Linear codes, although they have relatively limited information capacity, are now widely used for the marking and identification of produces, goods, etc. The 2D Codes are alternative to linear codes and they are becoming increasingly popular. Two-dimensional codes allow user to record several times more information without increasing the area of barcode. 2D Code may contain a serial number, manufacturer's data, size, date of production, operating instructions, warnings, history of the product, its destination, entire consignment note or invoice. In addition, 2D Code may contain a digital record of images or sound (capacity to encode more alphanumeric characters)

Multiple bar code layout- the code consists of 2 to 8 rows of barcode	2D Code with stacked bar codes allows you to increase the density of data recording	2D Code (matrix type)

The 2D Code contains information in both the vertical and horizontal directions, they have more data capacity compare to linear codes (more alphanumeric characters can encode). An additional advantage of 2D Codes is their greater resistance to damage. 2D Code has error correction capability. Data can be restored even if the symbol is partially dirty or damaged.



2D Code is capable of encoding the same amount of data in approximately one-tenth the space of a traditional linear code.

		QR Code	PDF417	DataMatrix	MaxiCode
Type		Matrix		Matrix	Matrix
data capacity	numeric	7 089	2 710	3 116	138
	alphanumeric	4 296	1 850	2 355	93
	binary	2 953	1 018	1 556
	main features	large capacity, small printout size high speed scan	large capacity	small printout size	high speed scan

• marking products
• marking of small electronic and mechanical components - for example, integrated circuits
• encoding data on the documents - for example, invoice number, proof of registration etc.
• marking of goods in warehouse - information about: suppliers, customers, expiration date

• greater amount of information is placed on a smaller surface
• the possibility of encoding alphanumeric data
• information stored in 2D Codes are better protected in comparison with linear codes
accurate reading of all information contained in the 2D Code, even when the damage to the 2D Code is 50%
• 2D Codes can by use as portable data base, because up to 7000 ASCII characters can be encoded in one symbol
• 2D Codes can be used in situations where information about the contractor should be confidential, such as invoices and shipping documents
• 2D Codes thanks to the small size, can be used for the marking of small items
• matrix structure some of 2D Codes (e.g. Maxicode) allows us to use them on curved surfaces
• 2D Codes take much less space on the packaging than linear codes, therefore perfectly suited to the marking of luxury goods, where aesthetics is an essential element of the package

At the time of purchase of equipment for reading barcodes, we should take into consideration devices that will able to operate the 2D codes. Until recently, this type of equipment was very expensive and unreliable mechanically. Today 2D barcode readers are based on digital camera, thus are cheaper, more reliable and popular among our customers.

Please contact us, HDF consultants will help you to choose the barcode readers (2D) and solution based on 2D codes.