Differences between 1D and 2D barcode readers

Differences between 1D and 2D barcode readers

The barcode reader is a technological device, which decodes a specific symbolism composed of bars and a white background that through the laser manages to read the binary system and transmit it to a computer as a traditional format

The first reader was released in 1964 and since then it has become essential for any business, as it is a tool which allows you to perform daily tasks such as receiving goods, inventory, tracking and shipping products on large or small scale. This technology allows you to reduce human errors and automate part of the management process. There is a wide variety of readers, and a the primary distinction would be their reading abilities, split into two main groups: 1D readers and 2D readers.

1D readers unidirectionally read the distance between each of the elements of the linear bar code from left to right and decode it to our operating system in order to identify the product. The amount of information is usually limited to 20-25 characters (letters or numbers).

With the need to store more data in the same or even less space, two-dimensional (2D or two-dimensional) barcodes were created at the end of the 1980s. They were capable of storing up to 7,000 characters, including not only letters and numbers but also photos, URLs, geographic coordinates, text, etc. It could be said that 2D barcodes are a kind of link (understood as a link) printed on paper, and adopt different formats, such as QR codes ("Quick Response"), which are among the most common, but there are also other standards such as Data Matrix codes, MaxiCode, Aztec codes...

In certain sectors it has been the new legislation that has prompted the change in codification from 1D to 2D, recently at European level the directives on counterfeit medicines, on the one hand, and traceability of tobacco on the other.

One of the differences between the scanning capabilities of 1D vs. 2D readers is that bi-directional readers offer a superior advantage over unidirectional readers. Because they are able to read old, damaged or spoiled, scratched, punctured, wrinkled codes and still remain legible to the scanner as this type of code offers greater security.

As time goes by, the latest technology scanners usually read 1D and 2D codes, but it depends on your business, the applicable legislation and the use you are going to make of it. For example, if it's to identify food products, the vast majority are still 1D barcodes, but if you need to decode information of any kind or on a larger scale, you'll be better off with a reader that reads both 1D and 2D formats, so you can be confident that you'll have a comprehensive, multi-purpose piece of equipment...

If you need more information to choose the ideal reader for your business, call us on our phone numbers or type on our chat and our experts will advise you on the right equipment for you..

Did you know that? Logiscenter is a reference partner for a number of leading brands in the technology sector, specialized in barcode reading such as: Zebra, Datalogic y Honeywell.