What are 2d barcodes?
2D Barcodes are symbologies that are capable of storing
more information than can normally be contained in a
conventional linear barcode. These include:
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DATAMATRIX – a square symbology, of varying
densities used extensively in part marking as a large
number of characters can fit in a small space: |
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PDF417 – can be printed at a variety of aspect
ratios and densities. Used in transportation, manifests,
and personal ID including state driver’s
licenses. |
Others include AZTEC, MAXICODE, and QR Code. 2D Barcodes
can serve as portable data files, enabling the user to access
information such as lot processing, shipment manifest, and
serial number/sku data remote from the network database.
Codes such as PDF can be read by linear scanners that can
rasterize in both axis. Datamatrix is a matrix code and
requires an imager reader, which algorithmically processes the
image. Imager scanners are effectively digital cameras with
integrated processors and therefore can also capture images
such as signatures. As with linear barcode scanners, they can
interface as keyboard wedges or via a serial
port.
