| Two-dimensional bar codes are a higher level of bar | | | | stretching to 2000 characters, and stands for Portable |
| codes having the capability to store substantial | | | | Data File. Its storage capacity implies that no external |
| amounts of data that can be stored in two dimensions | | | | storage database is required, and is useful in |
| without becoming wider in size. Linear bar codes have | | | | applications like logistics, retail, healthcare, identification |
| been perceived as license plates of products that are | | | | and manufacturing. |
| machine readable, but have limitations regarding data | | | | Another 2D bar code is DataMatrix, which can also |
| storage and act more as database keys. 2D bar | | | | store up to 2000 characters. It consists of a square |
| codes are an improvement and work more as | | | | symbol that can have sides up to 14 inches in length. |
| portable databases, which reveal loads of information | | | | DataMatrix has specific uses like encoding electrical |
| each time the bar code is scanned. They are also | | | | rating plates, surgical instruments, circuit boards and |
| called matrix codes since the matrix is a true | | | | lenses. |
| representative of the 2 D bar code symbol. | | | | MaxiCode holds information in a maximum of 93 |
| 2D bar codes store data across the length and width | | | | characters and has a distinct symbol with a bulls eye |
| of the barcode, and were created when it was found | | | | locator in the middle and hexagonal rows around. It is |
| that there were space limitations even though the data | | | | popularly used by UPS (United Parcel Service) due to |
| requirement was substantial. Data entry into 2D bar | | | | its advantage of quick scanning on a fast moving belt. |
| codes is much faster. Since their inception, over 20 2D | | | | The QR Code or Quick Response Code can store |
| bar code symbologies have evolved. The codes | | | | 2509 numeric characters or 1520 alphanumeric |
| require special scanners to read the data and the | | | | characters. Developed in Japan, it is used for projects |
| scanners used are generally handheld with moving | | | | where error free inputs are mandatory, since it allows |
| beams that sweep the label horizontally. | | | | error detection at three levels. |
| Besides being able to store a lot more data, 2D bar | | | | 2D bar codes form part of comprehensive bar code |
| codes are more durable that cannot be corrupted or | | | | solutions, and their scanners can be connected through |
| abused. 2D bar code symbologies are being more | | | | the keyboard, making their installation simple and |
| popular for diverse uses and fall into two categories, | | | | effective. They also permit easy data editing, |
| stacked and matrix. They are used for tax forms, | | | | remapping, formatting etc without additional software |
| packing lists, licenses and patients' records in hospitals. | | | | applications. 2D bar codes can be incorporated into a |
| Some of the best-known 2D bar code symbologies | | | | business without any escalation in costs and software |
| include PDF 417. This symbol can store information | | | | modifications are also reasonable. |