
In the beginning, we discussed QR barcodes as a part of 2D barcodes. Let’s explore the types of 2D barcodes in detail.
- Data Matrix: A data matrix that contains light and dark cell arrays in a square or rectangular pattern. The storage capacity of a data matrix is 1555 bytes, which includes both numerical and textual data. The best part about a data matrix is that they occupy less space. Moreover, they also offer low scan resolution. You can read these barcodes even when they’re 60% damaged.
- PDF417: This stacked linear barcode can store enormous amounts of data in the form of codewords. The “PDF” here is the acronym for Portable Data File, and the number “417” symbolizes each pattern which contains four bars and spaces and is 17 units long. Besides alphanumeric data, it can also store images, special characters, etc. You must have seen this barcode during identity verification.
- MaxiCode: Developed by United Parcel Service (UPS), MaxiCode is a 2D fixed-size barcode that contains a bullseye arrangement of hexagonal modules. It’s mostly used on shipping labels in the logistics and transportation industry. It can store no more than 93 characters.
- QR code: Invented in 1994, a QR code is a machine-readable 2D barcode that contains both binary and alphanumeric data. Being the most commonly used type of 2D barcode, it can easily store 2953 bytes of data. The best part about it is its four error correction levels which ensures that you can scan it even if it’s damaged.
- Aztec code: It’s quite similar to QR codes but requires more space for storage. In the center of the code, you’ll find a unique finder icon for each code. However, they are resilient and slightly difficult to read. You’ll find them mostly in boarding passes and other government documents.
- GS1 Composite code: This 2D barcode combines a 1D barcode and a 2D code. While the 1D barcode does primary identification, the 2D code encodes supplementary data. From retail to logistics and healthcare, it’s used in many industries. You must have seen these barcodes on fresh produce in grocery stores.
Why Should You Choose 2D Barcode Scanning?
Are you thinking of switching to 2D barcode scanning? Well, here are a few more reasons why you must go for it:
- 2D scanners are comparatively smaller in size than 1D barcodes. Not just this, 2D barcodes can store much more information, thus ensuring accurate and in-time asset tracking.
- You can scan a 2D barcode even when it’s slanted or upside down without switching your item’s positioning.
- With a 2D barcode scanner, you can scan both 1D and 2D barcodes hassle-free, which makes it a scalable investment.
- In the case of 2D barcode scanning, you can easily access any information anytime, as the data is stored in a database.
- It’s well known that QR codes have become ubiquitous in marketing, appearing in various mediums like magazines, mailers, and packaging. With smartphone apps, consumers can effortlessly scan QR codes, instantly accessing websites for discounts, purchases, and more. The evolving 2D barcode technology holds limitless potential for future applications.
- With minimal failures, negligible downtime, and low, upfront investment, 2D barcodes offer great functionality at affordable prices. This is why you must go for 2D barcodes instead of their 1D counterparts.
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FAQs: 2D Barcode Scanner
1. What is a 2D barcode?
A 2-Dimensional (2D) barcode is a barcode that stores information both horizontally and vertically. It is represented as a square or rectangle grid which is filled with encoded data
2. What’s the difference between 1D and 2D barcodes?
The most basic and crucial difference between 1D and 2D barcodes is that while 1D barcodes can store not more than a few dozen characters, 2D barcodes have a storage capacity of 7,089 characters.
3. What are the types of 2D barcodes?
There are about six types of 2D barcodes: data matrix, PDF417, MaxiCode, QR code, Aztec code, and GS1 Composite code.
4. What’s a QR code?
Invented in 1994, a QR code is a machine-readable 2D barcode that contains both binary and alphanumeric data.
5. Why should you choose 2D barcode scanners?
With high storage capacity, minimal failures, negligible downtime, and low, upfront investment, 2D barcodes offer great functionality at affordable prices. This is why you must go for 2D barcodes instead of their 1D counterparts.
Wrapping Up
In a world driven by convenience and digital connectivity, the choice to embrace 2D barcode scanning is a no-brainer. With the power of QR codes at your fingertips, you can unlock a whole new realm of possibilities. From instant access to websites and exclusive discounts to effortless ticketing and messaging capabilities, 2D barcode scanning revolutionises the way we engage with products and information.
Whether you’re a business owner looking to captivate your audience or a consumer seeking seamless interactions, these compact codes offer unparalleled advantages. So, are you ready to welcome 2D barcode scanners into your business? If yes, then we are here to help you with our comprehensive solution, QodeNEXT. Get in touch with us now to help you make the best choice to manage your fleet and optimize your process!
