2D Data Matrix Codes vis-à-vis Conventional 1D Barcodes

DataMatrix is a coding standard which is increasingly used in the manufacturing of electronic devices that range from automotive keyless entry systems to DoD defense equipment. ECC 200 2D Data Matrix codes are made through laser marking and they are a cost-effective method for unique identification and tracking of products through the manufacturing cycle, sales distribution and after-sale warranty verification. Data Matrix coding process helps the manufactures build an automated tracking system which is permanent, machine readable. Datamatrix enables unique identification of each product during its entire lifecycle.

The widespread application of Data Matrix codes in the manufacturing process can be attributed to the reason that they are durable enough to survive complex manufacture processes such as broad cleaning and wave solder, without affecting the circuit performance. ECC 200 2D Data Matrix codes offer an efficient means of storing alphanumeric character strings in an extremely small area of printed circuit board.

Following are some of the other reasons why ECC 200 2D Data Matrix codes are preferred over conventional 1D barcodes.


• 2D Data Matrix codes offer higher information density in comparison to the 1D barcodes. In fact, they are the highest among all the 2D codes, enabling the placement of a large amount of information in a small area.

• Data Matrix codes offer built-in error correction techniques. This feature allows complete recovery of the encoded message in the Data Matrix symbol even when the mark is missing or damaged with as much as 20% of the symbol not readable.

• Data Matrix codes easily accommodate low-contrast printing directly on the parts without the help of a label.

• While the conventional barcodes that require a scanned laser beam to enable reading them, Data Matrix codes can be ready by video cameras which essentially means they can be ready in any orientation.

• Data Matrix codes are scalable and can be printed in various levels of magnification. However, they are only limited by the resolution of the available imaging and printing techniques.

• Opposed to the analog encoding of data in conventional barcodes, Data Matrix codes encode information digitally.

For these reasons, Data Matrix technology is generally relied on to facilitate direct part marking as well as compliance with MIL-STD-130 and related standards.

ID-integration.com provides complete solutions to Data Matrix related needs. ID-integration.com also provides complete solutions to meet new DoD direct part marking requirements.

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ID-integration.com provides complete solutions to Data Matrix related needs. ID-integration.com also provides complete solutions to meet new DoD direct part marking requirements.