Data Matrix Coding

Analogue 1D barcode technology is increasingly being superseded by digital 2D codes. Whilst there are many different 2D codes on the market the predominant market leader in the Western world is the Data Matrix code.

A Data Matrix code is a unique digital 2D machine readable symbol that is capable of storing a large amount of information within a small physical size. A Data Matrix is made up of a scaleable number of rows and columns, consists of a locating bar (solid border), a timing bar (broken border) and a quiet zone.

Data Matrix is approved by national and international standards as the symbol of choice for small parts marking and used extensively in the automotive, electronics, pharmaceutical, and aerospace markets. Data Matrix supplements the first and second generation bar codes used to track packages by expanding automated data collection into the manufacturing, operations, repair and overhaul environments.

Ideally suited for marking directly onto a diversity of substrates the Data Matrix has many unique benefits:

• Different coding technologies can be used to mark Data Matrix directly onto substrates
• Data Matrix codes can be read in any orientation +/- 180°
• Data Matrix uses error correction (currently ECC200) to rebuild codes that are difficult to read, poorly printed or degraded in quality
• Data Matrix uses code words to encode data
• Data Matrix is scaleable (more rows and columns) as more information is encoded in the data storage zone
• Data Matrix can be marked in square or rectangular format for cylindrical applications
• Data Matrix codes can be reliably read when symbol to surface contrast levels are as low as 20 percent
• Data Matrix codes offer very high information density - the highest among other common 2D codes, which means that you can place a lot of information in a very small area.

Data Matrix codes can in general store up to 3116 numeric or 2335 alphanumeric characters or up to 1555 bytes of binary information.

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How Small Can a Data Matrix Be?

     

The physical size of a Data Matrix is not determined by the number of rows and cells in the matrix but by the marking technology used to mark the code. Whilst dot peen marks typically need 0.35mm to 0.5mm per element cell and laser coder can mark a complete Data Matrix in +/-300microns. Determining what size is best for you is determined by 1) the information you need to encode; 2) the marking technology best suited to your application and 3) the real estate you can afford on the product or assembly that you wish to uniquely identify.

In addition to Data Matrix coding there are other numerous 2D coding symbologies. Some are specific to certain industry types but none are so widely accepted as the Data Matrix code.

Code 16

Code 1

   

Code 49

  

Maxicode

  

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