Data Matrix
lastmod 2024-09-24created 2024-09-236 edits
The Data Matrix code is a matrix-type 2D code developed by ID Matrix in 1987. It was registered as an AIMI ISS specification in 1996 and with ISO/IEC in 2000.
Data Matrix is a 2D code made up of black and white "cells" or dots arranged in a square or rectangular pattern, also called a matrix. The information to encode can be text or numeric data. Typical data sizes range from a few bytes up to 1556 bytes.
Categories
Structure of a Data Matrix code
- Clocking pattern: gives the number of rows and columns in the code.
- Cells or modules: the internal components of the code that make up the pattern
- Data area: can be text or numeric data of up to 2,335 alphanumeric characters, and often includes redundant data so that the code can still be read even if one or more cells are damaged.
- Finder or 'L' pattern: helps the barcode reader easily locate the code and determine its orientation.
- Quiet zone: a margin of white space around the entire code; this quiet zone must be present for a Data Matrix code to be decoded correctly.
The diagram below gives a brief overview of the various features of a 2D Data Matrix code and a glossary of symbol terms.
Data_matrix-2d-code-diagram.jpg
Standards
Data Matrix was invented by International Data Matrix, Inc. (ID Matrix) which was merged into RVSI/Acuity CiMatrix, who were acquired by Siemens AG in October 2005 and Microscan Systems in September 2008. Data Matrix is covered today by several ISO/IEC standards and is in the public domain for many applications, which means it can be used free of any licensing or royalties.
- ISO/IEC 16022:2006—Data Matrix bar code symbology specification
- ISO/IEC 15415—2-D Print quality standard
- ISO/IEC 15418:2016—Symbol data format semantics (GS1 application identifiers and ASC MH10 data identifiers and maintenance)
- ISO/IEC 15424:2008—Data Carrier Identifiers (including Symbology Identifiers) [IDs for distinguishing different barcode types]
- ISO/IEC 15434:2006—Syntax for high-capacity ADC media (format of data transferred from scanner to software, etc.)
- ISO/IEC 15459—Unique identifiers