Types of scanning codes for traceability

Distinction between 1D and 2D codes

You've probably heard of 1D codes. These are linear barcodes made up of lines and numbers, printed on labels or product packaging. They are widely used in retail for product check-out and inventory.

The advantage of this identification code format is that it can be read by simple, inexpensive scanners. But the number of characters that can be encoded via 1D codes is limited. Not to mention that they are not very robust: if a bar is missing from the code, reading becomes impossible.
Please note: these codes cannot be marked by dot peen, but rather by laser or inkjet, directly on the part, or by printing on a paper label to be affixed to the product.

2D codes not only change shape, but also dimension. Most often square or rectangular, these universal two-dimensional codes are made up of juxtaposed dots : QR codes and Datamatrix, for example.

The advantage of these 2D codes : To increase data storage, and repeat the same information in several places for security reasons. As a result, 2D codes can meet the most demanding product traceability requirements. Datamatrix and QR code marking can be applied to products using a laser or dot peen machine, as well as by DPM inkjet or label printing.

	Code 1D	Code 2D
Representation
Features	Number of characters : 48 characters (according to EN 128)   Shape: horizontal and rectangular   Easy to proofread: +	Number of characters : several thousand characters   Shape: square, rectangular or circular   Easy to proofread: -

To know
Product traceability requires administrative management of encoded data (sending, receiving, storage…), which is why it's important to choose a high-performance identification machine that can communicate with your management system.

This is one of the criteria to take into account when choosing a marking machine capable of meeting your industrial needs.

  See our DPM methods comparison   Request more information

In the industry, 1D, 2D and QR code marking are common ways to trace parts. It is the major industry standards groups that determine which type of code is preferred for which application. For example, the AIAG (Automotive Industry Action Group) in the automotive sector, or the ATA (Air Transport Association) in aeronautics.

Due to its high level of security, Datamatrix code version ECC 200 is most often recommended. It has thus become the most widespread standard for ensuring metal, glass, ceramic or plastic products traceability.