1D code
1D codes, also known as linear or one-dimensional codes, are barcodes consisting of parallel lines of varying widths and spaces. They can store a relatively small amount of data, typically just a few digits or characters, and are typically scanned using a laser scanner
Commonly used 1D code formats:
Universal Product Code (UPC):
This is the most widely used format for 1D codes and is primarily used to identify products in retail stores. It consists of 12 numerical digits, with the first six digits identifying the manufacturer and the last six identifying the product.
Code 39:
This format is commonly used in manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. It can store up to 43 characters, including letters, numbers, and special characters.
Code 128:
This format is also commonly used in manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. It can store a more significant amount of data than Code 39 and can represent all 128 ASCII characters.
Interleaved 2 of 5 (ITF):
This is a widely used format for tracking inventory and shipping in the logistics industry. It consists of bars and spaces where pairs of digits are encoded together.
EAN-13:
This is a variation of the UPC, used primarily in Europe and other countries outside of North America. It consists of 13 numerical digits and is used to identify products in retail stores.
Code 93:
This is similar to Code 39, but it can encode all 128 ASCII characters, mainly used in industrial automation and identification applications.
Codabar:
This simple format is often used in libraries, blood banks, and other applications where a relatively small amount of data needs to be encoded.
2D code
2D codes, also known as matrix or two-dimensional codes, are a type of barcode that consists of a pattern of squares or dots arranged in a grid. They can store more data than 1D codes and include alphanumeric characters, symbols, and images. 2D codes are typically scanned using a camera or a smartphone.
Some of the most commonly used 2D code formats include:
QR Code (Quick Response Code):
This is the most widely used format for 2D codes. It is used in various applications, including product tracking, marketing, and mobile payments. They can store up to several hundred characters of text or even a small image or video.
Data Matrix:
This format is widely used in manufacturing, logistics, and other industries to store large amounts of data, including serial numbers, production dates, and other identifying information. They can store up to 3,000 characters of data and are typically small enough to fit on even the smallest of products.
PDF417:
This format is commonly used in transportation, logistics, and identification applications. It can store a large amount of data, including text and images, and is often used in ID cards, driver’s licenses, and other forms of identification.
Aztec Code:
This format is similar to a QR code but can store more data in a smaller space. It is commonly used in transportation, logistics, and identification applications.
MaxiCode:
UPS and the US Postal Service use this package tracking and delivery format. It can store up to 93 characters of data and includes an error correction feature to ensure accurate scanning.
Micro QR Code:
This format is similar to QR Codes but smaller and can store fewer data; it’s mainly used in small spaces such as business cards, jewellery, and other small items.
Han Xin Code:
This is a 2D barcode that is designed to be small and lightweight; it can store a large amount of data, and smartphones can scan it.
