1D and 2D barcodes – what do they have in common and what separates them? How do they allow you to store information and in what industries are they used? We answer these and other questions in this article.
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What is a 1D barcode?
A 1D (one-dimensional) barcode, also known as a linear code, encodes information horizontally in one direction. It is a technology that involves creating a graphical record of data using an arrangement of dashes. Everything is done based on predetermined rules. Not surprisingly, it has been used to identify and verify goods for several decades.
With 1D barcodes, creating a unique, individual symbol for each commodity is possible. As linear codes, they contain only alphanumeric data. They can be more or less complex – in some, they encode only numbers, and in others, they encode any character from the keyboard.
Among the most popular variants of 1D barcodes are:
- Code 39 – it contains nine alphanumeric characters; it is commonly used in administration, healthcare, and electronics;
- Code 128 – it is used when a large amount of data is required to be encoded in a small space;
- UPC (Universal Product Code) – a code developed in the United States in the 1970s to, e.g., streamline the sales process; it consists of 12 digits, among which the company identifier and product number are coded, the last digit is used to verify the correctness of the code;
- EAN (European Article Number) – a code used mainly in Europe, created based on the UPC standard; one of their variants, the EAN-13 code, contains 13 digits, the first three of which are the GS1 prefix, usually indicating the country of registration of the code.
How can the data be decoded? Here, both handheld and stationary barcode readers, used to transfer data to, for example, a cash register, work well.
What is a 2D barcode, and how does it differ from a 1D code?
2D (two-dimensional) barcode takes the form of small images composed of black and white squares. Unlike 1D barcodes, 2D solutions store information both vertically and horizontally. They can store more data without enlarging the code area. It is assumed that in 1D barcodes, one can code about 30 characters, while in 2D barcodes, it is up to several thousand. That is why 2D barcodes are excellent for marking small items.
1D barcode vs. 2D barcode – the difference is also in the type of stored information. 2D codes can hold digital data, including photos, video, and audio. Moreover, data can be successfully read even if a 2D code is partially damaged due to error correction mechanisms.
Among the most popular variants of 2D barcodes are:
- QR (Quick Response) – thanks to its structure, the QR code can be efficiently read not only by scanners but also by mobile devices equipped with cameras; the QR code is widely used in many industries – including advertising, logistics, education or culture;
- DataMatrix – it is a technology recommended for, e.g., marking electronic components; it is used, for example, in the aerospace or pharmaceutical industries;
- MaxiCode – a type of point-based code developed by UPS to improve automatic sorting and tracking of shipments; used in logistics;
- Aztec Code – its name derives from the distinctive pattern used in it, resembling an Aztec pyramid – in this type of code, data is encoded in concentric layers around a centrally placed pattern; unlike many other codes, Aztec Code does not require the preservation of the surrounding empty space, finding application in transportation, e.g., for ticket marking.
What data can be stored in a 2D barcode?
2D barcodes will be an excellent choice if you want to encode more data in the same space. In practice, we are talking about basic parameters – in addition to product prices, these can include:
- detailed data provided by the manufacturer,
- serial numbers,
- production date,
- operating instructions,
- product sizes,
- description of the processing,
- warnings,
- product history,
- bill of lading,
- invoice.
Are you designing a device that will be equipped with a scanner in addition to a display? Contact us – we will help you choose the optimal solutions for visualization and data reading.