QR vs Data Matrix Barcode

Data Matrix barcodes are inching into the QR territory and gaining ground in industrial environments. Data Matrix are two dimensional barcodes in black and white square modules with some white spaces in-between. They can be generated and used for various applications. It is certainly more likely that this trend of DM dominance in industrial environments will continue. That doesn’t mean that QR has become a dinosaur, but they can’t quite keep up with the benefits of Data Matrix (DM) in a number of ways. Data Matrix is about data captured in an encoded format.

 

Following are some reasons why Data Matrix is a superior option for industrial use.

 

With Data Matrix, industrial users can put variants into the barcode. In fact, all kinds of specialized variants can be added; from offering specials of different types to providing a way to track products

With Data Matrix, industrial users can put variants into the barcode. In fact, all kinds of specialized variants can be added; from offering specials of different types to providing a way to track products.

Not that one would want this to happen, but if a product is recalled, Data Matrix barcodes will make it more feasible to track where those defective products went.

It’s like a digital trail. With such a digital trail, it’s even possible to find defective products while still shelved and pull them before they are distributed to customers. This can save embarrassment and headaches, not to mention countless dollars.

Data Matrix codes are easier to change. If some small factor changes, it is easy to incorporate that change into the barcode. Small changes are no longer the challenge they once were.

The rows and columns of Data Matrix codes are more simplified with Data Matrix barcodes.

Small items can be marketed with Data Matrix codes. Encoded data on Data Matrix’s don’t take up a lot of space, even where there is a tremendous amount of data.

The aerospace, electronic and automotive industries use Data Matrix.

In these industries they can mark Data Matrix codes directly on parts or laser mark them. Medical/health industries, document managers, and even the postal service use Data Matrix barcodes.

In regards to the postal service, if one buys stamps from the automated machines found in the post office, all kinds of information is captured on the Data Matrix electronic postage stamp that the machine dispenses.

The date, town name and stamp value are some examples.

Factory warehouses have to maintain control of a lot of inventory. With Data Matrix barcodes, they can do this more seamlessly.

Once inventory is distributed, the barcodes enables tracking and inventory control outside the warehouse.

There are all kinds of Data Matrix barcode scanners, including handheld industrial ones.  With them, the customer can scan the codes to count the delivered inventory, rather than having to hand count each item.

This even works well if there is a load of product on pallets.

Data Matrix has expanded use and can work well in mobile technology applications.

 

Here’s an example of a Data Matrix barcode:

And this is an example of a QR barcode:

While it’s true that the QR Barcode is still a good standard for commercial areas, it doesn’t satisfy the demands of industrial environments the way Data Matrix barcodes can.