1D and 2D Barcode Scanning: What is the Difference?

There are two general classes of barcodes: one-dimensional (1D or linear) and two-dimensional (2D). They are used in different types of applications, and in some cases are scanned using different types of technology. The difference between 1D and 2D barcode scanning relies on the layout and amount of data that can be stored in each, but both can be used effectively in a variety of automatic identification applications.

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1D Barcode Scanning:

Linear or 1D barcodes, like the UPC code commonly found on consumer goods, use a series of variable-width lines and spaces to encode data &#; what most people probably think of when they hear &#;barcode.&#; Linear barcodes hold just a few dozen characters, and generally get physically longer as more data is added. Because of this, users typically limit their barcodes to 8-15 characters

Barcode scanners read 1D barcodes horizontally. 1D laser barcode scanners are the most commonly used scanners, and typically come in a &#;gun&#; model. These scanners do not need to be in direct contact with the 1D barcode to work properly, but typically need to be within a range of 4 to 24 inches to scan.

1D barcodes are dependent on database connectivity to be meaningful. If you scan a UPC code, for instance, the characters in the barcode have to relate to an item in a pricing database to be useful. These barcode systems are a necessity for large retailers, and can help increase inventory accuracy and save time.

How Much Data Can a 1D Barcode Hold?

The data-holding capacity of a 1D barcode, in comparison to its 2D counterpart, operates on a more simplistic scale. Unlike the versatile 2D barcodes, 1D barcodes have a straightforward structure influencing their data storage capabilities.

Exploring the Data Capacity of 1D Barcodes:

• Linear Representation:

  One-dimensional barcodes are linear data representations with varying widths and spacings of parallel lines. This linear structure inherently limits the amount of data they can encode.

• Numeric Focus:

  1D barcodes excel in encoding numeric data, displaying a proficiency that aligns seamlessly with numerical information. Although they can incorporate alphanumeric characters, their primary strength lies in efficiently encoding numeric data, making them especially suited for tasks such as representing product identification numbers or serial codes.

2D Barcode Scanning:

2D barcodes, like Data Matrix, QR Code or PDF417, use patterns of squares, hexagons, dots, and other shapes to encode data. Because of their structure, 2D barcodes can hold more data than 1D codes (up to characters), while still appearing physically smaller. The data is encoded based on both the vertical and horizontal arrangement of the pattern, thus it is read in two dimensions.

A 2D barcode scanner doesn&#;t just encode alphanumeric information. These codes can also contain images, website addresses, voice, and other types of binary data. That means you can make use of the information whether you are connected to a database or not. A large amount of information can travel with an item labeled with a 2D barcode scanner.

2D barcode scanners are typically used to read 2D barcodes, although some 2D barcodes, like the commonly-recognized QR code, can be read with certain smartphone apps. 2D barcode scanners can read from over 3 feet away and are available in the common &#;gun&#; style, as well as cordless, countertop, and mounted styles. Some 2D barcode scanners are also compatible with 1D barcodes, giving the user more flexibility in how they are used.

 What Is the Size Limit of a 2D Barcode?

The dimensions of a 2D barcode are not predetermined and vary depending on the type of barcode and its encoding method. This adaptability is a crucial element that allows 2D barcodes to accommodate various amounts and levels of data.

Let&#;s delve into the variations of 2D barcode size considerations.

Understanding the Size Limit:

• Variable Capacities:

  Unlike their 1D counterparts, 2D barcodes don&#;t adhere to a rigid size limit. The data capacity of a 2D barcode is contingent on factors such as the type of symbology used, error correction level, and the size of the data modules.

• Symbology Impact: Different 2D barcode symbology come with varying size constraints. For instance, a Data Matrix barcode may have a different size limit than a QR Code.

The table shows the difference between 1D and 2D Barcode scanner based on their features:

Dimensionality

1-dimensional (linear)

2-dimensional (matrix)

Data format

Limited (typically alphanumeric strings)

Richer (can encode text, URLs, images, and other data)

Information encoded

Typically product codes, IDs, or serial numbers

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Can hold significantly more information

Scanning speed

Faster

Slower

Reading distance

Shorter

Longer

Complexity

Simpler technology

More complex technology

Cost

Applications

Widely used for scanning product barcodes, inventory management, tickets, etc.

Used for applications requiring more data, such as mobile marketing, asset tracking, document management, etc.

Scanner type

Laser scanner

Imager (camera-based)

Applications for 1D and 2D Barcode Technology:

1D barcodes can be scanned with traditional laser scanners, or using camera-based imaging scanners. 2D barcodes, on the other hand, can only be read using imagers.

In addition to holding more information, 2D bar codes can be very small, which makes them useful for marking objects that would otherwise be impractical for 1D barcode labels. With laser etching and other permanent marking technologies, 2D barcodes have been used to track everything from delicate electronic printed circuit boards to surgical instruments.

1D barcodes, on the other hand, are well suited for identifying items that may be associated with other information that changes frequently. To continue with the UPC example, the item the UPC identifies will not change, although the price of that item frequently does; that&#;s why linking the static data (item number) to the dynamic data (the pricing database) is a better option than encoding price information in the barcode itself.

2D barcodes have increasingly been used in supply chain and manufacturing applications as the cost of imaging scanners has fallen. By switching to 2D bar codes, companies can encode more product data while making it easier to scan items as they move on assembly lines or conveyors &#; and it can be done without worrying about scanner alignment.

This is especially true in the electronics, pharmaceutical, and medical equipment industries where companies have been tasked with providing a large amount of product tracking information on some very small items. For example, the U.S. FDA&#;s UDI rules require several pieces of manufacturing information to be included on certain types of medical devices. That data could be easily encoded on very small 2D barcodes.

While there is a difference between 1D and 2D barcode scanning, both types are useful, low-cost methods of encoding data and tracking items. The kind of barcode (or combination of barcodes) you select will depend on the specific requirements of your application, including the type and amount of data you need to encode, the size of the asset/item, and how and where the code will be scanned.

Also read &#; 3 Ways that 2D Barcodes Increase Warehouse Efficiency

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