Pages

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Are 2D Barcodes Better Than Linear Barcodes?

Barcode is an arrangement of alternating bars and spaces that enable automatic interpretation of data on products. Barcodes are of two types including linear or one-dimensional barcodes (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) barcodes. 2D barcodes are found to be more advantageous when compared to linear barcodes. Specific type of barcode printer is required for printing 2D barcode labels. Various models of 2D barcode printers are available including Zebra printers, WASP printers, HP printers and so on.

Storage capacity of 2D barcodes is better than linear barcodes. 2D barcodes store data across the width and height of barcodes. So more information can be stored in 2D barcodes. The storage capacity of linear barcodes is 29 characters and that of 2D barcodes is 7089 characters. Quick response can be maintained by 2D barcodes than linear barcodes.

Another reason of preference of 2D barcodes is that the durability of these barcodes is more than that of linear ones. Even under repeated exposure to unfavorable working conditions, 2D barcodes can be read and accessed. So 2D barcodes have high security features and provide more benefits for businesses. 2D barcodes can be used with the latest computer systems by using keyboard or serial COM port.

Scanning of 2D barcodes can be done in any orientation. Very less space is required by these barcodes and hence can be used for electronic components and devices. Storage of more information and less space consumption are the most reliable advantages of 2D barcodes due to which they are used in most businesses. They are being used for product classification of mostly small products in pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, inventory management, manufacturing industry, production control and shipping, and others.

No comments: